Sports at WEC Announces New Collaboration with Florida Premier FC
Florida Premier FC Establishes Marion County Programming Base at World Equestrian Center – Ocala
Ocala, FL – Sports at WEC is proud to announce a new collaboration with Florida Premier FC to grow youth soccer in Marion County. The collaboration will include the launch of a new club, WEC Premier FC, uniting World Equestrian Center’s world-class campus with Florida Premier’s proven development programs. Programs will include HappyFeet Soccer, Rec+, competitive teams, and future tournaments.
Together, Sports at WEC and Florida Premier FC will expand soccer development opportunities for athletes and families throughout Marion County, fostering a dynamic environment where players of all ages can train, compete, and thrive.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to expanding high-quality, family-focused athletic programming within the Sports at WEC portfolio,” says Wyatt Stephens, Director of Sports at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. “We are thrilled to welcome Florida Premier FC and look forward to building a lasting foundation for soccer excellence in our community.”
“World Equestrian Center has established itself as a world-class destination,” says Eric Sullivan of Sports Facilities Companies, a national leader in sports venue development and management. “Together with Florida Premier FC, Marion County now has a complete pathway—from learn-to-play through national-championship-caliber competition.”
The partnership arrives ahead of the upcoming spring soccer season and introduces a comprehensive slate of programs hosted across WEC’s premier athletic facilities. Florida Premier’s youth development structure will include initiatives through its HappyFeet brand for youth ages eighteen months through eight years old, Rec+ community recreational leagues, and competitive club teams for boys and girls competing under the newly established WEC Premier FC banner.
As the partnership grows, seasonal camps, clinics, and tournaments will also be hosted at World Equestrian Center’s sports fields, with the goal of providing year-round opportunities for skill-building and competition.
By establishing a Marion County hub at World Equestrian Center – Ocala, Florida Premier FC will enhance its ability to invest in player development, talent identification, coaching education, and parent engagement. The collaboration emphasizes the club’s mission to develop brave, creative leaders through a culture grounded in respect, humility, and integrity. Players and families can expect a clearly defined pathway that supports progression from recreational play to competitive club teams, collegiate opportunities, and beyond.
“Collaborating with World Equestrian Center marks an exciting new chapter for Florida Premier FC,” states Novi Maric, CEO of Florida Premier FC. “This partnership brings together two organizations dedicated to growth, quality, and delivering unmatched experiences for athletes and families.”
For additional information, please visit wecpremierfc.com or contact info@wecpremierfc.com.
About Florida Premier
Florida Premier Football Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the youth of our community the opportunity to participate in recreational and competitive level soccer.
Our goal is to instill in each of our players a love for the game of soccer while developing Brave, Creative Leaders. We also emphasize fostering characteristics of fair play, sportsmanship, persistence, integrity, respect, and humility.
We strive always to provide a safe and positive training environment while seeking to promote a spirit of friendship and respect on and off the field.
Learn more at floridapremierfc.com.
About Sports Facilities Companies
Based in Clearwater, FL, Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) is the nation’s leading partner for planning, developing, and managing sports, recreation, events, and entertainment facilities, helping clients and communities achieve their goals through expert facility solutions.
Learn more at sportsfacilities.com.
About World Equestrian Center
Named one of TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, World Equestrian Center features two premier equestrian and multidisciplinary venues in Ocala, Florida, and Wilmington, Ohio.
These exclusive facilities comprise state-of-the-art arenas, expansive stadiums, versatile outdoor space, sporting fields, and well-appointed exposition centers. An abundance of lodging options and luxury accommodations are conveniently located on-site, along with shopping and dining throughout each property.
Dedicated to offering great sport and good fun in a family-friendly environment, World Equestrian Center promises an unparalleled experience for exhibitors, spectators, vendors, sponsors, and retailers—built on three core values: Quality. Class. Distinction.
Learn more at wec.net.
Media Contact
Leah Tong
Leah.Tong@wec.net