Steffi Sorensen, a well-known ESPN analyst and former University of Florida basketball star, is venturing into the fitness industry with a new facility planned for St. Johns County, Florida. The project, named Dark Horse, is envisioned as a 20,000-square-foot fitness center that will include a variety of amenities, with a particular emphasis on sports performance, recovery, and the increasingly popular sport of pickleball.
A Vision for Community Wellness
The Dark Horse fitness center is more than just a gym; it’s intended to be a community space focused on both physical and mental well-being. According to the master development plan, the facility reflects Sorensen’s “long-held vision of creating a meaningful community space”. This initiative aims to fill a gap in the local area, providing a unique array of fitness and wellness options currently unavailable to residents.
Location and Development
The proposed site for Dark Horse is on Greenbriar Road, situated between Florida 13 North and Longleaf Pine Parkway. Specifically, it’s located about 1.2 miles west of Longleaf Pine Parkway and the Shoppes of Rivertown, and west of Brambly Vine Drive. The 11.8-acre property is owned by the Sorensen Chris R Family Trust, which purchased the land in 2022 for $1.5 million.
The project requires a rezoning from Open Rural to Planned Unit Development, and the county is currently reviewing the plans. Southeast Engineering Group, based in St. Johns County, is handling the civil engineering aspects of the project.
Facility Features
Dark Horse will offer a comprehensive fitness experience. Key features include:
- Open-air amenities: The facility will incorporate outdoor spaces to enhance the training experience.
- Sports performance facilities: Specialized equipment and training programs will cater to athletes.
- Recovery and wellness programs: The center will offer services like group recovery sessions.
- Two floors of specialized equipment: A wide range of fitness equipment will be available to meet diverse needs.
- Pickleball courts: The inclusion of pickleball courts highlights Sorensen’s commitment to offering varied recreational options.
- Personal training and classes: Certified trainers and instructors will guide members in their fitness journeys.
- Sports-specific training: Tailored programs will be available for athletes looking to enhance their performance.
The site plan includes 47 parking spaces to accommodate visitors. The 21,000 square foot facility will also include covered athletic fields.
Steffi Sorensen: From Basketball Star to Fitness Entrepreneur
Steffi Sorensen’s journey from a decorated basketball player to a sports broadcaster and now fitness entrepreneur is remarkable.
Basketball Career
A Jacksonville native, Sorensen was named Miss Florida Basketball in 2006 during her senior year at Bartram Trail High School, where she also became the second-highest scorer in St. Johns County history with 2,147 points. Her basketball career began at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she led the team to a 34-1 record and a Division II national championship appearance. She later transferred to the University of Florida, where she walked on to the team before earning a scholarship. At Florida, she set the school’s single-season three-point shooting percentage record at 39%. She was also team captain and Most Valuable Player in her senior year.
Broadcasting Career
After a brief stint playing professional basketball in France, Sorensen transitioned into broadcasting. She joined ESPN in 2011 as a color commentator and now serves as a college basketball analyst and sideline reporter for the SEC Network. She also contributes to the network’s show, SEC Now. Sorensen’s experience as a player gives her unique insights into the game.
Personal Connection to Fitness
Beyond her basketball and broadcasting career, Sorensen has always had a strong connection to fitness. She was a fitness model and trainer, and in 2019, she was featured on Bodybuilding.com as a fitness amateur of the week. According to Sorensen, fitness came second to basketball but after her collegiate career ended, she began to push her body in “unconventional ways”. She has also spoken about how her determination has been enhanced through sports, allowing her to believe in herself.
The “Dark Horse” Concept
The name Dark Horse reflects Sorensen’s own career path. According to Cecily Sorensen, a spokesperson for the project, the name is inspired by Steffi’s journey. Despite her achievements, she was not heavily recruited out of high school, ultimately walking on at the University of Florida and eventually becoming team captain.
Pickleball’s Rising Popularity
The inclusion of pickleball courts in Dark Horse is a nod to the sport’s growing popularity. Pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has rapidly gained popularity among people of all ages. Its accessibility and social nature make it an ideal recreational activity for a community-focused fitness center.
Community Impact
Dark Horse aims to be a significant addition to the St. Johns County community, offering cutting-edge fitness options that are currently lacking. It is designed to serve individuals, families, and student-athletes. The facility will not only enhance the physical well-being of its members but also provide a space for social interaction and community engagement.
Family Legacy and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Steffi Sorensen’s entrepreneurial drive is also connected to her family background. Her father, Chris Sorensen, co-founded the successful Firehouse Subs chain with his brother, Robin. This legacy of entrepreneurship seems to have inspired Steffi in her business ventures. The fitness center is a new challenge and a meaningful opportunity to give back to her community.
Conclusion
Steffi Sorensen’s Dark Horse fitness center is poised to be a significant addition to St. Johns County. This project combines her passion for sports, fitness, and community, offering a comprehensive wellness facility that reflects her dedication to health and personal growth. The inclusion of pickleball courts and various training programs is likely to attract a broad spectrum of residents looking to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. With Sorensen’s strong background in athletics and her connection to the local community, Dark Horse is set to become a popular hub for health and wellness in the area. The project is currently under review by the county, and locals are eagerly awaiting its opening.
