Sept. 4, 2009

GALLERY

The University of Memphis's Park Avenue campus has another new addition. Ribbon cutting ceremonies took place yesterday, September 3rd, for the newly opened Frank L. Flautt Golf Center, located next to the Tiger Softball Complex on the Park Avenue campus.

The facility provides both the Tiger and Lady Tiger golf teams with state of the art facilities. The center includes a 400-yard driving range, complete with two teeing areas, two putting greens, and a chipping green. Inside, both teams have locker rooms with individual player lockers as well as study, kitchen and lounge areas. Both teams also have indoor hitting bays to be used when inclement weather strikes. Players also have access to a cutting-edge video room where they can analyze their swings from multiple angles.

Quotes from the press conference:

Dr. Shirley Raines:

"We're thrilled with this wonderful facility, but the reality is that facilities happen because people care about our university. And, this facility is made possible through the generosity of Frank and Brenda Flautt...We also know that you care about athletics, and you know how important athletics can be in the life of all these young people..But, today is a day in which we honor Frank Flautt. Frank, thank you for your generosity. And, thank you for showing what it means to be an alumnus of the university that gives back."

Athletic Direcor R.C. Johnson:

"When Melba and I came here 13 years ago, the first person I met in an official capacity was Frank Flautt.Little did I know that would be the beginning of an unbelievable friendhip. Frank has helped us many times before. We started our ambassadors program, and Frank was one of the first members. Frank, thank you so much. A job well done."

Women's Golf Head Coach Beth Harrelson:

"Thank you Frank Flautt. Thank you to the athletic department for all the support, for the people who came before who had the vision. Coach Robbins had a vision for this, and Frank Flauut helped him make it a reality and he did it first class."

Men's Golf Head Coach Grant Robbins:

"Wow. All I can say is what a great day this is for our golf program. Words just cannot express how grateful we are and how much you have done for us, Frank and Brenda...This is just an amazing facility. It's gone way above what my expectations were. This has been a vision of mine since I got here six years ago. I never thought we would have anything this great. It is, by far, the best in the country. And, we are definitely going to work hard to make you proud. Thank you so much for this."

Guest of Honor, Frank Flautt:

"This was indeed a special undertaking...I just want you to know how wonderful it is to be a supporter of the University of Memphis. To be a supporter is exciting. To be a graduate of the University of Memphis is an honor. And, for God to have put me in a position to give back to my school and my city, has indeed been very humbling."