Rice University Announces Tennis Complex
3/28/2012 12:00:00 AM | Men's Tennis
March 28, 2012
The Rice University Athletic Department announced the plans to move forward with the fundraising effort for a new tennis complex. Rice Athletics has received an initial $3 million commitment toward the $7.5 million project, which is being raised entirely through philanthropy.
"The generosity of a long-time Rice supporter, who wishes to remain anonymous, has spearheaded our effort to make this project a reality," Rice Director of Athletics Rick Greenspan said. "We are working aggressively, both as University and Department, to get the remaining funds secured for this project."
In concept, the tennis complex will be located at the corner of Rice Boulevard and Shepherd Drive and will include 14 lighted playing courts. The lighting will allow for both teams to schedule evening matches. The new facility with house coaches offices, locker rooms and training spaces. It will also feature state-of-the-art playing surfaces and increased seating capacity.
"With the new complex, Rice University will be creating one of the premier facilities in the region and among our peers" Rice Women's Head Coach Elizabeth Schmidt said. "It will aid us in recruiting, and assist us as we to continue to drive for national excellence."
Additionally, the new complex would enhance Rice's efforts to host both conference championships and NCAA events.
"This new complex will allow us to further engage the campus community and the greater Houston area," Rice Men's Head Coach Ron Smarr said.
