SHREVEPORT, LA — A once-vacant stretch of land next to the YMCA on Knight Street is being transformed into one of the most ambitious youth sports developments in Shreveport’s history — an $10 million tournament-grade baseball and softball complex that could turn the city into a youth sports hub for the region.
Backed by a powerful coalition of local, parish, and state partners, the eight-field complex will serve as the new home of Shreveport Little League and is poised to draw more than 350,000 visitors in its first year alone, generating an estimated $5 million annually in local economic activity.
The vision is bold: 8 high-quality fields, batting cages, shaded seating, concession areas, and expanded parking, all constructed to tournament standards. Construction is already underway with a 12-month timeline — though favorable weather could bring an earlier grand opening.
The effort is being led by the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana, with nearly $8 million already secured through contributions from the City of Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and the State of Louisiana’s capital outlay budget. The YMCA is now working to raise the final $2 million through community support.
Caddo Parish Director of Parks and Recreation, Patrick Wesley, sees the complex as a game-changer for youth athletics in the area.
“The Parish of Caddo is excited to be part of the YMCA’s Baseball and Softball Complex,” said Wesley. “We envision this as a long-term investment in developing young athletes right here in our community.”
Gary Lash, CEO of the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana, believes the facility’s location places it at the heart of a regional sports ecosystem.
“We’re perfectly positioned between Dallas, Little Rock, and Jackson,” Lash said. “This complex will not only serve our local youth but will also make Shreveport a premier destination for travel ball tournaments across the South.”
The YMCA plans to host at least 20 tournaments in the first year, and with its central location and upgraded infrastructure, the complex is expected to attract youth teams and families from multiple states — boosting hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses throughout the area.
As construction begins, excitement is building both on and off the field. For Shreveport, this project represents more than a baseball complex — it’s a homegrown investment into youth, community pride, and regional economic growth.
