The Spencer-Gardner family has built a life that beautifully blends international roots, athletic excellence, and a deep investment in people. Now happily settled in Sawgrass Island, Dr. Luke Spencer-Gardner and Jessica Spencer-Gardner, along with their four children, have called the neighborhood home for six years — and they truly consider it their forever place.

Their lively household includes Ella (17), a junior at Ponte Vedra High School; Chloe (15), a sophomore at Ponte Vedra High; Jack (12), a sixth grader at Landrum Middle School; and Bria (10), a fifth grader at PVPV Rawlings. And of course, no introduction would be complete without Archie, their 90-pound golden doodle and beloved family companion. You’ll often spot Luke and Archie running through the neighborhood in the early mornings — especially on Saturdays when their jog ends at Sawgrass Village for coffee at Foxtail, where Jessica and whichever kids are awake enough to join will meet them.

The Spencer-Gardners’ story is rooted in both sport and a deep investment in people. Luke grew up in Melbourne, Australia, where his basketball talent quickly set him apart. He was selected to the Australian Junior National Men’s Basketball Team and competed in the 1999 World Championships, facing elite international competition that included future NBA stars Pau Gasol and Tony Parker. He also trained at the prestigious Australian Institute of Sport — now the Australian Centre of Excellence — an Olympic training pathway for Australia’s top athletes.

Luke went on to play collegiate basketball at Oral Roberts University, serving as starting point guard from 2000–2005. He still holds the school record as the All-Time Assist Leader with 534 assists and is also a 1,000-point scorer. After college, he received professional contract offers to play overseas, but recurring injuries — including competing through a herniated disc — ultimately led him to pursue a different path. His own experience seeking treatment sparked an interest in orthopedic medicine that would shape his future.

Today, Luke is an orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Clinic Florida specializing in hip preservation and replacement. Known for his commitment to lifelong learning, he has completed advanced fellowship training in Europe and through prestigious traveling programs. He loves helping patients regain mobility and return to the activities they love.

Jessica’s path also began on the basketball court. A key member of the Oral Roberts University women’s basketball team, she helped her team win a conference championship and earn an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2005. Soon after graduating early, she and Luke married and began building their life together. Today, Jessica serves as Head Coach of Varsity Girls Basketball at Ponte Vedra High School, where she has led the Sharks to multiple district titles, a regional championship, and a trip to the FHSAA 6A State Final Four. She is also a LES MILLS Fitness Instructor at the Brown Family YMCA and has been teaching fitness classes for 15 years.

Sports remain central to family life. Ella and Chloe both play varsity basketball, Jack stays busy with basketball, football, golf, and guitar — and can often be found riding his bike to Players Park to meet up with friends. Bria balances basketball, volleyball, and flag football. Luke also coaches Bria’s basketball team, while Jessica stays busy leading the Ponte Vedra High School girls varsity program and mentoring young athletes throughout the community.

Family traditions keep them grounded amid their busy schedules. Friday evenings often mean an early dinner at 1810 Tacos & Tequilas, while Sundays are reserved for family meals — usually steak night with roasted potatoes and vegetables. Movie nights are a favorite, and birthdays are always a big celebration — Jess decorates the house and bakes a special cake by request, with Aussie pavlova being a family favorite.

When they’re not at a game or practice, you’ll find the Spencer-Gardners enjoying beach days at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, traveling to visit family in Australia, or exploring destinations like London, Maine, and the Rocky Mountains. No matter where they go, being together is what matters most.

What they love most about Sawgrass? The natural beauty, friendly neighbors, and the perfect balance of coastal living and community connection. Their advice to new residents is simple: take a walk, say hello, and enjoy everything Ponte Vedra Beach has to offer.

For the Spencer-Gardners, life in Sawgrass isn’t just about where they live — it’s about the people they pour into and the legacy they’re building through sport and community.