In the fourth episode of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) High School Game Day, the spotlight turns to a rivalry-fueled showdown. The Melrose Golden Wildcats are set to host the Hamilton Wildcats in a game that’s more than just football – it’s about legacy and pride that both schools have for their students and communities.
While some debate which school represents the “real Wildcats,” one thing is undeniable: both Hamilton and Melrose are committed to uplifting the next generation of student leaders through education and tradition.
Hamilton High School: Tradition and Leadership
Nestled in South Memphis, just south of Downtown Memphis and Orange Mound, Hamilton High School is located. Hamilton is home to members of Memphis State Eight, the trailblazers who integrated the now University of Memphis.
Mya T., a dedicated cheerleader of seven years, currently serves as cheer captain for Hamilton. Beyond the uniforms and routines, she cherishes the “thrill of game day” most of all. Her advice to aspiring cheerleaders? “You need to stretch a lot because you’re doing full-out kicks, toe touches, lots of jumps, so it’s very important to stretch.” She also emphasizes mental resilience: “It’s important to control your emotions.”
After graduation, Mya plans to take a gap year before enrolling at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) to study business and law. She’s especially interested in WSSU because of its nationally recognized stomp and shake cheerleading style. When asked about the impact of coaching, Mya shares: “A coach should be just as solid as a team … it’s the most important person who is going to support and advocate for you.”
Latasha Terry, Hamilton’s cheer coach for the past three years, brings more than a decade of experience with community teams. “I’m committed to anything that has to do with kids. I can do track and field, basketball, it doesn’t matter – it’s them having something to do.” Her commitment goes beyond athletics. She believes extracurricular activities provide structure and discipline – especially in communities where positive outlets can be life-changing.
Melrose High School: Dance and Dedication
The highly anticipated Game Day will be hosted at Melrose High School, with kickoff at 7 p.m. at Melrose Stadium in the heart of Orange Mound – the first subdivision built by and for African-American people in the United States.
We caught up with the Melrose Golden Girls Dance Team (MGGDT), a powerhouse of spirit and resilience led by Jennifer Alexander, class of 1997 and former Miss Melrose.
Coach Alexander, known affectionately as “Coach A,” has led MGGDT for 21 years.
This year, she considered retirement, but Laura Wayne, a former student and 2007 Melrose alum, stepped up to learn the ropes. Now a special education assistant at Hanley Elementary, Wayne is preparing to carry the torch.
“There’s always been cheer, band… let’s do something for dance,” says Coach Alexander. “It all started with a flyer in the hallways.” That single flyer sparked a movement. Today, MGGDT is a source of pride for countless young women. Many former dancers return with support and stories – proof of the lasting bond.
“She just graduated two years ago and here she is bringing snacks,” she says in reference to a co-coach who is learning the reins of MGGDT. Financial struggles should never keep a student from participating, Coach Alexander emphasizes: “We never make families choose between paying the light bill and buying dance supplies.”
“Some of these girls remind me of myself. I know they’re using dance to escape what they’re going through. Coaches once helped me believe in myself, and now it’s my turn.” Coach Alexander recalls founding MGGDT during a deeply personal time. Her mother suffered an aneurysm and the team became her refuge and her mission.
She remembers encouraging a new, timid dancer two years ago. “I said try your best,” she says to April, a member of MGGDT. Now, she’s broken out of her shell.
Leeuna, a senior grade-level dancer, said “My favorite part about the team is the bonds you create. We create a sisterhood with people even if we have an argument because we can always come back as sisters.” Her favorite aspect of Melrose? “It’s a tight-knit community … you have people coming back as alumni who also send their kids here.”
As a member of the first MGGDT, Laura Wayne knows the impact of mentorship. When Coach A hinted at retirement, she stepped in without hesitation: “I told her ‘I got your back.’ I know where this started, and I know where it needs to go.” For Ms. Wayne, dance is just the beginning. “It’s more than just dancing. We deal with other situations. We’re here to stay.”
Both Ms. Alexander and Ms. Wayne currently volunteer in the same community that helped raise them. “It’s more than just dance,” they repeated throughout practice.
Unity Through Legacy
Both Hamilton and Melrose are more than just schools. They’re pillars of African-American history in Memphis, shaping leaders, preserving culture, and giving students a place to belong.
Leaders like Coach Latasha Terry and Coach Jennifer Alexander embody the truth of the saying: “It takes a village.” In neighborhoods where many students face adversity, these women offer guidance and love – bridging the gap and building futures.
After-school activities, especially those led by caring adults, provide safe spaces for healing and dreaming. MSCS Game Day is about the people who show up, the stories behind the sidelines, and the legacy of strength and community that continues with each generation.
Kinship and care have the power to continue to uplift MSCS’ motto: Greatness Grows Here!
If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.