Pinellas Park’s highly anticipated youth-focused sports complex will finally welcome guests this weekend. A celebration is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
It’s a successor to an area once known as Youth Park and has been years in the making. A $13.5 million allocation from the state supported the effort – which went beyond just rejuvenation.
The goal was straightforward, said Sprowls Horizon Sports Park general manager Michael Nielsen. Pinellas Park leadership wanted to create a national destination that could host elite tournaments and youth leagues.
First unveiled in 2024, the project, at 4015 62nd Avenue N., features six Major League spring training-inspired baseball fields. They were modeled after destinations such as George M. Steinbrenner Field – the Tampa spring training home of the New York Yankees.
Additionally, it offers a multipurpose field for soccer, lacrosse and flag football, a street hockey rink sponsored by the Tampa Bay Lightning, playground and a pro shop. There is also a plaza that includes a concession area and tiki bar.
“The old Youth Park was in need of some updates,” Nielsen explained. “Pinellas Park leaders thought instead of just doing a little bit of upgrades, it could provide something of a different feel.”
This could impact not just the Pinellas Park community, Nielsen added, but Pinellas County.
The Tampa Bay Lightning-sponsored hockey rink.
“I’ve spent most of my career in player development for professional baseball and international soccer. The thing I’ve really always loved about it was the opportunity to help others,” he said. “Obviously, I look at this site, and while it’s not maybe helping a pro athlete reach their potential, it’s helping young kids grow.”
There is a lot in store for the grand opening weekend. A ribbon cutting Saturday at 11 a.m. will begin the festivities.
The day will also feature a live radio broadcast, baseball clinics, a hockey tournament, kickball games with case prizes and various giveaways.
Nielsen added that live entertainment is scheduled for Sunday, including bands and comedians. Additionally, there will be autograph sessions with professional baseball players, including Hall of Fame member Fred McGriff.
“It’s about giving the community a place to go. One of our employees was explaining to me that they lived around the corner and that the old Youth Park was a safe space for them,” he said. “They would go after school, find a nice spot to relax in and draw.”
Nielsen hopes that the complex extends beyond athletics. The team is exploring hosting free movie nights, holiday-themed events and back-to-school drives.
Sprowls Horizon Sports Park website
