City of Dallas names new football field for longtime Oak Cliff youth coach

Coach Earl Thompson spent decades pouring into Oak Cliff kids. Now, the football field where he shaped young lives will carry his name.

A football field in Oak Cliff now bears the name of a coach who touched hundreds of young lives through football.

The late Coach Earl Thompson was the founder and longtime coach of the Redbird Raiders youth program. On Friday night, his name went up in lights. Many said it was a day that was a long time coming, and worthy of all the fanfare that came with it.

Earl “Coach” Thompson wasn’t there to see it for himself, but it was a moment inspired by his work, passion, and contributions to the community. Thompson was the founder and decades-long coach of the Redbird Raiders youth football organization. He was also inducted into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame and the Prairie View Interscholastic League Association Hall of Fame.

Perhaps, though, “Coach”—as he was affectionately called—was remembered most for his impact right here in Oak Cliff at the Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center. A newly renovated football field at the recreation center, complete with LED lighting, bleachers, an announcer’s booth, and two scoreboards, now bears Thompson’s name.

Thompson’s son, Chris Thompson, said the love for his father and excitement for this new facility reflects what his father poured into generations of student-athletes.

“He wanted to give every kid a chance, every family a chance. He didn’t want anyone to be left out, you know. This was his community. He did not want to leave his community,” said Thompson.

Longtime residents recalled a time when there wasn’t a proper field or even lighting to practice here. Sean Johnson, Deputy Director with Dallas Park and Recreation, talked about the $2.4 million renovation as a true partnership between community, city, and state leaders.

“His life is a true testament to what it means to give back to the community,” said Johnson. “It takes a village to make these types of things happen.”

Coach Thompson’s spirit and love for his community continue with his name memorialized in the spot where he touched so many lives.

“A great man. We are so proud of him. We are so proud of the legacy he left for us, our kids, and just us as a community,” said Chris Thompson.