Jacksonville Sports Foundation

Honoring History This Juneteenth

As we celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on the enduring contributions of Black Americans to our nation's history, we also honor the legacy of JP Small Park and the trailblazing athletes who helped shape Jacksonville's sports story.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the park was home to the Jacksonville Red Caps, a Negro Southern League team whose name originated from the red caps worn by players who worked on the railroad and assisted passengers at train stations throughout the South. The Red Caps brought elite baseball talent to Jacksonville and provided local fans the opportunity to witness some of the era's greatest players.

The Red Caps brought elite baseball talent to Jacksonville and helped establish the city as an important stop in Negro League baseball. Over the years, JP Small Park welcomed some of the greatest players in baseball history, including Henry "Hank" Aaron, Leroy "Satchel" Paige, Roy Campanella, James "Cool Papa" Bell, and William "Judy" Johnson. These athletes' achievements helped pave the way for future generations and whose impact extended far beyond the diamond. The park also played an important role in the integration of Southern baseball, hosting early in*******al games that helped transform the region's sports landscape.

For decades, JP Small Park served as the home field for Edward Waters College, strengthening its connection to Jacksonville's HBCU community and supporting generations of student-athletes.

Today, the park's museum preserves the stories, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of a venue where sports, culture, and history intersect.

An unforgettable first season comes to a close.

Sporting JAX Women’s journey may have ended, but what this team accomplished in their inaugural USL League season was nothing short of historic.

Thank you to the players, coaches, supporters, and the entire DUUUVAL community for making year one so special.

The foundation has been built and the future is bright for Sporting JAX Women.

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Their courage, service, and selflessness will never be forgotten. From all of us at the Jacksonville Sports Foundation, we thank those who gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy each day.

Wishing everyone a meaningful and safe Memorial Day.

⚽️ PLAYOFF GAMEDAY IN DUUUVAL ⚽️

The road to the championship runs through Jacksonville as Sporting JAX takes the field tonight for a huge playoff matchup. The energy is high, the stakes are higher, and our city is ready to show up!

Let’s pack the stands, bring the noise, and rally behind Sporting JAX as they fight for the next step in the postseason.

Get your tickets here: https://zurl.co/e8wFH

🎟️ TICKET GIVEAWAY 🎟️

Experience the Sporting JAX Women’s Semi Finals LIVE!

We’re giving away a limited number of tickets for fans to be part of the atmosphere as Sporting JAX Women fight for a spot in the Finals.

To enter, email [email protected] with:
• Full Name
• Phone Number

Tickets will be sent directly to selected winners.

Grab the family and join the action as Sporting JAX Women battle for a chance to advance to the Championship!

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Read the full newsletter here: https://zurl.co/Jxsbt

Get Involved. Give. Go to Games.

PLAYOFFS ARE COMING TO !

Sporting JAX is bringing the playoffs home in their very first season!

Don’t miss your chance to see the Gainbridge Super League Playoffs Semifinal at Hodges Stadium on Sunday, May 24.

Be here and be part of the legacy we're building in Jacksonville!

Get your tickets: https://zurl.co/I9gxX

IRONMAN Jacksonville is here!

Athletes from all around are taking on the challenge and bringing incredible energy to Jacksonville this weekend. From the swim to the finish line, we're ready to showcase why Jacksonville continues to be a top destination for sports.

Come out, support the athletes, and experience the excitement firsthand! See the schedule and other information here: https://zurl.co/KDOeJ

CONGRATULATIONS to the Jacksonville Waves for Opening Day!!! 🌊

The Waves are ready to take center stage tonight!

Tickets are almost sold out, so grab yours now and come cheer on the Waves as they make history! https://zurl.co/wdcOl