Work on E&H sports complex moving forward

 Work on a multi-million-dollar Food City Sports Complex at Emory & Henry College continues on schedule toward phase one completion in time for use by teams this fall.

College administrators report progress in a variety of areas of the construction at the location for the $13.5 million sports facility near exit 26 along Interstate 81. Workers currently are completing work on drainage systems, curbing, electrical infrastructure, and a scoreboard. 

All work is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, including the installation of artificial turf, a Mondo brand track, stadium lighting, stadium seats, and a timing system. Completion of a press box is expected by the end of August.

In addition, by Aug. 1, construction crews are expected to complete work on the track, which utilizes materials designed to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risks. The surface has been used in the design of Olympic track and field venues, including the tracks of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

 “We are pleased with the progress toward completion of this new facility,” said Mark Graham, E&H chief of staff. “Workers have been meeting their targets, which are intended to ensure the use of the complex for our fall athletic season.”  

The complex will be used by male and female athletes competing in soccer, lacrosse, and track and field. The facility is intended not only to support Emory & Henry DII athletics, but also the youth of the region, according to E&H President John W. Wells.

“We envision opportunities to support one another and to host large tournaments and events throughout the seasons. This will also be an engine for economic impact and growth by increasing the number of visitors to our region who will enjoy lodging, dining, transportation and recreation in Washington County.”

Food City provided a lead gift of $4 million toward the completion of the first phase of the project. A second phase of construction will include completion of game-day locker rooms, restrooms and paved parking spaces.  

The new complex will be managed by Synergy Sports Global. According to Jason Boudrie, founder and CEO of Synergy, working with Emory & Henry to develop a sports complex allows his company to contribute to the development of a high-caliber athletic program.

Boudrie said, “The opportunity to play a role in shaping the spaces where athletes will compete, train and excel is truly exciting and rewarding. A well-designed sports complex can give them a competitive edge by providing a facility that aligns with the standards and expectations of their new division.”

“This is an amazing opportunity for our athletics department, student-athletes and Emory & Henry,” said Dr. Anne Crutchfield, vice president for athletics. “The complex will attract future students and youth teams to our campus and the region. We hope their families explore the area to take advantage of the recreational amenities we offer in Southwest Virginia and enjoy coming out to support E&H events and other events on our campus.” 

Emory & Henry competes in the South Atlantic Conference.