James E. Russell Sports Center

The James E. Russell Sports Center, located at 2016 Pine Street in Travers Park, is NOW OPEN!  Come check it out and start planning your favorite dates to play. 

The JER Sports Center was made possible by a $7.5 million dollar donation by Jim and Ginny Russell, the son and widow of James, who, growing up in Sandpoint participated in multiple sports throughout high school, including tennis and football. Paid for with donated funds, the City opened the facility with zero debt or obligations to outside parties and is therefore able to provide the building to the public at rates much lower than those typical of private facilities. The guiding principles of JER operations are 1) fiscal sustainability (revenues from use fees must cover the building’s costs of operation) 2) equity and access (there must be opportunities for free access for Sandpoint residents), and 3) youth first (memberships will be free for youth). The NEW Rate structure adopted by City Council was developed in consultation with experts in the industry. These rates are based on projected operating costs; in addition to staffing needs (JER will require a minimum of five staff to operate), costs to operate the facility include custodial services, water, gas, and electrical utilities, equipment and supplies, and a revenue allocation for facility repair and replacement on a 25-year horizon. The adopted fees attached below are effective immediately, giving community members clarity on their best options for engaging with the facility.

Daily Admission & Membership Options

Daily entrance fees and memberships are now available for purchase.  

*City of Sandpoint residents who sign up for a yearly membership instead of paying month-by-month in a 12 month period, save $80. Non-residents save $90.  

If you don't already have one, start by creating an account with in our online reservation software. Add all your family members you think might utilize the JER Sports Center for court access or recreation programming.  

Weekly Schedule

The building is currently scheduled to be open from 7am - 8pm, Monday - Saturday. Weekly schedule is  listed below. 

Court Reservations

Court reservations are currently available up to 1 week in advance by phone: 208-946-2063 or dluvisi [at] sandpointidaho.gov (email.)