Southfield, Michigan may be a suburban city, but it has a rich history of sports and athletic events that reflect the welcoming, vibrant, diverse and dynamic aspects of its community. Here are some mustvisit places to explore if youre interested in experiencing this unique local culture.
First on the list is The Birney School (27225 Evergreen Rd., Southfield). This historic school was once home to the Detroit Lions training camp from 1952 to 1974. Fans would flock to watch their favorite players up close and personal during these summer practices. Today, visitors can take a tour of the campus including the football field where legends like Joe Schmidt, Yale Lary and Bobby Layne honed their skills.
Next up is Lawrence Technological University (21000 West Ten Mile Rd., Southfield), which boasts its own impressive sporting legacy. It was once home of one of Michigans most successful semiprofessional football teams The Sagnaw Valley Warriors who played at LTUs stadium in the late 1960s. Visitors can also learn about how former NASA astronaut Tony England brought his experience with weightlessness onto LTUs basketball court as he led his team into many victories throughout his tenure there.
Another historic site worth visiting is Franklin Hills Country Club (31675 Inkster Rd., Franklin) located just outside Southfield near Farmington Hills City Hall . In1933 club members hosted two golfs biggest stars Walter Hagen vs Johnny Revolta for an exhibition match seen by thousands at Oakland County Fairgrounds nearby.
Finally,Maddox Park(22151 W Eight Mile Rd,Southfiled) remains a thrilling location with deep roots within African American communities throughout southeastern Michigan,dating back over fifty years when black baseball leagues were much more popular during Jim Crow era.The park has been renovated recently preserving original stadium which held the Negro League teams: Detroit Clowns, Memphis Red Sox, and Kansas City Monarchs.
In summary, Southfields rich sporting heritage is reflected in its many historic venues and events. From NFL training camps to semipro football games, from exhibitions golf matches to black baseball leagues visitors can explore it all while experiencing the welcoming, vibrant and communityoriented spirit of this unique Michigan suburb.
Websites:
1. www.birneyschool.org
2. www.ltu.edu
Twitter Handles:
27225 Evergreen Rd.
Southfield, MI
United States
21000 West Ten Mile Rd.
Southfield, MI
United States
31675 Inkster Rd.
Franklin, MI
United States
22151 W Eight Mile Rd
Southfiled, MI
United States