Florida Couple Charged After Violent Pickleball Brawl

Anthony and Julianne Sapienza face felony battery charges following altercation at Spruce Creek Country Club.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Florida couple, Anthony Sapienza, 63, and Julianne Sapienza, 51, were arrested and charged with felony battery after a heated pickleball match at the Spruce Creek Country Club in Port Orange, Florida resulted in multiple injuries, including to a 70-year-old man. The incident involved up to 20 people and included the use of pickleball paddles as weapons.

Why it matters

The violent pickleball brawl highlights the growing popularity of the sport, which has seen a surge in participation in recent years, as well as the potential for conflicts to escalate on the court. It also raises questions about safety and security measures at private clubs and community recreation facilities.

The details

According to the arrest affidavit, the match became heated after Anthony Sapienza accused his opponent of crossing into the "kitchen" - a restricted area of the pickleball court. The verbal altercation then turned physical, with Anthony Sapienza punching one victim and striking him in the face with a pickleball paddle, causing a laceration that may result in permanent scarring. When a 70-year-old individual tried to break up the fight, Anthony Sapienza punched him, and Julianne Sapienza also began attacking the 70-year-old while he was on the ground.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, February 13, 2026 at 11 a.m.
  • A hearing in the case is scheduled for March 3, 2026.

The players

Anthony Sapienza

A 63-year-old Florida resident who was arrested and charged with felony battery following the pickleball brawl.

Julianne Sapienza

A 51-year-old Florida resident who was arrested and charged with felony battery following the pickleball brawl.

Spruce Creek Country Club

The private country club in Port Orange, Florida where the violent pickleball incident took place.

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What’s next

A hearing in the case against Anthony and Julianne Sapienza is scheduled for March 3, 2026, where a judge will determine if they will be allowed out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for better safety protocols and conflict resolution measures at recreational facilities, as the growing popularity of sports like pickleball can lead to heated disputes that quickly escalate to violence if not properly managed.