[Pinellas Park, Fla.] May 22, 2025 – Sprowls Horizon Sports Park has announced the appointment of Michael Nielsen as general manager of the Tampa Bay region’s newest youth sports venue, a spring training-inspired destination set to open in Pinellas Park in Spring 2026. Operated by The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), the park will serve as a premier destination for youth tournaments, training, and community events.
Nielsen brings more than 20 years of experience in sports operations, logistics, and player development to his new role. He most recently served as senior manager for national teams with Football Australia and previously held leadership positions with the University of California, Berkeley, and the Toronto Blue Jays.
Sprowls Horizon Sports Park will feature six youth baseball diamonds, modeled after iconic Major League Baseball spring training venues from across the state of Florida, with adaptable layouts to accommodate softball. A full-sized multipurpose field will host competitive soccer, lacrosse, flag football, and community gatherings. An outdoor ball hockey rink, developed in partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning, will bring fast-paced action to players of all ages.
“I couldn’t be more excited to open and lead such a unique, brand-new facility,” said Nielsen. “After gaining international experience over the past three years, I’m proud to bring those skills home to Pinellas County.”
As general manager, Nielsen will oversee all day-to-day operations, guide staff development, and ensure Sprowls Horizon Sports Park delivers top-tier experiences for athletes, families, and event partners.
“We are delighted to welcome Michael Nielsen to lead our team,” said Joe DeRing, vice president of venue management at SFC. “His extensive background in sports management and operations makes him an outstanding fit. His leadership will be instrumental in establishing Sprowls Horizon Sports Park as a landmark destination for youth sports.”
Located near Gulf Coast beaches and two international airports, the venue will also feature batting cages, a community plaza and playground, curated ballpark menus, and modern spectator amenities. The fields will honor spring training traditions of iconic franchises, including the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, and Pittsburgh Pirates.
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Sprowls Horizon Sports Park is an exciting youth baseball venue, located in the heart of the Tampa Bay area in Pinellas Park, FL. The park offers a unique experience with six fields inspired by some of Major League Baseball’s most celebrated spring training parks. Sprowls Horizon Sports Park is a tournament-ready venue, with proximity to the Gulf Beaches, Tampa International, and St Peterburg-Clearwater Airports, and tons of great dining options. To learn more about Sprowls Horizon Sports Park, visit horizonsportspark.com. Sprowls Horizon Sports Park is operated by The Sports Facilities Companies, the Nation’s leading resource for the management and development of sports, recreation, wellness, and event facilities. Sprowls Horizon Sports Park is a member of the SF Network, the nation’s largest and fastest-growing network of sports facilities. To learn more, visit www.sportsfacilities.com.