Florida communities contribute $2.5 million to relocate former NFL player’s sports academy

Two neighborhood associations and a company linked to Mark Bellissimo have come together to fund the relocation of the Wellington Sports Academy to Village Park. The move was made possible by a $2.5 million investment from Mallet Hill, Southfields, and Wellington Lifestyle Partners.

The decision to move the sports complex from its original location at Wellington Community Park to Village Park was a strategic one. Residents from the Mallet Hill and Southfields neighborhoods were concerned about the potential increase in traffic along South Shore Boulevard if the complex remained in its original location. By moving it to Village Park, these concerns were addressed.

Village Manager Ed De La Vega expressed excitement about the project, highlighting the unique combination of the aquatics center and the sports academy at Village Park. The total value of the project is estimated at $60 million, with construction expected to be completed by next summer.

The Wellington Sports Academy, spearheaded by former NFL player Jon Bostic, is a $38 million project that represents Wellington’s first public-private partnership. The village is funding $33 million of the project through bonds, with Bostic’s team set to start repaying the funds three years after the facility becomes operational.

The collaboration between the neighborhood associations, the company linked to Mark Bellissimo, and Jon Bostic’s team showcases a commitment to enhancing sports facilities in the area and boosting sports tourism. The groundbreaking for the new aquatics complex at Village Park is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, at 9 a.m. This initiative is expected to bring new opportunities for athletic events and competitions to the community.