Covenant Health Park Evolves for Second Season

Knoxville Smokies CEO discusses changes and priorities for 2026 season

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:03am

As the Knoxville Smokies prepare for their second season at Covenant Health Park, team CEO Chris Allen reflects on highlights from the inaugural 2025 season and outlines plans to enhance the fan experience and community integration of the multiuse stadium in 2026.

Why it matters

Covenant Health Park's first year brought both successes and learning opportunities for the Smokies organization. With the 2026 season on the horizon, the team is focused on building on last year's momentum, addressing feedback, and further establishing the stadium as a hub for the local community.

The details

In the inaugural 2025 season, Covenant Health Park hosted numerous events and celebrations, from Smokies baseball games to community festivals. However, the team also faced some logistical challenges in its first year of operation. For 2026, the Smokies plan to streamline operations, improve parking and traffic flow, and enhance amenities based on fan feedback.

  • The Knoxville Smokies played their first season at Covenant Health Park in 2025.
  • The 2026 Smokies season is set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Chris Allen

CEO of the Knoxville Smokies baseball team.

Knoxville Smokies

A minor league baseball team based in Knoxville, Tennessee that plays its home games at Covenant Health Park.

Covenant Health Park

A multiuse stadium in Knoxville that serves as the home of the Knoxville Smokies baseball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Our job is to create a place where guests can come and take their mind off of their troubles.”

— Chris Allen, CEO, Knoxville Smokies

What’s next

The Smokies organization will continue to gather fan feedback and make adjustments to improve the Covenant Health Park experience ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

As the Knoxville Smokies enter their second season at Covenant Health Park, the team is focused on building on the successes of 2025 while addressing logistical challenges to create an even better fan experience and further integrate the stadium into the local community.