Indoor Sports Complex & Boathouse – Coming in 2028!
The Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy Board of Directors has authorized the development of architectural plans for a stat-of-the-art indoor sports complex and elite boathouse, making a transformative new chapter for the world-renowned venue.
To support the project, the Conservancy has launched a $36 Million capital fundraising campaign to bring the facility to life. Designed to complement the park’s internationally recognized rowing infrastructure, the complex will serve as a multi-purpose hub for elite athletes, local residents and major sporting events.
A World-Class Hub for Sport and Community
The new facility will include approximately 100,000 square feet of flexible indoor court space and specialized athletic amenities, expanding the park’s ability to host major tournaments and year-round community programming. Key highlights of the proposed complex include:
- Multi-Sport Versatility: Capacity to host 8 basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, or 30 pickleball courts, as well as wrestling and martial arts tournaments.
- The Elite Boathouse: A dedicated first-floor boathouse featuring 24 boat racks, repair spaces, and direct water access to elevate NBP’s status among global rowing venues.
- Athlete Wellness: Advanced training areas, recovery and therapy spaces, and locker rooms
- Community & Events: Modern meeting rooms and event organizers, a full kitchen, NBP merchandise store, concessions, and significantly enhanced spectator amenities
Setting the Stage for the 2028 World Rowing Championships
In a historic first, the “Mega-Worlds” will be hosted at Nathan Benderson Park, August 12-20, 2028. It will feature the Senior, U23, and U19 championships in a single combined event. This marks the return of the World Rowing Championship to Sarasota for the first time since the park’s highly successful 2017 hosting, which set a new standard for international regattas. The new sports facility is anticipated to be completed by this time to be able to be utilized during this epic event.
Driving the Economic Engine
The Indoor Sports Complex and Boathouse will significantly expand Nathan Benderson Park’s ability to host national and international championships, bringing thousands of visitors to the region while strengthening Sarasota-Manatee’s reputation as a global sports destination. At the same time, the facility will provide year-round recreational and wellness opportunities for the local community.
Get Involved! Support this Project
To lead fundraising efforts on the project, the Conservancy has appointed board member, Louis Kosiba as Development Chair, and Patricia A. Winn as the Director of Development. To learn more about how you or your organization can make your pledge, contribute to the Capital Campaign, or get involved in this project, please contact Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy at info@NathanBendersonPark.org.
To make your donation and contribute to building our New Sports Facility, please click below. Thank you for your support!