Pelham celebrates ribbon cutting of new multi-use hockey and soccer court

Published 10:08 pm Wednesday, June 25, 2025

By Dave Domescik

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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Cheers, shots on goal and light-hearted competition marked a milestone moment in Pelham on Tuesday, June 24, as the city officially opened its brand-new multi-use Hockey and Soccer Court at City Park with a community ribbon cutting and celebration.

Residents, city officials, youth athletes and their families gathered under sunny skies to inaugurate the state-of-the-art court, which will serve as a versatile recreational hub for youth practices, games and community events. The ceremony featured remarks from Pelham Mayor Gary Waters, Parks & Recreation Director Brian Cooper and City Council President Maurice Mercer.

“This court is more than just a space to play—it’s a symbol of how Pelham continues to invest in the health, fun and development of our young athletes,” Cooper said.

Following the ribbon cutting, the crowd was treated to a friendly competition between members of the Pelham City Council, who each took turns shooting pucks and soccer balls to much applause. While prizes were given out, the event emphasized fun over fierce rivalry—“everyone’s a winner” was the theme of the evening.

The celebration marked another significant step in Pelham’s ongoing commitment to youth development and recreational growth. Cooper emphasized the collaborative spirit that made the project possible, thanking the Pelham City Council, City Manager Gretchen DiFante, Alabama Representative Kenneth Paschal and Shelby County for their roles in bringing the court to life.

“The county helped us clear the land, which saved us a lot of money,” Cooper noted. “We have a great working relationship with them that helps us with all our projects. And this court? We assembled it in-house, so a lot of hard work from our department went into it as well.”

This latest addition complements Pelham’s growing identity as a recreation-focused city. With the court doubling as a surface for NHL street hockey and soccer, it aligns perfectly with Pelham’s efforts to promote sports, wellness and inclusive outdoor spaces.

City Council President Maurice Mercer highlighted the broader vision.

“We’ve been consistent in adding opportunities at our recreation site and new city center,” Mercer said. “Pelham is a destination location, and so we’re going to continue to enhance offerings in recreation, which also adds to our economic development. If you like recreation and the outdoors, Pelham is a great place for you and your family to consider making home.”

The court also builds on the momentum of Pelham’s growing youth street hockey program, now in its second year. With dozens of young players already taking to the new surface, the city sees this as just the beginning.

The ribbon-cutting event concluded with smiles, high-fives, and anticipation for what’s ahead—a future where recreation, youth development and community pride continue to thrive at the heart of Pelham.

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