Carroll Community College Celebrates New James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex During Lynx Soccer Home Opener

Westminster, MD — Carroll Community College will celebrate the first home soccer game on its new athletic field on September 17, 2026, when the Lynx host Allegany College of Maryland at 4 p.m.

The game will also serve as the official kickoff celebration for the College’s new James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex. Beginning at 3:00 p.m., the kickoff event will recognize the partnerships and investments that have made this transformational project possible.

The James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex represents a significant investment in Carroll County’s students, athletes, and community. The project is funded through a partnership between Carroll County Government, which has committed $2.4 million, and the Carroll Community College Foundation, which will contribute $3.2 million, for a total project investment of $5.6 million. Carroll Community College and Carroll County Government are currently working on an operational agreement that will guide the use of the facility and help ensure it serves both the College and the broader community.

The College first marked the symbolic start of construction during a groundbreaking ceremony held on October 21, 2025 where community leaders, elected officials, Foundation supporters, faculty, staff, and student-athletes gathered to celebrate the future of Carroll athletics. During that event, the athletic complex was officially named in honor of Emeritus President, Dr. James D. Ball, whose leadership helped shape the College’s vision for student success and community engagement.

“This field represents a vision that many of us have shared for years. A vision of Carroll Community College as a place where students can grow not only academically, but also physically, socially, and emotionally,” said Dr. Ball during the groundbreaking ceremony. “Athletics play a vital role in that growth, teaching teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, qualities that serve our students well beyond the classroom. This complex will be a place where students compete, where families gather, and where our community comes together.”

The new athletic field complex reflects Carroll’s commitment to providing first-class facilities that enhance the student experience while creating additional opportunities for community use, regional events, and athletic competitions.

The James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex project includes:

• Turf Field – FieldTurf synthetic playing surface designed to provide a consistent competition and practice environment.
• NJCAA Regulation Running Track – A Beynon 400-meter, 8-lane track designed to support intercollegiate competition, training, and community use.
• Track and Field Event Areas – Dedicated venues for field events, including hurdles, long jump, high jump, pole vault, shot put, discus, javelin, hammer throw, and steeplechase.

• Bleacher Seating – Integrated spectator seating to support athletics, competitions and special events.
• Field Lighting – Musco sports lighting that will accommodate evening games, competitions, and community events.

In addition to supporting Carroll’s athletic programs, the facility is expected to serve as a valuable community resource, expanding opportunities for recreational activities, tournaments, and events that bring visitors to Carroll County. The project reflects a shared commitment among the College, County Government, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and community partners to create a destination that supports student achievement, community engagement, and regional economic vitality.

Community members are encouraged to join the September 17 kickoff celebration at 3 p.m. and stay to cheer on the Lynx as the men’s soccer team takes the field at 4 p.m. and the women’s team follows at 6 p.m. against Allegany College of Maryland.

If you plan to attend, please RSVP at https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/registration-form/?formId=a3ea604d-2772-45ad-a8b1-0b1c91ed0162&envId=p-RK9WauPydUecZcozDvv_aQ&zone=usa

PHOTO CAPTION:  Construction progresses on the James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex at Carroll Community College, which will officially open during the Lynx soccer home opener and kickoff celebration on September 17, 2026.

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Carroll Community College’s mission is Empowering learners. Changing lives. Building community. Carroll Community College (Carroll) provides accessible, high-quality educational opportunities to advance careers, enrich lives, and strengthen the community we serve. Carroll offers academic and career preparation leading to transfer to four-year colleges and universities, and for direct entry into professional opportunities. Carroll Community College is located at 1601 Washington Road, Westminster, Md., 21157. Visit us on our website at www.carrollcc.edu.