SANFORD, Fla. – The fastest-growing sport is growing in Seminole County, where a new indoor pickleball complex will be opening this year.
Signs outside the former JOANN fabric store near Seminole Towne Center in Sanford signal that a Diadem Pickleball Complex, or DPC, is “coming soon.” Work is already underway to transform the vacant retail space into what developers are calling a state-of-the-art facility.
The owner of the Sanford franchise location said the area’s growth made it an ideal spot for the complex.
“We look forward to building a great community and creating positive vibes within our complex,” the owner said.
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A sport on the rise
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, 24.3 million people played pickleball in the United States in 2025 — a 479% surge in participation since 2020, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.
Diadem Pickleball Complexes have already opened in multiple Florida locations. The Coconut Creek location, for example, features a 25,000-square-foot facility with nine courts.
The Sanford location will have 11 high-tech “smart courts” and two pickleball simulators when it opens.
Community excitement building
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Residents who spoke with News 6 in Sanford said they are eager to see the new facility open — and hopeful it will breathe new life into the area surrounding Seminole Towne Center.
“For people my age, it’s a great opportunity to get involved,” one man said. “I’ve only played once and I’m still learning the basics, so I’m looking forward to any opportunities that are going to be nearby where I can play.”
Memberships, leagues, tournaments
Memberships to the Sanford DPC will be capped at 25 members per court, with an overall limit of 275 members. The facility also plans to host leagues, lessons and tournaments.
The Sanford location is expected to open in August 2026.