Exploring the Resilient Sports History of Flint, MI

Flint, Michigan has a long and storied history in sports. From the early days of amateur baseball to more recent athletic successes, Flints sports culture reflects the industrious spirit and tightknit community values of its residents.

One mustsee site for sports enthusiasts is Atwood Stadium (701 University Ave., Flint), which opened in 1929 as part of a Works Progress Administration project during the Great Depression. It was home to notable Negro League baseball games featuring stars such as Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson. Today, the stadium hosts various high school sporting events throughout the year.

Another historic venue is Berston Field House (3300 N Saginaw St., Flint), which was established in 1923. The facility was once an important location for African American amateur basketball teams before being integrated into citywide leagues later on. Visitors can still check out memorabilia from this era at Berstons community center.

Flint also played a significant role in boxing history through Joe Louis connection with local trainer Jack Chappie Blackburn. In fact, it was at Clio Roads Brown Bomber Tavern (75 E Dayton St., Flint) where Louis received confetti showers after defeating Max Schmeling in their famous heavyweight rematch in 1938.

For fans of auto racing, there are several tracks nearby that have hosted some of Americas most popular competitions over time including Auto City Speedway (10205 N Saginaw Rd., Clio)and Owosso Speedway (7204 W M21).

Finally, no discussion about the resilient sport lovers of Flint would be complete without mentioning Northwestern High Schools basketball team known as The Magnificent Seven. Made up entirely of Black players all living within walking distance from one another they were considered underdogs but ended going undefeated winning state championship game against Arthur Hill in 1978.

In every corner of Flint lies a piece of sports history that is as diverse and unique as the local community itself. So grab your favorite teams jersey and explore Flints rich sporting heritage today.

Websites:

Atwood Stadium website: https://www.atwoodstadium.org/

Berston Field House website: http://berstonfieldhouse.com/

Auto City Speedway website: https://autocityspeedway.com/

Owosso Speedway website: https://www.facebook.com/OwossoSpeedwayRaceTrack/