MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. – A massive $8 million reconstruction project is set to begin on the Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex in St. Louis County after it was ravaged by a powerful EF2 tornado last month.
The storm left the popular youth sports destination in ruins, halting all games and severely disrupting training schedules for local players.
The complex, located in Maryland Heights, is one of the largest soccer facilities in the region and typically welcomes over 1.1 million visitors annually.
However, the tornado’s destructive path left behind a trail of shattered synthetic turf, ruined equipment, and dangerous debris.
Tornado Damage Brings Soccer to a Standstill
According to officials, most of the synthetic fields were destroyed, making the facility unsafe for use. Debris including glass, insulation, metal, and plastic now lurks beneath the torn turf, posing hazards that prevent youth teams from playing.
“Everything from our synthetic turf fields to our backstop netting to our goals to our office trailer … it’s all gone,” said Mike Hayes, operations manager at the complex.
The only playable surface remaining is a natural grass field, which is now being used sparingly for practice. However, rain severely limits its usability, as overuse could destroy the turf.
Youth Players Eager to Return
Young athletes like Chloe Schaefer, 14, and Brennan Pinkerton, 11, have been adjusting to the sudden changes.
Both highlighted the importance of synthetic turf, which allows consistent play regardless of weather and enhances the speed and control of the ball.
“On turf … you can practice as much as you want, even if it rains,” said Schaefer.
Despite the setback, players remain hopeful. Many are eagerly awaiting the reopening of the renovated fields so they can return to regular games and tournaments.
Fast-Tracked Repairs Aim for June Completion
Hayes confirmed that repair efforts will begin next week, with a goal of having at least nine soccer fields operational by June.
The plan is to prioritize quick rebuilding while ensuring player safety and maintaining high standards for the synthetic turf.
The renovation will also include replacing:
- 25 soccer goals
- 10 benches
- A completely destroyed office building
In addition to serving local teams, the facility has long been considered a premier soccer destination, drawing teams from out of town and contributing to local tourism through hotel stays and regional tournaments.
“It’s a soccer destination where people and teams come from out of town to stay in hotels in St. Louis and play,” added Hayes.
With repairs on the horizon, local players and their families are filled with anticipation and excitement.
“I hope it opens up soon. I’m ready to get back here,” Schaefer expressed.
Key Information About the Makeover Project
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $8 million |
| Location | Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex |
| Damage | EF2 tornado destroyed synthetic fields, debris under turf, equipment losses |
| Visitor Count (2023) | 1.1 million |
| Fields to Reopen By | June 2025 (goal: at least 9 fields) |
| Other Damage | Office trailer, 25 goals, 10 benches |
The Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex is on the road to recovery after being hit hard by a destructive tornado.
With an ambitious $8 million makeover set to begin, the community looks forward to the complex returning as a thriving hub for youth soccer and regional tournaments by this summer.
As work progresses swiftly, players and visitors alike can expect a refreshed and safer environment in just a few months.