The Oshkosh Sports Complex will host hundreds of athletes from throughout Wisconsin who will participate in the Track and Field events of the 24th annual American Family Insurance Badger State Games June 28-29.

Organized by the Wisconsin Sports Development Corporation, the American Family Insurance Badger State Games are Wisconsin’s only Olympic-style sports festival and is truly a grassroots organization that relies on the dedication of thousands of volunteers and the support of corporate partners.

Typically held in Madison, this year’s Track and Fields events have been relocated to the Oshkosh Sports Complex, northeastern Wisconsin’s premier sports facility, which provides state-of-the-art facilities for athletics including football, soccer, track, softball and baseball.

“With the previous venue under construction, we were looking for a location that would not only provide our participants with a great experience, but be manageable from a staffing standpoint,” said John Eisele, director of operations for the Wisconsin Sports Development Corporation. “The staff at UW Oshkosh has been outstanding. Their experience with meets of this size will truly enhance the event. We anticipate our athletes will enjoy the new opportunity, and we look forward to working with the University staff and this great facility.”

The Oshkosh Sports Complex is home to J. J. Keller Field, a football/soccer field featuring synthetic turf designed to reduce injury. The field is one of the Midwest’s finest, in company with Camp Randall Field and Lambeau Field. A second round of enhancements is underway, including a new plaza entrance; updated and expanded locker rooms for approximately 300 student athletes, coaching offices and classrooms; and improved restroom facilities, softball field and parking.

“We are thrilled that the [American Family Insurance] Badger State Games will be held at the Oshkosh Sports Complex this year,” said Chancellor Richard H. Wells. “An event of this caliber highlights the excellence of this facility and its statewide impact.”

The Oshkosh Sports Complex is a unique collaboration between the Oshkosh Area School District, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, the Unified Catholic Schools and the UW Oshkosh Foundation. Based on economic impact models and other projections, it is anticipated that the complex will generate at least $25 million annually for the local economy.