Manatee PAL Unveils Plans for New Youth Sports and Education Complex
The Police Athletic League (PAL) of Manatee County is launching a $14.5 million funding initiative to construct a new, multi-use facility designed to enhance youth engagement through sports, education, and life skills development.
Operating under the motto "Putting Kids First" since its founding in 1997, Manatee PAL has been a cornerstone for fostering relationships between law enforcement and local youth through structured athletic and academic programming. Its mission extends beyond the playing field to shape the next generation of community leaders and entrepreneurs.
The planned facility, to be built along 13th Avenue West, will feature three full-size basketball courts, four volleyball courts, multipurpose outdoor fields for flag football, soccer, lacrosse, and baseball, as well as concessions, classrooms, tutoring spaces, life skills training rooms, and offices. A playground and expanded parking are also included in the design. The project is being developed in partnership with NDC Construction and PBK Sports.
Last year, Manatee PAL served over 500 youth and adults through its sports and education programs, logging more than 80,000 athlete hours and 31,000 volunteer hours. The organization provides various sports opportunities for children aged five through 16 years old. As demand increases, PAL is expanding teams for girls and boys.
By combining athletics with academic and personal development resources, Manatee PAL continues its commitment to building a safer, healthier community—one child at a time.
