Breaking News: 800+ Acre Sports Complex Coming To Trinity?

28 Nov

Storyland Studios Unveils Controversial Plans to Create America’s Largest Sports Entertainment Destination in Florida

Transforming Trinity, Florida into the Nation’s Premier Sports and Lifestyle Community

Storyland Studios has announced an ambitious project to transform nearly 800 acres in Pasco County, Florida, into the largest sports entertainment destination in the United States. Unveiled at the IAAPA 2024 Expo in Orlando, this groundbreaking development—dubbed “Trinity”—is set to redefine the North Tampa community as Florida’s “Sports Coast.”

Blending sports, arts, and health-focused amenities, the project promises to deliver a sustainable lifestyle community designed to attract athletes, teams, families, and fans nationwide.

A Vision for the Future

The Trinity project will feature a mix of indoor and outdoor sports facilities, including state-of-the-art stadiums, arenas, and recreational spaces, complemented by hotels, retail centers, restaurants, medical facilities, and residential areas. At six-and-a-half times the size of Disney Springs in Orlando, the project is poised to be a transformative hub for sports, entertainment, and community engagement.

“A story is waiting to be shared here by athletes, coaches, teams, and the families who will gather on these acres from across the country,” said Matt Ferguson, Chief Innovation Officer at Storyland Studios. “With world-class facilities, this destination will inspire dreams and create lifelong memories for all who come to compete, train, or play here.”

Comprehensive Development for a Thriving Community

The Trinity Development Initiative, Inc. (TDI) is partnering with Storyland Studios to design a community that integrates sports entertainment, arts, and health-conscious living. This expansive project will include a professional soccer stadium, a 7,500-seat baseball stadium, a multi-field training complex, an ice arena with five regulation rinks, and a basketball arena. Additionally, an outdoor adventure park and a performing arts center will draw visitors year-round for tournaments, performances, and recreational activities.

“This community has a deep love for sports and the arts, but currently lacks nearby facilities to support those passions,” said Johnny Scott, CEO of TDI and Lead Pastor of Generations Christian Church . “Our goal is to provide world-class amenities, from shops and restaurants to training facilities and performance venues, creating a vibrant, multi-use destination where people can live, work, and play.”

A Commitment to Sustainability

The Trinity project emphasizes environmental responsibility and sustainable development. The initiative aims to be carbon-neutral, with renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and thoughtful landscaping to preserve the natural beauty of Pasco County. “This project is a gift to our community, and we are committed to protecting and enhancing the region’s resources while welcoming visitors from around the world,” Scott added.

Driving Economic Growth and Community Engagement

The project is designed to strengthen Pasco County’s infrastructure while minimizing demands on existing resources. By funding new roads, water systems, and power solutions, Trinity will serve as an integrated partner in the region’s growth, offering long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.

“This development is more than just a destination—it’s an opportunity to inspire, connect, and uplift a community,” said Mel McGowan, Chief Creative Officer at Storyland Studios. “Through intentional design and a focus on sports, arts, and wellness, Trinity will become a place where lives are transformed and unforgettable experiences are created.”

Mixed Reactions from Trinity Residents Over Proposed Sports Complex

The announcement of the massive Trinity Sports Complex, touted as America’s largest sports entertainment destination, has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among residents of Trinity, Florida. While some community members are excited about the potential economic benefits and enhanced recreational opportunities, a significant portion has voiced strong concerns over the project’s impact on local infrastructure, wildlife, and overall quality of life.

Residents critical of the development cite the area’s existing struggles with traffic congestion and limited infrastructure as key issues. “Our roads are already overwhelmed, and this project will only make it worse,” said local resident Maria Stevens. “Without a serious investment in roadways, public transit, and utilities, this development will disrupt our daily lives.”

Environmental concerns also dominate the conversation, with many worried about the potential destruction of wildlife habitats across the nearly 800-acre site. “This area is home to diverse wildlife that makes Trinity special,” said environmental advocate Paul Hanson. “Paving over natural spaces for a complex of this size will have irreversible consequences for the ecosystem.”

The scale of the project—six-and-a-half times the size of Disney Springs—has also raised questions about how the community will handle the influx of visitors, particularly during tournaments and events. “The charm of Trinity is its quiet, suburban feel,” said local business owner Emily Carter. “Turning it into a tourist hub could change the character of our town forever.”

Proponents of the complex argue that it will bring jobs, boost local businesses, and position Trinity as a premier destination in Florida’s burgeoning “Sports Coast” region. However, critics insist that these benefits cannot come at the expense of long-term sustainability and community well-being.

Developers at the Trinity Development Initiative (TDI) have promised to address these concerns by funding infrastructure improvements and incorporating environmentally conscious practices into the design. Still, for many residents, these assurances feel insufficient. “We’ve heard promises like this before,” said resident David Ortega. “What guarantees do we have that they’ll follow through?”

As plans for the complex progress, Trinity’s community remains divided. Many hope for further engagement with developers to ensure that the voices of concerned residents are heard and that the project’s impact is carefully managed.

Facebook Community Group Trinity Chat Feedback can be found here.

About Storyland Studios

Storyland Studios is an innovative experience design firm with expertise in creating immersive environments that inspire and connect. With team members who previously worked for Disney, Universal, Pixar, and LEGOLAND®, Storyland Studios delivers world-class storytelling and design. Learn more at storylandstudios.com.

About IAAPA

IAAPA is the global trade association for the attractions industry, representing professionals from theme parks, water parks, zoos, aquariums, and more. Founded in 1918, IAAPA connects industry leaders and promotes excellence in safety and innovation. Visit IAAPA.org for more information.

About Trinity Development Initiative

Trinity Development Initiative, Inc. is spearheading the nation’s largest sports and lifestyle community in Trinity, Florida, just north of Tampa. Dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and community impact, TDI is redefining the region’s identity as Florida’s “Sports Coast.” Lead Pastor Johnny Scott of neighboring property owner Generations Christian Church is the CEO of the Trinity Development Initiative. 

Information for this story was sourced from the website of Storyland Studios.

Trinity Baseball – Spring Season

11 Nov

Program Information

2022 Spring Recreational Baseball & Softball Registration

Dates / Times
We are located at Starkey Ranch District Park in Odessa, FL. 

Registration closes on 02/28/2022 at 12:00 AM
Season Dates: 02/18/2022 to 05/20/2022

Program
Youth Sports Florida’s recreational baseball program consists of four age-based levels depending on the player’s age as of August 31st, 2022. Program emphasis is on fundamentals of the game as players are shown the basics of hitting, throwing, catching and base running within a framework of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Teams
All coaches are volunteers and coaches set up the practice location, day and time.  Rosters, schedules, uniforms and equipment are distributed to coaches before your first game. Players will be contacted by the coach of their team. Practices will begin in February. Please note coaches will be required to complete a background check.

Special Request Policy
Coach and teammate requests will be considered carefully, but there is no guarantee they will be honored. For requests to be considered, the registration must be turned in by the registration deadline.

What about the girls!?!
A softball program is for girls only. Our baseball program is co-ed at all age groups and girls are also welcome!

More information is available on the Trinity Little League website – https://www.youthsportsfl.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739790

Divisions

T-Ball for ages 4-6

Ballplayers ages 4-6 learn hitting and fielding fundamentals in a supportive team environment. Young athletes hit the ball from a batting tee which is height-adjusted for a level swing, batting in order through the line-up for the entire game. The primary goal is to begin to instruct young players in the fundamentals of baseball in a supportive team environment.

Rookie (machine/coach-pitch) for ages 7-8

Designed primarily for ballplayers ages 7-8, this division makes use of a pitching machine and/or coach-pitch to allow for more hittable balls at the plate and more action in the field. Fear of actually being hit by a pitched ball is diminished. It makes the game safer and improves the playing confidence and ability of all participants.

Minor for ages 9-10

Recommended for ballplayers ages 9-10. Players build and refine their fundamental skills while beginning to understand game strategy and teamwork.

Major for ages 11-12

Features a 46′ pitching distance and 60′ base paths. Special base running rules are also in effect.

Events: Starkey Ranch Fall Fair

12 Oct

Event: Starkey Ranch Fall Fair
Date: November 13, 2021
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: 11880 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa, Florida 33556

Come out to the Starkey Ranch District Park on Saturday, November 13 for some fall fun! There will be shopping, local vendors, food trucks, inflatables, and Touch-a-Truck. Open to the public, this is a great way to celebrate fall and support local businesses! The Fair will held at the Starkey Ranch District Park, 10am-2pm, and is hosted by Starkey CARES.

Facebook Event Page (Click Here!)

Traffic Update: McMullen Booth Lane Closures Will Impact Traffic for 2-3 Weeks

3 Oct

CLEARWATER, Fla. — Starting Monday, Oct. 4, two lanes of southbound traffic along McMullen Booth Road just north of State Road 580 in Clearwater will close to traffic. The city of Clearwater’s contractor will begin the process of repairing the broken sewer pipe along the roadway, and the dual lane closure is anticipated to be in place for two to three weeks.

On Sunday, a 24-inch sewer main pipe broke 20 feet below the surface of the road, causing a hole to open up, which resulted in the closure of a single lane.

Beginning Monday at 9 a.m., two lanes will be closed. Drivers are encouraged to find alternate routes, if possible.

The city will provide an update later in the week once crews excavate and know more about the needed repairs.

Events: Hope UMC Pumpkinpalooza

2 Oct
Pumpkinpalooza is coming to Trinity!
 
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2021 AT 11 AM
 
Pumpkin Patch 9 am – 8 pm
*Many different pumpkins to pick from and fall photo opportunities
Food Truck Rally 11 am – 7 pm
*Food Trucks include: Got Lobstah?, Sweetie’s BBQ, Philly Buster, Chicken Salad Chick, Cold Stone Creamery snd Sliderz – N – More
 
Food Drive 12 pm – 3 pm
*We will be collecting non-perishable food items for our local food pantry.
 
Musical Entertainment 12 pm – 3 pm
*Billy Ray Virus
Family Costume party 3 pm – 6 pm
*Candy, Games, Prizes, Music, and More!
 
For more information – Click Here!

News: Trinity and Starkey Ranch Baseball League Coming!

15 Jul

We are excited to hear that Trinity and Starkey Ranch will be getting their own baseball league! This is a long time coming and the season starts this coming Fall. Check out all of the great information below and if you want to sign up, please click the link at the bottom of the article!

2021 Trinity and Starkey Ranch Fall Recreational Baseball Registration

Dates / Times
We will be located at Starkey Ranch District Park in Odessa, FL from Sept 11, 2021 – Oct 30, 2021. Because we only have 1 field for fall season (more fields are being built ahead of Spring), our Fall season will be focused on skill-building and offer scrimmages in the latter half of the season.

Practice & Scrimmages – Saturdays

  • T-Ball + Rookie:  9am – 1pm
  • Minor + Major:  1pm – 5pm

Additional optional practice – Sundays

  • All levels:  9am – 1pm

Program
Youth Sports Florida’s recreational baseball program consists of four age-based levels depending on the player’s age as of May 1 of the current year. Program emphasis is on fundamentals of the game as players are shown the basics of hitting, throwing, catching and base running within a framework of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Teams
All coaches are volunteers and coaches set up the practice location, day and time.  Rosters, schedules, uniforms and equipment are distributed to coaches before your first game. Players will be contacted by the coach of their team. Practices will begin in September. Please note coaches will be required to complete a background check.

Special Request Policy
Coach and teammate requests will be considered carefully, but there is no guarantee they will be honored. For requests to be considered, the registration must be turned in by the registration deadline.

What about the girls!?!
A softball program will be coming soon. In the meantime, our baseball program is co-ed at all age groups and girls are welcome!

Divisions

T-Ball for ages 4-6

Ballplayers ages 4-6 learn hitting and fielding fundamentals in a supportive team environment. Young athletes hit the ball from a batting tee which is height-adjusted for a level swing, batting in order through the line-up for the entire game. The primary goal is to begin to instruct young players in the fundamentals of baseball in a supportive team environment.

Rookie (machine/coach-pitch) for ages 7-8

Designed primarily for ballplayers ages 7-8, this division makes use of a pitching machine and/or coach-pitch to allow for more hittable balls at the plate and more action in the field. Fear of actually being hit by a pitched ball is diminished. It makes the game safer and improves the playing confidence and ability of all participants.

Minor for ages 9-10

Recommended for ballplayers ages 9-10. Players build and refine their fundamental skills while beginning to understand game strategy and teamwork.

Major for ages 11-12

Features a 46′ pitching distance and 60′ base paths. Special base running rules are also in effect.

Events: Generations Christian Church Egg Hunt

9 Mar
Generations Christian Church in Trinity will be holding THE GREAT EGG HUNT at their church campus located at 1540 Little Road, in Trinity. Here is the information from their Facebook page.

Petting zoo, inflatables, pony rides, and face painting! You’re invited!

March 27 10AM-12PM
1540 Little Rd, Trinity, FL 34655

Egg hunt times:
10:15 Elementary
10:45 Preschool
11:15 Elementary
11:45 Preschool

Events in Trinity: Taste of Trinity 10 – May 18th

15 May

The 10th Annual Taste of Trinity, the premier Food, Business Expo and Craft Show will be taking place on Saturday, May 18, 2019 from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm at Seven Springs Middle School located at 2441 Little Road in Trinity.

The Seven Springs Middle School Parent Teacher Organization is thrilled to host the biggest Food, Business, Craft expo in the Trinity, Florida area! Taste of Trinity is our largest fundraiser and proceeds directly benefit our school to enhance our learning environment.

They are so excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary, and it will be packed with fabulous restaurants, bakeries, businesses, craft booths, as well as, performances by our students and community members, games and raffles. This is a not to be missed expo event!

The West Pasco Business Association (WPBA) is excited to partner with Seven Springs Middle School PTO for this great community event.