Liza’s Light: Creating opportunities for the long-term

Liza’s Light represents a commitment to ensuring long-term success for the university's athletes. With a legacy rooted in community, athleticism, and the pursuit of excellence, the proceeds from this campaign will create a premier athletic facility while providing an environment where future generations of Memphis athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

At its core, Liza’s Light is about investing in our student-athletes and their journeys to triumph. Our goal is to raise $7 million for phase one, with proceeds going toward building The Liza Wellford Fletcher stadium, a state-of-the-art facility featuring essential amenities, offering the highest quality experience for the Memphis women’s and men’s soccer and track and field programs.

The planned improvements for phase one of the project include:

• A new grandstand that will provide optimal viewing for fans, creating a home-field advantage that Memphis has long deserved.
• An updated press box, essential for media coverage and promoting the accomplishments of the Tigers on a national scale.
• Dedicated areas for the women’s soccer team, certifying they have a space that reflects their talent and commitment to the game.

Beyond these structural enhancements, the new facility will elevate the game-day atmosphere, attract top-tier talent, and offer a home base that instills pride in athletes and fans alike.

Continuing a legacy of excellence

The Liza’s Light campaign is a pivotal moment for Memphis athletics, supporting the university’s soccer and track programs continuing ascent. The Memphis women’s soccer team has become a Division I powerhouse, boasting three consecutive American Athletic Conference titles and two back-to-back NCAA Sweet Sixteen appearances in 2022 and 2023. Having competed in six consecutive NCAA tournaments and claiming 14 conference championships since 2007, these athletes have set a high standard of excellence.

The men’s soccer program is also on the rise, with back-to-back NCAA appearances and the program’s first-ever National Tournament win in 2023. Their achievements extend beyond the field, with the team posting its highest GPA, 3.62, in Spring 2024. As the team continues to grow into a national contender, the stadium’s world-class facilities will foster both athletic and academic distinction, giving these student-athletes the resources they need to thrive.

Both the women’s and the men’s track and field teams have long been an example of consistency, producing 142 individual conference champions, 57 All-Americans, and one national champion. Recent accolades include sweeping shot put titles at the 2024 AAC Outdoor Championships and Madison Fleming’s outstanding track performance at the AAC Indoor Championships. The new stadium will be a training ground for future stars, ensuring Memphis remains a force in NCAA competition for years to come.

By investing in these programs through Liza’s Light, we are not only building infrastructure but also fostering the continued accomplishments of Memphis athletics, creating opportunities for student-athletes to excel at the highest level.

A brighter future for Memphis athletics

The Liza’s Light campaign aims to create opportunities for the future of Memphis athletics. The new stadium will serve as a place of pride, where athletes can perform at their best, and the Memphis community can come together to rally behind the teams that represent the university on a national stage. The campaign is also a way to honor the memory of Liza Fletcher, whose love for soccer and her community continues to inspire us all.

As the Tigers continue to dominate on the field, track, and in the classroom, the new stadium will be a home that reflects their dedication, talent, and potential for greatness. With the support of donors and the community, Liza’s Light is creating a legacy that will shine brightly for years to come, ensuring the long-term success of Memphis athletics.

You can light the way for future generations of student-athletes – donate today!

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