More fields, more fun

Palm Coast Observer
Opinion

The Tourist Development Council last week unanimously approved spending $150,000 to add three more athletic fields at Indian Trails Sports Complex, off Belle Terre Parkway, in Palm Coast. Though the decision is ultimately in the hands of the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners, it appears as if the deal will be approved.

The three new fields would accompany the four existing fields and help the city’s ability to attract high-level soccer, lacrosse and even football tournaments to the area. Last summer, two lacrosse tournaments drew more than 50 teams apiece — translating to thousands of dollars being spent in Flagler County. It goes along with the sports tourism niche that Peggy Heiser, vice president of tourism development for the Flagler County Chamber of Commerce & Affiliates, is trying to carve out.

As previously reported in a story a few weeks ago (you can find the story by searching “Sports Tourism” at www.PalmCoastObserver.com), with an average of about 2.4 family members accompanying each of 25 players on 50 lacrosse teams, one tournament could draw 3,000 people for a weekend. With three more fields, the number of teams can be increased drastically.

Years ago growing up in Flagler County, I would’ve much preferred to play soccer tournaments in my hometown. It also would’ve been awesome to be able to sleep in my own bed rather than traveling several hours north or south.

Adding more fields will allow for larger tournaments here and bring more visitors to the county, but that’s only part of the positive local impact. Park users who want to go out to the fields and play pickup soccer or lacrosse games have a better chance of having a spot on the field to play. More teams can practice at one time, too.

Palm Coast City Manager JimLandon has said all along the agreement between Palm Coast and the Flagler County School District is a partnership that will benefit all parties.

“The ultimate goal is to fill up restaurants and hotels and get people in here and discover Palm Coast,” Landon said earlier this month.

In all, adding these fields is a win/win. It helps the teams from around the county to have more facilities to practice and play on. It will also help bring more tournaments to the area. If the County Commission approves the deal, the complex would be expanded by October.