In the wake of the pandemic, Memphis high school football faced unprecedented challenges that reshaped the local sports landscape. The cancellation of the 2020 season by Memphis Shelby County Schools left a lasting impact on players, coaches, and communities. However, four years later, the city's football scene is showing signs of recovery and resurgence. Teams like MASE, Melrose, and Houston have made significant strides, with MASE securing its first-ever Class 1A championship in December 2023. This achievement highlights the resilience and determination of Memphis athletes and coaches, who have worked tirelessly to rebuild and strengthen their programs.
A Journey of Resilience and Revival
In the golden autumn of 2023, three Memphis-area teams—MASE, Melrose, and Houston—competed at the TSSAA football championships. MASE emerged victorious in the Class 1A final, marking a historic moment for the program. This success comes after a challenging period when the pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 season, a decision unique to Memphis Shelby County Schools. The absence of competitive play during that year had far-reaching effects, as noted by Whitehaven coach Rodney Saulsberry Sr., who described it as a "reset button" for many programs.
The disruption led to changes in player dynamics, with some students opting to transfer to private schools where seasons continued uninterrupted. Despite these setbacks, the community has rallied together, fostering a renewed sense of unity and support. Coaches like Ron Gaston, executive director of MASE, emphasized the importance of perseverance and teamwork. The efforts bore fruit this year, with Houston winning its first-ever 6A championship, ending a three-year drought of Memphis-area champions.
The revival extends beyond just victories on the field. Middle school programs are also seeing improvements, indicating a promising future for Memphis football. Coaches highlight the significance of resource allocation and the need to bridge existing gaps in funding and facilities. Yet, despite these challenges, the spirit of resilience prevails. As Cedric Miller, head coach of MASE, put it, "We have to come out here and get it out the mud." This undying toughness has been evident throughout the season, with more teams reaching state semifinals than in recent years.
Looking ahead, there is optimism that this upward trend will continue. With increased competition and a growing number of strong programs, Memphis football is poised to make even greater strides in the coming years. The division of the 6A group into Regions 7 and 8 promises more opportunities for West Tennessee's best teams to shine on the state stage.
From Midtown to Orange Mound to Germantown, the city stands united in celebrating each other's successes. The triumphs of MASE, Melrose, and Houston serve as a testament to the unwavering dedication of coaches and players alike. As Coach Saulsberry remarked, "Whoever is the best team in West Tennessee will have a chance to get to the semifinals, and that’s the way it should be."
This journey of resilience and revival not only reflects the strength of Memphis football but also underscores the power of community and collective effort. The city's deep-rooted passion for sports, particularly basketball, does not overshadow its commitment to football. Instead, it fuels a diverse and vibrant athletic culture that continues to thrive against all odds.