5 Super Athletes With Ties To Jacksonville

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Jacksonville area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Dexter Jackson (Bodybuilding)

One of the most decorated bodybuilders in history, Dexter "The Blade" Jackson cemented his legacy with 29 major titles, including a Mr. Olympia win and five Arnold Classic championships. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Jackson first made his mark in competitive bodybuilding in 1992 before turning pro in 1999. His remarkable longevity and record-breaking career earned him features in top fitness magazines like Muscular Development and Flex Magazine. Jackson has also launched his own supplement brand, Dexter Jackson Signature Series, as well as a fitness coaching business, Built By Blade Inc.

2. Avery Patterson (Soccer)

Jacksonville native Avery Patterson made history as the first National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) draft pick from The Bolles School when she was selected 19th overall by the Houston Dash. In high school, she helped Bolles secure three consecutive Florida state titles from 2018 to 2020, and earned multiple honors in her college tenure at the University of North Carolina. She has also represented the U.S. at the junior level, competing in the 2022 CONCACAF U-20 Championship. This year, Patterson was named to the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s 2025 Futures Camp, which trains adjacent to the senior team.

3. Eduardo Garcia (Track)

A Jacksonville native and Mandarin High School alumnus, Eduardo Garcia’s passion for running took him from local championships to the Olympic stage. A dominant force in high school, Garcia won eight Gateway Conference titles and earned top placements at the Florida state championships. His collegiate career at the University of Florida saw him capture the SEC title in the 10,000 meters and climb the school’s all-time records. Garcia competed in the marathon at the Paris Olympics in 2024, a testament to his dedication and global athletic journey.

4. Kelly Kelly (Wrestling)

Born Barbie Blank in Jacksonville, Kelly Kelly became a household name in professional wrestling, rising to fame in WWE with her high-energy performances and gymnastic moves. Signed at just 19, she captured the WWE Divas Championship in 2011 before stepping away from full-time competition in 2012. Over the years, she has remained active in the wrestling world, competing in special events like the Women’s Royal Rumble. Now a mother, she has expressed interest in making a part-time return to the ring so her twins can one day see her wrestle.

5. Paul Kenny (Freestyle Frisbee)

Paul Kenny of Jacksonville Beach has turned freestyle Frisbee into both an art and a science. A former engineer with a master's from MIT, Kenny applied his analytical mind to the sport, winning eight world championships and earning induction into the Freestyle Disc Hall of Fame. Known for his technical mastery and signature routines set to music, he has mentored up-and-coming players and helped grow the sport internationally. When he’s not competing or organizing events like The Jammers in Jacksonville Beach, he can still be found practicing his craft on the sands outside his condo.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.