Sports Facilities Companies to Operate Venue in Janesville

The Sports Facilities Companies will be the operating partner for the Woodman’s Sports and Convention Center, a sports and event venue currently under construction in Janesville, Wisconsin.

The 140,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in the fall of 2025. The center will feature Mercyhealth Arena,  an ice rink to support community sports and serve as the home for the Janesville Jets, a North American Hockey League team.

“The City of Janesville is thrilled to partner with SFC on this state-of-the-art facility,” said 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 Janesville City Council approved a construction contract with local contractor JP Cullen & Sons and the venue is expected to cost $75 million. It will also have a multipurpose arena that’s adjustable as a second ice rink or as a court for soccer, basketball, volleyball or pickleball.

“This partnership with SFC hits another significant milestone in bringing the vision of the Woodman’s Center to life,” said Christine Rebout, executive director of the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “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.”

The venue includes a 25,800-square-foot conference space convertible to additional hard-court space and amenities including 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.”