Sports Backers, Henrico County honor Lugbill with honorary street name

Sports Backers and Henrico County honored the organization's retiring longtime executive director, Jon Lugbill, by renaming the street outside the organization’s headquarters in Lakeside in his name June 13.

The roadway known as Park Street, which turns off Lakeside Avenue to access Sports Backers’ offices, now also bears the honorary name “Jon Lugbill Drive.”

The designation is more than just symbolic, officials said. Although it carries Lugbill’s name, the word "Drive" also reflects the tireless energy, determination, and vision that they asid have defined his leadership — and the transformation he helped bring to the Richmond area.

“Jon Lugbill has left an incredible impact on the Richmond region through his leadership of Sports Backers,” said Henrico County Supervisor Roscoe D. Cooper III, who represents the Fairfield District. “For decades, Jon has been a tireless advocate for making our community healthier, more active and better connected. Henrico is proud to celebrate Jon and his achievements by recognizing Park Street as Honorary Jon Lugbill Drive. Now, if you're trekking along the Fall Line through Lakeside or planning another great Sports Backers event, you can look up at the street sign and draw inspiration from Jon's positive energy and legendary drive.”

Sports Backers’ new executive director, Will Dixon, echoed Cooper’s sentiments saying the sign will always serve as a fun reminder.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Henrico County for spearheading this tribute to Jon and recognizing his extraordinary impact,” said Dixon. “Naming the street outside our headquarters in his honor is a powerful gesture that ensures Jon’s drive has a permanent place at the heart of our organization. His visionary leadership over the past three decades helped shape and inspire Richmond region.”

Under Lugbill’s direction, Sports Backers has become a nationally recognized nonprofit focused on active lifestyles. From signature events like the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k and the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon, to bike infrastructure advocacy and fitness programming, the organization has grown into a focal point of community health and engagement.

Lugbill, a world champion canoeist before transitioning into nonprofit leadership, will officially retire at the end of June.