Megan Oglesby on Community-Centered Sports and Recreation Design in the Triad
When Megan Oglesby, principal investor for Carolina Core Football Club (CCFC) set out to shape the new club’s training facility, she had more than a building in mind—she had a mission. That mission was rooted in community-centered design, athlete development, and creating lasting investment in sports and recreation that reflects the values and aspirations of the Triad community. On her journey to bring that vision to life, we are so glad she and her team chose to work with STITCH Design Shop.
With the facility recently opened, Megan has been able to see those results and judge how the facility is performing. We met with her to reflect on the project and her perspective in this industry ahead of this year’s Cocktails and Cleats fundraiser night, during which so many other members of the community will get to see the space as well.
“What I loved about the STITCH process was how discovery drove everything. We equated the facility design to building players. As a development-focused organization, it had to reflect who we are—not just in function, but in spirit.”
MEGAN Oglesby, principal invester for ccfc
This wasn’t just another training complex. It was a physical manifestation of a team philosophy rooted in mental growth, recovery, and community engagement. CCFC worked with STITCH to create a space that balanced architecture and interior design with purpose-driven thinking.
“Sure, we needed locker rooms and recovery tubs,” Oglesby says. “But we also needed spaces for team bonding, off-field learning, and inspiration. My favorite room is the film room—it’s all about education and growth.”
Despite budget being different than originally planned, the project delivered big impact. “My original budget was totally unrealistic,” she laughs. “But we all approached that thoughtfully. STITCH didn’t just nod along as ‘yes’ people. They challenged assumptions and brought creative, practical solutions that stuck the landing.”
While trends in sports and recreation design come and go, Oglesby prioritizes lasting value—especially when it comes to player care.
“Recovery is the most important thing we can offer professional athletes,” she says. “We built a custom hydrotherapy tub, considered more affordable options, but in the end, investing in player wellness was non-negotiable.”
A built-in sauna may be in the works down the line. “It’s on the wishlist,” she adds. “But the core idea is the same—we design for people first.”
Ogelsby is clear about the opportunity—and responsibility—facing the Triad sports and recreation landscape.
“We don’t have a women’s professional team in our region. Not one,” she says. “That’s why we’re launching WSPL Pro, a Division Two development league. We’ll need facilities designed specifically for women—because their needs are unique.”
She believes in leading by example. “We’re visual creatures. If young girls don’t see professional soccer happening in their own community, how will they know it’s even an option? We’re building that vision right here in the Triad.“
In a world of uncertainty, sports remain a constant—and powerful—connector. “No matter how much we all have access to online, what people really want is a meaningful experience,” Oglesby says. “Whether it’s around a dinner table or at a match, sports offer strategy, unpredictability, and emotion. That’s what brings people together.”
She believes investment in sports and recreation in our region should serve the people, and CCFC’s development model reflects that. “Attending Division I sports can be expensive. Our teams offer an accessible, affordable shared experience for folks of all ages.”
Though she technically owns the team, Ogelsby prefers a different label. “I don’t love calling myself the owner,” she admits. “This is the Triad community’s team. I’m here to help guide it, not control it.”
CCFC employs over 50 full-time staff and supports countless interns and part-time workers—all driven by a shared goal: delivering an exceptional fan experience. “Most people only see the players or coaches, but everything starts behind the scenes.”
Oglesby’s leadership is influenced by her family legacy. Her grandparents started a trucking business during the Depression, which today employs more than 23,000 people. “They built something because their neighbors needed work. That purpose has stayed with me.”
She sees community-centered design and sports as a natural continuation of that legacy. “When the soccer club came across my desk, I knew this was a real opportunity—not just for me, but for this whole region.”
Despite a full plate and young kids at home, she said yes. “If I didn’t do it, who would?”
For Oglesby, success is deeply personal. “I love winning—but for me, real success is when someone earns a big opportunity because of their time with us. That’s what I care about.”
Building from the ground up hasn’t been easy, but she sees steady progress. “Our record might not be where we want it, but every day we’re improving. And that matters.”
To women looking to lead in sports and recreation design, community building, or ownership, Oglesby offers this advice:
“If you wait for the perfect time, it’ll never happen. You have to leap when something speaks to you. You can’t steer a parked car.”
Megan Oglesby, Principal Invester for CCFC
