Memphis Set to Break Ground on New Rugby Field Following Lease Approval

Memphis Moves Forward with Rugby Field Construction

Memphis is buzzing with excitement as the *final step* for the Memphis Inner City Rugby (MICR) organization to launch construction on the *long-awaited rugby field* at the former Vance Middle School site comes closer to reality. The Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Board is scheduled to review a crucial *five-year lease agreement* for the land, making it possible for the much-anticipated upgrades to begin.

A Grant to Fuel the Future

Back in December 2023, MICR was awarded a *generous grant* from the Shelby County Government under the *American Rescue Plan Act*, paving the way for the organization to revamp the blighted field on Vance Avenue. This *funding infusion* will be used to construct restroom facilities, concessions, and storage spaces, helping to transform what was once an underutilized area into a thriving sports hub.

At a recent MSCS Board meeting, Dr. Marie Feagins indicated that the contract will undergo an amendment before the next board session. One significant change involves the cost of the lease, which is being adjusted from *$5 to $1* for the five years—an incredible deal for a space that will support so many young athletes!

Anticipation Builds for Lease Approval

Shane Young, the Executive Director of MICR, expressed his *enthusiasm* about the lease finally being placed on the agenda, commenting, “It has almost been a year since the funds were initially allocated to the organization.” He added that he feels *confident* in the board’s decision to approve the lease, after MICR had received the necessary funding but were unable to access it without the approval.

The journey hasn’t been easy for MICR. They have been utilizing the field since 2017, after Vance Middle School was demolished in 2019. Over the years, MICR has built quite the reputation, serving roughly 3,000 athletes, with over 100 of those moving on to play for collegiate rugby programs across the nation. As it stands today, around 70 former MICR athletes are currently competing at the collegiate level.

A Collaborative Effort

It’s essential to recognize that this development is a collaborative effort. The Shelby County Government plays a significant role in this project, as the lease needs to be established for funding to proceed. MICR has made multiple appearances at commission meetings advocating for the project, demonstrating the *community’s passion* for this initiative. Young commented on the board’s previous *scrutiny* towards how federal funds were allocated but seems optimistic about the road ahead.

In terms of maintenance for the field, MSCS will initially handle it, allotted a budget of around *$18,000*. However, MICR has expressed their readiness to manage the upkeep of the field, creating a sense of ownership and *commitment* towards the revitalization of the area. With the upgrades covering only about *3 to 3.5 acres* of the total 12-acre plot, there remains ample space for future uses.

Support from the Community

Additionally, the project has received a direct investment from the *Hyde Family Foundation*, contributing $1.1 million to support the construction. This investment, along with a sustainability grant from the Assisi Foundation, solidifies the commitment to enhancing the sports and recreation facilities available to the youth in the community.

Looking Ahead

As Memphis prepares to welcome this new sporting complex, there is an air of *anticipation and hope* in the community. Young’s enthusiasm reflects the collective sentiment: this field will not only be a place for rugby but also a home for fostering *teamwork, sportsmanship*, and personal growth among young athletes in the city.

The next board meeting will be a *pivotal moment* for MICR and all young athletes directly impacted by this decision. As the city gears up for this exciting new chapter, it’s hard not to share in the excitement that Memphis is about to see its sports scene transformed!