The Latest in Team Building

For those in search of the latest and most effective ways to build strong team bonds, opportunities for team building exist in a variety of forms throughout the region. From ropes courses to culinary activities to stockcar racing to murder mysteries to bike building and more, team building takes many forms and brings groups together in a variety of ways.

Groups have a wealth of options when they visit the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. Team building exercises are a big part of the offerings from several properties here, including: Blue Mountain Resort; Camelback Resort; Skytop Lodge; Woodloch Resort and others. These resorts have dedicated staff who lead teams through exercises that help to strengthen bonds within groups.

“Experiences in the Pocono Mountains can be extremely memorable,” explains Leigh Velez, regional sales manager for the Pocono Mountains Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Hiking to overlooks at state or national parks together, kayaking or rafting down the river rapids, learning how farms and farmers produce fresh ingredients used in refined menus at cafes and restaurants, or even an excursion on a historic train can provide bonding opportunities for groups.”

Additionally, wellness offerings at several spas allow for mindfulness, mental and physical health, and stronger connections among groups. The Poconos has grown its offerings for this aspect of bonding for groups, including world-class spas such as The Lodge at Woodloch.

“You cannot visit the Pocono Mountains and not seize on the opportunity to spend time on the many trails, waterways and other natural settings that give groups a chance to increase their activity levels, focus on healthy living, and witness breathtaking views of the forests and lakes that are so picturesque,” says Velez. “Movement is proven to improve our ability to critically think, and groups will easily enjoy their experiences recreating in the Poconos whether they are a novice, intermediate or advanced.”

Some of the most popular group activities here include team building at mountain adventure courses and immersive spa experiences focused on wellness. Numerous golf courses provide great outings with spectacular natural settings. Team Pro Kart

Racing or Stockcar Racing at Pocono Raceway are great ways to get out and experience something new and thrilling in a group, as well.

“Group planners want to provide valuable experiences for individuals, companies and teams,” observes Velez. “This means quality accommodations, impactful programming, delicious meals, and overall, a sense that the activities are meaningful for groups.”

Camelback Mountain Adventures creates an ideal landscape for team building activities, asserts Molly Coneybeer, director of marketing for Camelback Resort. “Our 4,000-foot ziplines test bravery, and it is really fun to watch groups encourage each other to conquer the rush. Our

Wheels Around The World is a social responsibility team building program offered by TeamBonding

UTVs hold up to four people, so that is always a valuable - and exhilarating - opportunity for teams to work together while navigating the mountain.”

“We’ve recently curated some exceptional experiences including dueling pianos, splatter rooms and charcuterie-building workshops,” Coneybeer adds.

Many group planners want activities that are unique and will really “wow” their groups. To that end, there are several “out of the ordinary” options for meeting planners to explore at Camelback. The property’s mountainside setting provides many exciting offerings through which the resort can curate experiences that cater to each individual group. “I truly believe that’s what sets our resort apart from others,” Coneybeer notes.

Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in the Pocono Mountains offers a variety of options on property and works with facilitators to help design and create team building activities for groups, but the resort’s most popular activities are hands-on culinary experiences, mixology classes, hiking, Gorilla Grove (ropes course and zip lining), miniature golf, and laser tag. Among the most sought-after activities for 2023 at the resort are culinary experiences and outdoor adventures.

Groups are interested in fun, handson, and interactive experiences for team building rather than standard ice breakers and structured courses. Kalahari offers ample space and many activities, making it a great platform for creativity and ideas to customize a team building experience.

Mixology classes at the resort include creating themed cocktails, seasonal drinks, and more. Tasting dinners (multi course wine and food pairings led by the Kalahari’s culinary teams) are well-suited to groups of 25 or less. Hands-on cooking demonstrations can be themed, such as pastry creations, truffle making, seasonal meal ideas, and more.

Other options for team activities include miniature golf tournaments, escape rooms, laser tag, duckpin bowling, and more available for any type of weather. Scavenger hunts, hiking, and other ways to explore the resort grounds are popular here, too.

“Woodloch is fortunate to have many repeat customers, and they are always looking for something new so they are not doing the same team building activities year after year,” notes Matt Butler, corporate sales manager, Woodloch Resort in the Poconos. “Our newest events - Figure It Out and Nailed It, a bakeoff style competition - have been the most popular requests for 2023, since many repeat groups have not tried those events yet. However, classics like boat building and scavenger hunts are always very popular for new and repeat groups alike.”

Groups are still trending toward outdoor activities, Butler adds. “Whether it is hiking on our miles of nature trails or relaxing in or on our pristine lake, groups tend to utilize the natural beauty and resources that Woodloch provides. Our visiting groups tend to come from metropolitan areas, so a lot of their employees do not get to experience the serenity and natural beauty that the Pocono Mountains offer on a daily basis. Groups really enjoy taking advantage of this while they are here.”

Among the team building options at Woodloch are: a campfire with s'mores and acoustic music; boat building; scavenger hunts; Amazing Race activities; Woodloch’s Ultimate Game Night; wine tastings; hiking; Nailed It; Figure It Out; mixology classes; and game shows like Family Feud.

From an interactive murder mystery to a custom designed heist party, Without A Cue Productions promises a high level of engagement and memorability for events. Since 2001, they have been designing custom team building, parties, and more, finding new and inventive ways to bring people together.

In addition to standard packages available at Red Rum Theater in Philadelphia, Without A Cue also currently creates a heist themed wedding and an 11-day murder mystery cruise on the Nile.

Without A Cue’s Red Rum Theater is a Center City Philadelphia venue that can seat up to 100 attendees and of fers a variety of packages for group events. Planners can opt to bring in their own caterer, or choose one of Without A Cue’s varied food packages. As part of the Red Rum Theater’s murder mysteries, a group can add a team building exercise that as sesses the personality traits of participants, and then divides them into groups based on which “detective” they are. From there, it is a race to see which detective team can solve the crime the fastest.

Interactive murder mysteries - and other interactive, story-based events - allow groups to engage in a more active, but also structured, manner. Since Without A Cue’s events have story lines and goals, guests are guided through the adventure, rather than expected to self-initiate engagement with others. The structure of these events facilitates more social engagement than many traditional team building programs.

Without A Cue offers a host of interactive, entertaining, and immersive team building experiences

Without A Cue often is asked to create custom events, whether based on a specific storyline or specific to a location. Requests for smaller group activities among groups of 20 or fewer is more common today, as well.

TeamBonding looks at team building as a “win-win.” The company wins, and the employees win when they become more engaged, are happier at work, and get to know each other better while having fun as a team. Team building that involves giving back is a "win-winwin" because, in addition, the community benefits from the donation of time, energy, and materials that are received.

Corporate social responsibility programs have become extremely popular post-pandemic, and TeamBonding has added several new ones, including: Build a Birthday, which involves creating kits for homeless children; Clean Water Connection, where teams construct water filters to be donated internationally to locations suffering from compromised water quality; and Build a Wheelchair, catering specifically to dogs. These programs, alongside traditional Charity Bike Build and Operation Cancer Care, span virtual and in-person experiences, offering diverse opportunities to make a difference.

TeamBonding also has a corporate volunteer division that manages employee volunteer programs for For- tune 500 companies, and organizing team volunteering opportunities for over 100,000 employees per year.

“The significance of incorporating social responsibility and giving back into team building goes beyond just bringing your team together in a fun and meaningful way,” explains David Goldstein, COO (Creator of Opportunities) for TeamBonding. “Engaging in these collaborative activities to build and donate meaningful items, and witnessing the impact on recipients, creates a profound and meaningful connection among the group.”

“In addition, individuals and teams are able to let their personalities shine and build friendships that last beyond the event itself,” Goldstein continues. “The ‘Do Good Bus’ offers a unique opportunity for team members to collaborate side-by-side, actively participating in hands-on projects at volunteer sites. This collective experience allows participants to shift their focus away from their usual work environment and channel their energy toward a different shared goal, fostering genuine connections while making a direct impact on the community.”

Goldstein says that, from personal experience, whether it is preparing a meal for the hungry, assembling bicycles for those who have never owned one, or building and donating teddy bears, TeamBonding knows that these activities bring people together through shared experiences, leadership, empathy, and teamwork. “When we do this, our staff feels better about our company, just like our clients and their employees feel better about themselves.”

“Our events are constantly evolving, as there is a demand for fresh and unique experiences that set clients apart and leave a lasting impression,” says Goldstein. “At TeamBonding, we understand the importance of tailored outcomes and strive to meet our clients’ specific goals. With the current blend of remote and in-person teams, along with virtual and in-person events, we have dedicated program development managers who continuously create and refine new programs based on client requests and emerging trends. Being a part of a global network comprising of 50 team building companies across 94 countries keeps us on the cutting edge.”

In addition to its popular charitable programs, TeamBonding’s hands-on culinary events provide an engaging, interactive, and tasty experience that taps into the senses. Additionally, programs that incorporate virtual reality and high-tech elements have been well-received, too, offering new, exciting, and cutting-edge team building opportunities. During the summer, outdoor events take center stage, allowing teams to engage in immersive experiences while also enjoying the beautiful weather.

“By continuously exploring new concepts and aligning with current trends, we ensure that our clients have access to innovative and captivating team building opportunities that meet their evolving needs in today’s dynamic work environment,” observes Goldstein.

“We are witnessing a growing preference for team building programs that cater to larger in-person gatherings, particularly outdoor experiences that allow teams to connect in natural environments, and a gradual shift away from virtual events,” Goldstein continues. “One exciting trend that has caught our attention is the increased interest in uniquely distinctive activities, where a group can collectively experience something entirely new. There is a strong desire for unity and collaboration, but above all, for fun.”

TeamBonding wholeheartedly embraces these trends and specifically designs programs to accommodate them, such as their Mystery Bus, where teams embark on an adventure packed day full of activities. “By providing immersive and engaging experiences, we empower teams with events that transcend the ordinary,” Goldstein concludes.

Each of these venues and companies provide planners with diverse offerings and a wide array of ways to bring people together in a number of settings. Continuously evolving and keeping up with the changing needs of their clients, these facilitators are bringing new and exciting experiences and opportunities to those seeking unique and entertaining ways of fostering unity and togetherness.

Sports-Related Events & Activities

Sports and sports-related events and activities mean big business for a wide range of venues throughout the region, with many hosting a variety of youth sports tournaments, cheer and color guard competitions, events like professional wrestling, and more. Others act as centralized hubs for local fans and out-of-towners seeking a place to enjoy professional sports, whether in-person or on big screen TVs.

The location of the Blair County Convention Center in Altoona, PA is appealing as it offers a great deal of convenience to its guests, explains Garrett Giedroc, marketing and sales manager for the facility. “It is centrally located between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg and is easily accessible from every major highway interstate.”

While the facility may not have been built specifically to accommodate every sports-related event, Giedroc observes, the unique features of its ballroom and lower-level exhibit hall provide plenty of opportunities hosting a variety of sports and related events, such as wrestling and dance competitions, for example.

“We welcome many dance competitions from numerous dance team affiliates into our ballroom,” says

Giedroc. “The setup includes theater-style seating upward of 500 with a large, flexible stage and a dedicated space for audio-visual technical equipment.”

The Ken Chertow Gold Medal Training Camp returns annually to the convention center each summer for two-and-a-half weeks, drawing over 300 youth wrestlers along with their families.

“The sports-related market allows the Altoona and Blair County area to flourish, and we are pleased to be able to join the effort of providing a space and environment for sportsrelated events,” notes Giedroc.

These competitions often consist of 3- to 4-day events that require both lodging and food and beverage needs. In addition, participants and attendees look for fun and unique experiences during their free time. All of this adds up to a positive economic impact on local businesses and the community.

The Blair County Convention Center attracts sporting and sports-related activities through digital marketing efforts in the surrounding counties and in larger nearby metropolitan areas, Giedroc says. They also advertise in the guides and directories of surrounding counties’ chambers of commerce, and partner in efforts with the area’s destination marketing organization, Explore Altoona, and its economic development team, ABCD Corporation from the First Frontier, Blair County.

“All of our marketing efforts not only focus on our beautiful facility, but on the hospitality that Blair County consistently delivers to each special guest through the unique experiences of local attractions, restaurants, and lodging,” Giedroc asserts.

The February 2021 opening of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia instantly transformed the city’s Stadium District into a full-resort destination that combines live sports, entertainment, and gaming with great dining and hospitality.

Live! Philadelphia’s central location in South Philadelphia’s Stadium District also makes it a gathering place for fans, whether before, during and after live events. “We developed the experience with that in mind,” asserts Carmen Gonzales, executive director of communications for Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia.

Sports & Social’s 52-foot LED display serves as its centerpiece, showcasing the biggest games on the biggest screen - an epicenter for fans to connect and catch all the action during both home and away games.

Live! Philadelphia is the only casino in the country located within walking distance of four professional sports teams. This makes it easy for meeting and event planners to plan excursions to see concerts, live shows, or to watch Philadelphia’s favorite sports teams play.

“Live!’s dedicated event planning team members can seamlessly connect you with group ticketing offices for all the major sports teams to help coordinate a memorable game-day excursion,” proclaims Gonzales.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy all the energy and action of game day right on-site at the casino. “Sports & Social, our one-of-a-kind sports restaurant, gaming venue and social lounge, is a hub for fans to cheer on their teams, whether they are playing at home or away. Sports & Social features signature cocktails and fanfavorite food along with Philly classics like cheesesteaks. Sports & Social has over 24 televisions, including the 52-foot LED big screen,” notes Gonzales.

Looking to ramp up the excitement? Guests can place bets on their favorite team at FanDuel Sportsbook & Lounge, which is connected directly to Sports & Social. Guests have multiple options on-site for wagering, including self-service kiosks and retail windows, all within sight of the big game.

“Live! Philadelphia also hosts gameday events and specials for guests and sports fans. For the Phillies’ home opener, we hosted a tailgate that included appearances by beloved Phillies alumni. We often host events for fans before and after Eagles games during football season, too,” Gonzales adds.

Whether planning a trade show or sporting event, the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, MD can easily accommodate a wide range of needs. Offering newly renovated rooms, water views, and a bayfront promenade, it features of variety of spaces to handle any occasion. The convention center accommodates various sporting and related events throughout the year, including wrestling, cheerleading, beach and indoor volleyball, basketball, and more.

Approximately 25-30 percent of the center’s business comes from this market segment, and bringing these types of events into town helps local businesses and provides the opportunity to share the beauty, versatility, and unique offerings of Ocean City with new and returning groups.

By attending sporting conventions and destination showcase events, as well as through print ads in sports trade publications and on social media, Ocean City continues to build awareness of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center as a top destination for sports-related events and tournaments.

Valley Forge and Montgomery County, PA provides another outstanding destination experience for youth sports participants as well as their families. Besides quality tournament venues, there is much to do here with 1,800 restaurants, family-friendly attractions, world-class shopping, and more than 200 arts and cultural venues.

The region also provides value for those staying overnight. The hotel tax in Montgomery County is among the lowest in the region, and parking is always free. Located just outside of Philadelphia, this suburban destination provides convenient access to major roadways, the Philadelphia International Airport, public transportation, and a host of regional attractions.

The Proving Grounds is a premier Mid-Atlantic multisport tournament complex in Conshohocken, PA. The facility features nine oversized linear turf fields with lights striped for men’s and women’s lacrosse, soccer, and field hockey.

Competitive Edge offers five hardwood courts with a 6,000-square foot SAQ area, facility rentals, catering, and a café in King of Prussia, PA. Two premier events coming to this venue in 2023 include Stonewall Sports 2023 Dodgeball and Volleyball competitions, and USA Dodgeball Premier Tour Philadelphia.

Reach Climbing and Fitness is a 23,000-square foot indoor rock-climbing facility in Bridgeport, PA, built and operated by lifelong Montco residents. This unique and versatile facility has hosted several USA Climbing events since opening, and is a regular host of USA Climbing competitions. There are dedicated teaching and training walls, advanced competition walls, and the Northeast’s only Olympic-sized speed wall. The site also includes a weight room, fitness areas with cardio equipment, and a training room.

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, PA offers up to 240,000-square feet of space on one level with five distinct halls. The facility can accommodate various layouts, including the capacity to fit 16 full-size basketball courts and over 30 volleyball courts. In addition, the entire facility recently upgraded to 10G commercial grade Internet, and it has more than 5,000 free on-site parking spaces.

This complex also offers fun activities including indoor go-karts, laser tag, and an on-site arcade at Arnold’s Family Fun Center, located just across the parking lot from the Expo Center. Some of the sporting events held at the Expo Center include: USA Weightlifting; USA Wrestling; USA Taekwondo; basketball; volleyball; breakdancing; cornhole; as well as cheer and dance competitions.

The Event Center at the Valley Forge Casino Resort offers close to 100,000-square feet of total event space in King of Prussia. The casino property offers 45 meet- ing rooms in total, four ballrooms, a 55,000-square foot Event Center, seven dining and entertainment venues, and more than 400 guest rooms. In 2023, the casino hosted the USA Masters Weightlifting Championship and actively seeks to host more sporting events.

Youth and amateur sporting events represent over $60million in economic impact annually, generating upward of 85,000 overnight rooms and support many local jobs, especially in the hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions across all of Montgomery County.

The Valley Forge Sports sales team travels to 16 conferences per year (on average) to meet face-to-face with potential clients. They also advertise in a variety of sports media publications, including both print and digital.

The Wildwoods Convention Center in Wildwood, NJ is a 260,000-square foot facility offering one of the most spacious, flexible, innovative, and inviting locations for indoor sporting events. The convention center’s flexible indoor venue space lends itself to hosting all types of sporting events year-round and in any type of weather, with an emphasis on youth sports.

It has a 75,000-square foot arena with 30-foot-high ceilings and unobstructed views with bleacher seating for up to 5,500 attendees that can accommodate 28-

A youth wrestling tournament taking place at the Wildwoods Convention Center in Wildwood, NJ wrestling mats, four indoor soccer matches, 12 Futsal matches, 12 volleyball games, and 2 full-court basketball games.

“Annually, the Wildwoods Convention Center hosts over two dozen sporting events and tournaments, ranging from wrestling, cheerleading, and basketball to gymnastics, Futsal, floor hockey, mixed martial arts, and indoor soccer competitions. The convention center also hosts dance and band competitions, as well as major sporting events like the Harlem Globetrotters and WWE live professional wrestling events,” says Michele Mendelson, sales manager for the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Offering impressive ocean views from its outside deck, main exhibit hall, and lobby area, the convention center features floor-to-ceiling windows along with a Teflon-coated translucent fabric roof that allows the entire building to be flooded in natural sunlight during the day.

The Wildwoods Convention Center also offers dining options for all groups and events. Their executive chef and expert catering staff meet the needs of any event host through an array of food service and concession services, catering, as well as