College and Marshall Parks and Rec Finalize Agreement on Facility Usage

Missouri Valley College and the Marshall Parks and Recreation Department have strengthened a decades-old partnership and enhanced opportunities for both college athletes and the Marshall community.

Under a newly signed memorandum of understanding, Missouri Valley will continue utilizing Indian Foothills Park for its baseball, softball, tennis and golf competitions and practices.  The agreement includes a cost structure for facility use and ensures that MVC teams receive priority access during their seasons.

As part of ongoing improvements to the park, Marshall Parks and Rec is spending $2.5 million to install turf surfaces at Osage Field and Lyon Bowl, home to many youth baseball games and the Missouri Valley College baseball and softball programs. These upgrades will enhance playability and reduce weather-related cancellations, benefiting the college and the community.

“We’re excited to strengthen our relationship with the City of Marshall and the Parks Department,” said Dr. Joe Parisi, president of MVC. “Our students and athletes benefit from first-class facilities, and this collaboration reinforces our shared commitment to community engagement and growth.”

Marshall Parks and Recreation Director Preston Peper echoed that sentiment:

“This represents a win-win for the city, the parks, and the college,” he said. “The park improvements and facility use ensure that both our residents and the college’s student-athletes  enjoy high-quality sports venues for years to come.”

The agreement also allows MVC golf and tennis teams to continue competing at Indian Foothills’ golf course and tennis courts.  Together, MVC and Marshall Parks and Recreation are building on a legacy of collaboration–enhancing local sports, supporting student-athletes, and investing in the future of Marshall.