Bluefield and Graham Renew Epic Football Rivalry

Mitchell Stadium hosts the 100th Battle of the Bluefields between two West Virginia high school powerhouses.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The annual Battle of the Bluefields football matchup between Bluefield High School and Graham High School will once again take place at Mitchell Stadium, a historic venue that has hosted this epic rivalry for decades. The two teams, led by legendary coaches with long track records of success, are set to face off in the 100th edition of this storied clash.

Why it matters

The Battle of the Bluefields is one of the most anticipated high school football games in West Virginia, drawing huge crowds to witness the clash between these two dominant programs. With rich histories, passionate fan bases, and coaches who have built powerhouse teams, this rivalry has become legendary in the region.

The details

Mitchell Stadium, with its unofficial 10,000-seat capacity, has hosted many classic battles between Bluefield and Graham over the years. In 1975, over 13,000 fans packed the stadium to watch Bluefield defeat South Charleston 20-6 under legendary coach John Chmara. In 1989, Graham's ferocious defense led by coach Glynn Carlock shut out Southampton 16-0. Both teams have continued their tradition of excellence, with Bluefield under Fred Simon and Graham under Tony Palmer, who have combined for multiple state championships.

  • The Battle of the Bluefields has been played annually for the past 99 years, with the 100th edition set for this Saturday.
  • The 1975 state championship game between Bluefield and South Charleston drew over 13,000 fans to Mitchell Stadium.
  • In 1989, Graham defeated Southampton 16-0 in a muddy battle at Mitchell Stadium.

The players

John Chmara

The late legendary coach who led Bluefield High School to victory in the 1975 state championship game at Mitchell Stadium.

Glynn Carlock

The veteran coach who led Graham High School's ferocious defense to a 16-0 shutout win over Southampton in 1989 at Mitchell Stadium.

Fred Simon

The current head coach of Bluefield High School, who has won more than 300 games and five state titles, maintaining the tradition of excellence for the program.

Tony Palmer

The head coach of Graham High School, who has built an amazing record of more than 120 wins and multiple state titles, turning the program into a powerhouse.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Battle of the Bluefields has become a legendary high school football rivalry in West Virginia, with Mitchell Stadium serving as the historic backdrop for epic clashes between two dominant programs led by coaching legends. The 100th edition of this storied matchup promises to be another thrilling chapter in a rivalry that has captivated fans for generations.