Violent Pickleball Brawl Erupts at Florida Country Club

Couple charged with felonies after altercation injures multiple people

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A pickleball match at Spruce Creek Country Club in Port Orange, Florida, turned violent on February 8th, leading to multiple injuries and felony charges against a couple involved in the altercation. The dispute allegedly began over a rules disagreement on the court and escalated into a physical fight that drew the attention of law enforcement.

Why it matters

This incident highlights growing concerns over sportsmanship and conflict resolution at community recreational events. The combination of verbal abuse and physical violence at a country club pickleball match raises questions about security measures and protocols for managing disputes at similar venues.

The details

According to an arrest affidavit, tensions rose when Anthony Sapienza, 63, accused the opposing players of stepping into the restricted 'kitchen' area near the net. Verbal insults were exchanged, and the situation escalated after the game when Anthony allegedly struck the opposing husband, causing a laceration above his eye. Julianne Sapienza, 51, is accused of pushing the victim's wife to the ground. A 70-year-old bystander who tried to intervene was also punched in the face by Anthony.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
  • A hearing for the case is set for March 3, 2026.

The players

Anthony Sapienza

A 63-year-old man charged with two counts of felony battery on a senior citizen and aggravated battery causing bodily harm.

Julianne Sapienza

Anthony's 51-year-old wife, charged with a felony battery charge involving a person 65 years or older.

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What they’re saying

“Your wife is a c—”

— Anthony Sapienza (Volusia Sheriff's Office)

“Anthony 'intentionally' caused bodily harm and used the pickleball paddle as a deadly weapon during the confrontation.”

— Danielle Fields, Assistant State Attorney (Legal documents)

What’s next

The judge will decide on March 3 whether to allow Anthony and Julianne Sapienza out on bail.

The takeaway

This violent incident at a recreational event underscores the need for better conflict management protocols and security measures at community sports venues to prevent such escalations and protect public safety.