Exploring the Soulful and Vibrant History of Sports in Jackson, MS

Jackson, Mississippi has a rich history when it comes to sports. From baseball to football, basketball to horse racing, this city is home to many important events that reflect its soulful and vibrant culture. For travelers looking to explore the sports history of Jackson while also experiencing the local traditions and culture of its people, here are some mustvisit places.

First on your list should be SmithWills Stadium (1200 Lakeland Drive), which opened in 1955 as a AAA minor league baseball park. It played host to several notable games featuring famous players like Satchel Paige and Luke Easter during an era when segregation still barred black players from Major League Baseball. The stadium now serves as the home field for Belhaven Universitys Blazers squad.

Another location you wont want to miss is Memorial Stadium (501 N State St) , which served as the original site for Tiger Stadium before becoming one of Mississippis largest integrated facilities after desegregation policies were implemented in public schools nationwide beginning in 1969 . This stadium saw many great moments such as James Meredith breaking color barriers back in October 1962 alongside Conerly winning Heisman Trophy back in December 1956

For lovers of college football, check out RobinsonHale Stadium at Jackson State University (1400 Lynch Street). Named after legendary coaches John Big Train Robinson and W.C. Gorden whose teams made six appearances each between them at what was then called National Association Intercollegiate Athletics championships once held exclusively by historically Black colleges and universities starting with Florida A&M Rattlers defeating Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks 5047 on February 28th,1978 .

If basketball is more your thing then head over to Magnolia Hoops Classic Tournament site at Lanier High School Gymnasiums located off Woodrow Wilson Ave or Northwest Rankin High School Gymnasium in nearby Flowood city suburbs. The tournament features some of the top high school players in Mississippi competing against other states best talent and offers a glimpse into the future stars of college basketball.

Lastly, dont forget to visit Mississippi Fairgrounds (1207 Mississippi St), which has been hosting horse racing since 1924 and was once home to one of Americas most prestigious racesThe Magnolia Derby event held annually for many years until it was discontinued due to changes in betting regulations .

These are just a few examples that showcase Jacksons long history with sports while also capturing its soulful, vibrant, eclectic, historic, innovative, welcoming culture through memorable events. Whether youre a history buff or simply seeking out local traditions and customs , taking time to explore these locations will give travelers an insight into what makes this city so unique.

Websites:

https://belhavenblazers.com/sports/2015/9/28/Facilities.aspx

http://www.jackson.k12.ms.us/memorialstadium.html

https://jsumsnews.com/tag/johnnybright/

https://magnoliahoopsclassic.net/

Twitter: @JacksonStateU,@BelhavenBlazers