DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – At one of the most storied ballparks in America, a new chapter is being written – one that honors the past and invests in the future.
On Thursday, community members, elected officials, and baseball fans gathered at the Jackie Robinson Ballpark to celebrate the construction of the AdventHealth Training Center.
Under development on the northeast corner of Orange Avenue and Jackie Robinson Parkway, the AdventHealth Training Center will be a two-story, 30,000 square foot facility just beyond the outfield.
Thoughtfully designed to complement the historic essence of the Jackie Robinson Ballpark, the AdventHealth Training Center will be equipped to provide comprehensive sports medicine services to players, where they can train their bodies, protect their health, and recover from setbacks. From indoor batting cages and modern fitness spaces to a full dining facility and dedicated clubhouse, this facility is designed to support every aspect of player performance and wellness.
The ballpark, first built over a century ago, is more than just a stadium; it’s a living landmark.
Just days earlier, fans marked the anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier at this very ballpark.
“As the oldest stadium in Minor League Baseball, it’s easy to look at the Jackie Robinson Ballpark and feel inspired by the past. But today is about the future – and it’s one that’s being propelled with purpose,” said David Weis, regional president and CEO for AdventHealth’s operations in East Volusia, Flagler, and St. Johns counties.
The AdventHealth Training Center is part of a $30 million renovation effort at the stadium, now entering its tenth season as home to the Daytona Tortugas, the Cincinnati Reds’ Minor League affiliate. Upgrades already in place include a new roof, bright LED lighting, and freshly installed grandstand seats.
“This is a milestone year for the Daytona Tortugas,” said Tortugas President and General Manager Jim Jaworski. “Not just because of what’s happening on the field, but because of what we’re building off it. These renovations will ensure Jackie Robinson Ballpark isn’t just historic, but that it is also ready for the next generation.”
These renovations are also a key part of the broader downtown revitalization.
“Every great season starts with spring training. Every transformation starts with a vision. The AdventHealth Training Center is ours. It’s where medicine, skill, and heart will come together to keep athletes at the top of their game,” Weis said, taking a moment to acknowledge the work of local government officials to preserve the history and heritage of the area.
“They’ve played a pivotal role. Their commitment is evident in the revitalization efforts within our historic downtown along the Halifax River,” Weis said. “The AdventHealth Training Center will add to this effort, and we’ve assembled a best-in-class medical team to care for our athletes, ensuring they experience a seamless and coordinated approach for all their medical needs.”
The announcement came on the heels of the one-year anniversary of AdventHealth becoming the team’s official and exclusive health care provider.
Dr. Michael Campbell, an AdventHealth orthopedic surgeon and one of the physicians dedicated to the Daytona Tortugas, offered a glimpse into what the new space means for the athletes.
“In the past year, we’ve treated everything from sprains to setbacks. We’ve cheered in the dugout and been there in the clutch when it mattered most,” Campbell said. “Seeing this center come to life is incredibly personal to us. It’s a symbol of the care we’ve already provided and the commitment we’re making for years to come.”
The AdventHealth Training Center is expected to open by early 2026.
“In baseball, you need a great bullpen. In life, you need great partners. AdventHealth has been that for us: skilled, compassionate, and focused on helping our players and our community thrive,” said Jaworski.
In January 2024, AdventHealth was named the official and exclusive health care provider for the Daytona Tortugas, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds, in a seven-year partnership. The agreement includes two AdventHealth Medical Group physicians serving as dedicated team doctors.
Long known for bringing world-class medical care to professional athletes, AdventHealth also serves as the official health care provider for the Daytona International Speedway, Legacy Motor Club, Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and more.
