Anna Maria Island Sports Park Renamed in Honor of J.M. Feeney
ANNA MARIA ISLAND — The Center of Anna Maria Island is renaming its sports park in memory of J.M. Feeney, a beloved local athlete and Manatee High School student who was tragically killed in March 2024.
The newly named J.M. Feeney Sports Park will feature a brand-new scoreboard dedicated to Feeney, replacing the one damaged during recent hurricanes. Community members who wanted to honor Feeney’s legacy and the deep impact he had on the Center and its youth sports programs drove the effort to rename the park.
Feeney grew up playing at the Center, where he was actively involved in soccer and wrestling. He formed lasting friendships and became a fixture within the Anna Maria Island community, especially among the children and families who spent time at the Center over the years.
The new scoreboard is expected to be installed in time for an annual soccer tournament held in Feeney’s honor. Organizers are hopeful the permit process will be complete so the dedication can be unveiled during the May 4 event, marking a special moment for Feeney's family, friends, and the broader community.
Feeney’s family moved to the United States from the Philippines eight years ago, initially planning only a short stay. However, they quickly found a home in the Anna Maria Island community, where J.M. discovered his talent and passion for sports.
An upcoming trial for the individual accused in Feeney’s death is scheduled for August 11, nearly a year and a half after the tragic incident. As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains focused on celebrating J.M.'s life, honoring his memory, and supporting his family through their grief.
The park's renaming and the new scoreboard serve as lasting reminders of a young man whose spirit, kindness, and athleticism left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
