This past weekend, sports fans in Jersey City got a rare treat. Former New York Yankees superstar Alex Rodriguez stopped by Newport Centre Mall for the grand opening of Dick’s House of Sport.
The three-time American League MVP—famous for helping the Yankees win the 2009 World Series—joined the celebration. He signed portraits, greeted fans, and talked up the store’s unique, interactive vibe.
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It’s not just a retail store. With batting cages and golf simulators, this place feels more like a community hangout for athletes, families, and anyone looking to get moving.
A Grand Slam for Newport Centre Mall
Rodriguez’s appearance brought a real jolt of excitement to the mall. Fans from all over showed up, forming long lines and buzzing with anticipation.
Some folks came for nostalgia. Others just wanted the thrill of meeting a baseball legend in the flesh.
A Store Built for Sport and Community
Dick’s House of Sport isn’t your average sporting goods store. It’s a multi-feature sports hub, packed with amenities for anyone wanting to get active or pick up a new skill.
Rodriguez compared the space to the community-centered malls he remembered from his Miami childhood. He highlighted its role as a safe, family-friendly spot.
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Kids and adults have plenty to do here. The store’s got:
- Batting Cage – for sluggers looking to work on their swing.
- Golf Simulator – a fun way to practice your game without leaving the mall.
- Climbing Wall – for anyone craving a full-body challenge.
Rodriguez’s Take on the Game
Rodriguez didn’t try the store’s virtual baseball simulator, but he made it clear he’s excited about the sport’s next generation. Asked about the 2025 MVP race, he backed Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge and also gave Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh a nod for his potential.
A Personal Touch from A-Rod
Rodriguez admitted he doesn’t have deep ties to New Jersey. Still, he fondly remembered beating Cherry Hill in the 1992 national high school baseball championship.
That old memory brought a bit of local flavor, helping the crowd connect with him on a more personal level.
Fans Young and Old
The crowd really showed off Jersey City’s diversity. Twelve-year-old Phillies fan and local soccer player Ian Welfel joined the autograph seekers, proving the event wasn’t just for diehard Yankees fans.
Brooklyn’s Mitchell Tolentino came to praise Rodriguez’s deep understanding of the game. Clearly, the event drew fans from beyond city limits.
Star Power from Multiple Sports
The celebration wasn’t just about baseball. New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns made an appearance too, boosting the store’s ambition to become a new cultural and athletic hub for the area.
With both baseball and basketball stars in the house, the grand opening turned into a true multi-sport fan fest.
Jersey City’s Growing Sports Scene
The opening of Dick’s House of Sport is another sign of Jersey City’s growing sports scene. Newport Centre Mall sits in one of the city’s busiest city districts and now offers more than just shopping.
For travelers wondering where to stay in Jersey City, this new spot adds another reason to visit. The area’s appeal keeps growing, and honestly, who doesn’t want more reasons to get out and play?
Planning Your Visit
Maybe you’re hoping to meet a sports icon. Or maybe you just want to check out the store’s facilities.
There are plenty of things to do in Jersey City before or after your visit. Waterfront dining? Absolutely. Downtown art galleries? They’re worth a look.
The city really does offer something for every interest. If you’re coming in from out of town, you’ll find lots of Jersey City hotels close to Newport Centre.
That makes it pretty easy to plan a comfortable stay. The mall sits right in the center of things, so getting to Jersey City is simple—hop on the PATH train or take the ferry.
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Here is the source article for this story: At Jersey City Signing, A-Rod Talks New Dick’s Store, Local Connection, MVP Race
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