Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The highly anticipated Scheels Sports Park is giving the public another chance to experience its state-of-the-art facilities this weekend with a special soft opening event inside its newly completed dome.
Brandon Doherty, General Manager of Scheels Sports Park, says the event will feature the Midwest Archery competition along with more than 80 local vendors. “We thought it would be a great idea to do something that would draw the community in,” Doherty explained. “This is a free event for everybody, so if you’ve been wanting a sneak peek of the dome, this is the weekend.”
The dome now boasts two turf fields, a sport court area, banners, and a food court, creating what Doherty calls “the complete picture” of the indoor space. While minor construction details remain, visitors will see a polished facility ready to impress.
The excitement surrounding Scheels Sports Park has been building for months.
Doherty revealed that the complex is already booked solid for events through fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with more than 100 events annually. “From April through August, we’ll often have two or three different youth or adult activities happening at once,” he said.
Springfield’s new sports hub isn’t just about athletics.
Doherty says the venue is designed for versatility, hosting everything from car shows to banquets, all aimed at boosting the local economy. “We’re not limiting ourselves to sports,” he noted. “This development was built with diversification in mind.”
As for safety during the archery event, Doherty reassures visitors that the dome’s durable design can handle anything from heavy snow to stray arrows. “These domes today are built to withstand these types of things,” he said with a laugh.
The free event runs this weekend at Scheels Sports Park, offering residents a chance to explore a facility that’s already putting Springfield on the map for major youth sports and community events.
Friday 12/12, 10 — 6.
Saturday 12/13, 9 — 6.
Sunday 12/14, 9 — 2.
