James D. Ball Athletic Complex
The James D. Ball Athletic Complex provides a first-class home for Lynx Athletics and a dynamic new resource for Carroll County. The complex features a synthetic turf field, 400-meter regulation running track, track & field event areas, spectator seating, and sports lighting for evening events.
Carroll County Government: $2.4 million
Carroll Community College Foundation: $3.2 million
Total project investment: $5.6 million
Why It Matters
- Provides a dedicated home venue for Carroll Athletics.
- Enhances the student-athlete experience and supports student engagement, pride, and belonging.
- Expands the College’s capacity to host competitions, special events, and community programming.
- Creates opportunities for recreation, tournaments, and regional events.
- Demonstrates the impact of government, philanthropic, corporate, and community partnership.
The project supports Carroll’s institutional priorities by:
- Building Bridges to Success: investing in modern, high-quality learning and activity environments
- Putting People First: promoting student well-being, belonging, leadership, and engagement
- Fostering a Connected Community: bringing together students, employees, alumni, families, partners, and residents
Sponsorship Opportunities
Show your support for Carroll’s student-athletes while putting your business in front of Lynx fans and community members. Scoreboard sponsorship opportunities are available through Carroll’s Corporate Partner Program, offering local businesses a highly visible way to support Lynx Athletics.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does the new complex include?
The complex includes a FieldTurf synthetic playing surface, a Beynon 400-meter eight-lane running track, track-and-field event areas, spectator seating, Musco sports lighting, storage, and related infrastructure.
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Why was the facility developed?
The facility was developed to strengthen Carroll Athletics, provide a consistent competition and practice environment, enhance student engagement, and expand opportunities for community recreation and sports and regional events. It is intended to serve as both an athletic venue and a community gathering place.
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How was the project funded?
The publicly announced project investment is $5.6 million, including $2.4 million from Carroll County Government and $3.2 million from the Carroll Community College Foundation.
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Why is the complex named after Dr. James D. Ball?
The facility was named in honor of Carroll Community College President Emeritus Dr. James D. Ball. The College recognizes his leadership in shaping the vision for expanded athletics, student development, and community engagement.
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Will the complex be used only by Carroll Community College?
No. The facility is intended to support College athletics, academic and College-sponsored activities, and scheduled community use. College activities will receive scheduling priority, with community use managed around those commitments.
Following the College’s September 17 opening celebration, portions of the project will continue through the fall. As a result, the facility will be used for College activities until it is fully operational, with community and outside organization use anticipated to begin in Spring 2027, subject to facility readiness.
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Who will coordinate community rentals?
The plan is for Carroll County Recreation & Parks to coordinate. However, the College and County are still finalizing the operational agreement, rental procedures, access hours, and scheduling guidelines.
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Will the track always be open to the public?
There will be limited access to the track. We are expecting a high volume of use by the College and community organizations; therefore, access will be managed around athletics, academic programs, practices, competitions, College events, and community reservations.
When the facility is ready for full use in 2027, we will post updated availability. Specific public and employee access hours have not yet been confirmed.
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