Former MLB Player Blake Beavan to Develop Major Youth Sports Complex in Roanoke

Bringing the Big Leagues to North Texas

Former MLB player and Irving native Blake Beavan, in collaboration with 114 Development Group, is set to develop a state-of-the-art youth sports complex in Roanoke, Texas. The 122-acre facility aims to cater to the growing demand for family-friendly recreational spaces in the Metroplex.

A Vision for the Future

Play It Forward, the name of the ambitious project, will transform a vast area along State Highway 114 and Cleveland Gibbs Road into a premier destination for youth sports and entertainment. With an estimated budget of $60 million to $70 million, the project will feature:

• Five Baseball Diamonds: 385 feet to center with professional lighting and high-quality turf.
• Three Soccer Fields: Equipped with professional lighting and high-quality turf.
• Multipurpose Turf Fields: Accommodating practices and games for lacrosse, softball, football, and other sports.

Enhancing Community and Development

In addition to the sports facilities, the complex will include high-end retail spaces, a hotel, over 1,000 parking spaces, shaded seating for spectators, concession stands, and a network of trails. These amenities aim to provide a comprehensive experience for visitors and athletes alike.

Supporting Youth and Local Athletes

Weekly youth sports tournaments will be held at the complex, with proceeds dedicated to scholarships for local athletes. This initiative underscores the project’s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for sports in the community.

A Strategic Location

Roanoke was chosen for its prime location along the SH 114 corridor and its reputation for experiential development. The project represents a private-public partnership between the City of Roanoke and the developers, who have been collaborating since 2020.

A Growing Trend in North Texas

The Play It Forward complex joins a wave of new sports-centric developments in North Texas, such as the Dallas Stars’ youth facility in Farmers Branch and The MAC in Lewisville. These projects highlight the region’s growing embrace of youth sports and entertainment facilities.

Commitment to Excellence

Dave Dickson, managing partner of 114 Development, and Blake Beavan are driving the vision for Play It Forward. Beavan, now the director for the Dallas Tigers, a select youth and high school baseball team, emphasizes the complex’s role in providing top-notch training and playing opportunities to athletes from diverse backgrounds.

The complex is set to break ground in the coming weeks, with an anticipated opening in 2025. As North Texas continues to expand, Play It Forward aims to solidify the region’s reputation as a leader in youth sports and support the next generation of athletes.

TLDR

Former MLB player Blake Beavan is spearheading the development of a 122-acre youth sports complex in Roanoke, Texas. The facility, named Play It Forward, will feature baseball diamonds, soccer fields, retail spaces, and a hotel. It aims to support local athletes through scholarships and provide top-tier training opportunities. The project is set to open in 2025.