Many different types of magic happen both visibly and invisibly that make for a magical experience for guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort. Some of these people can be seen singing and dancing, operating attractions, or even serving ice cream. Other jobs may not be so visible, but the results of what is done are incredibly visible. This is very true for the team that maintains the 30 fields at the 260+ acre ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. This team makes sure that the complex is ready to host the 300K athletes and 800K spectators that visit for over 50 different events each year. As the complex celebrates its 30th anniversary, the importance of the cast who combine their love of Disney and sports with their passion for field maintenance is crucial.

Disney shared a look at the labor of love that goes into making the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex come to life for athletes and spectators alike to enjoy.

The Cast Caring for the Fields

Meet John Bolger, a 36-year cast member who has skillfully cared for the fields since the first baseball game in 1997. “I’ve been here since opening day and it’s been amazing to see the growth of the sports complex from a few fields to the more than 30 we have today,” he said.

For John, working at Disney is about more than a career. It’s personal. Inspired by his mother who was a cast member, John knew early on where he wanted to be. “I love Disney because of her, and I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else,” he said.

It’s not just John taking care of the 17 multi-purpose fields, 12 baseball and softball diamonds, 1 baseball stadium, and a track & field complex. It’s an entire team of cast led by Maryanne Baglos, the Turf Manager and Horticulture Manager for Lawn and Ornamental Pest Management. “What we do here is truly a team effort,” Maryanne said. “All our cast bring their individual experiences and work together to make the entire complex beautiful.”

During her 27-year Disney career, Maryanne has found joy in refining spaces for guests, and as a leader, loves to inspire her cast members by celebrating their passion and artistry. “When I take pride in their craftsmanship, the cast take pride in it too,” Maryanne said.

For the cast, ESPN Wide World of Sports is like home. That’s certainly true for Willie Congrove, a 40-year cast member and Field Manager. “I’ve had great times with my children when they’ve competed here,” Willie said. “We try to make each area as safe and perfect as possible so others can enjoy coming here too.”

Bringing New Sports to Life

Since its opening in 1997, ESPN Wide World of Sports has not only expanded in size but has welcomed returning and new fans and increased the number of new sporting events here in Central Florida. New events like the upcoming Banana Ball games happening this weekend! As a fan-first experience, Banana Ball is coming to a place that is already known for creating championship-level experiences for our athletes and fans.

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And yes, our Sportscape team is prepping the Stadium for the Banana Ball games with the Loco Beach Coconuts and the Party Animals! Check out the team in action above!

What do you think of the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex? Have you visited before? Are you going to be visiting in the future? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!