Lincoln Sports Foundation celebrated the opening of four new volleyball courts Wednesday afternoon, adding space for athletes at the former Abbott Sports Complex in northeast Lincoln.
Community leaders and project supporters gathered for a ribbon cutting at the nonprofit’s campus, 7600 N. 70th St. The courts follow earlier improvements that included hardwood courts and field turf.
Board President Dan Lesoing said the goal is to provide opportunities for young people with a range of interests. “It’s not just about one sport. It’s about all sports. It’s about the entire community. It’s about all youth,” Lesoing said.
The foundation took over ownership and management of the complex in 2019. Lesoing said partnerships, grants and continued work have helped turn around a property that faced financial and legal challenges.
More improvements are coming. Lesoing said restroom renovations are scheduled to begin Dec. 1, with completion targeted for May 14, 2027. Existing restrooms will remain available during construction.
Lancaster County awarded the foundation a $1 million grant funded by lodging taxes. County Commissioner Rick Vest said events at the campus draw visiting athletes and families whose spending benefits businesses throughout the community. “They spend money in our hotels, our restaurants, our businesses, our gas stations, etc. They support our local economic growth,” Vest said.
Nick Cusick, Bison founder and a foundation advisory committee member, said the campus also creates opportunities for people with different abilities. He pointed to a school he is involved with that will use the facility for Unified Special Olympics basketball practice. “They’re not just a sports facility, they’re a sports and everything facility that tries to give youth and people in our community and outside our community an opportunity for everyone to play,” Cusick said.
Lesoing said the campus has about 60 acres of undeveloped farmland that could accommodate future growth, although additional projects will require partners and funding.
More information about facilities and activities is available at lsfcampus.org.
