News

July 26, 2023

Monogram Smith River Sports Complex to Join Henry County Parks & Rec

AXTON, VA – The Henry County Board of Supervisors and Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority (SVRFA) are announcing Monogram Foods Smith River Sports Complex (MFSRSC) is joining the Henry County Parks & Rec Department to continue operations effective immediately.

The Sports Complex and Henry County are announcing the transfer of all assets and operations of the complex over to the Henry County Parks and Rec Department. The move will allow MFSRSC to continue to operate as normal with current staff in place for events, games and recreation leagues, while also seeing the benefit of additional staffing and financial assistance.

“The SRSC has become well known for its quality facilities and operations, attracting thousands of people to this area each year, along with generating significant revenue for the community through taxes on hotels, food and products," Scott Prillaman, Chairman of SVRFA Board of Directors, said. "I am extremely proud of the great work the staff has done in keeping the operation running smoothly. However, the current model of funding for SRSC is not sustainable. It is our belief that the continued operation of a premier facility can best be accomplished by Henry County.”

Additionally, the Harvest Foundation has provided a $250,000 grant to assist the County with costs associated with transitioning SRSC to the County operations.

MFSRSC is the preeminent sports facility in southern Virginia, playing host to youth, high school, college and community events from January to December. In 2022, the sports complex hosted an event in all but two weekends of the year and over 300 days of the year, while bringing visitors to Martinsville from 25 different states and nine different countries.

"I believe Monogram Sports Complex will be a great addition to Parks & Rec., and this change will allow greater efficiencies and improved maintenance to the facility." Lloyd Barber, Executive Director of MFSRSC, said. "This will be a mutually beneficial arrangement for both parties and provide even more opportunities to the residents of Martinsville-Henry County. We're excited to see the growth for years to come."

For more information about Henry County Parks and Rec click here