PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - The City of Panama City announced it has hired a manager for the new MLK Recreation Center.
Panama City native and former Florida State University and professional football player Javien Elliott starts his new job immediately.
Javien was born and raised in Panama City. He was an athlete during his time at Rutherford High School and went on to play professionally with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Caroline Panthers, and the Canadian Football League.
“Coming back home to serve Panama City in this way is a dream come true,” said Elliott. “This community is very important to me, and now I have the opportunity to give back and help shape future generations: kids, teens, adults, and seniors alike. This facility is about developing people of all ages with programs for sports, cooking, education, art, music, and exercise. Recreation is more than just sports or facilities; it’s about connection, growth, and opportunity.”
Elliott is a proud husband and soon-to-be father. He’s excited to raise his son here and sees this new role as a professional and personal milestone.
Panama City leaders said they are confident that the new community center is on its way to becoming a welcoming space for everyone.
“We knew this was a big role to fill, one that requires not just experience, but heart,” said City Manager Jonathan Hayes. “Javien brings both. His deep ties to Panama City, his leadership qualities, and his passion for investing in people make him the ideal person to lead the new MLK Recreation Campus into the future.”
The City of Panama City invites the public to join in celebrating the opening of the MLK Recreation Campus this fall, where Javien Elliott will be officially introduced in his new role. Welcome, Javien, to the City of Panama City Team!
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