The grand opening of the Loretta P. Spencer Sports Complex at John Hunt Park was celebrated by leaders in Huntsville, both past and present. This newly expanded facility features four championship multi-use fields, NCAA-approved lighting, digital scoreboards, press boxes, locker rooms, sound systems, plaza areas with shade sails and picnic facilities, expanded parking, and stadium seating for up to 5,000 sports fans.
The facility was named in honor of former Mayor Loretta Spencer as a recognition of her dedication to youth sports in Huntsville. Mayor Tommy Battle expressed gratitude for her vision and leadership without which this fantastic public amenity would not have been possible. The 20-acre complex features four championship-caliber fields that will host a variety of multipurpose field sports such as soccer, lacrosse and ultimate frisbee.
Two of the fields have synthetic turf while the other two are natural grass complementing the eight synthetic turf fields at the nearby Merrimack Sports Complex. The $17 million expansion makes Huntsville an attractive destination for state, regional and national tournaments while also catering to local sports teams. The goal of John Hunt Park is to offer world-class sports facilities for both championship level tournaments and local residents.
The Honorable Loretta Spencer had the privilege of cutting the ribbon to officially open the new multiuse championship fields at John Hunt Park. She was joined by Sports Commission Executive Director Mark Russell, Mayor Tommy Battle, Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett, Council Members Jennie Robinson and Bill Kling as well as City Administrator John Hamilton.
