Entrepreneur and former MLB pitcher have big plans for sports complex in Fort Worth suburb

Roanoke is moving forward with a new sports park on the horizon, named, appropriately, Play It Forward.

The 122-acre complex, which is being billed as “the heartbeat of youth sports in North Texas,” will be available to various sports, such as baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse and football. The complex will feature eight full-sized baseball fields, all equipped with lighting and turf.

The park aims to athletes across multiple levels, including travel, club, recreational and community teams. It will be built near Cleveland Gibbs Road and Texas 114.

The Play It Forward project is the brainchild of entrepreneur and business executive Dave Dickson and former MLB pitcher Blake Beavan, co-founders of 114 Development, who have worked on the project for over five years.

“Their vision is to create an inclusive, dynamic space at the heart of youth sports, where the thrill of competition combines with the power of philanthropy,” noted Erik Leist, owner of Edgerton Strategies.

Leist said the name Play It Forward reflects this mission, focusing on creating opportunities for future athletes and leaders by embedding charitable giving into the core of the complex’s purpose.

Ideal location in Roanoke

Leist said Roanoke is an ideal location for Play It Forward due to several key factors. Its position in the growing Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex ensures accessibility for a large regional audience.

He also cited the city’s renown as the “Dining Capital of Texas” adds to its appeal, providing amenities for families and visitors.

Also, the proximity to DFW Airport makes the location accessible for national tournaments and leagues.

He added that “Strong partnerships with city stakeholders, who share the project’s vision of fostering the next generation of athletes and leaders, support its growth.”

Leist said the Play It Forward project is expected to see its ballfields open by late 2025, with the retail and restaurant space scheduled to open in 2026. “This phased timeline allows for the athletic facilities to start hosting events and activities while the commercial spaces are being completed,” he said.

The $75 million project is being funded entirely through private means.

“This 100% private investment underscores the commitment of its backers to create a top-tier facility without relying on public funds,” he stressed.

The complex will benefit the Roanoke area in a variety of ways, notably visitors spending money on hotels, restaurants, at the gas pumps, in shops, etc.

It will also benefit many youths chasing their sports dreams, said Beavan, who played at Irving High School and was a Major League Baseball pitcher with several teams, including the Texas Rangers.

“As someone who has benefited from quality facilities, mentorship, and community support in professional baseball, I’m excited to help provide the same opportunities to the next generation,” he said. “This project will make a lasting impact on young athletes and the Roanoke community.”

And while there will be fees charged to use the Play It Forward facilities, Leist said a portion will go to the Play It Forward Foundation, which support charitable initiatives that align with the project’s mission of fostering youth athletics and leadership opportunities.

More than sports

Beyond sports, Play It Forward will offer an array of amenities designed to create a vibrant, multi-purpose destination. Visitors can look forward to staying at a hotel within the complex, dining at high-end restaurants, and exploring mixed-use retail spaces.

There will also be an athletic training center, ensuring athletes have access to top-notch fitness and conditioning resources. Additionally, a medical facility is panned for the site, catering to the health and wellness needs of athletes and guests alike.

“This park is about more than athletics. It’s about fostering growth and opportunities for our youth,” Dickson said. “It’s about creating a hub for community engagement and economic opportunity. I’m excited to see the positive impact it will have.”