On a balmy Friday night in Collier County, Florida, the lights at Paradise Coast Sports Complex cut through the twilight as local families stroll into the stadium. Anticipation already begins to build.
Kids in FC Naples jerseys race along the concourse, pausing to point at the video board. A supporter group of about 75 people gathers behind one of the goals. Together, lively drums, waving banners, and flying flags successfully create an unforgettable dynamic atmosphere.
For Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders, that scene went beyond a good night at the sports park. It was proof of concept.
“The stands were completely filled, all of the viewing areas were filled with families,” he says, remembering the inaugural season of Collier County’s first professional soccer club, FC Naples. “The kids who play soccer were so excited. That was the moment I knew this was exactly the right thing.”
Paradise Coast Sports Complex was originally conceived as a youth and amateur sports facility in a county that needed more fields and wanted to grow its sports tourism economy. In a few short years, this venue has grown into something even bigger than anyone could have ever imagined …
The 175-acre site now anchors off-season visitation, provides local kids with a place to play, and serves as a community front porch for concerts, festivals, and holiday traditions.
For community leaders nationwide, the complex offers an ideal example of how a premier destination can balance visitor-driven returns with everyday resident use.