PBSC and Baptist Health break ground on new beach volleyball complex

PBSC’s three-time national-champion women’s beach volleyball team will soon have a new place to practice and play thanks to generous financial support from Baptist Health.

The Baptist Health Beach Volleyball Complex will serve as the home of PBSC’s nationally recognized women’s beach volleyball program. A groundbreaking ceremony was held April 16 at the Lake Worth campus with Baptist Health executives, PBSC leadership, elected officials and community members in attendance.

“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony represents a union between Palm Beach State College and Baptist Health South Florida—two organizations brought together by a shared commitment to education, wellness, community and, above all, caring for people,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. “The Baptist Health Beach Volleyball Complex will be a place where champions are developed, where students thrive and where our community comes together.”

“Today reflects our commitment to meeting the growing needs of this community both on and off the field,” said Lincoln S. Mendez, north region executive, Baptist Health and CEO, Boca Raton Regional Hospital. “Baptist Health is proud to stand alongside Palm Beach State College in bringing this vision to life and we look forward to the impact this facility will have for years to come.”

The new 2.5-acre complex is designed to meet championship level standards and support live broadcast capabilities. The facility will house ten competition grade sand courts, capable of hosting tournaments, special events and recreational programming. The complex will also include professional Musco LED lighting, seating for more than 1,000 spectators and a 32-foot by18-foot LED video board that will serve as the heart of the fan experience. In addition to serving student-athletes, the facility will host youth and community tournaments, bringing economic and recreational benefits to Palm Beach County.

“This beach volleyball complex is essential for us to keep pace with—and continue to lead—other top programs in our region,” said Peter Barbatis, PBSC vice president for student services/enrollment management. “Nearly all of our peers already have dedicated facilities, and this complex ensures PBSC remains competitive in recruiting while setting a new standard for excellence in the Southeast.”

The Baptist Health Beach Volleyball Complex will position Palm Beach State College as a premier destination for collegiate and professional-level volleyball in South Florida and beyond. It is expected to open in early 2027.

Visit the Flickr album to view more photos of the groundbreaking ceremony.