Maxx Robert Crosby was born in Lapeer, and moved to Colleyville, Texas during adolescence. He played College football for the Eastern Michigan Eagles and was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL draft. Photo provided
Maxx Robert Crosby was born in Lapeer, and moved to Colleyville, Texas during adolescence. He played College football for the Eastern Michigan Eagles and was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL draft. Photo provided
LAPEER — NFL Pro Bowler and Las Vegas Raiders standout Maxx Crosby has joined the partnership team at SMITH Arenas that is redeveloping the former Polar Palace Arena on Davison Road in Lapeer. Crosby was born in Lapeer.
The cutting-edge, multi-sport facility will serve as a destination for local athletes, clubs and the greater community. The facility will accommodate a wide range of sports and training needs. It will feature full-size turf fields for football, soccer, and lacrosse, along with courts for basketball, volleyball and pickleball. In addition, the complex will include a dedicated workout area, a speed and agility training zone, and a health conscious café offering specialized nutrition options — including selections tailored for golfers.
Coming back to Lapeer and investing in the community that shaped me is a dream come true, said Crosby. This facility is about more than sports — it’s about providing this community additional opportunity, support, health and healing. As someone who has faced addiction, I know how important support and safe spaces are. That’s why we’re creating a place that champions both physical and mental wellness. Lapeer made me who I am, and now it’s time to give others the same shot I had. I couldn’t imagine doing this anywhere else.
The project is being developed in partnership with SMITH Arenas, a national leader in creating innovative athletic spaces focused on building stronger communities.
This is more than a building — it’s a hub for growth, connection, and pride, said Mark Smith, CEO of SMITH Arenas. By working with Maxx, we’re not only supporting future athletes but enriching the daily lives of Lapeer’s residents. Facilities like this bring people together and raise the bar for what a community can offer — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The facility is currently in development, with more details — including its official name and opening date — to be announced in the coming months.
Local founders include Nick Briggs of North Branch and Mark Smith of Sterling Heights who operates SMITH Arenas. SMITH stands for Sportsmanship, Mindfulness, Inclusivity, Teamwork and Health.
The leadership board at Smith Arenas includes NFL veteran Rob Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion and a three-time NFL All-Pro, who played tight end for the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In addition, SMITH Arenas’ board includes: Herman Moore, a former all-pro wide receiver for the Detroit Lions and today CEO of Team Business Solutions; Greg Jones, a two-time All-American at Michigan State University who played for the New York Giants where he won a Super Bowl; Greg Janicki who played soccer at MSU as well as in the USL Premier Development League for Michigan Bucks and West Michigan Edge; Kurt David, a former professional basketball player; and Peter Nielsen, who won 50 bodybuilding titles including Mr. International Universe.
