Opening Night at Covenant Health Park: A Celebration of Community and Baseball

Tuesday, April 15, 2025, marked a momentous occasion in Knoxville as Covenant Health Park, a multi-use ballpark, soccer stadium and event venue, officially opened its gates. A sold-out crowd of more than 6,400 (stadium capacity is 6,355) attended the first baseball game at the park, located near Knoxville’s historic Old City. The new facility is home to both the Knoxville Smokies baseball team and One Knox SC, Knoxville’s professional soccer team. 

From the moment fans arrived, the energy was electric. Long-time fans snapped photos in front of the park’s brand-new signage. Families gathered on the lawn near the main entrance for a chilly but perfect spring night of baseball. The festivities included ceremonial first pitches from Covenant Health CEO Jim VanderSteeg and other local dignitaries, an eagle flyover and fireworks to officially christen the stadium, which is now a crown jewel of downtown Knoxville. 

And of course, the Knoxville Smokies brought their game on the field. The Smokies delivered a rousing 5-4 win over the Chattanooga Lookouts to kick off the 2025 season with a victory. 

For Covenant Health, it was more than just the start of baseball season. It was the start of something special: a chance to bring people together, celebrate our region and city, and invest in the health and vibrancy of the Knoxville community. 

“Opening night at Covenant Health Park was an unforgettable moment for our city,” said VanderSteeg. “We’re honored to be part of this incredible venue that reflects the spirit, strength, and pride of East Tennessee. This park is a place for families, friends, and fans to come together. We’re very excited to support something so meaningful for our community.” 

Opening night celebrated all that and more and was just the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable season. We can’t wait to see you at the park again soon—here’s to many more magical games and events at Covenant Health Park!