UREC Sports Complex Provides Open Recreation Opportunities Outdoors

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Aerial shot of the UREC Sports Complex.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The UREC Sports Complex at Mitchell Street is a 9-acre sports complex run by University Recreation that provides both casual and organized recreation opportunities for the university.

In 2017, the facility received a full renovation, which included LED lighting, new goal posts, softball backstop fixtures, and 100 percent artificial turf playing fields. The installment of artificial turf allowed for year-round activity on the fields. The multipurpose fields can be configured into four playing fields for flag football, soccer, and ultimate frisbee or two softball fields.

"The remodel allowed us to have an outdoor facility that provided open rec options to the U of A community," said Kelsey Harelson, facility coordinator. "People can even play sports in the rain, as long as there is no lightning. It also opens up the option to host larger events on campus in the future."

Prior to the renovation the complex was strictly used for intramural and club sports, mostly due to the fact that the natural grass fields would become damaged with overuse. The turf allows the fields to be open longer hours and used more heavily. Students are able to participate in organized and casual recreation while ensuring they have a close and safe place to play.

"The UREC Sports Complex remodel changed the game for student body recreation", said Jackson McNeal, UREC student manager. "The complex gave us a place to gather for quality recreation, and UREC provides all the equipment needed to take full advantage of the facilities."

Open rec hours for the UREC Sports Complex are 3-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 1-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Those who are interested in organized sports activities should take advantage of UREC intramural and club sports.