About

The who, what, when, where, and why

Location

We’re currently in design/construction, and plan to open early 2025.
We will be located in the Warehouse Arts District at The Factory.
2544 Fairfield Ave S , St. Petersburg FL 33712.

Located conveniently at the highway exit, on the Pinellas trail and walkable from central.
By Car, 4 minutes from downtown center, 1/2 block off the 28th St Exit 21
By Bike, directly on the Pinellas Trail, 5 min bike from downtown
By Foot, 7 blocks from Central Avenue

Open
We’ll be open 7 days a week.
5:00 am - Midnight

The Story

St. Pete Athletic was born out of a passion for fostering community and creating a space where anyone and everyone can come together. Reuben Pressman and Graham D’Amico, both avid pickleball enthusiasts who were born and raised locally, recognized a significant need for more local gathering spaces and envisioned a place that combines recreational activities with vibrant social experiences.

Their vision quickly gained momentum with the addition of Jarrett Sabatini and Nathan Stonecipher, who also have deep roots in St. Petersburg and bring extensive experience in social and hospitality services. With the help of local backers, they ensured that St. Pete Athletic would offer a comprehensive experience that goes beyond just athletics.

As a unique three-paddle social club, St. Pete Athletic is the only facility in Florida to offer Pickleball, Padel, and Table Tennis under one roof, adding an exciting dimension to the local recreational scene. However, the heart of our club lies in our full bar and restaurant, creating a lively social hub where members can relax, unwind, and connect with others.

Our goal is to create a vibrant community space where people can come together, socialize, and enjoy a variety of experiences. Whether you’re engaging in a friendly match of pickleball or savoring delicious food and drinks at our bar and restaurant, St. Pete Athletic offers something for everyone.

Join us at St. Pete Athletic, where connection, enjoyment, and the joy of shared experiences come together to create lasting memories and friendships.

Team

Our team is comprised of passionate local recreational athletes, successful entrepreneurs, and community builders focused on creating a world-class experience for guests and members.

Reuben Pressman
Managing Operator
Graham D'Amico
Co-Operator, Pickleball
Jarrett Sabatini
Bar & Restaurant
Nathan Stonecipher
Green Bench Craft Beers

Reuben Pressman grew up locally and has been a long time community builder and entrepreneur and investor in the city. From launching, building, and selling his Education software company, Presence, to serving on dozens of non-profits boards from the arts, education, and community, including serving as the mayor appointed Entrepreneur in Residence for the city of St. Petersburg. He’s currently raising 2 kids, is a competitive pickleball player, and is pumped to be building something for locals.

Graham D’Amico grew up locally and has a profound connection to his beloved hometown, the Burg. With an extensive background in personal real estate investment, he has served on the Pinellas Realtor Board of Directors, showcasing his dedication to both professional excellence and community involvement. Graham’s deep love for pickleball, both on and off the court, is reflected at both the local and national levels, from passionately coordinating the largest pickleball meetup groups in the Tampa Bay area to being a proud owner of the Smash, Florida’s professional Major League Pickleball team.

Growing up in a restaurant family, Jarrett has always had a passion for food and beverage hospitality. As a seasoned local business owner and cocktail enthusiast, he thrives on creating innovative drinks and memorable experiences, paying meticulous attention to every detail of the guest experience. Outside of work, Jarrett loves to travel in search of rich cultural food and drink experiences, enjoys drinking copious amounts of coffee, and watching spaghetti westerns.

Green Bench Brewing Co. was founded in 2013 by three St. Petersburg locals with a passion for their City and its people. With a focus on creating innovative beers and ciders while maintaining the highest standards in quality control, Green Bench has become an industry leader, and staple brand, throughout the State of Florida. Green Bench prides itself in being a positive asset to the local community and is inspired daily by helping to bring people together over a pint (or two). The brewery currently operates out of downtown St. Petersburg, and expanded their reach in 2019 with the addition of the James Beard nominated Webb's City Cellar.

Press

Recent Articles
7/11 - St. Pete Rising - Massive pickleball complex with restaurant and cocktail bar coming to St. Pete
7/11 - I Love The Burg - One of the largest indoor pickleball facilities in Florida is opening in St. Pete
7/11 - St. Pete Catalyst - Pickleball-focused athletic club to open at The Factory
7/11 - Tampa Bay Times - A new pickleball facility and restaurant are coming to St. Petersburg’s The Factory

New press inquiries can contact media@stpeteathletic.comfor questions.

FAQ

How do pre-sale payments work?
We charge the first month to your account now to hold your membership reservation. The following monthly payments will start when the club opens.
Is St. Pete Athletic for members only?
Everyone is welcome. Members get some extra benefits and access to exclusive spaces. Anyone can play, eat, drink, lounge, etc.
Do I need to play pickleball, padel, or table tennis to come to St. Pete Athletic?
Not at all. We encourage everyone to come join at the restaurant, bar, and relax in the different spaces.
I’ve never played before, can you help?
Absolutely. Our staff is trained to teach you how to play and have fun your first time. We also have equipment you can rent, and a pro shop when you’re ready for your own.
Can I book private events?
You will be able to once we open. In the meantime, head here to let us know you’re interested.
What benefits do members get?
From early reservations, to discounts on Restaurant and Pro Shop, and access to exclusive spaces, check out the full list of benefits here.
Will you offer lessons?
We will a have a range of coaches for all players that you can book through our mobile app.
How will court reservations work?
Reservations aren’t required to play on open courts, join for events, leagues, and other programs. But if you want to reserve your own court for your group, you can by the hour. Members will get priority early booking for reservations.
Will there be events and leagues?
Sure will. We’ll have events for all ages and players, leagues, tournaments, socials, after school programs, and more including open plays by skill level.

Careers

We’re not hiring just yet, but would love to know you’re interested so we can reach out when we’re ready. Please fill out this form to let us know and we’ll be in touch.

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