Just recently, the city of Vicksburg cut the ribbon on brand new tennis courts.

They are beautiful and have already helped attract large tournaments in the coming months, bringing with them visitors and tourism dollars.

But what we have not seen is continued discussions about the planned sports complex or discussions on how further, and much needed, investment is planned for existing city sports facilities.

We have talked about in the past the condition of the complex at Bazinsky Field and the need for just the basics; an improved concession stand, better fencing and a parking lot that does not require all-wheel drive.

This weekend, Bazinsky Field will host a small softball tournament, attracting teams from around the area, and that complex will very likely be the impression they leave Vicksburg with. We can do better.

The youth baseball fields need touchups for their dugouts, signage and curb appeal as well.

What we tend to forget is that these teams, the players they bring and the parents who caravan hours to support at times never leave a complex during tournaments. They instead put up tents, enjoy the concessions that are available and try to find ways to keep cool and relax in between games.

There are moments when they will race away for a lunch or to restock their provisions, but for the most part, these parks are their homes for a day or a weekend.

We can do better.

The idea of a sports complex is a good one and one that we have supported many times. While we disagree with some of the options for the site of the complex, one is needed.

But that project is years in the making and we can do better, now.

Either through organizations supporting such efforts in concert with city funds, or the city doing it themselves, our parks need love and attention and need it now.

We cannot let these parks, while capable of hosting games and tournaments, be the reflection of what our community is or is capable of.

We are capable of more.

Vicksburg has lost tournaments — and the economic dollars that come with tournaments — in the past because of teams not willing to come here. They instead have picked tournaments in Clinton and other cities where the facilities are more appealing and meet the needs of those who put down stakes for weekend tournaments.

We need to do better. Now.