DME Academy Sarasota has always been about passion, community, and doing things our way. This year’s 25/26 season kickoff party, hosted in partnership with New College of Florida, proved just that. Set against the stunning backdrop of the school’s bay front grounds, the event became a true celebration of resilience and spirit—even in the face of an August Florida monsoon. It is rainy season afterall.

With torrential rain pouring down for most of the day, you might expect spirits to be dampened. Instead, the opposite happened. Families, players, and supporters came together to enjoy food, drinks, fundraising activities, and even a spirited round of 3v3 soccer on the sand. The laughter and energy around the bay front made it clear: DME knows how to have fun, no matter the weather.

Special Shoutout to our event sponsor Professional Plumbing.  They support the Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice and surrounding areas with great service and integrity! We highly recommend. 

Jared Antista, Owner/GM of DME Academy Sarasota, summed it up best:
“Only at DME could we take a monsoon and turn it into a memory. The energy from our families and players was incredible—it shows the kind of culture we’re building. We’re excited for what’s ahead this season on and off the field but seeing some of those smiles on the sand courts for our 3v3 made it all worth it.”

Paula Antista, Director of FutbolForAll, echoed that sentiment:
“It was beautiful to see everyone together—players, parents, and coaches—celebrating in the rain and proving that the DME family is strong & united. This is what the game is all about. We were able to raise close to 5k for the FutbolForAll families that use that money to help afford youth sports/soccer programs. 

The 25/26 Kickoff Party wasn’t just an event—it was a statement. DME Academy is here to lead, to inspire, and to build a culture where fun and excellence go hand in hand and we wont slow down, rain or no rain.