Send us a text

The remarkable story of Detroit's 1935 "City of Champions" status stands as perhaps the greatest untold achievement in American sports history. When the Lions captured the NFL championship, the Tigers claimed the World Series, and the Red Wings hoisted Lord Stanley's Cup all in the same year – while Joe Louis began his meteoric rise to boxing dominance – Detroit experienced a perfect storm of athletic excellence that has never been matched.

In this episode, co-host Charles Avison shares his passionate 15-year quest to bring this forgotten legacy back into public consciousness. What began as research for a book became a mission that faced unexpected resistance from mainstream media and publishers. Rather than accepting defeat, Charles pivoted to grassroots efforts – selling books at art fairs and eventually creating Inspire Marketplace, a Made in Michigan gift shop that now supports over 110 local artists while serving as a platform for the City of Champions story.

The conversation takes fascinating detours through Detroit's latest ventures, including the new Ice Cube 3-on-3 basketball team, while also exploring university archives that reveal connections between Detroit's sporting triumphs and broader historical figures. We discover Arthur Miller's student journalism about Black athlete Willis Ward and the complex decisions faced by athletes regarding the 1936 Berlin Olympics – threading Detroit's championships into the fabric of American cultural history.

Beyond sports statistics, this episode illuminates the perseverance required to preserve history that might otherwise slip away. Charles' journey parallels the championship teams he chronicles – facing setbacks, adjusting strategies, and refusing to concede defeat. As Inspire Marketplace expands to new locations including Detroit's airport and potentially downtown near the stadiums, the mission to celebrate Detroit's unprecedented championship year gains momentum.

Join us as we reconnect with Detroit's sporting legacy and the determination required to keep remarkable stories alive for future generations. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, history buff, or appreciate tales of persistence against the odds, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into a magical moment when Detroit truly became the City of Champions.

https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampions

www.DJJamieDetroit.com

www.WearingFunny.com