The new Seminole County Sports Complex doesn’t officially open until May 13, but county leaders say the new facility is already having major success. 

  • New sports complex built near Orlando-Sanford International Airport
  • First baseball tournament set for Mother's Day
  • 38 tournaments booked through the end of the year

They say the new complex, located near the Orlando-Sanford International Airport, is booked solid through the end of 2016 with local and national tournaments.

The Holcombs have lived on their property near the airport for several decades.  In the past year they’ve watched as the Seminole County Sports Complex go up right behind their home.

“At first we were opposed to it, we did not want that,” said Kathi Holcomb.

When the county tried to buy their land, the Holcombs refused. They say the county didn’t offer enough money. They believe they’ll be able to get a lot more money when businesses start moving in to accommodate the people from all over the country the sports complex will be hosting. 

“If the price is right, this is a prime spot for them to put in a gas station, a sports bar or a place to eat. On three acres they could probably put a small-size hotel to house people coming in for tournaments and everything,” said Richard Holcomb.

Seminole County leaders say 38 tournaments are already booked through the end of the year. County officials say the complex is on track to generate more than $50 million for the local economy in 2016. That’s about five times as much as they expected.

With a soft-opening baseball tournament set for Mother’s Day on Sunday, crews could be seen putting finishing touches on the $27 million project. 

The complex is now considered the largest collection of artificial turf fields in Florida. Each field can be transitioned to accommodate baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer and football.

The complex has all LED lighting designed to shine the light only on the fields, and not on nearby land, including where nearby homes are.

The county placed a barrier fence around the Holcombs’ property. So far, they’re OK with their new neighbor.

“We’re pretty well separated from the ballpark. How well, we’ll see when they start playing the games and having the tournaments,” said Richard Holcomb.

And the Holcombs are looking forward to a major boost in the local economy once the games get underway.

“It may be very lucrative for us,” said Holcomb.

Seminole County officials say there are several proposed hotels for the area near the new sports complex, including one at the nearby airport.

The Seminole County Sports Complex will officially open in a dedication ceremony scheduled for Friday, May 13.