Baseball

Groundbreaking Marks the Beginning of Construction of FedExPark

Feb. 18, 2009

Groundbreaking Ceremony Photo Gallery

Memphis, Tenn.--The University of Memphis officially kicked off construction of FedExPark this afternoon with a groundbreaking ceremony at Memphis' Park Avenue Campus. University President Dr. Shirley Raines and Athletic Director R.C. Johnson and Tiger baseball head coach Daron Schoenrock were on hand for the momentous occasion, as well as Alan B. Graf, Jr., FedEx Corp. executive vice-president and chief financial officer.

"FedEx has assisted us with a multitude of athletic projects and we want to express our deepest appreciation," Johnson stated. "This organization continues to be a benefactor not only to the University but to the City of Memphis and the entire Mid-South."

Construction setup began on Monday, February 16, with the project slated for completion by the spring of 2010. The Tigers will play homes game at USA Stadium in Millington and at AutoZone Park this spring.

Plans for the Tigers' baseball complex call for a new clubhouse, dugouts, grandstand, concession stands and restroom facilities. A new press box will be constructed with private booths for radio and television broadcasts, as well as working media and event management areas. The dressing facility will include locker rooms for Tiger coaches and players, office and meeting space, indoor pitching and batting cages, as well as a direct entrance into the Tiger dugout and field at game time.

"This was a great day," said Schoenrock. "What a great turn out for the (groundbreaking) ceremony. Although the timing (of construction) is never on the terms you want it to be, it was perfect because it comes along with the kickoff of our season. With what FedEx has done, stepping forward to give this program a boost is something that I personally will never forget. I know our baseball program will never be the same because of FedEx."

The groundbreaking comes just two days before the Tigers open the 2009 season in the Service Academies Classic in Millington. Memphis opens the season against the Kansas Jayhawks on Fri., Feb. 20. First pitch is slated for 4 p.m.