Nov. 12, 2008

On Saturday, November 1, Providence College celebrated the grand opening of the Joyce Murphy Soccer Suite in Alumni Hall. Thanks to a generous gift from former soccer student-athlete, John Murphy ’80, the soccer offices underwent a $50,000 renovation and now feature new offices, meeting spaces and a lounge area equipped with flat screen televisions. Named in honor of John’s mother, Joyce A. Murphy, the first-class facility will enhance the atmosphere and experience for the Friar coaching staff and student-athletes and will also serve as a valuable recruiting asset for the soccer program.

More than 130 alumni, parents and friends of Friar soccer attended the dedication ceremony which took place after the Friar soccer team defeated the University of Pittsburgh in their final regular season home game at Glay Field. Following the dedication, a dinner was held at McPhail’s and that evening all guests were invited to attend the Friar men’s basketball game at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center where John Murphy ‘80 and his family were honored during halftime.

“This was a monumental day for the Friar soccer program and this facility will change the face of Providence soccer forever. John’s generosity has been unparalleled for our program, and we hope to continue to honor that gift by recruiting the highest caliber student-athletes who will continue to strive for bigger and better things to represent this wonderful institution.” – Head Men’s Soccer Coach Chaka Daley.