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First Community Bank Sportsplex: A New Era for Sports in Jonesboro

The collaboration between the Jonesboro Advertising & Promotion Commission and First Community Bank marks a significant milestone for the community as they announce a landmark naming rights agreement. The Ridge Athletics Center will now be known as the First Community Bank Sportsplex, thanks to a 15-year sponsorship deal valued at $4,525,000. This development reflects a bold investment in the future of youth sports, recreation, and tourism in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Set to open in early 2027, the 200,000-square-foot facility promises to emerge as a top destination for athletes, families, and various community events throughout the region. Features include:

• - Capacity for 12 basketball courts or 24 volleyball courts.
• - An Olympic-sized swimming facility with a 40,000 square-foot natatorium, featuring 1M and 3M diving boards and seating for 1,245 spectators.
• - A competition warm-up pool and an outdoor aquatics park.
• - A spacious 35,000 square-foot events center that can host a variety of community gatherings.

The First Community Bank Sportsplex is positioned to become a hub for competitive sports and large-scale events, enhancing Jonesboro's profile as a prime destination for recreation and tourism. Already, the facility has begun securing bookings for tournaments and events well into 2027 and beyond.

Craig Rickert, the Executive Director of the Jonesboro Advertising and Promotion Commission, expressed pride in the support from First Community Bank. He stated, "Very few facilities have this kind of backing even before their opening, showing the excitement of our community for such a venue. The partnership with First Community Bank exemplifies a commitment to enhance tourism and improve the quality of life in Jonesboro."

This partnership transcends mere naming rights. Allen Williams, Executive Vice President and Regional President of First Community Bank, emphasized its impact: "It is a long-term commitment to families, athletes, coaches, and the community at large. The First Community Bank Sportsplex will forge connections, create economic opportunities, and showcase the unique offerings of Jonesboro and Northeast Arkansas."

Tailored to accommodate various events such as tournaments, leagues, training camps, and community programming, the modern design of the Sportsplex is expected to attract visitors from all over Arkansas and beyond. This facility will underscore Jonesboro's reputation as a leading sports tourism destination while simultaneously providing local athletes and organizations with a premier venue.

Furthermore, the First Community Bank Sportsplex will be overseen by The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), the nation’s foremost entity in the planning and management of sports facilities. SFC not only manages facilities but also plays a pivotal role in the development of parks that improve the community's quality of life.

With a network that includes approximately 7,000 team members across more than 140 venues, SFC positively impacts the economy, generating over $1 billion annually through guest visits. This further indicates the pivotal role the First Community Bank Sportsplex will play in positioning Jonesboro as a vibrant community-focused region.

In conclusion, the emergence of the First Community Bank Sportsplex stands as a beacon of hope and development for Jonesboro, promising enhanced recreational opportunities, support for local athletes, and a strengthened community spirit. This partnership sets the stage for a bright future steeped in sports and community cohesion, effectively making Jonesboro a quintessential locale for sporting events and recreational activities.