GSACPC Receives $80,000 Grant from Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation for New Sports Court

Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC) has been awarded a $80,000 grant from the Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation to build a new half-court, multi-use sports court at Shadow Rim Ranch, located in the Tonto National Forest near Payson.

Serving more than 12,000 K–12 girls annually, the new sports court will expand year-round athletic opportunities and create a safe, inclusive space for girls to get active and connect through sports.

“Girl Scouts empowers girls to build confidence, and one important way we do that is through physical activity and spending time outdoors,” said Mary Mitchell, co-CEO of GSACPC. “We are grateful for the support of partners like the Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation which allows us to expand opportunities for girls while reinforcing the values that sports can teach such as sportsmanship, purpose and fair play.”

That commitment will take shape through the 60-foot by 50-foot multi-use court, which will serve approximately 1,500 girls year-round and an additional 500 girls during summer camp.

“This new court gives girls a dedicated place to come together, try sports like basketball, volleyball, pickleball, badminton, soccer and more, earning patches that recognize their growth as they explore new skills,” said Christina Spicer, co-CEO of GSACPC.

In February, the Phoenix Suns will continue to support GSACPC as they welcome Girl Scouts to celebrate the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie Season during the team’s February 21, 2026, home game, highlighting girls’ leadership and entrepreneurship.

This investment helps ensure that girls across Northern Arizona have increased access to physical activity, positive mentorship and opportunities to discover their strengths both on and off the court.

For more information on GSACPC, visit www.girlscoutsaz.org.