Detroit-based SMITH Arenas and the Gronkowski family, known for their accomplishments in the world of professional sports, are teaming up to create new sports centers that will cater to the needs of athletes, fans, and communities throughout the nation.
The sports and events centers will feature a dedicated approach to health and fitness with sports programming, team training, tournament play, onsite medical care, and nutrition. SMITH stands for Sportsmanship, Mindfulness, Inclusivity, Teamwork, and Health.
The company plans to open sports centers in new facilities or by acquiring and renovating existing buildings. At least one sports complex will be built in metro Detroit, as well as a few around Michigan. Announcements will be made in the coming months as the deals are signed.
Over the next five years, SMITH Arenas plans to have 20 locations. Among the cities that are being considered are Charlotte, N.C., Atlanta, Dallas, Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Nashville, and Danville, Virg. The new facilities could be as large as 250,000 square feet.
“We are combining our expertise and resources to create a legacy of excellence in the rapidly growing sports segment,” says Mark Smith, founder and managing partner of SMITH Arenas. “These facilities bring an incredible benefit to communities nationwide while allowing each athlete and team to be their absolute best.”
The complexes will feature one or multiple buildings, and offer turfed fields, hardwood courts, and fitness training. For students, once they have finished their homework, they can join their team for video training, the Gronk fitness center, and a team practice followed by nutrition.
Indoors, the facilities will offer soccer, volleyball, basketball, football, lacrosse, futsal, baseball/softball, virtual golf, sports performance, a family entertainment center, esports, and pickleball.
Outdoor amenities include soccer, football, lacrosse, sand volleyball, a walking trail, and a playground.
The Gronkowski family’s most notable member is NFL veteran Rob Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion and a three-time NFL All-Pro, who played tight end for the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In total, there are five Gronkowski brothers: Rob, Gordie Jr., Dan, Chris, and Glenn. The only one not to play in the NFL, Gordie Jr., played professional baseball. The other four brothers played in the NFL.
“Our team is extremely excited about the partnership with SMITH arenas,” says Rob Gronkowski. “With our sports background, business experiences, and Gronk Fitness Product line, we will be able to help bring sports arenas to a new level.”
In addition, SMITH Arenas’ board includes Herman Moore, a former all-pro wide receiver for the Detroit Lions and today CEO of Team Business Solutions; Earl Cureton, a community ambassador and former player for the Detroit Pistons; Kurt David, a former professional basketball player and co-founder of Glory Days TV; among others.
For more information, visit https://smitharenas.com/.
