Disney Cruise Line Grows Youth Sports Across the Bahamas with Expanded “Play Project”

Disney Cruise Line is continuing to invest in the communities it visits by expanding its “Play Project,” a growing initiative focused on improving youth sports and recreation spaces throughout The Bahamas.

This latest phase brings upgraded facilities to additional islands, including Eleuthera, Nassau, and Abaco. Working alongside new collaborators like ESPN, the project is revitalizing baseball fields, basketball courts, and track and field areas—creating more opportunities for kids to stay active, build skills, and enjoy safe places to play.

According to Disney Cruise Line leadership, the initiative is all about strengthening connections with local communities while giving young people more spaces to learn, grow, and have fun. What began as a single-island effort has quickly evolved into a broader movement reaching more families across the region.

Building on a Strong Foundation

• The Play Project first launched in 2024 alongside the opening of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. From the start, Disney partnered with global nonprofit love.fútbol and local Bahamian communities to design and improve recreational spaces where they were needed most.

• During its first year, the focus was on South and Central Eleuthera. Six primary schools received upgraded play areas, thanks in part to more than 230 Disney VoluntEARS who worked hand-in-hand with students, teachers, and community leaders.

• The impact has been significant. In just one year, the initiative has helped create over 32,000 hours of annual playtime for local children—turning once-limited spaces into vibrant community hubs.

Expanding the Mission

• Now in its second year, The Play Project is using its success in Eleuthera as a model for expansion into Nassau and Abaco. The goal remains simple: remove barriers and make sports and play more accessible for every child.

• A major boost comes from ESPN’s “Take Back Sports” initiative, which focuses on increasing youth participation by addressing challenges like cost and accessibility. Through this collaboration, more resources will be available to young athletes, coaches, and families—helping ensure sports remain inclusive and enjoyable.

Continued Investment in Eleuthera

• Even as the program expands, work continues in Eleuthera. Additional improvements include resurfaced baseball fields and new playground installations at local schools, reinforcing Disney’s long-term commitment to the island.

• Local leaders have praised the initiative for its role in supporting both youth development and broader community growth, highlighting how projects like this contribute to the region’s ongoing progress.

Looking Ahead

• The next phase of The Play Project will include community build events in Nassau and Abaco, bringing together volunteers and residents to create new and improved sports spaces.

• In Nassau, a major highlight will be the transformation of facilities at Woodcock Primary School in partnership with the Buddy Hield Foundation. The space will feature upgraded courts, new equipment, and a community basketball tournament led by Bahamian NBA star Buddy Hield to celebrate its opening.

• By late summer 2026, even more students across The Bahamas will have access to high-quality recreational spaces—part of Disney Cruise Line’s broader commitment to supporting the communities it calls home.

This ongoing effort continues to demonstrate how the power of play can bring lasting benefits, creating opportunities for connection, growth, and joy for the next generation.

Thanks to Disney Experiences for the original article and photos.