City's Parks and Youth Services Unveils Mini Pitch Accessible Soccer Courts at Schneider Soccer Complex

After years of planning, Schneider Soccer Complex in Toledo is unveiling two accessible soccer courts designed to provide safe and inclusive play areas for people of all abilities. The new addition reflects a successful public-private partnership and will serve as a model of accessibility within Toledo's park system.

"We've been planning for quite a while now to build these accessible soccer courts at Schneider Soccer Complex. And today, it's finally happening," said Joe Fausnaugh, Director of Parks and Youth Services. "This project is truly the dictionary definition of a public-private partnership. It began as a dream from the soccer clubs at Schneider Park, who started working to secure the funding needed. The city stepped in with additional support, and private donors filled in the remaining gap."

The new mini pitch soccer courts are a hard-surfaced, enclosed space, equipped with low boards similar to those on a hockey rink. This controlled environment will allow people with mobility challenges and even those who are blind to play soccer in a more accessible, inclusive space. The courts also encourage casual pickup games, making it possible for smaller groups to enjoy soccer without needing a large, open grass field.

"These courts make it possible for individuals with disabilities to experience soccer," Fausnaugh said. "At the same time, they provide a space for anyone who wants to play or practice skills without having to chase balls across an open field."

The $100,000 investment in these soccer courts was made possible through a combination of city funding, private donations, and community volunteer efforts. The City of Toledo committed $70,000 from its Capital Improvement Fund, while the remainder came from local donors. Apprentices from the building trades volunteered their time and expertise, completing the construction and saving on labor costs.

"We're seeing the community step up to make this happen," Fausnaugh said. "These apprentice students volunteered their time to build these courts, which is an incredible gift to the city."

Schneider Soccer Complex has seen increased visitation since recent improvements, with usage up 30 percent to about 60,000 visitors annually. Fausnaugh anticipates even more growth as the public learns about the newly accessible features. "Since we started enhancing Schneider Soccer Complex, visitation has increased. We're seeing about 60,000 people coming here annually, and that number will likely grow as we add more accessible facilities," he said.

Fausnaugh views Schneider Soccer Complex as Toledo's premier accessible facility. The new soccer courts complement a recently paved loop path around the complex's soccer fields, as well as an accessible walking trail. "Schneider Soccer Complex is probably our most accessible city park in our entire inventory," he noted.

Next spring, Schneider Soccer Complex will add an accessible playground adjacent to the soccer courts, making the park an inclusive recreational hub for the community. "When you look at everything together-the accessible trail, the soccer courts, and soon the playground-Schneider Soccer Complex is setting the standard for accessibility in our parks," Fausnaugh said.