A devastating blaze ripped through the South Shore Sports Center in Hingham, Massachusetts, late Thursday night, June 26, 2025, leaving the beloved community hub in ruins. The massive fire, which escalated to a four-alarm inferno, has shocked local residents and sports enthusiasts who frequented the facility for its soccer, basketball, and lacrosse programs. Firefighters battled the flames into the early hours of Friday morning, but the damage was so severe that officials now believe the building is a total loss. This tragedy has sparked conversations about the future of the South Shore Sports Center and its impact on the Hingham community.
A Night of Chaos at the South Shore Sports Center
The fire broke out just after 11 p.m. on Thursday, with flames shooting from the roof of the South Shore Sports Center at 55 Recreation Park Drive. Firefighters arrived to find the 100,000-square-foot metal-clad building engulfed, with heavy fire concentrated in the second-floor kitchen area. The facility, a cornerstone for youth and adult sports leagues, was thankfully empty at the time, as management had locked up shortly before the blaze began. No injuries were reported, a small relief amid the devastation.
Hingham Deputy Fire Chief David Levenson described the firefighting efforts as grueling. The building’s flammable materials, including artificial turf fields and batting cages, fueled the fire’s intensity. Water supply issues further complicated the response, as crews struggled with malfunctioning hydrants. Eventually, firefighters were forced to pull back from interior operations due to the unsafe conditions, opting instead to combat the blaze from outside. By 5 a.m. Friday, the fire was largely under control, though hotspots continued to smolder.
Key Points Summary
- Date and Time: Fire reported at 11 p.m., June 26, 2025.
- Location: South Shore Sports Center, 55 Recreation Park Drive, Hingham, MA.
- Damage: Building likely a total loss; extensive structural damage reported.
- Cause: Under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
- Impact: No injuries; significant loss for local sports community.
Community Impact of the South Shore Sports Center Fire
The South Shore Sports Center has been a vital part of Hingham for over 25 years, hosting thousands of athletes annually. From tots’ soccer programs to adult leagues, the facility offered a space for community bonding and athletic growth. Owner Liz Lima, a former professional soccer player, built a legacy through the center and its affiliated South Shore Select Soccer program, which has produced nationally recognized talent like Ally Sentnor, the number one draft pick in the National Women’s Soccer League in 2024.
The loss of the facility is a blow to local teams, families, and businesses. Parents and players took to social media to express their grief, with many sharing memories of birthday parties, camps, and championship games held at the center. One Instagram post from a local soccer mom read, “This place was our second home. Heartbroken for Liz and the whole community.” The economic ripple effect could be significant, as the center drew over 100,000 visitors each year, supporting nearby businesses like the Derby Street Shops.
What Caused the Massive Fire?
Investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are working to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown as of Friday morning. Early reports suggest it may have originated in the second-floor kitchen, though officials have not confirmed this. The intensity of the blaze and the building’s extensive damage may complicate efforts to pinpoint the exact cause. Deputy Chief Levenson noted that heavy machinery will be brought in to tear into the structure, allowing firefighters to fully extinguish remaining hotspots and aid the investigation.
The community is anxious for answers, especially given the center’s history of resilience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, owner Liz Lima secured a Paycheck Protection Program loan with help from South Shore Bank, keeping the facility afloat. Now, with the building likely needing to be demolished, the path forward is uncertain.
The Road Ahead for Hingham’s Sports Community
The destruction of the South Shore Sports Center raises questions about its future. Rebuilding could take years, and the cost may be prohibitive without significant community or financial support. Liz Lima, known for her determination, has not yet made a public statement about plans for the facility. However, her track record suggests she’ll fight to keep the spirit of the center alive, whether through temporary solutions or a long-term rebuild.
Local sports programs, including South Shore Select, are scrambling to find alternative venues. Nearby facilities may see an influx of players, but replacing the center’s unique offerings—like its indoor turf fields and full-service lounge—will be challenging. Community members are already rallying, with some calling for fundraising efforts to support Lima and her team.
How the Community Can Help
The Hingham community has a chance to come together in the wake of this tragedy. Stay updated on developments by following local news outlets and the South Shore Sports Center’s social media channels. If fundraising campaigns emerge, consider contributing to help rebuild this vital community space. Share your memories and support for the center on platforms like Instagram to keep the conversation alive and show solidarity with those affected.