Coral Springs considers honoring dedicated volunteers by renaming popular gym court and softball field
Coral Springs, Florida – In an effort to recognize the lasting contributions of two beloved community members, Coral Springs officials are considering renaming key sports facilities after volunteers who dedicated years of service to the city’s youth athletic programs.
According to the city’s agenda, the Naming Rights Group Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday, July 28, to discuss proposals to rename the main basketball court at the Coral Springs City Gymnasium and the softball fields at Cypress Park. Both locations hold a special place in the hearts of countless families, and city leaders believe it is only fitting to connect them permanently to the legacies of Jennifer Brown and James J. Reilly Jr.
One proposal seeks to rename the Cypress Park fields as the Jennifer Brown Softball Complex. Brown, who passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer, left a deep mark on the city’s youth sports scene, particularly girls’ softball. For more than a decade, she was a dedicated volunteer with the Youth Softball Association of Coral Springs. She helped guide the organization through difficult periods, including the challenges brought on by the pandemic. Her efforts extended beyond administrative tasks like coordinating registration and organizing photo days; she played a crucial role in re-opening concessions and breathing new life into the programs.
“She was a great role model for anyone who had the pleasure to know her,” wrote Ronnie Ritter, who submitted the application in Brown’s honor.
Brown’s impact wasn’t just in what she did — it was how she did it. Known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering encouragement, she built relationships with players, families, and fellow volunteers that stretched far beyond the field. In 2023, her dedication was recognized with the city’s prestigious Lynne Johnson Award, given to those who make significant contributions to youth sports.
Meanwhile, the committee will also consider naming the main court at the Coral Springs City Gymnasium the Jim Reilly Court or Jim Reilly Championship Court. The recognition would honor James J. Reilly Jr., a Vietnam veteran and tireless volunteer who has shaped Coral Springs’ sports community for more than half a century. Reilly’s legacy includes helping to create the Kreul Classic basketball tournament, which has been a fixture in Coral Springs since 1990. The tournament has not only offered scholarship opportunities to over 100 Broward County students but has also provided millions of dollars in economic benefit to the local area.
Reilly’s contributions go well beyond organizing events. Over the decades, he has coached youth basketball for both boys and girls, assisted in designing the original Coral Springs City Centre gym, and was once named Volunteer of the Year for Working with Youth in Sports by the city. His dedication has extended into the broader community as well — whether clearing debris after hurricanes or fundraising to help families in need, his reputation as a selfless and compassionate neighbor is widely known.
Both Brown and Reilly have made lasting impressions on Coral Springs, each in their own unique way. The proposed renamings would serve as a tribute to their tireless efforts and the positive impact they have had on generations of young athletes.
Final decisions are expected following the committee’s meeting later this month.
