Henderson, Tennessee – (May 1, 2024) – Freed-Hardeman University softball players and fans are enjoying upgraded facilities this season, thanks to the generous support of the Chalmers, Tucker and Black families. Ribbon cutting ceremonies for the new Chalmers Clubhouse and the Rayla Tucker Black Field took place Saturday, April 13, at Morgan Stadium. A reception for the families was also held.
Designed specifically for use by the FHU softball team, the brand new Chalmers Clubhouse is a versatile multipurpose construction that provides an indoor practice space, locker room, team room, coaches offices, training room and umpire locker room. Michael and Kim Chalmers first became involved in the project when their son Adam came to FHU as a student. They learned from President David Shannon that the softball facilities were in need of a fieldhouse similar to what was already available for men’s baseball, and the Chalmers family graciously decided they wanted to help make that happen.
“We are excited to support such an esteemed group of young ladies today and in the future through this gift,” Michael Chalmers said. “From our first time meeting Coach Humphry, we were impressed by his vision and plans for the future of FHU softball. He has established a solid and respected program in the NAIA.”
“So very thankful for Michael and Kim Chalmers for their help making our indoor facility dream come true,” Todd Humphry, assistant athletic director and head softball coach, said. “The successes and benefits we have enjoyed, along with increased recruiting opportunities, are a true reflection of their help providing the building we needed. We are truly blessed.”
When Milton and Patricia Tucker, longtime Freed-Hardeman supporters, learned of the new fieldhouse and other softball improvement plans, they also expressed a desire to get involved. Their daughter, Rayla (Tucker) Black, was a member of the inaugural FHU softball team in 1991, and this project seemed like the perfect way to honor her while showing their appreciation for the program that she loved. Through their generous gifts, the newly named Rayla Tucker Black Field has undergone many recent and continual improvements, such as leveling and resurfacing, as well as the building of a fan deck in left field.
“The contribution from the Tucker family in naming our field after their daughter, Rayla Tucker Black, has made our field a showplace,” Humphry stated. “We have received honors as high as ‘NAIA Field of the Year,’ and this is all thanks to the blessing of the Tucker and the Black families. It was also memorable that Rayla played on the first softball team ever formed at Freed-Hardeman, so we are grateful that they wanted to give back on behalf of those who will play here in the future.”
During the ceremony, Black reminisced on her time as a player and expressed her hope for the future of the program. “As the players know, the bonds forged on the softball field are ones that endure a lifetime,” Black said. “As we gather here today, I am filled with hope that the same camaraderie and friendships are being cultivated amongst the players and teams of the future. It is my fervent prayer that this field continues to serve as a backdrop for the creation of lasting memories and lifelong connections like it did for me.”
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees.