Severna Park Racquetball And Fitness Club Going Strong After 30 Years

By Dylan Roche

Fitness trends may have changed over the years, but Severna Park Racquetball and Fitness Club (SPRFC) has maintained a consistent place in the community since opening its doors in 1981. At that time, racquetball was all the rage and the center was designed to be like the trendy racquetball clubs dominating the west coast. “There was nothing else like it in this area,” explained Bob Dickinson, general manager of SPRFC.

Originally constructed with 12 racquetball courts, SPRFC evolved as the industry did, transforming into a full-service fitness center. The club still maintains four racquetball courts, but has added weight rooms, a circuit-training facility and other areas. In 1994, an indoor pool was added.

Dickinson came to the club in May of 1997 as a sales manager and assistant general manager. He had gained experience in the fitness industry working part time during college. Although his degree is in fisheries biology, Dickinson found he enjoyed his work with fitness centers so much that he changed fields. In August 1998, he took over SPRFC as general manager.

SPRFC offers a community atmosphere to its members. With lots of kids’ programs and group exercise classes, as well as friendly staff who know the members by name, the fitness center strives to be a place that feels like home. “We try to put a personal touch on it,” Dickinson said. “Bigger clubs and chain clubs don’t really connect with their members the way we do. It’s what makes us successful.”

In keeping with its neighborly spirit, SPRFC makes donations to good causes in the Severna Park area. “We’re constantly giving membership donations for silent auctions and raffles,” said Dickinson, who noted last year the club gave more than $35,000 worth of memberships to organizations trying to raise money.

The club has also sponsored races, such as the Severna Park Elementary School Technology Trot, and has held fundraisers for the American Red Cross and Cystic Fybrosis.

The club also develops and adapts to meet the needs of its members, offering people the equipment and resources they want. Dickinson recalled how a few years ago, members wanted to start a youth swim team and he helped get the project moving. He also tries to stay abreast of fitness trends, despite the challenges. “It’s an evolving field; trends are hot for a year and then they’re over,” he said. “Sometimes things work, and sometimes they don’t.”

Dickinson encourages people to stop by SPRFC in person, whether they are considering a membership or just seeking a donation for a community cause. The club is located at 8514 Veteran’s Highway in Millersville and can be reached by calling 410-987-0980. The community can also visit the club online at www.sprfc.com.