Nestled in the heart of Lauderhill, Florida, the Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium is a sprawling sports complex that has left an indelible mark on the sports landscape of the region. This multifaceted facility, owned and operated by Broward County, is not just a stadium but a vibrant hub for various sports and recreational activities. Let’s delve into the rich history and diverse offerings of this remarkable venue.
A Cricketing Mecca in the United States
Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium boasts a unique distinction—it is the only dedicated cricket stadium in the United States. This sprawling complex, located at the intersection of US 441 and State Road 838 (Sunrise Blvd.), has been at the forefront of promoting cricket in a country traditionally dominated by other sports.
The stadium officially opened its gates on November 9, 2007, following an investment of $70 million. From the outset, it has been a beacon for cricket enthusiasts, not just in Florida but across the United States.
Pioneering Cricket on American Soil
One of the landmark achievements of this stadium was receiving certification from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to host international matches. In 2010, it hosted its first international Twenty20 series, featuring New Zealand and Sri Lanka. This marked a significant milestone for cricket in the United States and established Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium as a global cricketing venue.
In September 2019, the stadium scripted history by hosting the United States’ first-ever One Day International (ODI) series. This series, which was part of the 2019–22 ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, not only marked the arrival of ODIs on American soil but also witnessed the U.S. national team’s historic ODI victory.
Versatile Sporting Infrastructure
The Main Event Field at Central Broward Park was designed with cricket as its focal point. It features a vast circular grass field, approximately 167 yards in diameter. Surrounding this field is a 5,000-seat stadium with additional space on large berms capable of accommodating 15,000 more spectators. The stadium is equipped with modern stadium lighting and a luxury viewing area, ensuring a world-class cricketing experience.
Beyond cricket, the stadium has also played host to other sports. It became the home ground for the Floridians FC, a soccer team in the Premier Development League, in 2015. In 2016, it was home to the Fort Lauderdale Strikers of the North American Soccer League. Additionally, the venue has welcomed Australian Rules Football matches, including the 49th Parallel Cup—an annual clash between the U.S. and Canada.
A Sports Oasis for All Ages
Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium isn’t just about professional sports; it’s a place for community engagement and recreation. The park includes two large artificial turf practice fields that can be configured for various sports, including American football, soccer, and cricket. It also offers standard playgrounds, a 1.5-mile walking trail, and courts for basketball, netball, and tennis. For those seeking respite from the Florida heat, the park features a water park called Tropical Splash, which opened in March 2008.
Furthermore, the venue plays host to the MLS Combine, where the future stars of Major League Soccer showcase their talents.
A Vision for the Future
Despite its successes, Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium faced challenges. In 2013, discussions began about redeveloping the cricket stadium into a multi-sports facility due to concerns about revenue generation and hosting marquee events. The future of the stadium remains a topic of interest and debate.
In essence, Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium represents the spirit of sports and recreation in Florida. It’s a place where the passion for cricket has found a home, and where athletes of all ages and abilities can come together to celebrate the joy of sports. Whether you’re a cricket aficionado, a soccer fan, or simply someone looking to enjoy a day at the park, this multifaceted complex has something to offer everyone.
