University of Memphis Breaks Ground on New Soccer Stadium
The University of Memphis on Monday, Sept. 21, broke ground on a new soccer stadium that will memorialize a former UofM women's soccer player who was killed in September 2022.
Construction of Liza Wellford Fletcher Stadium is officially underway following a groundbreaking ceremony Monday at UofM Soccer's current home facility, the Billy J. Murphy Athletic Complex.
The stadium — which is being built through support from Liza'sLight University of Memphis Soccer and Track Stadium Fund — will be the future home of UofM men's and women's soccer, as well as the university's track and field team. It will also serve as a memorial to Liza Fletcher, a former UofM soccer player who was killed in September 2022.
Indianapolis Public Schools Cuts Ribbon on New Athletics Facilities Renovation
Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) celebrated a new chapter for George Washington High School athletics today with a ribbon cutting for the campus’ newly renovated athletic facilities, giving student-athletes a modern home for competition and creating an enhanced experience for families, alumni and fans.
The outdoor ceremony, conducted at the new athletic field, showcased improvements including a resurfaced track, artificial turf for football and soccer with dedicated girls’ flag football lines, a new 650-seat grandstand, press box, sidewalk improvements and a new sound system.
The project is part of IPS’ broader investment in high-quality athletic facilities designed to expand opportunities for students, strengthen school pride and create welcoming spaces for school communities.
For George Washington junior and multi-sport student-athlete Chris Perdue, the improvements are already making a difference.
“My teammates love competing on this new field,” Perdue said. “When you walk out here, you can feel the difference. There’s a different kind of energy when you know you’re competing in a facility that was designed with you in mind.”
Buchanan Community Schools Cuts Ribbon on Facility Improvements
Buchanan Community Schools has completed several major facility improvement projects at Buchanan High School, including renovations to the track and tennis courts and replacement of the auxiliary gymnasium floor.
The newly renovated track marks a milestone for the district, which previously was unable to host home track meets. The tennis courts have also been resurfaced, with new lines, nets and signage. Adaptable equipment has been added to accommodate pickleball.
The track and tennis court projects were completed by the same contractor at a total cost of about $482,000. The district says community donations played a major role in funding the work, including a $100,000 anonymous donation toward the track project and a $25,000 anonymous donation for tennis court wind screens and additional track and field equipment.
Steve and Amy Bender, the Tennis Boosters and anonymous donors also helped fund the tennis court project and a new storage shed.
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