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Formerly known as Force Sports Dayton, the complex has a new name but a familiar face in the front office as longtime Dayton Center Courts owner Larry Jackson, and his wife, Eileen, are the co-owners of the Salem Avenue facility.
“I am excited to be back here,” Larry Jackson said. “The response has been very positive and we have a lot of demand for the space.”
Something for everyone
From a modest 7,400-square-foot space to an expansive field measuring close to 30,000 square feet, Dayton Sports Complex has a lot to offer soccer players. And, unlike many other indoor facilities, the field doesn’t have walls.
“There are players and coaches who prefer that,” Jackson said.
The versatile and spacious turf-covered area can also be utilized by indoor softball leagues, for Little League practice or flag football. Jackson has also had interest from lacrosse teams.
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Another portion of the facility is geared toward tennis and volleyball enthusiasts. With space for five tennis courts or six volleyball courts, the complex can host leagues and tournaments as well as private lessons.
“Some people wonder if we’re going to still take care of our tennis people and I tell them, ‘Of course, we are tennis people,’” Jackson said, smiling. “There will be no club membership and no initiation fee for tennis players, just pay for court time.”
A longtime Butler High School tennis coach, Jackson played at Northridge and grew up practicing at this very facility. All four of his children played for the Aviators.
The space isn’t limited to traditional leagues and sports, as it has also been used for adult dodgeball and kickball. And pickleball is a new offering as well.
Miami Valley Phoenix
Dayton Sports Complex will also be home to a new club volleyball program — the Miami Valley Phoenix (MVP). Longtime coach Lori Smith is the new club’s director.
“I’m excited and our coaches are excited to be part of this,” Smith said. “We want to offer a strong volleyball program and something extra for our players.”
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Miami Valley Phoenix players will have access to more than just top-notch coaches, as the club is going to partner with trainers who will offer sport-specific training for all of the young athletes. From improving overall fitness levels to decreasing the risk of injury, the training will have multiple benefits.
“They’ll be stronger, faster, able to jump higher and in great overall condition,” Smith said.
The facility is also something Smith is excited about.
“I think it’s the nicest facility in the area — with six full-size courts and the capability for bleachers on both ends,” she said. “I hope people will give us a try.”
Dayton Sports Complex at a Glance
What: 77,650-square-foot multi-sport facility with space for leagues, tournaments and a variety of drop-in sports.
Where: 4801 Salem Ave., Dayton
Info: Call 937-276-3978; visit www.daytonsportscomplex.com/ or Dayton Sports Complex on Facebook
More: The multi-sport complex will host an open house on Sunday, Aug. 5, from 2-4 p.m. Meet the volleyball and tennis coaches, learn about the indoor soccer program and try your hand at pickleball.
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