ROCHESTER, MN — Sports Academy has been selected by the City of Rochester to operate the newly approved Rochester Sports & Recreation Complex, a state-of-the-art destination designed to elevate community sports, drive economic impact, and attract regional tournaments. The Rochester City Council approved the agreement at its December 8, 2025 meeting.
The expansive complex will feature eight full-size turf baseball and softball fields, two multipurpose turf fields for soccer, football, and lacrosse, 12 pickleball courts, and a basketball court. Together, these amenities will create one of the most comprehensive youth and amateur sports destinations in the Midwest while supporting year-round community access and programming.
“This partnership represents exactly what Sports Academy was built for,” said Chad Faulkner, Chief Executive Officer of Sports Academy. “In addition to hosting regionally significant tournaments, we look forward to collaborating closely with the Rochester community to develop programming that serves local athletes, families, and organizations. Our goal is to create a facility that balances high-level competition with meaningful, accessible community use.”
Construction of the complex is expected to begin in 2026, with phased openings planned for 2027. Sports Academy will oversee day-to-day operations, facility programming, tournaments, camps, and community partnerships, ensuring the complex serves as both a local recreation hub and a regional competition destination.
“This project is a major win for Rochester and the surrounding region,” said Jon Spotts, President of Sports Academy. “We’re honored to partner with a city that values sports, community connection, and long-term impact. Together, we’ll build a complex that reflects those priorities and delivers exceptional experiences for participants and spectators alike.”
The Rochester Sports & Recreation Complex aligns with Sports Academy’s mission to deliver world-class sports and human performance experiences through innovation, accessibility, and operational excellence.
About Sports Academy
Sports Academy is a global leader in integrated human performance, managing and operating elite training and competition facilities across the United States. Its ecosystem blends sports science, coaching, technology, and event operations to support athletes, organizations, and communities at every level of sport.
Media Contact
Wes Briscoe
WesB@SportsAcademy.us
Sports Academy