The Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews is a premier sports facility located in Matthews, North Carolina. This expansive complex is a magnet for sports enthusiasts and families, offering top-notch facilities that cater to a wide range of activities. With 12 full-sized soccer fields and a 4,300-seat stadium, the Sportsplex is a dynamic venue for everything from soccer and rugby to lacrosse and field hockey. Its significance to the community is immense, serving as a venue for local and regional tournaments and driving economic growth through sports tourism. For locals and visitors alike, the Sportsplex promises an exciting and engaging experience. Embrace the vibrant world of sports and community spirit at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews, where every visit is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Highlights
- Versatile Sports Venue: Home to 11 multipurpose lighted fields and a 4,300-seat stadium.
- Community Hub: Hosts events for Charlotte Independence and other local teams.
- Family-Friendly Facilities: Includes playgrounds and paved trails for all ages.
Contents
Photo: wikipedia.org
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews is worth visiting with kids because it offers various activities catering to young sports enthusiasts. Children aged 5 to 15 will find the playgrounds and paved trails perfect for burning off energy while parents enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The chance to watch live sports events and participate in youth leagues makes it an exciting destination for families looking to spend quality time together.
Family-Friendly Features
- Playgrounds: Safe and engaging play areas for children.
- Paved Trails: Ideal for family walks and bike rides.
- Youth Leagues: Opportunities for kids to participate in organized sports.
History and Development
The sports complex idea in Matthews was first proposed in the early 21st century. After overcoming financial challenges, the official groundbreaking occurred on May 17, 2012. The first construction phase was completed in 2013, with the second phase in 2015. By early 2017, the Sportsplex was fully operational, featuring a 2,700-seat championship stadium and 12 lighted sports fields. The development was a collaborative effort between Mecklenburg County and the local community, ensuring the facility met the needs of both athletes and residents.
Facilities and Features
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Photo: parkandrec.mecknc.gov
The Sportsplex boasts 11 multipurpose lighted fields, nine synthetic turf fields, and two natural grass fields. The 4,300-seat stadium has modern amenities, including a video board and locker rooms, making it ideal for hosting amateur, collegiate, and professional sporting events. The fields can be professionally lined for soccer, football, lacrosse, and rugby, ensuring versatility for various sports.
Additional Amenities
In addition to the sports fields, the Sportsplex offers a conference room, meeting spaces, and VIP areas for events. Families can enjoy the playgrounds and explore the two miles of paved trails. These features make the Sportsplex a comprehensive facility catering to sports events and community gatherings.
Events and Activities
Photo: charlottesports.com
The Sportsplex at Matthews hosts various sports and events, making it a versatile venue for athletes and fans. Soccer, rugby, lacrosse, football, and field hockey are just some of the sports that find a home here. The complex is renowned as the home turf for the Charlotte Independence, a team competing in the United Soccer League (USL) League One. This affiliation brings a professional edge to the Sportsplex, drawing in fans from across the region to cheer on their local heroes.
The Charlotte Independence, founded in 2014, has a rich competition and community engagement history. The team plays its home games at the Sportsplex, where fans can enjoy thrilling matches and vibrant atmospheres. The Independence's presence at the Sportsplex elevates the venue's profile and contributes to the local sports culture, offering fans the chance to witness high-level soccer right in their backyard.
In addition to soccer, the Sportsplex accommodates other local teams, such as the Charlotte Eagles and Lady Eagles, who occasionally use the auxiliary stadium for their matches. This minor stadium, created with bleacher seating around Field 10, provides an intimate setting for fans to enjoy the games up close.
The venue's ability to host diverse sporting events makes it popular for tournaments and championships. It has hosted significant events like the NCAA Division I Men's and Women's Soccer Tournaments in 2020. It is set to host the 2025 NCAA Division II soccer championships with Wingate University as the host school. These events highlight the Sportsplex's capacity to handle large-scale competitions and underscore its importance as a key player in the regional sports scene.
The Sportsplex's versatility extends beyond just hosting games. It is a community hub where sports enthusiasts can gather, participate, and celebrate their love for various sports. Whether it's a local league match or a national tournament, the Sportsplex at Matthews provides a stage for athletes to shine and for fans to create unforgettable memories.
Community Impact
The Mecklenburg County Sportsplex plays a significant role in local sports tourism, attracting visitors and boosting the economy. Its development involved extensive community involvement, with public meetings held to gather input and ensure the facility met local needs. The Sportsplex continues to foster community spirit by hosting events that bring residents together.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: charlottesports.com
The best time to visit the Sportsplex with children is on weekends, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
Recommended duration: Spend at least half a day to enjoy the facilities and events fully.
Our Resume
The Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews is a premier sports and recreation destination offering many family facilities and events. Its modern amenities and community-focused activities make it a must-visit for sports lovers and families looking for a fun day out.
