Liza’s Light: How one woman’s legacy is inspiring a generation

In Memphis, where community and tradition run deep, a woman’s legacy continues to shine brightly. Liza Fletcher, a former University of Memphis soccer player, avid runner, and beloved mother, wife, and teacher, touched countless lives with her passion, dedication, and spirit. 

Now, her light is guiding the future of Memphis athletics and inspiring a new generation through the development of the Liza Wellford Fletcher Stadium. This state-of-the-art facility marks a major milestone for the University of Memphis and serves as a tribute to the enduring impact Liza left on her teammates, students, and the entire Memphis community. Her commitment to the sport of soccer and to those around her will continue for years to come.

A story of passion and dedication

Liza Fletcher’s name is synonymous with passion. As a UofM soccer player, her dedication to the sport was palpable. Teammates and coaches recall her tireless work ethic, energy, and leadership both on and off the field. But her legacy extends far beyond soccer. After her time at the university, Liza became a devoted educator at St. Mary’s Episcopal School, pouring her heart into teaching and mentoring young minds. Her kindness, strength, and love for her community became defining traits.

Friends, family, and colleagues knew that the best way to cherish Liza’s memory was by creating something lasting – something that would reflect the incredible impact she had on everyone around her. From this vision, the Liza Wellford Fletcher Stadium project was born.

Liza’s Light: A campaign with purpose

The development of the Liza Wellford Fletcher Stadium is supported by the Liza’s Light University of Memphis Soccer and Track Stadium Fund, an initiative that seeks to raise capital and awareness for this transformative project. The campaign’s mission is clear – to honor Liza by building a world-class facility that will elevate UofM athletics and inspire future generations of our Tiger athletes to strive for greatness.

The stadium will serve as the new home for UofM’s women’s and men’s soccer teams, as well as the track and field program. It will feature top-tier amenities that match the excellence these programs have achieved over the years. From modern locker rooms and training spaces to a grandstand and team lounges, the stadium will provide a much-needed upgrade, offering students an environment where they can thrive both athletically and academically.

A space for growth and community

The creation of this stadium is an investment in the future of UofM athletics. Over the years, the university’s soccer and track programs have achieved incredible success. With this new stadium, athletes will have a space that reflects their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

The first phase of the project, estimated at $7 million, includes constructing a grandstand, a press box, and a women’s soccer team area. These additions will elevate the experience for both athletes and fans, making UofM games more dynamic and community-centered. Future phases will complete the men’s soccer and track facilities, ensuring that more than 100 student-athletes have access to the best possible resources.

The stadium is set to be a place where memories will be made and friendships forged. It will be a symbol of the resilience, spirit, and heart that Liza embodied every day. The Liza’s Light campaign is about building a future where our athletes are empowered to chase their dreams, just as Liza did.

Liza’s story serves as a reminder that success is about more than just talent – it’s about heart, effort, and giving back to the community that supports you. The stadium will stand as a testament to these values, encouraging future generations to follow in Liza’s footsteps, both on and off the field.

How you can get involved

The Liza’s Light campaign invites alumni, fans, and supporters from across the community to join in building this remarkable facility. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are countless ways to become part of Liza’s enduring legacy. By supporting the stadium, donors can invest in the future of every athlete who will compete and grow within its walls.

For more information on how to contribute to the Liza Wellford Fletcher Stadium or to learn more about Liza’s Light, please visit www.lizaslight.org.

Together, we can continue to shine Liza’s light.

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