As the lights went down and the field began to clear, Byrnes High School Head Football Coach Reggie Shaw finally had a moment to smile and take it all in. "This was more than I could have imagined," he grinned. "All the pictures and the expectations were exceeded tonight." Shaw's team put an exclamation point on what many described as a "magical" night, as the Rebels beat TL Hanna 30-10 in the season opener and debut game of the new stadium.
The evening began with a special ribbon cutting ceremony, led by Superintendent Dr. Randall Gary and Byrnes Principal Erin Greenway. Student Body President, Olivia Lee, joined by Dr. Gary, Greenway, the District Five Board of Trustees, representatives from Thompson Turner Construction and McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture, Duncan Mayor Shirley Clopton and Town Administrator Cam Fant, officially cut the ribbon on the stadium, 15 months after the district first broke ground. A large group of Rebel fans, many of whom had gathered to be the first inside the gates, cheered with thunderous applause.
Shortly after, the gates opened and the crowd of more than 6,000 Rebel faithful poured in the brand new stadium, many of them stopping and looking around to admire the beautiful facility. "It's beautiful," said longtime fan Penny Jones. "It's been a long time coming and we're happy, extremely happy."
Adding to the significance of the night, legendary former players and coaches joined in the celebration, taking part in a ceremonial coin toss that connected Byrnes’ proud history with its exciting future. Retired track Coach Carnell Collins, retired championship football Coach Bo Corne, retired strength and conditioning Coach Mike Srock, and former Rebel player Everett Young all served as ceremonial coin tossers. Each of the men were then presented a special football, signed by members of this year's team. Their presence was a powerful reminder of the memories made at the old Nixon Field, and the traditions that continue on in the new stadium.
By kickoff time at 7:30 p.m., the stage was set. The Rebels took the field against T.L. Hanna High School under the bright lights of Nixon Field’s new home turf, ushering in a new era of Rebel athletics. The roar of the crowd echoed the pride and unity of a community that has always rallied behind its team.
More than just a football game, the grand opening of Nixon Field was a moment of shared history — celebrating the past, honoring tradition, and building excitement for the future. "I don't think we could have written or scripted it better than this," said Dr. Gary. "We talked about wanting the true fan experience, and they got that tonight."
Coach Shaw said he's ready for another week of excitement. "Hat's off to our district. I'm forever grateful."