Cape Fear sports and community coalition to launch at Wilmington event

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A new regional coalition focused on sports and community development is set to launch next month during an event tied to the proposed Wilmington arena project.

Organizers say the Cape Fear Sports & Community Coalition will debut during the “Arena Rising” event on April 25 at Riverfront Park. The event is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and is free to attend.

The coalition is expected to bring together nonprofit sports organizations, community groups and local stakeholders from across the Cape Fear region. According to organizers, the effort is intended to support the future of sports and shared community amenities while encouraging coordination between private initiatives and public funding sources.

The event will also feature a Carolina Hurricanes watch party and a music festival, according to promotional materials.

Organizers say the coalition is designed to address what they describe as Wilmington’s growing need for sports and community infrastructure, including a proposed multi-purpose arena. The group is also described as a potential step toward forming a future public authority that could support projects aligned with its mission.

Several nonprofit organizations have already committed to participating, with plans to host tents and booths during the event. Organizers say elected officials, community leaders and representatives from the New Hanover Community Endowment are expected to attend.

The Arena Rising event will also support the broader Wilmington Arena Project, a community-driven initiative to build a multi-purpose arena in Wilmington.