A new chapter for local athletes and fitness enthusiasts begins July 1 as Valhalla Sports Training officially opens its doors, bringing a 24-hour fitness facility and athletic training center to the Hartford community.
Owned by Jeffrey and Jessicah Hester, along with their daughters, Karsyn and Blakely, Valhalla Sports Training is the realization of a dream rooted in family, athletics and a commitment to helping others succeed.
For Jessicah Hester, the facility represents far more than a business venture. A former competitive softball player who now coaches at the collegiate level, she has spent much of her life competing, coaching and mentoring athletes. Through those experiences, she developed a passion for helping young people reach their full potential—both in sports and in life.
“Extra work is what separates good athletes from great ones,” Hester said. “We wanted to create a place where athletes could get those extra reps, build confidence, and learn the discipline and work ethic that it takes to compete at the next level.”
Beginning July 1, members will have 24/7 access to the facility’s newly completed weight room. To celebrate the grand opening, Valhalla Sports Training is offering special Founding Member rates throughout the month of July.
Memberships are available for $25 per month for individuals, $40 per month for couples, and family memberships include the couple’s rate plus $10 per month for each child age 17 and under. Seniors 65 and older can join for $15 per month.
Those promotional rates are available only during July, allowing founding members to lock in discounted pricing.
To add to the celebration, every new member who signs up during the month of July will be entered into a drawing to win a YETI cooler, donated by Andrew Winn of 2Winns Laser & Crafts. The winner will be announced Aug. 1.
While the weight room marks the first phase of the project, the Hester family has much larger plans for the facility.
Valhalla Sports Training will eventually feature a full basketball gym, baseball and softball training areas, volleyball court setup, pickleball courts and dedicated team practice space. The goal is to create a year-round training destination where athletes of all ages can improve their skills while giving community members a welcoming place to pursue healthier lifestyles.
Whether someone is preparing for the next season, training for collegiate athletics or simply looking to become stronger and healthier, the Hesters hope Valhalla Sports Training will become a place where everyone feels welcome.
“This is truly a family endeavor,” Hester said. “We wanted to build something that serves our community and gives athletes opportunities they may not have had locally before.”
All members will be required to sign a liability waiver before using the facility.
The Hester family encourages residents to follow Valhalla Sports Training on social media for updates as additional training areas become available.
With a focus on family values, community involvement and athletic excellence, Valhalla Sports Training is poised to become a valuable new resource for Hartford and surrounding communities.
Valhalla Sports Training officially opens July 1 with 24/7 member access. The YETI cooler giveaway winner will be announced Aug. 1.
