At DME Academy Sarasota, we believe that adversity often sparks opportunity—and we’re turning one of our biggest challenges into one of our greatest strengths.

Due to a growing county-wide shortage of field space, the ongoing construction at 17th Street, and the ever-present field control by other clubs, we’ve had to re-evaluate how we structure training. Rather than letting these obstacles slow us down, we’re using them as a catalyst for something greater: Friday Night Lights – DME Style, in Sarasota.

Introducing Friday Night Strikes – Club-Wide Training at Tatum Ridge

Starting this Fall season, all DME Sarasota teams will come together on Friday evenings at Tatum Ridge for an energizing, club-wide training experience. This is more than just a training solution—it’s a culture-builder, a community event, and a chance to strengthen our academy on and off the field.

WHY THIS IS GOOD: 

• ✅ Unified Development: With all age groups training in the same environment, our coaching staff can align teaching principles, foster mentorship across teams, and ensure that every player feels connected to something bigger.

• ✅ Family Vibes: Friday nights will be more than just training. We’re bringing in food, games, fundraising booths, and family-friendly activities to create a vibrant community feel. Parents, siblings, and supporters—there’s a place for everyone.

• ✅ Stronger Culture: These nights will help us build the DME identity from the youngest age group to the oldest. Players will feel the pride of wearing the badge together, pushing each other, and celebrating growth as one united academy.

• ✅ Making the Best of Limited Resources: While we may be facing logistical hurdles, our solution puts us ahead of the curve. Rather than splintering or settling, we’re choosing to evolve in a way that benefits every player and family in our club.

This initiative is about more than field space—it’s about culture, connection, and consistency. We’re excited to make Friday nights something our athletes look forward to and our families are proud to be part of. To date, DME has been spread thin, all over Manatee and Sarasota county and look how we have thrived. Imagine the possibilities when we all congregate at a central location!

Welcome to the next chapter of DME Sarasota: One Club. Four Fields. One Friday Night at a Time.