Exploring Newark, OHs Sports History: Capturing the People and Culture of a Resilient City

Newark, Ohio is a city that has seen its fair share of ups and downs. From industrial booms to economic downturns, its a place where residents have always persevered through adversity. One way to get an intimate look at the citys history is by exploring its sports heritage.

First on any visitors list should be Lou Mitchell Field (160 Wilson St., Newark, OH 43055), home to one of the oldest high school football programs in America. The field was named after Coach Lou Mitchell who led the team from 1937 1951 and helped create a tradition that continues today with Licking Valley High School. On game day fall Saturdays theres nowhere else in town with as many cheering fans dressed in green and white school colors.

Next up is Homestead Park (4675 Mink St., Pataskala OH 43062). This park features two baseball fields where some of the greatest players in Major League Baseball got their start over fifty years ago. Legendary shortstop Roy Kidd played here before going on to play for teams like the Chicago Cubs; pitcher Mark Wohlers honed his skills here en route to closing out games for Atlanta Braves during their historic run winning division titles every year from 19952005; lastly Homer Bailey chose this special diamond before becoming Cincinnati Reds ace pitcher throwing nohitters.

For those interested in basketball history, check out at nearby Denison University (100 W College St., Granville, OH 43023) which hosted Sam Jones when he began playing college hoops back when Denison was known as Granville College . Jones went on be part of Boston Celtics Big Three dynasty in NBA playing alongside Bill Russell and John Havlicek.

Lastly stop by Canal Market District (25 E Walnut St., Newark, OH 43055) which stands on the site of a former railroad terminal. The Market features murals painted by local artists that tell the story of Newarks history and its people since it was founded in 1802. Here visitors can enjoy locally grown produce or catch up with great music every other Friday night at various restaurants and venues.

Overall, exploring Newarks sports history is a great way to experience this charming, friendly city where resilience has been part of its DNA for centuries.

Websites:

http://canalmarketdistrict.org/

Twitter:

@DenisonU

@CanalMarketDist">https://www.denisonbigred.com/landing/index

http://canalmarketdistrict.org/

Twitter:

@DenisonU

@CanalMarketDist