Charlie and Tonja Ward Open Champions Ranch Field
The co-founders unveiled a new multisport field in Tallahassee following nearly one year of construction.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Charlie and Tonja Ward officially opened the first multisport field at Champions Ranch in Tallahassee on Thursday. The project reached completion after nearly a year of development.
Why it matters
The development marks a significant expansion for Champions Ranch, which is now seeking further support to sustain its future operations. The facility aims to serve the local community by providing new space for athletic activities.
Champions Ranch has launched a matching gift challenge to double donations dollar for dollar up to $500,000. This campaign is scheduled to remain active until the end of December.
The players
Charlie Ward
Charlie Ward is the co-founder of Champions Ranch and a well-known figure with ties to the nearby town of Thomasville.
Tonja Ward
Tonja Ward is a co-founder of Champions Ranch who participated in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The details
Charlie and Tonja Ward celebrated the opening of the facility by cutting the ribbon on the new multisport field. This milestone follows an intensive construction period that lasted nearly one year.
Timeline
Thursday, October 29, 2026: Charlie and Tonja Ward opened the multisport field.
December 31, 2026: The $500,000 matching gift challenge concludes.
Market Landscape
This project follows the documented trend of private philanthropic sports facility developments, which serves to increase local access to recreational infrastructure. Such initiatives allow non-profit entities to expand their footprint within the competitive community wellness sector.
Local residents and supporters have an opportunity to participate in the matching gift challenge to double the impact of their contributions. Donations made before the end of the year will be matched dollar for dollar up to the total limit.
The takeaway
Supporters looking to maximize their impact should contribute before the December 31 deadline to utilize the matching funds. This project provides a new resource for the Tallahassee community to engage in athletic programs.
What happens next
The matching gift challenge will continue until December 31, 2026, at which point the fundraising phase concludes.
Further reading
For more information on local initiatives, explore Philanthropy news.
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Do you believe investments in private youth sports facilities improve your local community?
