Matthew Blum, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with a background in coaching and high-volume facility operations, started as Manager on Duty at Southlake's Champions Club on Thursday, July 30.

He's the newest face at the city's flagship rec center.

In the role, Blum will oversee daily operations at the 82,000-square-foot recreation center, support staff across multiple departments, and work to maintain the facility's service standards for members and guests, according to a MySouthlakeNews announcement written by Vicky Schiber.

"My background in the Marine Corps taught me grit and the importance of taking care of people," Blum said in the announcement. "Whether there is an issue, a bottleneck, or simply a way we can make someone's day better, I'm here to help ensure this facility remains a place the community is proud of."

Blum said he's excited to bring his coaching, Marine Corps, and facility-management background to what he called a "premier, community-centered environment."

He has been married for 18 years, has three children, and said his family spends much of their free time seeking out new restaurants and local cuisine.

His hire comes during an active stretch of staffing moves at Champions Club. On Wednesday, July 15, the city announced promotions for two other team members, Hayde Miranda and Melanie, in a post highlighting the facility's tradition of developing leaders from within.

What Champions Club offers

Champions Club, the active-recreation wing of The Marq Southlake at 285 Shady Oaks Drive, opened in April 2019.

The facility includes a full fitness floor, indoor track, gymnasium, indoor aquatic center with hot tub and sauna, and indoor and outdoor turf fields. Members get access to more than 60 group fitness classes per week, plus Lil' Champs child watch.

The center is open 102 hours per week. Southlake residents receive a 20% discount on membership fees, and military personnel get 10% off. There are no residency restrictions for membership or day passes.

Champions Club held a community open house on Saturday, July 25, inviting non-members to tour the facility for free with a live DJ, photo booth, and family-friendly activities.

Coming up

The Southlake Parks and Recreation Board meets next on Monday, August 10, at 6 p.m. at The Marq Southlake, 285 Shady Oaks Drive.