News & Updates
Since opening in February 2021, the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center has rapidly emerged as a cornerstone of local and regional growth, transcending the boundaries of traditional sports facilities and truly emerging as a multipurpose facility. Thanks to this rapid success, the board of the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center and the Louisville Urban League hosted a press conference today to announce that the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center will be part of Kentucky’s signage program.
Highway attraction signs are being installed at six different interstate locations near the venue over the next week. This permanent addition to our local roadways signifies the impact the venue has had to date and the long-term impact the venue, its partners and other supporters are expected to have on our community.
“Now, everyone traveling this stretch of highway will know how much we value the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “Thank you to Russ Cox and everyone at Norton Healthcare for your continued investment and focus. Thanks to Sadiqa Reynolds and the entire team at the Louisville Urban League for your tireless hard work and advocacy. Today is a great day, and this community deserves more great days.”
“The Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center isn't just about sports, it's about empowering our community, nurturing talent and fostering a culture of growth,” said Sadiqa Reynolds, Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center founder and president. “As we reflect on our achievements to date, it is clear that the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center has become what it was intended to be. Much more than a sports facility — it is a beacon of hope and transformation and a catalyst for economic growth in West Louisville. As we look ahead to the future, we are excited to continue building upon this legacy of excellence and making an even greater impact.”
On the heels of hosting a sold-out Louisville Urban League Derby Gala, the Great Futures Sneaker Ball with Emmitt Smith, former NFL running back, and the first ever KHSAA Indoor State Track & Field Championships, the venue has welcomed hundreds of thousands of attendees from 20 countries and nearly all 50 states to more than 3,000 events and community programs in just over three years. Some of the other notable events held at the venue include: the ACC Indoor Track & Field Championships, AAU Cheerleading National Championships, Louisville Indoor Games, The Kentucky Derby Festival, and concerts featuring John Batiste, The Isley Brothers, and Kevin Gates.
“When we look at this facility, we are reminded of what can happen through partnerships and a shared vision,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare. “Norton Healthcare is proud to be a part of this center that attracts world-class athletes, entertainers and serves as a home for numerous events that support local causes and opportunities.”
“The impact of the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center extends far beyond its walls, reaching into every corner of our community and touching the lives of individuals and businesses in profound ways,” said Lyndon Pryor, president, Louisville Urban League. “We are grateful to our partners, clients, athletes, guests and staff for their continued support of the venue. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence, accessibility and community engagement, the venue continues to serve as a catalyst for positive change and revenue generation.”
In addition to its profound social impact, the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center is also driving economic growth and revitalization in our region through its ability to attract large-scale events that annually bring in tens of thousands of visitors to the community. By attracting visitors from across the nation, the facility is stimulating local businesses, creating job opportunities and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. In the first three indoor track seasons, the venue hosted athletes from more than 107 colleges, 300 middle and high schools and 37 states.
“We are proud to see the Louisville community continue to support the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center and the growth it represents in West Louisville, said Louisville Tourism President and CEO Cleo Battle. “Since the track’s opening in 2021, the Russell neighborhood has welcomed nearly 400,000 attendees, generating $28M in estimated economic impact. This state-of-the-art athletic center is truly instrumental in aiding Louisville Tourism to generate a variety of youth and championship events, allowing us to position Louisville as a regional and national site for sports events.”
Looking ahead, the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center remains committed to expanding its impact and reaching even more individuals in the region and beyond. While the venue continues to host local outdoor track meets and soccer games throughout the spring, it will continue to bring a regional and national draw when it hosts the Jeffersontown, Kentucky Crown Cheer & Dance Championships, 502 Corvette Club’s Inaugural All Corvette Car Show, United States Trampoline and Tumbling Association National Championships and more.