State-of-the-art complex slated to open summer of 2022
Building on its legacy as a baseball town, the city of Starkville, Mississippi is joining the ranks of forward-thinking cities across the country who are realizing the economic and health impacts brought on by youth and amateur sports tourism. A new $20 million Cornerstone outdoor sports complex is slated to open in the summer of 2022 featuring 12 baseball fields and a championship field which will allow the community to host a wide array of tournaments.
“The City of Starkville is proud to build Cornerstone Sports Complex and share our history with the world,” says Starkville Mayor, Lynn Spruill. “Our goal is to create a legacy through the enrichment of sports that we love here in Starkville. We hope to welcome future Mississippi State graduates who share in our city’s history of tee-ball, baseball, and pride for our Bulldogs. This complex will hold a special place in our community as we build memories, business, and life-long residents here.”
The facility is part of a master plan project known as Cornerstone Park and will be built in two phases. The Sports Complex is part of phase I of the project and will include a walking trail, playgrounds, flex space, and pay homage to the local history of Tee-ball – a sport that originated in Starkville – with 2 dedicated Tee-ball fields. Phase II is planned to include an RV park, more trails, and playgrounds.
Cornerstone Park Rendering
Another historic achievement to be featured at Cornerstone Sports Complex will be the Cool Papa Bell Plaza and Statue. James Thomas “Cool Papa” Bell was born and raised in Starkville, Mississippi. He was an American center fielder in early segregated league baseball from 1922 to 1946. He is considered to have been one of the fastest men ever to play the game and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.
The City of Starkville leaders selected The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) and their team of full-service staff as their operating partner to oversee daily operations, marketing and event booking, staff development, and more. CEO and Founder of Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), Jason Clement commented, “Starkville has a rich baseball history as an incredible sports destination. It is our privilege to work with Mayor Spruill and the City of Starkville as their operating partner. Together, we will open Cornerstone Sports Complex with excellence in operations, staffing, and develop key community partnerships to ensure the next generation of athletes choose Starkville for baseball and softball for many years to come.”
