Chicago Sky Breaks Ground on $38 Million Practice Facility as Part of Wintrust Sports Complex Expansion

The Chicago Sky, in partnership with the Village of Bedford Park, celebrated the groundbreaking of their new $38 million state-of-the-art practice facility yesterday. Set to open before the 2026 WNBA season, this new development marks a significant step forward for both the Sky and the community of Bedford Park. The practice facility will be a key part of the Phase 2 expansion of the Wintrust Sports Complex, a 116,000 sq. ft. sports and event venue that will serve as the Sky’s new neighbor.

The ceremony, held under clear, sunny skies, was a day filled with joy, excitement, and community spirit. Key figures from the Sky’s front office and local leadership were present, along with media outlets eager to cover the landmark moment.

Among the attendees were Chicago Sky co-owner Nadia Rawlinson, Village of Bedford Park Mayor David Brady, The Sports Facilities Companies CEO Jason Clement, and the team’s general manager Jeff Pagliocca, all of whom addressed the crowd and the media. Sky players Elizabeth Williams and Michaela Onyenwere made a special appearance, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

In his remarks, Mayor Brady emphasized the significance of this project for the community, highlighting how it aligns with his long-standing commitment to economic development in Bedford Park. The Sky’s new practice facility is set to enhance the area’s growing reputation as a premier destination for sports and recreation, with Alpa Construction Inc., the same firm that led the development of the Wintrust Sports Complex, at the helm of the project.

The new facility will provide the Chicago Sky with cutting-edge resources for skill development, recovery, and 24/7 gym access, ensuring the team has the high-caliber amenities they are accustomed to from other professional franchises and top-tier college programs. This investment represents a pivotal move for the Sky, granting their athletes the infrastructure they deserve to continue competing at the highest level.

Community Impact and Collaboration

The partnership between the Chicago Sky and Wintrust Sports Complex extends beyond infrastructure. The collaboration promises to create new opportunities for youth programming and foster a lasting positive impact on the local community. With the Sky’s commitment to empowering young athletes and Wintrust Sports Complex’s proven track record of hosting large-scale sporting events and youth camps, this joint effort will serve as a catalyst for growth and inspiration for the next generation of athletes in Bedford Park.

Construction on the facility is expected to begin soon, with excitement building for what this project will bring to both the Sky and the Bedford Park community.

This event is not just a milestone for the Chicago Sky but also a defining moment for the Village of Bedford Park as it continues to grow as a hub for sports, entertainment, and economic progress.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Chicago Sky’s new practice facility and the continued development of the Wintrust Sports Complex!

Photos via Matthew Danielewicz (Marquee Sports Network) & The Chicago Tribune