We have a new name for the home of the Nashville Sounds (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League) ballpark scheduled to open in 2015: First Tennessee Park.
Sounds owner Frank Ward said today that the sponsorship and naming rights agreement is a 10-year commitment by First Tennessee, with options to extend for up to 10 additional years.
“It was very important to us when seeking a naming rights partner — our most prominent partner — that we were able to able to identify an organization that shares the common interest of working with so many other entities within our community,” Ward said. “We have found a perfect match with First Tennessee Bank with their commitment to sports and to the city of Nashville.”
First Tennessee Bank is the state’s oldest and largest banking organization. Founded in 1864, First Tennessee Bank is celebrating its 150th anniversary of serving the people, businesses, and community.
Carol Yochem, Middle Tennessee President of First Tennessee Bank, told news reporters today the bank was determined to use its 150th anniversary to make a significant announcement demonstrating First Tennessee’s long-term “leadership commitment” to Nashville.
“We aim to be Nashville’s bank,” Yochem said, “and you will find that our name appearing on this spectacular new ballpark is a strong symbol of First Tennessee’s commitment to Nashville.”
Nashville Mayor Karl Dean joined in today’s announcement and saluted First Tennessee Bank for its commitment to the city.
“First Tennessee is a model corporate citizen with a strong philanthropic tradition, and this partnership with the Nashville Sounds is further proof of First Tennessee’s commitment to our city,” Mayor Dean said. “I am proud to have the First Tennessee name associated with Nashville, with our great minor league baseball team and our new ballpark. I can’t wait to throw out the first pitch next spring at First Tennessee Park.”
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