Sporting Jax Soccer Academy Announces Strategic Partnership with Ocala Premier/Big Sun Soccer
Jacksonville, FL — [April 6th, 2026] — Sporting Jax Soccer Academy is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Ocala Premier/Big Sun Soccer, marking a significant step forward in the growth and development of youth soccer in North and Central Florida.
As part of this agreement, Ocala Premier/Big Sun Soccer will officially rebrand and operate as Sporting Big Sun Soccer Academy, aligning with Sporting Jax’s proven development model and pathway structure. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to elevating the player experience, enhancing coaching standards, and creating a clear, unified pathway for players at all levels of the game.
Through this collaboration, players and families in the Ocala region will gain access to Sporting Jax’s comprehensive training methodology, professional development environment, and structured pathway to higher levels of competition, including pre-professional and professional opportunities. The integration will also foster increased resources, coaching education, and operational support to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
PARTNERSHIP STATEMENTS:
"Since 1980, Big Sun Youth Soccer has been the place to play soccer in Ocala. I began my own journey there as an eight-year-old, stepping onto the field for a hot, muggy August practice at Jervey Gantt. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the beautiful game—and I never looked back.
I was fortunate to be among the first players to transition from Jervey Gant to what is now the Big Sun Soccer Complex. That move marked more than just a change in fields; it represented growth and opportunity. Advancing from recreational soccer to joining one of the first competitive teams out of Ocala was a true blessing, and it sparked a lifelong passion for the game.
Unfortunately, by the time I reached high school, there was no longer a team available for me in Ocala. Determined to keep playing, I began traveling across the state—first to Orlando, and eventually finishing my final season with a team out of Sarasota. My parents sacrificed countless hours driving me to training and games, supporting my dream every step of the way.
As an adult, I found a new way to give back to the game I love by becoming a coach in my early twenties. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of teaching soccer to hundreds of kids. During my time serving on the board at Big Sun, I’ve worked to make the program a welcoming and rewarding place for players of all skill levels. Yet each year, I continue to see a familiar pattern: many of our most talented players leave to join programs in other parts of the state. Families are making the same long drives mine once did—seeking opportunities that we should strive to provide right here at home.
That is why today I am excited to announce a partnership between Big Sun Youth Soccer and Sporting Jax. A strategic partnership designed to elevate the youth soccer experience across all levels of play. This collaboration creates a unified pathway for player development, supporting athletes from recreational beginnings through competitive travel and into elite platforms such as ECNL.
From grassroots recreational soccer to the highest levels of youth competition, this alliance ensures that players and families benefit from a clear, structured pathway tailored to individual growth and long-term success in the game.
Together, Big Sun Youth Soccer and Sporting Jax will foster a culture of excellence, community, and opportunity—working collaboratively to develop not only skilled players, but confident and capable young individuals.
I am excited for the future of Sporting Big Sun Ocala.
Respectfully,"
Travis Barrineau, Ocala Premier/Big Sun Executive Board President
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“We are incredibly excited to welcome Ocala Big Sun into the Sporting JAX Soccer Academy family.This is a special moment—not just for our clubs, but for our players, families, and the entire community. Together, we are building something bigger than soccer.
We are strengthening a shared commitment to community, elevating our culture, and delivering a best-in-class coaching curriculum centered on the development of every child. Ocala Big Sun has built a strong foundation, and we are honored to build alongside you—creating new opportunities, raising standards, and expanding the pathway for every player to grow, compete, and thrive.
This is a great moment for our children and our community, and we could not be more excited for what lies ahead. Together, we move forward—stronger, united, and focused on the future.”
- Kyle Miller, Sporting Jax President of Youth Sports
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“As President of the Competitive Board, I’m proud to share an exciting step forward for our club. Big Sun is joining forces with Sporting Jax to become Sporting Big Sun of Ocala. For more than 45 years, Big Sun has helped develop players and foster a true love for the game.
This partnership allows us to build on that strong foundation by bringing in additional resources and opportunities for our athletes. Just as importantly, our sporting missions are aligned, making this partnership a natural and perfect fit. Our goal remains the same: to provide a clear pathway for players who want to compete at a higher level, while continuing to support everyone who enjoys the game.
I’m confident this move will strengthen our program and create new opportunities for our players. We can accomplish bigger and better things together.
The future is bright, and I’m excited for what we will achieve.
— Karlie Giles, President, Ocala Premier
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"We’re excited to welcome Ocala Premier Soccer Club into the Sporting JAX Soccer Academy ecosystem. This partnership strengthens our commitment to player development by expanding opportunities and creating a clear, connected pathway for athletes at every stage.
Together, we’re providing access to high-quality coaching, competitive environments, and a unified model that supports long-term growth and success on and off the field."
--Levo Guler, Sporting Jax Academy Director
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“As Director of Coaching I’m excited for what this means for our players, club and community. We now have a defined pathway for every player from recreational to the professional level. The best coaches are always learning and this opportunity will allow us to learn from some of the best in the business.
This partnership will help turbocharge our efforts from the last few years and the players will benefit immensely…”
--Jay Fratello, Director of Coaching, Ocala Premier
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"This collaboration represents a powerful step forward in our shared commitment to player development, community impact, and creating a clear pathway for athletes at every level of the game.
By bringing together like-minded organizations with strong local roots and a passion for the sport, we are expanding access to high-quality coaching, resources, and competitive opportunities. This is more than a partnership—it is a unified vision to elevate the standard of youth soccer while providing a structured and inclusive environment where every player can grow and succeed.
We believe this integration strengthens not only our clubs, but the broader soccer landscape across our region. We are proud to move forward together and look forward to the lasting impact this opportunity will create for our players, families, and communities."
--Chris Brunner, Sporting Jax Soccer Academy Chief Operating Officer
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The newly formed Sporting Big Sun Soccer Academy will begin implementation immediately, with programming enhancements, branding updates, and structural alignment rolling out ahead of the upcoming competitive season.
Additional details, including leadership announcements and program offerings, will be shared in the coming weeks.
About Sporting Jax Soccer Academy
Sporting Jax Soccer Academy is a premier youth soccer organization dedicated to player development through a holistic, professional pathway. With a focus on long-term development, competitive excellence, and character building, Sporting Jax provides opportunities for players of all levels to reach their full potential.
About Sporting Big Sun Soccer Academy
Formerly Ocala Premier/Big Sun Soccer, Sporting Big Sun Soccer Academy will serve as the official Sporting Jax partner in the Ocala region, delivering high-quality programming and a direct connection to the broader Sporting Jax development model.
