On October 17, 2014, North Stafford High School named its stadium, A.J. Slye Memorial Stadium and dedicated it in AJ Slye’s honor.  AJ, a star middle linebacker and captain of North Stafford’s 2011 football team that reached the State Semifinal, never wanted to leave that football field and thanks to North Stafford coach Joe Mangano, North Stafford High School administration and the Stafford County School Board and Administration, he will never have to.

“‘Slye Strong’ is now pretty much synonymous with our school and our beliefs.  Our field will always be a tribute to A.J. That name will continue to be respected by everyone in the community.  A.J. impacts the entire community, not just North Stafford. ‘Slye Strong’ means a lot. It really means the dedication and the determination and sportsmanship. We can talk about it all the time, but for us, Slye Stadium is going to say it all. He was a role model for our students. He will represent our sports programs with this honor.” -Principal Tom Nichols

“It’s going to be one of those things where we’re going to celebrate him one more time and make it official.  His name will live forever at our school.” -Coach Joe Mangano

The dedication ceremony took place on Homecoming night against Riverbend.  In attendance for the ceremony were many people who loved and supported AJ, including his mom, dad, brother, grandma, aunt, uncle, former teammates, high school and Salisbury University coaches, and a special guest from St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  We can all agree that it was a memorable evening!

Make sure to view our photos in our Gallery.