In this episode, we are joined by Mike Laplante of Scheels Soccer Complex to the planning, creation, and execution of 12 lighted, synthetic turf fields, a state-of-the-art indoor meeting space, and much more. As well as being named the “Top Soccer Facility in the Nation” by Livability.com and one of the “Top 10 Soccer Facilities in the US” by Sports Planning Guide. For more tips on how to run a soccer facility, check out our episode with Epic Center KC.
A Legacy of Soccer Excellence
Scheels Sports Complex has been the epicenter of soccer excellence in Overland Park, Kansas, for over a decade. In this insightful podcast episode, we sat down with the facility's dedicated manager, Mike Laplante, to delve into the journey of building and managing this complex, its role in the community, the challenges it has overcome, and its vision for the future.
Covered in This Episode:
- Weathering the Elements a Top Soccer Facility
- Excellence Beyond Soccer
- Scoring Big with Community Partnership
- Not Stopping at the Top
Highlights and Key Moments:
- "As long as the bathrooms are clean, then mom's happy."
- "The facility was $36 million and we spent all $36 million at the time."
- "If we can do that, keep it picked up, keep it clean, keep it curb appeal, nice curb appeal, then a lot of other stuff takes care of itself."
- "We try to be really cognizant of the experience."
Weathering the Elements at a Top Soccer Facility
Scheels Sports Complex has faced its fair share of challenges, from extreme weather conditions to parking logistics. However, their unwavering commitment to creating a top-tier soccer experience for players and families has always prevailed. The episode explored some of these challenges, emphasizing how they've not only survived but thrived.
Excellence Beyond Soccer
The discussion delved into the day-to-day operations and the challenges faced by the management team. With 12 soccer fields, the facility offers a diverse range of experiences for athletes and their families. Scheels Sports Complex has managed to find a balance between hosting tournaments, leagues, and practices while maintaining the facility's cleanliness and curb appeal.
Scoring Big with Community Partnership
One of the things that has made Scheels so great has been its deep-rooted partnerships with the local community. From working closely with soccer clubs to collaborating with local businesses and hotels, Scheels has woven itself into the fabric of Overland Park. These partnerships have allowed them to host prestigious tournaments and expand their reach far beyond their city's limits, while their community reaps the benefits.
Not Stopping at the Top
In the next three years, Scheels Sports Complex has exciting plans on the horizon. They're embracing LED lighting technology, gearing up to host US youth regional tournaments, and planning a turf replacement project. The episode highlighted how Scheels Soccer Complex will continue to be a shining example of soccer excellence for years to come.
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Thank you for joining us on this episode of Facility Playbook! We hope the knowledge shared serves as a valuable resource for facility owners and managers seeking to thrive in the ever-evolving sports industry. Stay tuned for our next episode on Running Adult Sports Leagues with KC Crew, where we will continue to bring you expert tips to help you navigate the dynamic world of facility management
It is evident that Scheels Sports Complex isn't just a place for soccer—it's a testament to the power of dedication, community, and a love for the beautiful game. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, Scheels Soccer Complex will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of soccer players and enthusiasts.
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