Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) Named Operating Partner of The Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center

The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) is proud to announce their selection as the operating partner for the Woodman’s Sports and Convention Center, a premier sports and event venue currently under construction in Janesville, Wisconsin. The new venue is a key component of Janesville’s efforts to become an event and tourism hub for the midwestern United States. In supporting that effort, SFC brings its comprehensive operation and management services to the sports and convention center.

“The City of Janesville is thrilled to partner with SFC on this state-of-the-art facility,” says Jennifer Petuzzello, Neighborhood and Community Services Director for the city. “The Woodman’s Sports and Convention Center will not only elevate the region’s status as a destination for sports teams and events, but also provide a community gathering space and significant economic boost for the local community.”

The 140,000-square-foot facility, located just minutes from Interstate 39/90, is scheduled to open its doors in early fall of 2025. The Janesville City Council approved a construction contract with local contractor JP Cullen & Sons and the venue is expected to have a one-time construction impact of nearly $75 million. When open, the Woodman's Center would create 228 full-time equivalent jobs and is anticipated to create an annual economic impact of $23 million.
 

“This partnership with SFC hits another significant milestone in bringing the vision of the Woodman’s Center to life. With SFC’s proven track record in venue management and operations, the Woodman’s Center is well positioned to become a premier destination for sports and events in both Wisconsin and the Midwest,” said Christine Rebout, Executive Director of the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (JACVB). “This collaboration enhances not only our community’s offerings but also perfectly aligns with our mission to support tourism and economic growth in Janesville. We look forward to helping welcome residents and visitors from near and far to experience this state-of-the-art facility, along with all our vibrant community has to offer.

The center will feature:

• Mercyhealth Arena: a year-round ice rink to support community ice sports and serve as the home ice for the Janesville Jets, a North American Hockey League team.
• Multipurpose Arena: seasonally adjustable as a second ice rink or to dry court for various sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, pickleball or conferences and events.
• Multi-Use Conference Space: a 25,800-square-foot conference space convertible to additional hard-court space for various sports including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and more

Additional amenities will include team locker rooms, coaches' offices, training and meeting spaces, concessions, and administrative offices.
 

"Congratulations to the City of Janesville on all the progress on the Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center to date. It takes a herculean effort to achieve the funding and development of a project of this magnitude,” said SFC Senior Vice President of Venue Management, John Sparks. “We’re bringing our experience operating sports and recreation properties across the country to ensure this facility has a great guest experience, drives new tourists and visitors, and supports the goals and vision of the City."
 

The venue will offer easy access to additional restaurants and retail, as well as nearby hotels ranging from one to five miles away.
 

In anticipation of the Woodman’s Center’s grand opening in 2025, the facility is now accepting advance bookings for events, tournaments, and conventions. To spearhead these efforts, the team at the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau including Tony Cipollone, Director of Sports Sales and Development, and Lori Johnson, Director of Meeting & Group Sales, are ready to assist event organizers in securing dates and crafting memorable experiences at this state-of-the-art venue. To learn more about booking an event at the Woodman’s Center, please contact the JACVB at www.janesvillecvb.com/contact.
 

The Woodman’s Center stands to benefit from the innovative management and operational strategies that have characterized SFC’s success across the country and in the industry through its place in the SF Network. With over 60 properties spanning more than 20 states, SFC embodies a gold standard in fostering sports, recreation, and community well-being.
 

To learn more about the Sports Facilities Companies, please visit our website at sportsfacilities.com. Stay tuned on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates, programs, and job postings.