At its core, the $35 million sprawling complex is designed to do more than host games, according to a recent news announcement. With 12 total fields for baseball, softball, and soccer, plus full supporting infrastructure, the park is built to attract large-scale tournaments, draw out-of-town visitors, and create year-round economic activity that extends far beyond the fields.
Once open, the complex will feature four baseball fields, four softball fields and four soccer fields, along with the full backbone needed to support large-scale events, including utilities, drainage systems, sidewalks and sitewide paving.
The project has been years in the making. The concept dates back to a 2006 feasibility study, with momentum building after a 2013 voter-approved bond secured land for the site. A 25-acre donation from the Zipp family helped cement the footprint, while additional funding, including a 2019 bond and state support, pushed the project toward construction, according to the City of New Braunfels’ website.
In 2023, SpawGlass was brought on as construction manager, moving the long-planned vision into its final phase. Financial backing has been substantial. Since 2018, the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation has invested nearly $19.5 million into the park, supporting land acquisition, construction and future operations.
The 150-acre Zipp Family Sports Park will officially open on June 20 with a free, family-focused celebration designed to showcase the long-anticipated complex as a new regional hub for youth sports and community events. The daylong event, running from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., will include a 3K run/walk, live DJ music, games, exhibitors and youth competitions such as MLB Pitch, Hit & Run and soccer shootouts, culminating in a 10 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Now, as the finish line approaches, the city is also looking beyond opening day. Officials have tapped SportsMan Solutions to lead sponsorship and naming rights efforts following a competitive selection process, with industry veteran Ryan Patrick named to guide local partnership development.
More announcements tied to those partnerships are expected in the coming weeks, with city leaders aiming to maximize the park’s reach before its first games are even played.
Find it: 1655 FM 1044, New Braunfels, TX 78130