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Port Orange Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Couple Arrested After Pickleball Court Fight
Anthony and Julianne Sapienza accused of assaulting opponents and bystanders at Spruce Creek Country Club
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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A Florida couple, Anthony and Julianne Sapienza, have been arrested after they allegedly started a fight with 20 other people while playing pickleball at the Spruce Creek Country Club in Port Orange, Florida. The altercation reportedly turned physical, with Anthony accused of punching one victim, striking another with a pickleball paddle, and pushing a third person to the ground. Both Anthony and Julianne have been charged with battery-related offenses and have since been released on bond.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the potential for recreational sports to escalate into violent confrontations, raising concerns about public safety and the need for better conflict resolution protocols at community sports facilities. It also underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to and diffusing volatile situations involving large groups.
The details
According to the police affidavit, the fight began when the Sapienzas' game against another team became "heated" and Anthony accused the opposing players of stepping into the "kitchen" area of the pickleball court. The verbal exchange then allegedly turned physical, with Anthony punching one victim, striking another with a pickleball paddle, and pushing a third person to the ground. The third victim, a 70-year-old man, said he wanted to press charges against the couple.
- The incident occurred on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
- Police were dispatched to the country club around 11 a.m. on February 8 in response to the reported fight.
The players
Anthony Sapienza
A 63-year-old Florida resident who was charged with aggravated battery causing bodily harm and two counts of battery on a person 65 or older.
Julianne Sapienza
A 51-year-old Florida resident who was charged with battery on a person 65 or older.
Victim 1
A member of the opposing pickleball team who was allegedly punched by Anthony Sapienza and sustained a laceration above his left eye.
Victim 2
The wife of Victim 1 who was allegedly pushed to the ground by Anthony Sapienza when she tried to help her husband.
Victim 3
A 70-year-old bystander who claimed he tried to break up the fight and was allegedly punched in the face by Anthony Sapienza, causing his nose to bleed profusely.
What’s next
The Sapienzas are expected to attend a hearing regarding the case on March 3, 2026.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the need for better conflict resolution protocols and security measures at community sports facilities to prevent recreational activities from escalating into violent confrontations that endanger public safety.
