Carroll Community College will open its new James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex on Sept. 17, when the Lynx host Allegany College of Maryland in the season's first home soccer match, the college said in a news release. A kickoff celebration begins at 3 p.m., followed by the men's soccer game at 4 p.m. and the women's game at 6 p.m.
The complex represents a $5.6 million investment, funded through a partnership between Carroll County Government, which committed $2.4 million, and the Carroll Community College Foundation, which contributed $3.2 million, according to the college.
The facility is expected to serve as a community resource for recreational activities, tournaments and events beyond the college's athletic programs, according to the release. The college and county are finalizing an operational agreement to govern the facility's use by both the college and the broader community, according to the release.
The project includes a FieldTurf synthetic playing surface, a Beynon 400-meter, eight-lane track built to NJCAA regulation standards, dedicated areas for field events including hurdles, long jump, high jump, pole vault, shot put, discus, javelin, hammer throw and steeplechase, integrated bleacher seating, and Musco sports lighting for evening games and events, per the release.
Construction was marked with a groundbreaking ceremony on Oct. 21, 2025, attended by community leaders, elected officials, foundation supporters, faculty and student-athletes, the college said. At that event, the complex was named in honor of Emeritus President Dr. James D. Ball.
"This field represents a vision that many of us have shared for years, a vision of Carroll Community College as a place where students can grow not only academically, but also physically, socially, and emotionally," Ball said during the groundbreaking ceremony. "Athletics play a vital role in that growth, teaching teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, qualities that serve our students well beyond the classroom. This complex will be a place where students compete, where families gather, and where our community comes together."
Community members planning to attend the Sept. 17 opener are asked to RSVP via the college's registration form. Guests who RSVP will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a Lynx swag bag.
Photo: An overhead shot of James D. Ball Athletic Field Complex construction, taken July 23, 2026. Courtesy of Free State Aerial.