Pickleball in St. Johns: ESPN basketball analyst Steffi Sorensen is bringing pickleball to the forefront with her planned fitness center, Dark Horse, in St. Johns County. The 20,000-square-foot facility will include outdoor pickleball courts as one of its key attractions, catering to players of all levels in the growing sport.
Pickleball at Dark Horse
Dark Horse will feature dedicated pickleball courts designed to accommodate recreational play and competitive matches. The inclusion of pickleball reflects Sorensen’s vision to create a multi-functional fitness hub that promotes community engagement and active lifestyles.
The facility will also host events, tournaments, and classes led by experienced pickleball coaches, making it a go-to destination for the sport in the region.
Amenities Tailored for Wellness and Sport
In addition to its pickleball courts, Dark Horse will offer:
- Sports-specific training programs for athletes.
- Group classes, personal training, and wellness sessions.
- Recovery and rehabilitation spaces.
- Two floors of specialized fitness equipment.
- Open-air amenities for outdoor fitness enthusiasts.
The pickleball courts will be complemented by other outdoor features, including walking paths and community spaces, creating a comprehensive fitness and recreation experience.
Location and Development Details
Dark Horse is situated on an 11.8-acre property along Greenbriar Road, about 1.2 miles west of Longleaf Pine Parkway. The project, pending rezoning approval, is led by Southeast Engineering Group, with plans for 47 parking spaces to accommodate visitors.
The land, purchased in 2022 by the Sorensen Chris R Family Trust for $1.5 million, offers ample space for pickleball enthusiasts to play, learn, and compete.
Dark Horse’s Inspiration and Impact
The name “Dark Horse” reflects Sorensen’s underdog journey, from walking onto the University of Florida basketball team to becoming a team captain and ESPN analyst.
According to spokesperson Cecily Sorensen, the name also embodies the spirit of achieving the unexpected—a quality Sorensen aims to inspire in her fitness center’s members, including pickleball players.
“As an ESPN college basketball analyst, Steffi and her colleagues often chose a “dark horse” team or player that you might not expect to upset a game or ranked team. Or someone that isn’t being talked about. Steffi felt that the name encapsulated her career – being a walk-on at Florida for example and then graduating as team captain and having started every game. Nobody ever expected that she could do that.” – (Cecily Sorensen)
Pickleball’s Growing Role in Fitness
Dark Horse’s pickleball courts will serve as a hub for the sport’s growing community, offering lessons, strategies, and techniques led by certified pickleball coaches.
With pickleball tournaments and events planned for the future, the center will not only cater to local enthusiasts but also attract competitive players.
News in Brief: Pickleball in St. Johns
Steffi Sorensen’s Dark Horse fitness center in St. Johns County will feature outdoor pickleball courts, sports training, and wellness amenities.
The project highlights pickleball with tournaments, lessons, and community events, making it a hub for enthusiasts and players. Rezoning approval is pending.
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