PAC FAMILY FEATURE MIKE & CARLI

THREE GENERATIONS DISCOVERING “THE GOOD LIFE”

At Pelican Athletic Club, the spirit of “The Good Life” is truly brought to life through community, connection, and cherished traditions that span generations. Few members embody this better than longtime member Mike, his daughter Carli, and her two kids. Together, they’ve found their rhythm and a rich experience at PAC.

with his self-proclaimed “breakfast club.” This routine has become a significant part of his days.

While the club has grown over the years, Mike says the heart of it has stayed the same.

FROM RETIREMENT TO ROUTINE, MIKE EMBRACES PAC

Mike first joined PAC in 2012, shortly after retiring from 30 years of service with the state. “Retirement gave me the time, and PAC gave me the place to truly enjoy it,” he says. Since then, he’s become a morning staple — often found swapping stories and volleys on the pickleball court

He’s also had the joy of seeing his family grow within these walls. After convincing his daughter Carli to join in 2013, Mike watched her forge new friendships and create a space of her own. “She didn’t know how much she needed it until she found it,” he reflects.

CARLI’S TURN: CULTIVATING CONNECTION FOR HERSELF AND HER KIDS

Carli didn’t grow up at PAC, but you’d never know it now. What started as a nudge from her dad became a full-circle moment as she introduced her own kids to the club.

“Initially, it was for the childcare — let’s be real, every mom needs a break — but it became so much more. I wanted them to feel the joy, confidence, and connection I found here as an adult.”

Her kids have embraced it all — from swim team and tennis to the freedom of just being kids at PAC.

“The pool is their happy place,” she laughs. “They feel like it’s their club too.”

Carli’s also found her rhythm through group fitness, proudly declaring her love for one class in particular: “SPIN, SPIN, SPIN.”

Traditions And Togetherness

AT PAC

For the whole family, seasonal events have become cherished traditions. Santa visits, Easter egg hunts, and pool parties are must-attends — not just for the fun, but for the memories they create together.

Even in challenging times — from pandemic closures to hurricane recoveries — PAC remained a steady force. “When the doors reopened, it felt like a return to normalcy,” says Mike. “Like, ‘Okay…we’re back.’”

MORE THAN A CLUB: IT’S “THE GOOD LIFE”

When asked to sum up what PAC means to them, their answers resonate deeply.

Mike: “It’s where I’ve always felt welcome — and now my grandkids do too.”

Carli: “It brings me peace, and I love that I get to share that with my kids.”

Whether it’s early morning pickleball, poolside laughs, or the simple joy of showing up together, PAC isn’t just part of their schedule — it’s woven into the fabric of who they are, truly contributing to “The Good Life” they share.