The Kearney Sportsplex is now officially open, providing a large new space for indoor sports in Kearney, Nebraska. The 209,000-square-foot facility opened following high demand from coaches, players, and the public. It was funded by a 2021 voter-approved tax and state support.
New Space for Growing Indoor Sports
The Sportsplex includes turf fields, hardwood courts, pickleball courts, and a walking track open to the public. It aims to support popular and emerging sports in the region.
The project cost $45 million, with half funded by the state. The rest was paid through a one percent restaurant tax approved by local voters. The first beam of the facility was raised in February 2023. The final one was set in April 2024, marking the end of construction.
Public Response and Soft Opening
Kearney Sportsplex Director Lauren Brandt said the new space meets a long-standing need for indoor sports access across central Nebraska.
“We really didn’t have a facility outside of the University, the Fairgrounds and obviously the schools, but we were maxed out. There’s a lot of activities, there’s emerging sports that are growing and so the need continues for access to indoor space.” – (Brandt)
During the soft opening on Saturday, public interest in the facility was high.
”I guarantee you we had between five and seven thousand patrons enter the doors on Saturday alone. The feedback has been tremendous. Kearney has so many things that helps put it on the map and this is just one more great addition.” – (Brandt)
Pickleball Club Welcomes New Courts
Kearney Pickleball Club member Dale Arp said the facility will help ease pressure for local players.
”We need more pickleball space in Kearney. Indoors, we have the Fairgrounds now and we’re up to almost 300 members, so space is where we need it. However, we don’t get the Fairgrounds every day, so when it’s busy, we’re out, so having a place to play is excellent and this place is five stars.” – (arp)
Looking Ahead at Community Impact
Brandt said the Sportsplex already hosted a volleyball tournament during the soft opening. Staff learned what changes they’ll need to improve future events, including better parking and staffing levels.
”I think it’s going to be great to see how it grows and what new things take place. We all know about the major sports, but there’s definitely some new and emerging things that are going to come up and just learn about the building and what we can better benefit the Kearney community and just continue to bring quality competition and events that boost our economy.” – (Brandt)
News in Brief: Kearney Sportsplex
The Kearney Sportsplex is now open, offering indoor space for soccer, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and more. Built with $45 million in public funding, the facility saw 5,000–7,000 visitors at its soft opening. Local leaders say it will meet growing sports demand and boost Kearney’s economy through future events.
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