We Believe in Preserving…

…The value of the inspirational history of sports                                                           

...The dignity of our youth utilizing sports for role modeling, conflict resolution and life lessons education                                                                       

... Our sports legacy through storytelling, collections, and audio/video histories       

... The curation and interpretation of sports legacy to serve as the educational tool and inspirational vehicle for our state and its people.

Our story

The Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy was formed in 2009 to support, facilitate and promote the preservation of the history of Tiger Stadium, the establishment of youth activities and the creation of public space on the site of the stadium. Once the stadium was demolished, the OTSC worked to bring a development to the site which would be compatible with their mission of preserving the legacy of the ballpark. 

In 2011, they helped direct a $3.8 million federal earmark secured by board member Senator Carl Levin towards Corktown development in general, and the stadium site. 

In 2014, the OTSC was instrumental in helping to facilitate a deal to bring the Detroit Police Athletic League to the site to build a new headquarters complex which would include restoration of the playing field to its original footprint. In 2016, ground was broken on the new complex and the federal earmark was directed by the OTSC towards the completion of the project in early 2018.

In early 2017, the OTSC was making plans to wind down their operation when they were approached by a group with a vision to create a state-wide sports legacy preservation organization. Following many weeks of discussion, the two groups agreed on a transition plan and the Michigan Sports Legacy Conservancy was born. The MSLC carried on the vision of the OTSC to preserve the heritage and legacy of Tiger Stadium by working with PAL to help develop the commemorative plan for the new complex as well as two commemorative showcases. 

The MSLC and its Foundation Fund moved forward as a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization governed by its board of directors which is comprised of key civic, educational, and corporate leaders from around the state with a priority of both funding and overseeing the mission and vision.  The MSLC was founded to educate and inspire through the preservation and sharing of the rich history of our Michigan sports legacy through stories, anecdotes, and memories of our sports legends. 

The charge of the MSLC Foundation Fund, which was established in 2019 to support and promote physical activity for youth through athletics and fitness, provides grants to support safe athletic participation for educational institutions. 

The MSLC also focuses on the collection and curation of digital, printed and 3-D sports artifacts as well as the preservation of the rich history of sports in Michigan.  The long-term goal is to serve as the preeminent sports historical resource, educational tool, and inspirational vehicle for all who live, work, and play in the state of Michigan.        

Our Team