Rendering of New Chicago Sky Practice Facility in Bedford Park (All Renderings Provided by the Chicago Sky).
The Chicago Sky, in collaboration with the Village of Bedford Park, has unveiled plans for a cutting-edge WNBA performance center set to open for the 2026 season.
The $38 million project will break ground this fall and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
Situated adjacent to the Wintrust Sports Complex at 5499 W 65th St, Bedford Park, IL, the new facility will span over 40,000 square feet. It will feature two regulation-sized WNBA courts, an advanced training room with the latest strength and conditioning equipment, private lounges, a high-tech film room and a content creation studio. Players will also benefit from a private chef’s kitchen, personalized lockers and secured parking.
The practice facility’s strategic location near downtown Chicago and Wintrust Arena will offer players convenient access to top restaurants, cultural attractions and neighborhoods.
“We could not be more excited to announce a practice facility that will raise the bar on athletic performance, set the standard for player amenities and support our players with exceptional resources built exclusively for them,” said Nadia Rawlinson, Chicago Sky Co-Owner and Operating Chairman.
She highlighted the benefits of downtown living for the players, emphasizing the enhanced quality of life and proximity to the arena.
Village President David R. Brady expressed his enthusiasm for the project, recognizing the facility’s impact on Bedford Park.
“As a lifelong Bedford Park resident, educator and coach, I am thrilled to announce the expansion of the Wintrust Sports Complex to feature the Chicago Sky’s state-of-the-art practice and training facility,” Brady said. He commended the collective vision and investment by the Sky leadership and the village board.
In addition to its premier athletic features, the facility will serve as a hub for community outreach, with new partnerships formed with the Obama Foundation and YMCA Metro Chicago. These collaborations aim to provide sports programming and opportunities for underserved areas on Chicago’s West and South Sides.
“Teaming up with the Chicago Sky has allowed us to inspire, empower and connect more of our young people on the South Side,” said Michael Strautmanis, Executive Vice President of External Affairs at the Obama Foundation.
Dorri McWhorter, CEO of the YMCA of Metro Chicago, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are so excited that the Chicago Sky will be practicing in our backyard and look forward to bringing the Power of Play and inspiring joy, hope and opportunity in Bedford Park and across Skytown.”
This groundbreaking project marks a significant milestone for the Chicago Sky, the Village of Bedford Park and the broader Chicago community, promising enhanced athletic performance, community engagement and local development.
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