Tuscaloosa Academy To Host Groundbreaking For Mayers Athletic Center

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa Academy announced Monday it will mark a major milestone next month in its ongoing capital campaign with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new athletic facility.

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The school announced it will break ground on the Mayers Athletic Center on May 7 and is inviting the community to attend the event.

School officials also said the campaign has surpassed $5.1 million raised toward its overall goal.

As Patch previously reported, the new Mayers Athletic Center is expected to include a gymnasium, locker rooms, training areas and office space. It is also expected to expand the school’s ability to host volleyball and basketball tournaments while increasing opportunities for community events.

The new athletic center is named in honor of its benefactors, Chloé and Ric Mayers, who donated $1 million toward the capital campaign. This marked one of the single-largest gifts ever received by the Tuscaloosa private school.

“This project isn’t just about Tuscaloosa Academy — it’s about Tuscaloosa,” Ric Mayers said in December. “Strong schools make strong communities. This Athletic Center will inspire pride, opportunity and connection for generations to come.”

The ceremony will take place during the school day and include participation from students, who will be on-site wearing hard hats to symbolize their role in the school’s future.

Organizers also said the event will feature a celebratory atmosphere with giveaways and school spirit activities.

“We are thrilled to see this project take the next step,” Head of School Beckie Share said. “At Tuscaloosa Academy, we are building excellence in the classroom, on the stage, and in athletics.”

Board Chair Josh Johnson said the facility is designed to serve not only students but the broader community by hosting regional events.

“This groundbreaking is an exciting moment not just for our school, but for our entire community,” Johnson said. “By opening our doors to tournaments and events, we are creating a space where students, families and visitors can come together.”

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