Ahead of Chattanooga FC's match against Toronto FC II on Saturday, August 2, the club took a moment to pause and celebrate an integral individual in its history.
Co-founder and inaugural squad member Sheldon Grizzle became the latest inductee to the club's Hall of Legends, following on from Thomas Clark, Bill Elliot and Zeca Ferraz, who were all inducted as the inaugural class of 2024.
Grizzle was presented with a plaque that will forever be displayed at Finley Stadium.
"This is truly an honor," said Grizzle. "We started the club in 2009 and it's been a roller coaster. We've had some great seasons. We've had some terrible seasons. We've had some great opportunities and we've had to dig ourselves out of some serious holes over the last 16 years and 17 seasons. Many of you have been a part of that journey in various ways at various times and playing different roles. I see a lot of Academy kids here tonight, boys and girls, and as much as I love what we get to watch out on the field tonight, I truly love what I get to see from all the Academy players. Whether you go on to play professionally, collegiately, in high school, end up being a referee or a coach, a business owner or entrepreneur—all of those things are good.
"You can learn a lot from this game and it can change your life. Zeca [Ferraz] came to this country from Brazil. He didn't speak any English. He went to college and learned to speak English and created a whole new life for himself because of this game, and so it's honor to be his friend now. This game can open up so many doors for you. I'm excited and honored to be a part of this football club's journey. It's crazy to have a plaque permanently on this wall. It's an honor. I appreciate you all being here, and I hope you continue to show up for the next 90, 100 years, you and your kids and grandkids and great grandkids. Thank you again to the nominating committee and the supporter owners who selected me for this. Go Blue!"
Earlier in the week, Grizzle joined Quake (Scott McMahen), David Paschall and Cowboy Joe (Varner) on SportTalk 102.3 to take a trip down memory lane and reflect on his crucial role in the club's founding. Listen here.
