Byrnes’ Nixon Field set to be demolished

Nixon Field will soon be no more.

This week, the demolition process is set to begin on Byrnes High School’s historic football stadium. Nixon Field was originally built in 1955 and last underwent major renovations in 1980. It’s hosted all 11 of Byrnes’ football state championship teams.

Workers will begin tearing the field down on Wednesday.

“I think most people agreed that the time had come,” said Byrnes head coach Reggie Shaw. “It was time to do something with our stadium. Nixon Field is historic, but it’s become a bit outdated. Functionally, it just wasn’t getting it done.”

As demolition begins on historic Nixon Field, construction of a brand-new, higher-scale stadium will immediately follow. Renderings for Byrnes’ brand-new venue debuted in late March. The designs include a state-of-the-art press box, 8,000-capacity seating, and a paved concrete walkway leading into the stadium.

All plans were approved for the stadium in May by Spartanburg District Five.

“When you look at it, there have been no major changes to [Byrnes’] stadium in 43 years,” said District Five board chair Jeff Boland. “The restrooms were outdated. The concession stands and the press box are both outdated. Handicap accessibility is a challenge in some instances.

“There are so many more students to accommodate in District Five than there were back then, too. This was the right decision at the right time.”

Boland says the finishing touches on the new stadium likely won’t be made until late summer of 2025. From the moment demolition begins on Wednesday until the last brick is laid on the Rebels’ new home, the process is expected to take 13-14 months to complete.

As a result of the transition, Byrnes football will play an entirely away schedule in 2024. Every game for the Rebels will be at their opponent’s stadium.

Despite the potentially challenging season ahead—and the somber anticipation of historic Nixon Field’s destruction—the end product will make it all worth it, says Boland.

“We’re excited about what’s to come,” said Boland. “There are a lot of memories at Nixon Field, a lot of senior classes, state championships, and graduations. But this was the best option because we had to get something new. 

“And if all stays on track, we’ll have a wonderful grand opening in August 2025.”