Partners to hold groundbreaking ceremony on Lake County’s sand volleyball complex

TAVARES – The Lake County Board of County Commissioners, Lake County Water Authority and the Florida Region of USA Volleyball are inviting the public to the groundbreaking ceremony of the Hickory Point Beach sand volleyball complex at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30 at 27341 State Road 19, Tavares.

The 20-court sand volleyball complex will be built at the Hickory Point Recreational Facility and will feature professional level net systems, lights, permanent restrooms, an intercom system, webcams and 24 inches of top-grade sand. The Florida Region of USA Volleyball has its sights set on the complex opening by the busy Fourth of July weekend.

“Lake County is proud to be at the forefront of one of the fastest growing sports in the world,” said Robert Chandler, Lake County Economic Development & Tourism director. “We are grateful for the partnerships that have contributed to the development of The Hickory Point Beach sand volleyball complex. This venue will greatly improve the county’s sports infrastructure and positively impact our economy for years to come.”

The plans are made possible through a partnership between the county, Lake County Water Authority and the Florida Region of USA Volleyball. On April 8, The Lake County Board of County Commissioners approved spending $398,000 - fully funded by the tourist development tax - to help pay for the construction of complex. On April 23, the Lake County Water Authority approved a lease agreement with the county, giving a final nod of approval.

“The new sand volleyball complex will bring many volleyball enthusiasts to Lake County in the coming years as we focus on hosting events for amateurs and professionals of all ages,” said Steve Bishop, Executive Director for the Florida Region of USA Volleyball. “This is truly a win-win for Lake County and for the sport of volleyball.”

The Florida Region of USA Volleyball, based in Eustis, is a 501c3 non-profit that began operating in the 1960s to promote volleyball and to create competitive playing opportunities for volleyball enthusiasts of all ages throughout the state. The Florida Region is one of 40 regional volleyball associations under the umbrella of USA Volleyball and currently serves over 12,500 members. For more information on the Florida Region, visit www.FloridaVolleyball.org.

To learn more about why Lake County is the ideal location for sporting events, contact a member of the Lake County Economic Development & Tourism team at 352-742-3918.