Entering its first full year of operation, the Empire Sportsplex opens in 2023 as a Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) award winner in the Park or Facility Design category.

This award demonstrates excellence in designing recreation and/or park facilities for public use. The park or facility must showcase uniqueness, innovation, and creativity for recreation. Award applicants needed to demonstrate that they engaged in public consultation to determine the scope of the project and how the project was able to meet their community’s needs. Eligible projects include new builds and retrofits.

“The Empire Sportsplex is truly a one-of-a-kind facility in Canada, and we’re proud to have it here in Welland,” said Rob Axiak, director of community services. “The thought and detail put into the facility, making it accessible to everyone, was by design, and we are pleased to have it available for every user.”

The Empire Sportsplex, created in partnership with Empire Communities and Canadian Tire Jumpstart, has six dedicated pickleball courts, three tennis courts with line overlay for six additional pickleball courts, five beach volleyball courts, a full-size basketball court and two half-size basketball courts for 3-on-3 play. It also has The Jumpstart Multi-Sport Court, offering space for children of all abilities, with inclusive amenities.

Opened last July, the Sportsplex has been a hub of recreational activity. To learn more about the facility, visit https://www.welland.ca/facilities/EmpireSportsplex.asp.

The Parks and Recreation Ontario Awards program recognizes and honours the achievements of people who contribute to improving parks and recreation to enhance the quality of life. These highly coveted provincial awards include recognition for communities, individuals, students, and agencies.