Memphis officials are moving forward with a new athletic field in South Memphis through a partnership between Mayor Lee Harris, Memphis Shelby County Schools Interim Superintendent Rod Richmond, and Memphis Inner City Rugby (MICR). According to the Shelby County Mayor’s Office, a groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. at the site of the former Vance Middle School.
The project is supported by a $1.1 million grant approved in December 2023 through Mayor Harris' Office of Innovation. In a statement to Shelby County, Mayor Harris said the investment would provide opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional sports, noting that the new field would serve kids and families in the community.
MICR has worked with nearly 4,000 students since 2012, using rugby to support physical activity, mentorship, and academic growth. Andrea Wensits, Executive Director of MICR, told Shelby County the funding will create safe spaces and opportunities for young athletes. Richmond added in a statement that the new sports field will offer students a positive outlet, bring families together, and allow outside teams to visit Memphis.
