A significant new chapter for youth recreation and community remembrance in Vero Beach began officially on January 22, as local leaders and residents gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the Jimmy Graves Sports Complex. Located directly across 16th Street from Vero Beach High School, the facility stands as a permanent tribute to Jimmy Graves, a 15-year-old local student who tragically passed away in a 2016 boating accident.
The $7.6 million project represents years of planning, fundraising, and collaboration between public and private entities. Joe Graves, a former Vero Beach City Council member and local attorney, originally purchased the 11.15-acre property in 2017 with the intent of preserving it for recreational use. In 2021, the land was donated to the Indian River County School District by the Jimmy Graves Foundation, with the stipulation that the new stadium be named in honor of Jimmy, who was a passionate track runner and football player.
During the opening ceremony, attended by approximately 100 people including state officials, educators, and students, Joe Graves spoke about the enduring impact of his son and the community effort required to bring the complex to life.
“We wanted his name spoken. We wanted his name remembered. His life mattered. His life was impactful.”
Facility Features and Community Impact
The complex is designed to be a premier athletic hub for the county, offering state-of-the-art amenities for students and families. Key features of the new facility include:
The project was made possible through a diverse funding strategy, including $3 million from the State of Florida, $1 million from the City of Vero Beach, and a $500,000 donation from Florida Power & Light Co. through its NextEra Energy Foundation specifically for the inclusive playground.
Honoring Local Legends
In addition to honoring Jimmy Graves, the complex pays tribute to a legendary figure in local sports history. The athletic area has been designated as the Bill Wilson Track and Field, named after the former Vero Beach High track coach who led the school to state championships in 1989 and 1990 before his passing in 2020.
The dedication was a bittersweet moment for Kathryn Wilson, a former School Board member and Bill’s widow, who also lost her son, Billy, in 2020. She expressed deep gratitude during the event, noting that the sacrifices her husband and son made for the athletes of Vero Beach are now permanently woven into the fabric of the community.
The opening of the Jimmy Graves Sports Complex ensures that while the community mourns the loss of these individuals, their legacies will continue to foster athletic excellence and joy for future generations in Indian River County.
