2024-25 Memphis Athletics Fund Membership Guide

2024-25 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE

Jeff Crane

Tiger Family,

Thanks to your support of Memphis Athletics through your contributions to the Memphis Athletics Fund, you are directly impacting the lives of over 400 student-athletes on an ongoing basis. Generous supporters like you contribute to a wide range of causes and initiatives that benefit our student-athletes and sport programs, and that support is reflected in the academic and athletic successes we are currently seeing. Whether it’s for scholarship support, facility capital projects, academic excellence or specialized initiatives like 901Women, we could not do it without your intentional and sustained giving!

When you look back on a year like we had in 2023-24, you can really see the results of your support. It’s truly remarkable what we accomplished together over the last calendar year!

Football, Women’s Soccer, Men’s Soccer and Men’s Tennis all reached postseason play, as did Rifle’s Gabriela Zych as an individual competitor

Women’s Soccer won the AAC championship, and Football won the AutoZone Liberty Bowl to wrap up a 10-win season

Our student-athletes surpassed a 3.25 all-student-athlete cumulative GPA, and Women’s Soccer and Volleyball earned AAC Team Academic Excellence Awards for having the highest GPA among all league schools

A total of 231 student-athletes earned a spot on the AAC All-Academic Team for compiling a GPA of at least 3.0, and we compiled a Graduation Success Rate of 93 percent, which is above the NCAA average of 90 percent

We completed the renovation of FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field and opened Leftwich Tennis Center in partnership with the City of Memphis

As we look ahead to 2024-25, we have even more transformational opportunities on the horizon. The potential that was unlocked by the ownership transfer of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium to the University’s Auxiliary Services Foundation, coupled with State funding and the Fred Smith Family’s $50 million matching gift for renovations, means we have the chance to control our own destiny like never before and set the course to own our future. The time to pounce is right now!

We cannot wait to tell you all about our plans for the football stadium improvements and our vision for Memphis Athletics Park, which includes a Student-Athlete Success Center, a Soccer-Track Stadium and more. We have a lot of work in front of us, but we are energized and inspired by the collective will of all of you, and Tiger Nation as a whole, to help us ascend.

Speaking of “ascend,” you’re going to hear us mention that word a lot this year. Not only is it the name of President Hardgrave’s strategic vision for our University, but it’s now how we think about our athletics strategic plans and the opportunities in front of us. We’re ready to capitalize on the successes of the last couple of years and use what is on the horizon to help us ascend. The word “ascend” demonstrates forward momentum, growth and drive, all of which fit Memphis Athletics and our entire University right now.

Many things may be changing in intercollegiate athletics, but one thing that isn’t changing is how we can accomplish anything when we put our Memphis spirit behind it. As always, we are truly grateful for your continued support of our student-athletes and programs. After all, the student-athletes are why we are all here and helping them succeed is the core of our mission. We could not be more grateful that you share in that vision.

Exciting times are on the horizon. Let’s ascend together!

Go Tigers Go!

Memphis Athletics

VISION FOR THE 2020s:

To be an ascending Athletics Department that supports and graduates our student-athletes while delivering championship-level experiences resulting in national prominence.

WE ACCOMPLISH THIS BY FOLLOWING OUR VALUES OF:

• Model: We model our University mission & values with integrity.

• Empower: We empower our student-athletes, coaches & staff to reach their full potential.

• Maximize: We maximize our resources & invest wisely in our future.

• Pride: We take pride in promoting our University & representing the 901.

• Hard-work: We are hard-working, blue-collar, gritty competitors.

• Innovate: We are innovative & embrace challenges as opportunities.

• Serve: We serve our student-athletes, fans, community & each other.

OF TUITION = $14,866.09

COST OF ROOM = $7,214.64

AVERAGE COST OF MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS = $6,462 AVERAGE COST OF ROOM = $7,214.64

COST OF BOOKS = $800 TOTAL AVERAGE COST OF A STUDENTATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP = $33,902.73

Across 400 plus student-athletes, 80% are international or out-of-state students and 87% are undergraduates.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Support of the MAF’s #MemphisAscend “Ascend to 5,000 Members”

Provide Books Funding for Student-Athletes

Provide Funding for Student-Athlete Scholarships

MAF Digital Donor Card & Discount Card

Invitation to Memphis Athletics Fund Donor Appreciation Day

Invitation to Memphis Student-Athletes Panel

Pregame VIP Tiger Lane Hospitality Tent (4)

Pregame VIP Happy Hour Reception Invitations

Invitation to Memphis Athletics Fund — Social

Super Tiger $5,000+

Striped Tiger

Bengal Tiger

Blue Tiger

Gray Tiger

Gold Silver

Tiger Lane

B&E, Pink, Red

Tiger Lane

C&F ($250)

Striped ($100), Blue, Tan

MESSAGE FROM OUR

StudentAthletes

“Thank you very much for the constant support. Your efforts to create a great environment for us student athletes is very appreciated. My teammates and I are lucky to have such a great staff and support system in you all that allows us to compete at the highest level, and that doesn’t go unnoticed by my teammates or myself.”

- Seth Henigan

MEMPHIS Athletics Successes

6 FROM 2023-24 SEASON

1. Football won the AutoZone Liberty Bowl maintaining, the longest active bowl streak in the American Athletic Conference and State of Tennessee to wrap up a 10-win season

2. Women’s soccer captured another AAC title, set an attendance record when hosting the first round of the NCAA tournament against LSU and returned to the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Tournament

3. We also had additional NCAA postseason appearances by Men’s Soccer, Men’s Tennis, Rifle’s Gabriela Zych and Track & Field.

4. We completed the renovation of FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field and officially opened the state of the art Leftwich Tennis Center

5. We announced new leadership for Men’s Tennis with the hiring of Chris Doerr

6. Outside of competition, our student-athletes have recorded a cumulative grade point average of 3.25, with a total of 231 studentathletes earning a spot on the AAC All-Academic Team

TIGER LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

The Tiger Leadership Circle (TLC) is Memphis Athletics’ premier student-athlete support program. The TLC combines giving of Ambassadors, direct contributions to sport programs and capital projects to create a true, total impact metric of lead donors for our athletics programs.

Funds that count toward TLC stewardship levels are charitable in nature. The TLC is strategically designed to reward those that embrace the culture of giving in our community and who invest above-and-beyond their seat-related giving. As we climb to the next level of intercollegiate competition together, the most differentiating resource for Memphis Athletics will be leadership annual giving.

GIVING IMPACT

OPTIONS

1. Highest Department Need

Allows Leadership to allocate funds to highest priority

2. Capital Projects

Invest in our facilities infrastructure outlined in the Memphis Athletics Facilities Master Plan

3. 901Women Initiative

Launched in 2022 to compliment the 50th Anniversary of Title IX, 901Women gifts are used to invest in the excellence of our women’s sports programs

4. Sport Impact

Allocate funds to help with operational and personnel costs for a specific program

5. Team Restricted Accounts

Funds are used at the discretion of the head coach. Up to $15,000 can be counted towards your TLC Membership Level

All benefits are provided on an annual basis. Benefit levels and benefits provided are subject to change.

Donors with Ambassador designation have completed or pledged $500,000+ philanthropic commitment to Memphis Athletics.

WAYS TO INVEST IN memphis athletics

HOW TO GIVE?

1. Cash, Credit Card, Check or e-check/ACH

We accept payments for Memphis Athletics Fund contributions via personal cash, credit cards, checks or e-checks.

2. IRA Qualified Charitable Distributions

The IRA charitable rollover is a great way to make charitable gifts to the UofM for supporters 70.5 years and older! There are a few provisions to note below:

The gift must come directly from the IRA administrator to the UofM Foundation. (If you bring the check yourself, it will be counted as income and taxed).

The IRA rollover gift can be used to satisfy all or part of your required minimum distribution (RMD).

3. Appreciated Securities/Stocks

Donors may sell stocks and securities to donate to a charitable cause.

You may use stock sales for gifts of any kind.

Using stocks and securities for this purpose helps to limit the amount of capital gains tax and receive credit for donations.

4. Donor Advised Fund

The Donor Advised Fund is a charitable giving program that allows you to combine your tax benefits with your support of Memphis Athletics Fund.

Donor Advised Fund gifts CANNOT be used to make your per seat donations.

Donor Advised Fund gifts CAN be used to make an ‘above and beyond’ philanthropic contribution to the Memphis Athletics Fund, the Tiger Leadership Circle or Sport Specific gifts.

5. Matching Gift

Your employer may have a matching gift program that helps amplify your Memphis Athletics Fund giving. Please note: due to the tax legislation in 2017, many employers do not match contributions tied to priority seating.

For assistance in participating in a matching gift program, ask your human resources representative for more information about your company’s program or contact our office at maf@memphis.edu for questions or information you may need.

6. Planned Gift

Planned giving is an excellent way to support Memphis Athletics. You can leave a bequest in your will, living trust or with a codicil. Your planned gift ensures that your legacy lives on with Memphis Athletics.

You can leave a specific bequest amount, a real asset, a percentage bequest, residual bequest or a contingent bequest to Memphis Athletics.

For more information on the different ways to support the Memphis Athletics Fund, please contact our office at 901.678.2334 or by email at maf@memphis.edu.

WAYS TO GIVE

By making a gift to MAF, you are having a direct impact in the lives of every University of Memphis student-athlete. You can support these student-athletes in their quest for excellence through the following ways:

ONLINE

Scan the QR Code to give on your mobile device

MAIL

You can renew your MAF donations by mail. Please send all gifts to Memphis Athletics Fund, 570 Normal Street Memphis TN, 38152. If paying by check, please make it payable to University of Memphis Foundation, memo: Memphis Athletics Fund

IN PERSON

Visit Memphis Athletics Fund offices (2nd floor of the Anfernee ”Penny” Hardaway Athletics Hall of Fame) where a staff member can answer any questions you may have or help renew your MAF donation

MISSION STATEMENT

The M Club is dedicated to establishing an elite letterwinner association by supporting Memphis Athletics and building a lasting tradition for all letterwinners by uniting past, present and future student-athletes through service, programs and camaraderie.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

GAMEDAY PERKS

• Complimentary admission to a catered pre-game hospitality tent at all home Football games and select Men’s Basketball games

• Complimentary tickets to select Football games

• Complimentary admission to all Olympic sports

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

• 50% discount on season tickets for men’s basketball - up to two season tickets in select sections

• 50% discount on football season ticket price (must pay full MAF donation) - up to four season tickets in select sections

• Option to purchase M Club apparel and memorabilia

• Complimentary membership for student-athletes upon completion of eligibility/graduation

• Mentorship for current and former student-athletes

• Quarterly M Club Newsletter

LEARN MORE TODAY: gotigersgo.com/sports/m-club

The 901Women initiative has been established to honor 50 years of competitive and academic excellence within our women’s sports programs since the passage of Title IX in 1972. In addition, this initiative intends to inspire and generate philanthropic support for the enhancement of athletic, academic and personal experiences for current and future female student-athletes at the University of Memphis.

The Department of Athletics remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering current female student-athletes and coaches who proudly represent this great institution. 901Women will allow for that commitment to expand locally, regionally and nationally by encouraging alumni, friends and fans to further support this mission as we help establish the next generation of trailblazers.

Thanks to the support of the 901Women community, Memphis Athletics has completed facility upgrades to both our volleyball and softball programs with plans underway for women’s soccer, and created programming to support female student-athletes, staff and future generations of female athletes.

ways to give:

Your generous donation to the 901Women initiative will directly support our women’s sports programs in their quest for excellence. Join today to support her future.

Visit to learn more and donate directly to 901Women or email 901women@memphis.edu.

NAME, IMAGE & LIKENESS

NIL 101 FOR THE 901

Before We Get Started

WHAT IS NIL?

As of July 2021, all NCAA student-athletes may earn compensation (e.g. cash, check, mobile payment, product, etc.) for use of their own Name, Image & Likeness (NIL).

• Boosters, fans and brands are permitted to conduct NIL deals with current student-athletes — not to be used as a recruiting inducement

• There must be a “quid pro quo” for all NIL deals, meaning work must be performed to earn compensation

• University personnel can communicate with you regarding NIL opportunities for current student-athletes

NIL DON’T’S

• Purchasing tickets and/or contributing to groups designed to support Memphis Athletics classifies you as a booster

• As a booster, you may not conduct NIL deals with prospective student-athletes (PSA) as a recruiting inducement

• Boosters or collectives may not use NIL to incentivize studentathletes to stay in, join or perform in a program (eg, “pay for play”)

• NCAA booster rules still apply, including:

- Boosters may not engage in recruiting activities, including recruiting conversations, on behalf of a school NIL DO’S

- Booster/NIL entity may not communicate (e.g., call, text, direct message [DM]) with a PSA, a PSA’s family or others affiliated with the PSA for a recruiting purpose

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Now it’s easier than ever to contribute to Name, Image and Likeness opportunities for Memphis student-athletes! NIL opportunities for studentathletes are vital for sustained competitive success.

Please visit GoTigersGo.com/NIL to make an NIL contribution via the 901 Fund, which is a great way to connect our student-athletes with local charities making a difference in our region. Bluff City Collective will receive contributions made for men’s basketball.

The University of Memphis is committed to helping our student-athletes get the “maximum” out of their NIL as Tigers.

SPORT SPECIFIC GIFTS

Interested

in making a significant impact on your favorite Memphis team?

MAKE A SPORT SPECIFIC GIFT!

Sport specific giving is a great way to directly impact a program of your choice. 100% of your gift will go towards the program, or programs, you are most passionate about. Your gift will directly enhance the lives of the team’s student-athletes by funding certain team needs and ultimately allowing our student-athletes to achieve their academic and athletic pursuits.

With over 400 student-athletes at Memphis competing in one of our 19 Division I varsity programs, both coaches and student-athletes rely on sport specific gifts to take their program to the next level.

Help us rise through sport specific giving and elevate Memphis Athletics’ teams.

Scan to make an impact today!

season tickets FOOTBALL

Season tickets are available for purchase online and by phone at 901.678.2331.

FOOTBALL GROUP TICKETS

A great idea for birthday parties, business outings, club activities or just for fun! Group rates start at only 15+ people. For more information, contact our ticket office at 901.678.2331 or tigertickets@memphis.edu

MEMPHIS YOUNG ALUMNI SEASON TICKET INFORMATION

Memphis Athletics extends discounted season ticket rates to all recent graduates who have completed their undergraduate degrees at the University of Memphis. These discounted season tickets last for five seasons after the graduate has completed their undergraduate degree and are limited to two season tickets per sport. Discounts may be applied by purchasing tickets over the phone through the ticket office at 901.678.2331.

MEN’S BASKETBALL PARKING

MESSAGE FROM OUR

StudentAthletes

“We want to thank you for your many contributions to our program. Whether it be your time, your generosity, or just your support, we want you to know that your kindness does not go unnoticed. Without it, we would not be able to pursue our passion while also pursuing our education. Thank you all for being an integral part in allowing every single student athlete to achieve their dreams while here at the University of Memphis.”

- Kaylie Bierman

PARK AVENUE CAMPUS HOUSING

SIMMONS BANK LIBERTY STADIUM

FUTURE OUR FOOTBALL

In March 2024, the UofM announced Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium work is set to begin in May 2024 with completion anticipated prior to the start of the 2026 Memphis Football season.

PRIORITY ELEMENTS OF PHASES ONE AND TWO INCLUDE:

A repurpose and retrofit of the East side suite tower; including moving media and gameday operations from their current West side location

A transformation of the stadium’s West side providing several modern-day premium seating options (including Founder’s Loge Boxes and additional private suites)

Creating a unique interior “party plaza” area for all fans to enjoy

Upgrades to the preimeter and halo, providing a hospitality space around the stadium

Future Phase Three will include potential locker room expansion and upgrades, additional perimeter, halo and concourse upgrades, other seating enhancements and north end tunnel renovation allowing production access for large-scale events such as concerts.

CAPITAL PROJECTS

Completed or Near Completion

Leftwich Tennis Center

Completed in the Fall of 2023, the Leftwich Tennis Center is one of the nation’s premier tennis facilities. With 12 indoor courts and 24 outdoor courts, it is home to our Memphis tennis team as well as home base for Tennis Memphis.

FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field

Renovations to FedExPark Avron Fogelman Field brought brand new, state of the art artificial turf, which is a valuable enhancement in player development and allows the Tigers to better compete on the field. Additional upgrades included a new videoboard and lower foul and outfield walls, improving the gameday experience for fans attending a Memphis baseball game.

Larry O. Finch Center

The Finch Center underwent major renovations in the summer of 2023 to improve the player experience. With the support of 901Women and Sports Floor Inc., the once regulation-sized basketball court has been turned into three full size courts and a half court for additional practice areas.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Can I pay my Memphis Athletics Fund contribution in installments?

A. Yes. Just call 901.678.2334 to set up your monthly payment. The payments can be made equally over time with your credit card on a month-by-month basis.

Q. How do I get FedExForum parking?

A. To be eligible for parking in the FedExForum Garage, you must be a Bengal Tiger ($1,000) or above.Parking is allocated on an annual basis and is based on giving level and priority points earned.

Q. What happens if I do not make my Memphis Athletics Fund contribution by May 15?

A. If you are unable to complete your donation by the April 1 deadline, you may lose your tickets and parking priority.

Q. How are postseason football and basketball tickets allocated?

A. Postseason football and basketball ticket allocations are based on donor level (i.e., Super Tiger or Platinum Tiger), and priority points earned within each donor level.

Q. Can I be a member of the Memphis Athletics Fund even if I do not have season tickets?

A. Yes. Being a part of the Memphis Athletics Fund is a great way to support the 400-plus studentathletes at the University of Memphis. You can become a MAF member for as little as $50.

Q. How can I improve my Memphis Athletics Fund membership?

A. You can improve your Memphis Athletics Fund membership level by donating to any of these areas of support: priority seating, sport specific giving, 901Women, facility projects, scholarship endowments and planned giving.

Q. Do Memphis Athletics Fund donors receive any benefits for financially supporting Memphis Athletics Fund?

A. Yes! The Memphis Athletics Fund membership year runs from July 1 through June 30, annually. Any gifts made to Athletics during that time qualify donors for Memphis Athletics Fund benefits based on their overall giving to Memphis Athletics.

Memphis Athletics Fund Staff

JEFF CRANE Interim Athletic Director Jeff.C@memphis.edu

BRAD LOOS

Senior Associate Athletic Director Chief Revenue Officer bsloos@memphis.edu

EMILY HAGANS

Director of Administration & Special Projects eahagans@memphis.edu

LAUREN ASHMAN Deputy Athletic Director/Senior Women’s Administrator lauren.ashman@memphis.edu

CHRISTINA WIATR Associate Athletic Director Annual Fund ctwiatr@memphis.edu

BROCK MCWHORTER

Director of Annual Fund and Letterwinner Relations bdmcwhrt@memphis.edu

TAYLOR SANDERSON Associate Athletic Director Leadership Giving taylor.sanderson@memphis.edu

NATE BROWN

Director External Engagement and Special Projects nbrown9@memphis.edu

TONYA GIBBS Associate Athletic Director Stewardship and Engagement tngibbs@memphis.edu

Compliance