Mike Rose Soccer Complex – Tennessee’s Premier Soccer Venue

The Mike Rose Soccer Complex is a premier Tennessee sports complex and soccer venue located in Memphis. This expansive, Shelby County Government-owned facility features 16 full-size grass fields (FIFA dimensions) and a 2,500-seat stadium. Designed for event hosting and community athletics, Mike Rose Soccer Complex sits on 136.17 acres off Bill Morris Parkway. The facility was completed in 2001 at a cost of $4 million and has since become one of the largest soccer fields and sports venues in Memphis, Tennessee.

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As one of the region’s top soccer venues, the complex attracts youth soccer tournaments and league play year-round. Youth and adult leagues, as well as dozens of tournaments, are held here annually. In this guide we’ll cover the fields and facilities, major events, and community impact of the Mike Rose Soccer Complex. We’ll also provide visitor tips and FAQs for anyone interested in Memphis soccer fields or planning an event at this Tennessee sports complex.

Aerial view of the Mike Rose Soccer Complex in Memphis, showcasing its multiple soccer fields and stadium facilities.

Facilities & Features

The Mike Rose Soccer Complex is built to meet the needs of players, coaches, and fans. Its 16 FIFA-regulation grass fields (each 115×75 yards) are equipped with Bermuda grass and full field lighting. Advanced drainage and irrigation systems keep all fields playable in all weather. Key highlights include:

16 lighted soccer fields (FIFA dimensions) with underground drainage and irrigation.
2,500-seat stadium: Completed in 2001, this top-quality stadium has a championship-grade Bermuda playing surface, 75-candle stadium lights for night games, and full facilities.
Modern amenities: Each field is accompanied by paved walkways, shaded pavilions, permanent restrooms, and covered concessions. The stadium structure itself contains locker rooms, showers, a food court, corporate skybox suites, media rooms, and administrative offices.
Parking & access: The complex includes over 1,200 parking spaces with plenty of free parking, including bus, motorcoach, and RV spots. Visitors enter via the Bill Morris Parkway exits.
Recreation area: Beyond soccer, the site offers a landscaped recreation area with picnic tables and a 3-acre lake, providing a scenic spot for families and spectators to relax.

Together, these features make Mike Rose Soccer Complex well-suited for high-level soccer play and large sports events in Memphis. The combination of multiple fields, spectator seating, and modern infrastructure means the complex can host major tournaments and leagues, supporting the growing soccer community in the region.

History and Management

The idea for Mike Rose Soccer Complex began in the late 1990s to give Memphis a world-class soccer venue. Named for Mike Rose, a former Shelby County commissioner, the facility is the result of a public-private partnership. Shelby County Government owns the complex, while the day-to-day operations are managed by OS Memphis (formerly Operation Sports). This partnership (championed by then-Mayor Jim Rout and local soccer leaders) allowed funding and community support to build the complex on county land.

Construction of the fields was completed in 1998, and the centerpiece stadium opened in August 2001. The cost was around $4 million. Since opening, Mike Rose Soccer Complex has been the home of many Memphis-area soccer organizations. From 2001 to 2018, it served as the home stadium for the University of Memphis (Memphis Tigers) men’s and women’s soccer teams. In 2019, after the Tigers moved to a new on-campus facility, MRSC shifted fully to serving community and tournament events.

Field and Stadium Specifications

Every aspect of the complex was built for soccer. The playing fields are all full-size (115×75 yards) and use premium hybrid Bermuda grass. A state-of-the-art irrigation and drainage system ensures quick water runoff and healthy turf. Each field can be lit for evening play, making the complex popular for night games and tournaments. Between fields are paved access roads and walkways, ensuring easy movement for players and spectators.

The central stadium (sometimes called Mike Rose Soccer Stadium) stands out as a crown jewel. It seats just over 2,500 fans and features:

Professional playing field: A level, 116×76 yard hybrid Bermuda turf field built with underground sprinklers and drainage for optimal play.
Lighting: Powerful 75-candle lights allow high-quality night matches.
Facilities: On-site concessions, restrooms, a TV-quality scoreboard, media room, and comfortable locker rooms. The stadium includes premium amenities such as a corporate skybox and a spacious player lounge.

This combination of features makes MRSC’s stadium one of the top soccer venues in Memphis, capable of hosting college, semi-pro, and international events. In fact, the venue has been praised as “America’s Premier Soccer Complex” in its promotional materials. The level of investment in the fields and stadium distinguishes it as a recreational sports facility in Tennessee and a key asset for local soccer leagues.

Major Events and Tournaments

One of the biggest draws of Mike Rose Soccer Complex is its calendar of youth soccer tournaments and events. The fall season typically sees the heaviest action, with both local and national competitions:

The Rose Cup (Sept): An annual tournament split into boys’ and girls’ weekends, drawing 200+ teams from across the country. All games are played at MRSC, and the event features multiple competition levels (Gold, Silver, Bronze) to match team skills. Organizers highlight flexible scheduling and on-site hotels, noting “great hotels and restaurants within 2 miles of the fields” to accommodate teams. This showcase event alone brings thousands of players and families to Memphis each year.
Wolf River Classic (Oct): A weekend tournament for various youth age groups (boys and girls). Hosted by Lobos Rush club, it has become a popular fall championship in the Mid-South region.
Germantown Invitational (Nov): Held in collaboration with Germantown Soccer Club, this series of tournaments (separate boys’ and girls’ events) covers ages U8–U15 and an older “showcase” bracket. Teams from Tennessee and neighboring states travel to compete.
Lobos Rush Tournaments: The Lobos Rush club stages several events at MRSC, including the “Soccer Elite Fall Championship” and spring competitions. These attract elite youth travel teams from the region.
3v3 and Small-Sided Events: In addition to full-field play, MRSC hosts smaller 3v3 and 7v7 soccer events and leagues (e.g. “3v3 Live”), which are especially popular during summer months.

Beyond youth tournaments, the complex also supports adult and recreational leagues year-round. For example, the Greater Memphis Soccer Association (GMSA) holds all its men’s, women’s, and coed 11v11 league games at Mike Rose. Numerous city and county soccer clubs rent fields at MRSC for training sessions and weekend matches. This means virtually every weekend sees local recreational soccer in action, making it the center of soccer league facilities in Memphis.

In addition, MRSC has hosted higher-profile events. In 2019, the Memphis 901 FC (the city’s professional USL team) used the stadium for two Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup matches. One match, against MLS club Orlando City, drew a crowd of 3,088 — even selling out the stadium. And each September, the complex hosts the Memphis Twilight Invitational — a large night-time cross-country race that uses the facility’s open grounds.

Local Impact and Community Benefits

Mike Rose Soccer Complex provides significant benefits to Memphis and the surrounding community. As a multi-field sports venue, it generates tourism revenue each year. Families and teams traveling for tournaments stay in local hotels and eat at nearby restaurants. Organizers of events often secure block room rates: one tournament advertisement highlights “free hotel rooms for coaches” and proximity to 2,000+ hotel rooms in East Memphis. This influx of visitors during tournament weekends helps support the local hospitality industry.

The complex also promotes community athletics and recreation. Many youth players in the region start at MRSC, playing in camps, clinics, and local leagues. The site’s wide open spaces and lake provide a family-friendly environment where parents can enjoy a picnic or walk the trails while their kids play. Community fitness events (like charity 5Ks) also make use of the grounds. In this way, the facility supports the city’s health and recreation goals.

From an economic perspective, the success of MRSC shows the power of public-private partnerships. Shelby County’s investment, coupled with management by OS Memphis (led by John Talley and partners), has kept the facility in excellent condition. Upgrades like new turf fields or lighting (made possible by collaboration between government, private sponsors, and soccer organizations) ensure that Memphis remains a leading host for soccer events in Tennessee.

Planning a Visit

If you’re planning to attend or host an event at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex, here are some key tips:

Location: The complex is at 9000 East Shelby Drive, Memphis, TN 38125. It’s easily accessed via the Bill Morris Parkway (Highway 385) at the East Shelby Drive exit. The main entrance has clear signage.
Parking: Bring some patience for parking. There are ~1,200 on-site spaces, but big events can fill them. Carpooling or shuttle services are often arranged for larger tournaments. Bus and RV parking areas are available.
Facilities: Fields have covered benches for players; use of indoor locker rooms is usually reserved for participants. Concessions stands on site serve snacks and lunch. Spectators and teams can enjoy shaded picnic areas around the lake. All areas are handicapped-accessible.
Scheduling: If attending a tournament, check the official schedule in advance. Organizers use an online system (GotSport) for match schedules and scores, which helps with quick updates. Arrive early on game days, as multiple matches run simultaneously across the fields.
Contact Info: For general questions or field reservations, call the complex office at (901) 751-4223. You can also visit the official website or Facebook/Instagram pages for news on camps and events.

Overall, the Mike Rose Soccer Complex is a well-organized, family-friendly venue. Whether you’re a coach coordinating a tournament or a parent cheering from the stands, the site’s amenities and layout make for a positive experience.

Key Highlights

Mike Rose Soccer Complex features 16 full-size natural grass fields and a 2,500-seat stadium.
The facility spans 136+ acres and was built to host tournaments, leagues, camps, and special events.
Major events: Annual tournaments like the Rose Cup, Wolf River Classic, and Germantown Invitational draw hundreds of teams. Local leagues (GMSA) and clubs play there weekly.
Amenities: On-site restrooms, concessions, parking, picnic areas, and even a lake provide a comfortable visitor experience.
Location: Off Bill Morris Parkway in East Memphis, close to hotels and restaurants. Spectators enjoy easy access and nearby lodging.

Conclusion

The Mike Rose Soccer Complex is truly a cornerstone of Memphis and Tennessee soccer. Its state-of-the-art fields, stadium, and facilities make it a top choice for youth soccer tournaments, recreational leagues, and special events. With championship-caliber amenities, it supports the local soccer community and brings in teams from around the region.

Whether you’re looking for one of the best soccer venues in Memphis, a site for your next tournament, or simply a great place to play recreational soccer, MRSC delivers. This Tennessee sports complex not only serves athletes but also boosts local business and community health through sports tourism.

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Have you played or watched a game at Mike Rose Soccer Complex? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this guide on social media to help other soccer fans discover this Memphis treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Mike Rose Soccer Complex?
A: The Mike Rose Soccer Complex is a public soccer facility in Memphis, TN. It includes 16 lighted soccer fields and a 2,500-seat stadium. The complex hosts youth and adult soccer tournaments, leagues, camps, and community events. It is owned by Shelby County and managed by OS Memphis.

Q: How many fields and seats does the complex have?
A: MRSC has 16 full-size FIFA-regulation fields with Bermuda grass and lights. The main stadium holds about 2,500 spectators, making it one of the largest soccer venues in Tennessee.

Q: Where is Mike Rose Soccer Complex located?
A: The complex is located at 9000 East Shelby Drive, Memphis, TN 38125. It is just off Bill Morris Parkway (Highway 385) in the eastern part of Memphis.

Q: What events are held at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex?
A: MRSC hosts hundreds of soccer events each year. Major recurring events include the Rose Cup (September), Wolf River Classic (October), and Germantown Invitational (November). It also serves as home fields for local soccer leagues and clubs (like GMSA), and previously hosted college and pro soccer matches.

Q: Can I book the fields for a tournament or league?
A: Yes, the complex is available for booking by youth clubs, adult leagues, and tournament organizers. Interested groups can contact the MRSC office by phone or visit the official website to inquire about availability and fees.

Q: Does the complex have facilities for fans and families?
A: Absolutely. There are concessions stands, restrooms, shaded seating areas, and a scenic 3-acre lake with a picnic area. The venue is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with ample parking and easy field access for spectators.

Q: How can I stay updated on events at Mike Rose Soccer Complex?
A: Follow the official Mike Rose Soccer Complex social media pages (Facebook, Instagram) or check their website. Event organizers often post schedules and results online. For example, the complex’s website lists upcoming tournaments and contact information.

Q: Are there any other sports or activities at Mike Rose Complex?
A: Primarily soccer, but the open fields and walking paths are sometimes used for cross-country meets (like the Memphis Twilight Invitational) and community fun runs. The large green spaces also support general recreation.