A-Team Sports Facility: A New Hub for Youth and Adult Athletics in Lawrence
A-Team Sports Facility: A New Hub for Youth and Adult Athletics in Lawrence
Lawrence, KS — In a vibrant transformation of a space once occupied by a Hy-Vee grocery store, the A-Team Sports Facility at 4000 W. Sixth St. has emerged as a beacon for athletic development and community engagement. While the closure of the grocery store in 2019 left a void in west Lawrence, the new facility is filling that gap with opportunities for both youth and adults to engage in sports and fitness.
Owner Alan Rector, inspired by his daughters and a passion for sports, envisioned a place where kids could access high-tech training equipment similar to what is available in larger cities. “We’re trying to instill this in not only players but parents too,” Rector said. “At this age, it’s not about wins and losses; it’s really about developing for the next level.”
The facility boasts an array of amenities, including sports simulators, batting cages, a pickleball court, and a gym, all designed to promote physical fitness and skill development. With 14 trainers, many of whom are trained physical therapists, A-Team Sports caters to children as young as six, ensuring that every child can find their place, whether they aspire to be athletes or simply want to stay active.
One standout program is the eight-week acceleration course, which assesses each child’s training needs and identifies any physical limitations. “We want to help kids improve their mobility and strength,” Rector explained, emphasizing the importance of personalized training.
To celebrate the start of summer, the facility hosted a lively kickoff party featuring bounce houses, games, and food, drawing hundreds of children eager to engage in physical activity. Rector aims to combat the growing trend of screen time among youth, encouraging them to interact face-to-face and build social skills.
A-Team Sports also supports local youth through its nonprofit arm, the A Team Aces Youth Sports Association, which fields 19 baseball and softball teams. To alleviate financial burdens on families, the organization conducts fundraisers and offers scholarships, ensuring that no child is sidelined due to cost.
“We don’t want any kids sitting on the sidelines because of money,” Rector stated, reflecting his commitment to inclusivity in sports.
But the facility isn’t just for kids. Adults can also enjoy various activities, including corporate events and golf lessons with professional instructors. The state-of-the-art Full Swing simulators provide a unique blend of fun and fitness, featuring games like “Zombie Dodgeball,” which allows participants to engage in active play while enjoying a video game experience.
As A-Team Sports continues to grow, Rector envisions expanding the facility to accommodate a wider range of sports, including basketball, volleyball, and soccer. “Our main goal is to provide for our youth and our community,” he said, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all skill levels.
With its innovative approach to sports and fitness, the A-Team Sports Facility is not just a place to play; it’s a community hub where children and adults alike can thrive, connect, and have fun. For more information on programs and events, visit a-teamsports.com.
