Decorah Athletic Complex Naming Rights Secured Through Major Donation

You'll want to remember this moment. Help us record what's happening in Decorah. DECORAH — The city of Decorah has secured naming rights for its athletic complex project following a $500,000 contribution from Nick Rowley, a national trial lawyer, author, philanthropist and founder of Trial Lawyers for Justice. The facility will be named the Rowley Sports Complex. Mayor Lorraine Borowski shared her excitement about the project and its impact on the community. "I am grateful for the success of the athletic complex for what it means to our community and for citizens of all ages," Borowski said. "Nick Rowley's generous contribution has been instrumental for the city in securing funding for the complex's completion in its entirety." Rowley and his family have roots in Decorah, and he said he was excited for the opportunity to contribute. The additional funding provides a major boost, allowing the city to expand the scope of the project and leaving a final fundraising gap of just over $100,000. Fundraising team member Mike Harman reached out to Rowley to see if he would be willing to support the project. Rowley pledged his support without hesitation. "I didn't have to think twice about it. Harman reached out and it was a no-brainer," Rowley said. "Living out of state, I don't get to contribute to our town. This is a way to give back to the community I love." Rowley said he has a particular interest in pickleball, which he was introduced to six years ago and credits with helping him maintain a healthy lifestyle. "The more activities for residents, the healthier the community will be," he said. Rowley continues to maintain his main office in Decorah and returns regularly for work and to visit family. In the future, he plans to spend more time in the area and said he looks forward to playing pickleball and baseball with his children and grandchildren. The city of Decorah, Decorah Parks and Recreation, and the fundraising team expressed gratitude for Rowley's financial support and enthusiasm for the project, as well as for other donors who have contributed to the campaign. The fundraising team is made up of volunteers who have worked to raise funds and build community support for the project. The Decorah Athletic Complex is designed to serve youth, families and visitors across northeast Iowa. The facility will support school athletics, club sports, community wellness and tourism-driven programming. Plans include four 280-foot baseball and softball diamonds with dugouts; eight pickleball courts; parking areas; landscaping; two double batting cages; lighting for two ball diamonds and all pickleball courts; a playground; a 3.2-acre infiltration basin; and a 5-acre mesic prairie with tall grasses and wildflowers designed to reflect Iowa's countryside. The project also includes construction of a concession and permanent restroom building to support event operations and provide accessible restrooms along the Freeport Trail and Trout Run Trail network. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026. More information about the Decorah Athletic Complex or opportunities to support the project is available at parks.decorahia.org/whats-that-park-project.