The Coppell Parks and Recreation Board met Monday evening at Town Center to review updates from the Coppell Football Association, the senior center, approve the naming of MacArthur Park Playground and recognize outgoing members and youth advisors.
The meeting opened with the Coppell Football Association’s annual update presented by board president Dan Engelhardt. He outlined league leadership roles, safety protocols and participation trends, emphasizing the program’s commitment to athlete well-being.
“Player safety has always been our top priority,” Engelhardt said. “Every coach goes through training so families know their athletes are protected. We have medical staff at every game and water on both sidelines.”
Engelhardt also addressed field space limitations. Coppell Youth Football currently uses Coppell Middle School North and CHS9 Lesley Field, sharing space with soccer, lacrosse and other sports.
“Field space continues to be our biggest challenge,” Engelhardt said. “A multipurpose turf field with consistent access would make a tremendous difference for our athletes.”
The association reported shifts in enrollment, including 55 new players in 2025 but declining numbers in kindergarten through second grade, resulting in fewer lower-level teams than in past years. Questions about age-based division placements were clarified as regulations governed by the NTFL.
Recreation Manager Dylon Hernandez provided updates from the Senior and Community Center, highlighting expanded fitness options, new cardio equipment, additional flooring and increased Texas Hold ’Em programming. The center also launched Saturday Trial events featuring fitness classes, bingo, talent shows and seasonal programs.
“Our goal is to continue expanding what we offer seniors,” Hernandez said. “We updated equipment, added new programs and created weekend events to keep our community active and connected.”
Hernandez shared improvements to the volunteer program and updates to the rental system, which now offers three room options with packages from $300 to $5,000, with discounts for residents and nonprofits.
Later, the board reviewed the naming recommendation for the new MacArthur Park Playground. The committee proposed naming it the Sheehan Family Playground in honor of longtime community advocate and former Mayor Candy Sheehan.
“Candy was instrumental in guiding Coppell toward greater inclusivity, especially in advocating for accessible and welcoming park spaces.” board member Maureen Corcoran said.
Board member Edward Rose added, “Candy believed every child should be able to play together regardless of disability or background.”
The board unanimously approved the name change.
Director Jessica Carpenter recognized youth advisors Hazel Newton and Avery Fishman, as well as outgoing board members Margaret Bryan and Maureen Corcoran. Rose also pledged a $300 scholarship for each youth advisor.
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