about
The story of The Sports Garden is one of transformation. For over 20 years, the North and South sides of the street hosted different names, owners, and fierce competition until they eventually united under one roof. Over time, this location became a beloved meeting place, where many people met their spouses, and nearly every competitive volleyball player in the DFW area has played here at some point.
HEART BEHIND THE GAME
The name "Sports Garden" was inspired by a bar in northern Minnesota on Lake Superior called 'Grandma's Sports Garden'. Back in the late 80s and early 90s, this bar featured an indoor volleyball court surrounded by multi-level seating where patrons could eat, drink, and watch volleyball players in action. The town produced some of the best players in Minnesota, partly because they had a place to play that made them local legends. The atmosphere was perfect for making volleyball both fun to play and fun to watch. After a game, you could stay to eat, drink, and dance.
The spirit behind The Sports Garden in DFW mirrors this original concept: it's not just about playing volleyball; it's about enjoying the game, watching it, and having a great time. Our facility is one of the largest sand volleyball bar and grills in the U.S., with 24 sand courts, and we also have an indoor studio that hosts a variety of private and corporate events.
We like to think of ourselves as a marketing trinity: a place to eat and drink, play and watch, and host and meet. Simply put, we're a full-service restaurant and bar, a sports facility for playing and watching, and an event venue all in one.
MEET THE OWNERS
Rob West (AKA The Mayor) has been running sand and indoor volleyball leagues through his company Champagne Volleyball for over 20 years. Few volleyball players in Dallas haven't worn one of his shirts or participated in one of his leagues or tournaments. Rob plays left-handed, and despite the wear and tear on his knees, he's still a force on the court.
Marty Kennard (AKA The Moose or Maestro) spent over 20 years in corporate America, most notably with Target, where he worked in 8 states for 17 years. After leaving corporate life behind, Marty ventured into real estate and rental homes. His volleyball style is all-out—evidenced by 7 broken fingers, mostly from blocking.
Together, Rob and Marty teamed up in 2016 when Rob had a bold idea: instead of just playing volleyball at other people's venues, why not own a place? That idea led them to purchase The Sports Garden, and they've been building and growing the business ever since.
