We are thrilled to announce that construction of a state-of-the-art Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) at Grange Road has commenced this Summer. Due to be completed by mid-October, it will be perfectly timed for the upcoming season.
The natural grass pitch was not able to withstand the training and playing demands of all six teams and has deteriorated over recent years leading to training and matches having to take place elsewhere. The new pitch will allow all six teams to train and play at Grange Road as well as presenting a wonderful opportunity to welcome CUAFC (co-owners of the ground) back to Grange Road and to build on the vast, shared history and success of the two clubs.
Additionally, this centrally located venue will warmly welcome other University clubs, the University’s Active Students programme, and benefiting the wider community. The new floodlit pitch will be accessible day and night, dramatically expanding training and competition opportunities.
Our deepest gratitude goes to local University alumnus Hugh Mumford (Downing 1964, CUCC, CUHC, and Hawk), whose visionary generosity made this landmark achievement possible. In recognition of his transformative support, this superb new surface will proudly bear the name “The Mumford Pitch.”
Hugh Mumford, local resident and University of Cambridge alumnus, said:
“I am delighted to be part of the exciting new development at Grange Road and help bring to fruition all the hard work of those involved in putting this project together. I hope that this new pitch will be used by many, from those already playing at a high level to those who decide to give sport a try.
“Sport played an important role in my time at Cambridge, and its impact has continued well beyond my university years. The lessons learned on the sports field have proven invaluable in the workplace and in life. It gives me great pleasure, therefore, to support a project which will bring about an increase in sporting activity both for students and the wider community”.
We are immensely grateful to the University, which, though not owning the ground, provided vital financial backing, expert guidance from the Estates Division, and instrumental support from the University Development Office. Their assistance and engagement with alumni and philanthropic partners have been indispensable to this project’s success.
Mark Brian, Director of Sport at the University of Cambridge, said:
“This impactful support for sport and physical activity at Cambridge will help create a venue that supports those striving for sporting excellence, encourages physical wellbeing for our students, and delivers benefits well beyond our Collegiate community.
This is a decisive milestone in the transformation of the Ground. We are hugely grateful to our alumni and supporters for this vital step forward in fulfilling our vision for the future of sport and physical activity at Cambridge and to CURUFC for their commitment in driving this project forward”.