Milwaukee City Wire

Recognizing the legacy of a local sports icon, Milwaukee Public Schools and the Milwaukee City Conference unveiled a new mural on June 9 at Jimmy Banks Memorial Stadium. The event honored Jimmy Banks, a notable figure in Wisconsin soccer history.

Banks was an alumnus of Custer High School and later played for UW-Milwaukee. He made history as the first person from Wisconsin and the second African American to represent the U.S. Men's National Team in a World Cup. After his playing career, he founded the Milwaukee Simbas youth soccer club and coached at the Milwaukee School of Engineering from 1999 to 2019.

The mural, created by Tia Richardson of Cosmic Butterfly Design, spans a 12-by-50-foot area outside the stadium. It reflects Banks' contributions both on and off the field through themes of teamwork, perseverance, and community service. "This project really touched my heart," said Richardson during the press conference.

Richardson named her piece “Reaching Your Potential,” inspired by Banks’ dedication to community service. Bobbie Kelsey, MPS Commissioner of Athletics and Academics, stated that "this mural reflects the values he lived by: teamwork, perseverance and service."

Megan O’Halloran from the Milwaukee Board of Schools highlighted Banks' efforts to provide coaching and mentorship across diverse backgrounds as "a radical act of love for the community." Wendell Willis from Friends of Jimmy Banks Stadium added that Banks inspired many in soccer despite challenges related to race.

Christopher Perceptions, Banks’ nephew, expressed pride in his uncle's influence on both soccer and local youth. Funding for this tribute came from various sources including Bader Philanthropies and Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

Milwaukee PBS recently featured Banks in its 'Black Nouveau' series while TMJ4 and FOX6 covered the unveiling event.