2019 Florida Sport State Guide by SPG by Premier Travel Media

SPG

2019

FLORIDA GUIDE

Fabulous Facilities are on the Horizon

Sunshine State is building impressive complexes

10 Site

InSpections

A Premier Travel Media publication â&#x20AC;¢ www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

of Event-Ready Destinations and Their Top Venues

A roar of a crowd. The shimmer of a sun ray hitting the crystal-clear ocean. Waves filtering in and out over a glass-like sandy beach. Dinner fresh from ocean to plate. Sun-kissed skin after an afternoon of golf. This is just the beginning of the many opportunities to Come Play in Florida. Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sports industry has grown to an estimated $57.4 billion per year industry, supporting more than 588,000 jobs for Floridians while attracting more than 16 million international and out-of-state visitors annually. As a water enthusiastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wonderland, Florida offers 1,000 miles of coastline that lay on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, 12,000 miles of fishable rivers and streams, and nearly 8,000 natural lakes, providing an economic footprint that totals $7.5 billion and accounts for 81,000 jobs within the fishing and boating industries. The crack of a bat. Peanuts and cracker jacks. Laughter, cheers, and sense of excitement. Roaring engines rounding the black oval. The swish of a three-pointer at the buzzer. Triumph and celebration of victory. Florida is home to 10 major professional sports franchises in five major sports leagues: Major League Baseball and its Grapefruit League, the National Hockey League, National Football League, National Basketball Association, and Major League Soccer and is home to NASCAR, the PGA Tour, the LPGA, and the PGA of America. The Sunshine State is home to nine Professional Sports championships, including three Super Bowl titles, three NBA Finals champions, two MLB championships, and one Stanley Cup champion. Lush greens of cultured grass. Ripples through the Everglades. Dolphins swimming side-by-side with a boating tour. A blasting horn leaving the shore. Crickets chirping under the moonlight. The crackling of the campfire. Summer year-round. People love sports, either as a participant or spectator. The fun and excitement surrounding the actual event and the experience of it all. As you plan the logistics of your amateur or professional sporting adventure, you can also create great memories for your participants, spectators, families, and fans. Several industry partners across Florida are ready to provide support to make your event a success. Thousands of world-class indoor and outdoor sporting venues dot the Sunshine State and even extend offshore, providing the perfect setting for your competition. We look forward to having you Come Play in Florida!

Angela A. Suggs President & CEO, Florida Sports Foundation

COME PLAY IN FLORIDA!

FLOR I D A FLOR I D A FLOR I D A FLOR I D A FLOR I D A

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The $37 million Panama City Beach Sports Complex project will be one of the largest complexes in the southeast.

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Fabulous Facilities are Coming to Florida

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Florida Senior Games Make Clearwater Shine Facilities Coming Fabulous 50,000 square feet ofare continuous space andto its twoFlorida auxiliary areas feature square feet of spaceComing each. Fabulous 22,000 Facilities are to Florida Florida Games Clearwater Shine FabulousSenior Facilities areMake Coming to Florida Panama City Beach Florida Senior GamesSports Make Clearwater Shine (Panama City Beach Complex) Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City, FL Florida Senior Games Make Clearwater Construction has begun on the Panama City Beach SportsShine Complex.

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This versatile arena can be configured into four separate event

spaces and Games is designed toMake performance and Shine multi-comFlorida Clearwater FabulousSenior Facilities are accommodate Coming to Florida petition events like cheerleading, dance, martial arts, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, and robotics exhibits. The arena’s main floor contains

Bradenton, FL This $37 million project, located on 210 acres of donated land, will be iStock.com/bgblue Pasco County, FL Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City, FL to open one of the largest complexes in the southeast, and is scheduled Gainesville, FL Bradenton,itsFL first phase in May of 2019. public-private facilityEverglades will feature an outdoor field complex, Kissimmee, FLTheFL Naples, Marco Island and City, FL indoor Pasco County, sports center and a new elementary school. The facility will include 13 Naples, Marco and Everglades City, FL Florida’s Treasure Coast Bradenton, FL Gainesville, FL Island rectangular fields, including nine with turf surfaces, dedicated tournaNaples, Bradenton, Marco FLbuildings Island Everglades City, Palm Beach County, FLand Pasco County, FL Kissimmee, FL ment and two stadium championship fields withFL seating for up Bradenton, Pasco County, FL Orange County Convention Center, Gainesville, FL Florida’s Treasure Coast to FL 1,500 spectators. The complex will be FL able to host soccer, football, flag football, lacrosse, baseball and Pasco Gainesville, County, FL FLSeminole Orlando North, County, FLsoftball. Kissimmee, FL Palm Beach County, FL rugby, Sports Facilities Management, located in Clearwater, will operate the Gainesville, Kissimmee, FLFL Convention St. Pete-Clearwater, FL Florida’s Treasure Coast Orange County Center, FL venue. A study by the company anticipates an economic impact of $23.2 Kissimmee, Florida’s Treasure FL Coast Palm Beach County, FLyear, with Orlando North, County, FL million for Seminole the first 81,611 non-summer visitors filling 60,000 Florida’s Palm Beach Treasure County, Coast FL Orange County Convention Center, FLprovide between 100 and St. Pete-Clearwater, FLone of the room nights. Phase project could 150 additional jobs area, counting on-site management, operaPalm Beach Orange County County, Convention FLfor theCounty, Center, FL Orlando North, Seminole FL tional staff, game officials and concession workers. Orange Orlando County North,Convention Seminole Center,FL FL St. Pete-Clearwater, FL County, Orlando St. Pete-Clearwater, North, Seminole FL County, FL Sarasota County St. Pete-Clearwater, (Atlanta Braves FL Spring Training Site)

stadium, that ballpark will be demolished and construction will begin in late 2019 or early 2020 on a planned 130,000-square-foot, two-story football complex that will cost an estimated $65 million. The facility will serve as the new home for Florida football student-athletes and staff and will house team meeting rooms, a locker room, a strength and conditioning area, a training room, and coaches offices. The third portion of the university’s master plan will see $11 million in renovations to Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium, home of the Gators’ softball program. Expected to be completed in time for the 2019 season, renovations will include a 360-degree open concourse, shade structures for fans, and an elevated press box. Fixed seating, which will be all chairback seats, will increase from 1,431 to approximately 2,280 with an overall capacity that will reach approximately 2,800.

Orlando

(The Arena at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex) For 21 years, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex located in the Walt Disney World Resort has hosted more than 70 types of sports 306 Sports Planning Guide and millions of athletes and spectators. In 2018, the complex opened a 300,000-square-foot, 8,000 seat multi-purpose arena that is one of the world’s largestPlanning venuesGuide designed specifically for hosting cheer and dance 306 Sports team events.

This $125 million state-of-the-art spring training complex for Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves resides in the city of North Port in Sarasota County, 35 miles south of Sarasota in southwestern Florida, and is scheduled to open in 2019. Spanning 70 acres, the project will include a stadium with 6,200 seats, a 360-degree concourse walkway, luxury suites, six full and two half practice fields. It will also feature an outfield patio and bar area, a 55,000-square-foot clubhouse, an office building for both major and minor league operations and a batting cage. The park will produce an estimated $1.7 billion economic impact between 2019 and 2048, which is the length of the team’s current lease with the facility, and the Braves anticipate 23 percent of fans will visit from out-of-state, spending $6.3 million annually in the community.

Tampa

(Championship SportsPlex of Tampa Bay) Opening in late 2018, the Championship SportsPlex of Tampa Bay is located in central Tampa and can accommodate a wide range of events, including soccer, football and lacrosse. The complex offers 15 full-sized soccer fields, including 10 multipurpose, four quad fields and one championship field. This is a tournamentonly facility, meaning tournaments and events will not have to compete with local practice and game schedules when planning events. The venue is already attracting business as the United States Flag & Touch Football League selected the SportsPlex to host its National Championships in 2019. This selection is a boon for the Tampa area as @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG the 2018 USFTL National Championships attracted 456 teams and consisted of roughly 9,000 players with an additional 4,000 family members and friends in attendance, traveling from across #SportsPG the United @SportsPlanGuide States. SPG

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Fabulous Facilities are Coming to

Florida

Our southernmost state continues to build impressive athletic complexes

ew states in the country can match Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affinity for sports. With a $57.4 billion economic impact through its sports industry and more than 3,000 events taking place in the Sunshine State annually, clearly, athletics are big business in Florida. Given that so many competitions are unfolding in the state and that number continues to trend upward, Florida finds itself seeking newer, bigger, and better venues to hold these events.

Here are some of the facilities that have recently began dotting the Floridian landscape or are in the works:

Boca Raton

(Schmidt Family Complex for Academic and Athletic Excellence) Florida Atlantic Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $50 million, 121,000-square-foot athletic facility is expected to open in 2019. Construction began in January of 2018 on the Schmidt Family Complex for Academic and Athletic Excellence, which will become the football teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new training facility. The complex is slated to include hydroponic pools, classrooms, and dining facilities in addition to new locker rooms, coaches offices, recruiting areas, and a strength and conditioning sports performance center. Barbara and Richard Schmidt donated $16 million from the Schmidt Family Foundation in December 2014, the largest single gift in FAU history, which propelled this project forward. 4 308

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Collier County (Multipurpose Sports Complex)

A planned $70 million sports complex in southwestern Collier County, whose largest city is Naples, is scheduled to feature 16 multi-purpose fields for football, baseball, soccer, and lacrosse. Projected models of the 120-acre complex show it will include a champion stadium with 3,000 to 5,000 seats. This amateur complex is being designed with the hopes of attracting professional European and South American soccer clubs to host clinics and exhibition games at the venue. The county plans to open the first fields by the end of 2019 and the entire complex by 2021.

Gainesville

(Baseball Stadium, Football Complex, Softball Stadium) The University of Florida plans to build a new baseball stadium, a new standalone football complex and upgrade its softball venue with the $130 million facilities project targeted to be completed in 2021. Florida will build a $50 million baseball stadium on 13.63 acres of land with the project being completed prior to the 2020 baseball season. The stadium will increase chair-back seating from 2,408 to approximately 5,000 with an overall capacity of about 10,000 and will contain a 360-degree open concourse and enhanced concession space. When the baseball team completes its 2019 season in its current @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

The $37 million Panama City Beach Sports Complex project will be one of the largest complexes in the southeast.

This versatile arena can be configured into four separate event spaces and is designed to accommodate performance and multi-competition events like cheerleading, dance, martial arts, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, and robotics exhibits. The arena’s main floor contains 50,000 square feet of continuous space and its two auxiliary areas feature 22,000 square feet of space each.

Panama City Beach

(Panama City Beach Sports Complex) Construction has begun on the Panama City Beach Sports Complex. This $37 million project, located on 210 acres of donated land, will be one of the largest complexes in the southeast, and is scheduled to open its first phase in May of 2019. The public-private facility will feature an outdoor field complex, indoor sports center and a new elementary school. The facility will include 13 rectangular fields, including nine with turf surfaces, dedicated tournament buildings and two stadium championship fields with seating for up to 1,500 spectators. The complex will be able to host soccer, football, flag football, lacrosse, rugby, baseball and softball. Sports Facilities Management, located in Clearwater, will operate the venue. A study by the company anticipates an economic impact of $23.2 million for the first year, with 81,611 non-summer visitors filling 60,000 room nights. Phase one of the project could provide between 100 and 150 additional jobs for the area, counting on-site management, operational staff, game officials and concession workers.

Sarasota County

(Atlanta Braves Spring Training Site)

Orlando

(The Arena at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex) For 21 years, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex located in the Walt Disney World Resort has hosted more than 70 types of sports and millions of athletes and spectators. In 2018, the complex opened a 300,000-square-foot, 8,000 seat multi-purpose arena that is one of the world’s largest venues designed specifically for hosting cheer and dance team events. SportsPlanningGuide.com

Tampa

(Championship SportsPlex of Tampa Bay) Opening in late 2018, the Championship SportsPlex of Tampa Bay is located in central Tampa and can accommodate a wide range of events, including soccer, football and lacrosse. The complex offers 15 full-sized soccer fields, including 10 multipurpose, four quad fields and one championship field. This is a tournamentonly facility, meaning tournaments and events will not have to compete with local practice and game schedules when planning events. The venue is already attracting business as the United States Flag & Touch Football League selected the SportsPlex to host its National Championships in 2019. This selection is a boon for the Tampa area as the 2018 USFTL National Championships attracted 456 teams and consisted of roughly 9,000 players with an additional 4,000 family members and friends in attendance, traveling from across the United States. SPG Sports Planning Guide

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The Florida Senior Games feature top-level athletes and will often attract sizable crowds.

Florida Senior Games Make Clearwater Shine Games bring economic development and tourism to the state 6 310

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he Florida Senior Games, presented by Humana, certainly have found a winning formula: Exciting competition, thousands of athletes and spectators, and perfect locations for anyone looking to escape to the Sunshine State in the winter. “There’s not a lot of places outside of the state of Florida where you can do outdoor activities in the first two weekends of December, so we’ve got that going for us. We take great pride in putting on a top-notch event,” said Nick Gandy, who has been with the Games for 15 of the 27 years it has been in existence. “The biggest benefit of the Florida Senior Games is keeping people over 50 active and fit in an active lifestyle.” To that point, the first Florida Senior Games were held in Bradenton in 1992 after state officials looked to merge local versions of the Golden Age Games which originated decades earlier in Florida. The games have traveled around the state since their inception, with the Lee County, Cape Coral and Kissimmee areas playing host several times. The Senior Games have called Clearwater and Pinellas County home for the last three years, bringing with it economic development and plenty of people to the area. Gandy highlighted the region’s solid combination

seniors to teenagers to members of the local corporate world. “The City of Clearwater’s focus and dedication to ‘aging well’ is an excellent example of the types of communities that the senior games thrive in,” Ramsberger said, noting the relocation of the National Senior Games Association to the city is a significant development for VSPC. “We hope sometime to consider bidding on hosting the National Senior Games. Disney held them in 1999, and it was very well attended and successful.” Clearwater’s commitment to the Games over the last four years – not to mention the inviting nature of its attractions and coastal scenery – are an undeniably important, but the athletic action is at the forefront of no matter where the games call home. From track and field and swimming to bowling and pickleball – not to leave out tai chi and archery, to name a few events – there are a wide variety of competitions that attract thousands to the games. Gandy said the mix features top-level athletes looking to win medals and qualify for the National Games with others who carry more modest goals, such as improving their personal best time by a couple seconds or to socialize and network with friends new and old.

of 16 competition sites – including some multi-purpose venues which host multiple events – that are in relative close proximity to one another and area hotels. The 2018 installment, which covered nine days in December, experienced the usual even-year bump in participants, because it served as qualifying for the 2019 National Senior Games being held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Gandy said that tends to bring out a greater number of outof-town athletes. “It’s an event that draws up to 3,000 people over the course of a week including two weekends. Our most popular sports draw the most participation, and that does draw people to a community like Clearwater and Pinellas County like we’ve had for the last four years,” Gandy explained, noting that spectator admission is free for all events. “Every community that we have our senior games in always has something that might catch people’s eye while they’re there. Clearwater and Pinellas County have a lot to offer.” “Clearwater Beach is a highly recognized beach nationally on the Gulf of Mexico. The city of Clearwater does a wonderful job with the amenities out there. The hotels, the restaurants and the cleanliness of the beach and Pier 60 are a wonderful thing,” Gandy added. Tim Ramsberger, chief operating officer of Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater, also highlighted positives in the community associated with the senior games, including the large number of volunteers – ranging from

“We do stress the social aspect of it, the camaraderie that only comes from competing in sports. There are people who take it very seriously. There are people who are just out there to be out there. They’re setting their own goals, and they’re trying to achieve their own goals in their competition,” Gandy said. And some of the accomplishments are amazing to consider. Gandy points out the dozen or so swimming records broken in the category for those older than 80 as part of a trend that sees some athletes take part in the Senior Games for decades. “It’s really inspiring. These record-breaking 80-year-olds are athletes who have been competing for 20 years now, since their late 50s and 60s. They’ve just continued in their sport; they continue to be healthy and active,” he explained. The commitment to a particular sport is an extension of an athlete’s overall connection to the Games, in Gandy’s view. “What’s wonderful about the Senior Games ¢ is this is a part of the senior athletes’ life. They plan accordingly, it’s part of their schedule. People will come to Florida for their competition in whatever sport they’re in, and they’ll schedule a couple of days before the competition or after the competition to go to the beach, go to attractions, or whatever their thing is,” Gandy offered. “It’s like a vacation for them.” The feel and design of the Games provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the trip to Florida. SPG

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Naples, Marco Island & the Everglades, FL Superlative sports facilities and sensational outdoor activities await sports planners, spectators, teams and their families in the Sunshine State.

Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City are idyllically situated in the heart and soul of Southwest Florida, boasting an abundance of artful treasures, delectable eateries and cozy accommodation options fit for any size team. In Naples, expect the best white-sand beaches and top-rated golf courses. Naples is a stylish community known for its refined downtown, with plenty of opportunity for fishing, boating, water sports, arts and culture. Head a bit further south and you’ll reach Marco Island, the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands. Marco Island is a diverse combination of a sophisticated resort area, a historic nautical community and a trendy fishing village. From historic sites to swamp tours, Everglades City serves as the western gateway to Everglades National Park, an American national park that protects the southern 20 percent of Florida’s original Everglades.

Things to do in Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City

Established in 2002, Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples celebrates the natural curiosity of children by 8 312

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offering an educationally dynamic space that encourages discovery and exploration. At the tree-top Adopt-A-Pet veterinary clinic exhibit, children have an opportunity for career exploration. The Art Studio invites children to participate in hands-on, ever-changing art projects. Splash around at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon in Naples, a kid and family-friendly outdoor waterpark with an abundance of waterslides, a lazy river, kid’s water play area and diving pools. Turtle Cove is the busiest attraction for young ones, a playground-esque pool with floating lily pads, a fountain and an overhead mesh rope for kids to test their navigation skills.

How to Get to Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City

If traveling to this region by car, major highways that connect to Naples, Marco Island and Everglades City are I-75, I-77, I-71, I-10 and I-95. This region is within a 10-hour drive from major cities such as Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Savannah, Atlanta and Montgomery. Serving the greater Southwest Florida region, Southwest Florida International Airport is the second-busiest single-runway airport in the U.S. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. North Collier Regional Park Sports: Soccer, softball

North Collier Regional Park in Naples is home to many local leagues, making it an ideal facility for games, tournaments and competitions. The park is a prime location for adults and children to gather and enjoy the region’s beauty, and it even includes Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, Southwest Florida’s top state-of-the-art waterpark. Amenities at this world-class sports facility include eight tournament soccer fields (four are artificial turf), five tournament softball fields, the RecPlex Fitness Complex, Calusa fossil dig play area for children, an interactive playground and Exhibit Hall Park Ranger tours and education.

2. Sugden Regional Park (Lake Avalon)

Sports: Sailing, waterskiing, boating, fishing, jet skiing In October, Lake Avalon, part of Sugden Regional Parkhosted both Pro Watercross and the Powerboat Nationals World Championship. The stunning 60-acre lake is this waterfront park’s main attraction, along with one of Collier County’s only fresh water beaches. Amenities at the park include the lakeside beach, paddleboat rentals, a walking path around the lake, gazebo, playground and picnic areas.

3. East Naples Community Park Sports: Pickleball

Planner Perspective “Since inception, The Paradise Coast Invitational: Fastpitch College Showcase was designed to be a premier college recruiting showcase. Inviting elite travel fastpitch softball teams and college coaches to this event comes with a certain expectation of facilities and overall travel experience. Our tournament has become a soldout event in just 3 years with the highest college coach to team ratio, all due to the fine work of the Sport Tourism division of the CVB and the great staff at Collier County Parks & Recreation.” - Timothy J. Catwright, Paradise Coast Invitational: Fastpitch College Showcase

Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB Jeffrey John

Sports Development Manager Phone: 239-252-6293 Email: jeffrey.john@colliercountyfl.gov Website: www.sportsinparadise.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Host of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, East Naples Community Park features pickleball courts, athletic fields and family fun. As a hub for both youth and adult activities with fitness programs, after school care, senior programs, a skating park, playground and community center, the park provides the opportunity for meeting new friends and making new memories. Featured world-class amenities at the park include, a lighted playground, lighted exercise trail around the lake, a picnic area, pavilion, one lighted soccer field, 54 pickleball courts, the Pickleball Pro Shop of Collier County and covered Championship Stadium.

4. Collier County Sports Complex Sports: Soccer, baseball, softball

Coming soon to Collier County, Collier County Sports Complex will be a $70-million sports complex with 12 multipurpose fields, four baseball and softball fields. The complex hopes to attract professional European and South American soccer clubs to hold clinics and exhibition games at the facility. The focus of this facility is on youth and amateur athletics.

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Gainesville, FL

This college sports town is known for producing some of the country’s leading professional athletes and hosting prime sports tournaments. When you’re ready to plan, the Gainesville Sports Commission will help you coordinate your event with volunteers, lodging, program logistics and so much more. They’ll also recommend attractions that the whole team will enjoy, including museums, shopping centers and natural parks.

Things to do in Gainesville

Your athletes will appreciate University of Florida’s rich sports spirit, which is evident in each of its 14 facilities. You can also take them on college tours for a snapshot of college life and specializations in the arts and sciences. About 175 diverse landscapes encompass Florida’s State Parks. Unmatched for its top notch quality of cross country biking in the state of Florida, San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park offers over 30 miles of single-track mountain bike trails. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park contains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, along with showcasing its 20 biological communities that provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife and livestock.

How to Get to Gainesville Reach the city’s center by taking US Route 441 and Interstate 75. Highways 24 and 121 are additional convenient routes. Gainesville Regional Airport is the closest airport to the city. Travelers may also fly into Daytona International Airport or Jacksonville International Airport, located 101 miles and 81 miles away, respectively.

Planner Perspective

“The Gainesville Sports Commission has been an excellent partner that the Florida Sports Foundation enjoys working with each year. With the many events taking place throughout Alachua County, including the Sunshine State Games with archery, basketball, and karate, the Gainesville team continues to raise the bar of excellence and provides a dynamic atmosphere for the sporting community to engage in on daily basis.” - Marvin E. Green, Jr. Vice President of Amateur Sports and Events, Florida Sports Foundation SportsPlanningGuide.com

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. City of Alachua’s Legacy Park

Sports: Baseball, basketball, football, gymnastics, karate, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, volleyball The City of Alachua’s Legacy Park is a major hub for sports tournaments, planners can host competitions indoors, where they will find 40,000 square feet of space, 30,000 of which is open wooden floor space. Past events include Amateur Athletic Union pickleball and gymnastic events, as well as the Sunshine State Basketball Championship and the US Amateur Basketball Boys National Championship. The outdoor part of the complex is joined with the Hal Brady Recreational Sports Complex. Teams will have access to five baseball and softball fields equipped.

2. Stephen C. O’Connell Center

Sports: Basketball, cheerleading, diving, gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, synchronized swimming, volleyball, wrestling Host sports competitions of all levels at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. This popular venue is home to University of Florida sports, as well as the USA Synchronized Swimming Collegiate Championship, the USA Weightlifting National University & Under 25 Championships, and the Florida High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheerleading State Championship. This 292,000-square-foot facility houses a variety of sports arenas, including a main court that seats a maximum of 12,000 guests.

Gainesville Sports Commission Joleen Cacciatore Miller Executive Director Phone: 352-338-9300 Email: jcacciatore@gainesvillesportscommission.com

Website: www.gainesvillesportscommission.com

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PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL ELITE ELITEFACILITIES, FACILITIES,WORLD-CLASS WORLD-CLASSATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONSAND ANDKNOWLEDGEABLE KNOWLEDGEABLEEXPERTS EXPERTS MAKE MAKEPALM PALMBEACH BEACHCOUNTY COUNTYAATOP TOPSPORTS SPORTSDESTINATION DESTINATION

Sports Sports organizers organizers will will find find aa welcoming welcoming environment environment for for athletics athletics in in Palm Palm Beach Beach County, County, as as the the area area has has hosted hosted all all levels levels of of play, play, as as well well as as aa comfortable comfortable climate, climate, with with average average annual annual temperatures temperatures hovering hovering around around 78 78 degrees. degrees. Palm Palm Beach Beach County County sports sports facilities facilities are are among among the the best, best, with with premier premier venues venues that that cater cater to to both both amateur amateur and and professional professional sports sports events. events. Combine Combine all all this this with with Palm Palm Beach Beach County’s County’s 47 47 miles miles of of white white sand sand beaches, beaches, its its array array of of attractions attractions and and convenient convenient accommodations, accommodations, and and you you have have the the makings makings of of an an elite elite sports sports destination. destination.

Things Things to to Do Do in in The The Palm Palm Beaches Beaches Palm Palm Beach Beach County County is is more more than than just just aa sporting sporting haven, haven, it’s it’s aa top top tourism tourism destination. destination. There’s There’s so so much much to to do do here, here, your your teams teams will will want want to to extend extend their their stay stay well well past past the the final final buzzer. buzzer.

At At Lion Lion Country Country Safari Safari African African Adventure, Adventure, you you can can travel travel to to aa different different continent continent without without leaving leaving the the state state of of Florida. Florida. This This drive-through drive-through safari safari park park has has over over 1,000 1,000 animals animals roaming roaming free free on on the the grounds, grounds, from from giraffes giraffes and and zebras zebras to to rhinos rhinos and and antelope. antelope. After After the the drive, drive, guests guests can can continue continue the the fun fun at at the the Safari Safari World World Amusement Amusement Park, Park, which which features features six six rides, rides, animal animal shows, shows, and and dozens dozens of of animal animal exhibits. exhibits.

How How to to Get Get to to The The Palm Palm Beaches Beaches Located Located 70 70 miles miles north north of of Miami Miami and and 152 152 miles miles south south of of Orlando, Orlando, Palm Palm Beach Beach County County is is easily easily reached reached by by I-95 I-95 from from two two major major cities. cities. The The Florida Florida Turnpike Turnpike and and I-75 I-75 also also allow allow for for easy easy access access by by car car from from many many areas areas of of the the state. state. Palm Palm Beach Beach International International Airport Airport has has nearly nearly 200 200 daily daily non-stop non-stop flights flights to to more more than than 25 25 destinations. destinations.

Palm Palm Beach Beach County County is is home home to to some some of of the the most most stunning stunning coastlines coastlines in in Southern Southern Florida. Florida. Spend Spend some some time time exploring exploring the the 47 47 miles miles of of white white sand sand beaches, beaches, spanning spanning from from Jupiter Jupiter to to Boca Boca Raton. Raton. With With nearly nearly 30 30 tropical tropical beach beach parks, parks, there’s there’s aa beach beach for for every every need. need. 12 323 323

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#SportsPG #SportsPG #SportsPG #SportsPG @SportsPlanGuide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG #SportsPG

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Sports Sports SportsPlanning Planning PlanningGuide Guide Guide 324 324 324 13

Bradenton, FL

Dozens of first-rate sports facilities are spread throughout the Bradenton Area— all you have to do is choose where to compete. When you travel to the Bradenton Area, you will find several sports venues conveniently located among dozens of attractions and entertainment venues. Home to several national tournaments, the Bradenton Area’s sports officials are pros at helping you organize your events. Stay outside in the sunshine at one of the area’s well-groomed outdoor facilities or take the competition indoors with shiny court surfaces and ice cold rinks. Bradenton has every option you could dream of, plus accompanied amenities and affordable lodging surrounding the facilities. The Bradenton Area additionally offers family-friendly nature trails, malls and museums. With so many opportunities in mind, you’ll definitely want to bring your sports tournament to the Bradenton Area.

Things to do in the Bradenton Area The Robinson Nature Preserve offers visitors numerous ways to explore the coastal habitats, while the Riverwalk surrounds the Manatee River and features the Mosaic Amphitheater, Tidal Discovery Zone and a skate park. Take the adventure back inside to captivating museums and art galleries. The South Florida Museum is a lens into Bradenton’s past; the Manatee Village Historical Park preserves historic landmarks from the mid-1800s to early1900s, such as a general store, the Baldwin steam engine, a courthouse, settler’s home and schoolhouse. Even earlier than that, the DeSoto National Memorial explores history 16 314

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from the 1530s onward. Go beyond the land and into the sea at the Parker Manatee Aquarium, which dedicates its services to aiding injured manatees. The Bishop Planetarium takes teams soaring into space through interactive exhibitions and shows. Get all your shopping done at Ellenton Premium Outlets, largest outlet mall on Florida’s West Coast.

How to Get to Bradenton Visitors can easily get there by driving along I-75, known as one of the longest interstates in the nation. Just within a day’s drive, you can venture to nearby cities like Miami, Montgomery, Tampa, Orlando, Tallahassee, Charleston, Atlanta and Jacksonville. Get to Bradenton by driving 45 minutes on I-75 from the Tampa International Airport.

Planner Perspective “Working with Sean and the Bradenton Area Sports Commission was a great pleasure for our staff. The communication was transparent and frequent, and Sean even was able to show up during the event to help us with any needs.” – Mark Donavanick, Max Prep Baseball

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

3. Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex

Sports: Hockey, ice skating, roller skating

1. IMG Academy

Sports: Baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field IMG Academy is often praised as one of Bradenton’s most prestigious sports facilities. This mega-complex features every kind of tournament space, including over 50 tennis courts, over 20 multi-sport fields and an 18-hole golf course. The academy additionally holds four convertible basketball courts, weight rooms totaling more than 10,000 square feet of space and a 5,000-seat stadium. Many professionals utilize the facility’s spaces and host their annual events.

2. Premier Sports Campus

Sports: Frisbee, football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer The Premier Sports Campus, situated in eastern Bradenton Area, hosts several soccer tournaments throughout the year, such as the US Soccer Winter Showcase/Nike Friendlies and the Luis Figo Soccer Championship. The campus holds 23 FIFA-approved Bermuda grass fields, eight of which are lighted. A new 5,000-seat stadium completes the facility’s larger provisions. Besides state-of-the-art lighting and convertible features, the fields are equipped with 65,000 square-feet of underground irrigation systems.

The Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex was the venue for the 2010 winter Olympic pair teams. The complex offers two NHL-sized ice rinks and a skating floor that teams can compete on or rent out for parties. Teams may use the inline skate rink and fitness center while tournament officials hold meetings in the conference rooms.

4. Pirate City

Sports: Baseball Pirate City recently underwent a major renovation to provide new tournament space and amenities for sports planners everywhere. This massive venue sports four full-sized baseball fields named after Hall of Fame or Pirates luminaries, each equipped with bleacher and grandstand seats. Besides the game, athletes and planners can enjoy many new amenities, such as ping pong tables and pool tables, computers and televisions.

Bradenton Area Sports Commission Sean Walter

Director of Sports Phone: 941-742-4051 Email: sean.walter@bacvb.com Website: www.BradentonAreaSportsCommission.com

Go from world-class facilities to world-class escape in no time.

Premier Sports Campus

It’s time to discover the leader in Florida tournament venues. The Bradenton Area is where champions train, play and relax all while taking the game to the next level with exceptional facilities such as Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, IMG Academy, and Pirate City, the winter home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

To book your event today, call Sean Walter (941) 742-4051

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FLORIDA'S SPORTS COAST FLORIDA'S SPORTS COAST OFFERS THE IDEAL TERRAIN FOR NUMEROUS SPORTS EVENTS, FROM RUNNING AND CYCLING TO LACROSSE AND GOLF

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Pasco is an outdoor lover’s paradise that offers great ecotourism and an outdoor adventure alternative to the typical theme-park experience. Here, visitors can enjoy the authentic Florida experience and the ideal location for all kinds of sports events. The area boasts 24 miles of shoreline to the west, hilly terrain to the east and more than 100,000 acres of pristine wilderness to explore in between.

you’re done, swing through the largest Aerial Adventure Park in Central Florida. Treehoppers has a total of eight different courses with over 100 unique elements. Hop on a jet ski or boat and explore the Gulf of Mexico, throw a tow rope on the back and grab your water skis; take a boat ride to enjoy a relaxing day at the island of Anclote Key and explore Anclote Key State Park by boating, shelling, relaxing on the beach and watching the sunset.

Pasco counts with high-quality sports venues and plenty of activities to keep teams busy. Pasco has hosted elite sports events such as the Dick’s Sporting Goods Tournament of Champions (Lacrosse), Torhs 2Hot4Ice National Championships (Roller Hockey), Fed Cup World Group 2017 Semi-Finals between the U.S.A. and the Czech Republic, PBA 50 Pasco County Florida Open (Bowling), Savage Race (Obstacle race) and the USA Hockey Women’s National Team training program for the 2018 Olympics.

You’ll experience some of the unique treasures that Pasco County has to offer. You can take some time to go kayaking on its pristine coastline or on the Pithlachascotee River. You can also swim in its spring fed freshwater lake with white sandy beach at Sunwest Park or enjoy a fun day at its newlyopened wakeboard park. Animal lovers can get up close and personal with giraffes at Giraffe Ranch where guests can feed and interact with giraffes.

Things to do on Florida’s Sports Coast

How to Get to Florida’s Sports Coast

Whether you want your adventure in the air, land or water, Pasco County has something for you. Hop in an air balloon at sunrise and checkout the beautiful views. Not adventurous enough? Take a plunge at 13,500 feet and accelerate to 120MPH over breathtaking Zephyrhills at Skydive City. When

Pasco County is located about 30 miles north of Tampa and roughly 50 miles west of Orlando. Both the Tampa Bay International Airport and the Orlando International Airport are served by most major airlines, and offer hundreds of daily flights from all corners of the country.

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1. Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex Sports: Basketball, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading, pickleball Coming Spring of 2019, this 98,000-square-foot multi-sports arena will include 16 volleyball courts, eight basketball courts, a competition cheer studio, 16 pickleball courts, two indoor soccer surfaces, two indoor lacrosse surfaces, two cheer competition areas, an athletic training center, meeting space, VIP observation area, educational lab, lounge area, concessions area, full-service kitchen, and the Residence Inn by Marriot hotel.

2. Florida Hospital Center Ice Sports: Ice hockey, roller hockey, ice skating, figure skating, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, wrestling Florida Hospital Center Ice is the newest and largest state-of-the-art ice arena and multi-sports complex in Florida. Florida Hospital Center Ice is a 150,500-square foot, five-rink complex with three North American Standard NHL ice rinks (200’ x 85’), one Olympic/ International standard ice rink (200’ x 100’), and one junior rink (80’ x 40’).

3. Little Everglades Ranch Sports: Obstacle/mud racing, equestrian, cross country and cyclocross Little Everglades Ranch is a 2,050-acre working ranch specializing in breeding top-notch Hanoverian performance horses, as well as thoroughbred race horses. Little Everglades is also a host to many athletic events. The ranch features beautiful scenery and a versatile terrain with 500 groomed acres and 1,550 acres of fields, woods, lakes and wetlands perfect for many obstacle courses, runs and cyclocross events.

Our Commitment The pristine playing surfaces, iconic sports complexes and dedicated event support of Florida’s Sports Coast are just the beginning. With our one-of-a-kind adventures and stunning natural beauty, your athletes will discover the perfect place to train, compete and enjoy life. —Pasco County Destination Management Organization

4. Saddlebrook Resort Sports: Tennis, golf Saddlebrook Resort’s 480 acres are home to two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses and 45 tennis courts in all four Grand Slam surfaces. The resort recently hosted the Fed Cup World Group 2017 semifinals between the United States and the Czech Republic. Saddlebrook has also hosted many WTA events through the years, and continues to welcome tennis pros as well as enthusiasts who come for multi-day intense instructions.

5. SunWest Park Sports: Wakeboarding, beach volleyball

Pasco County Destination Management Organization Consuelo Sanchez Tourism Program Manager Phone: 727-847-8129 Email: cbsanchez@pascocountyfl.net Website: www.VisitPasco.net

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SunWest Park is a recreational waterfront facility that has been developed around a former limestone mine. There is a wakeboarding cable over the lake, where experienced riders can practice their tricks on the spine kicker and modular box. A full cable system opened in 2016. On the shores of the 70-acre spring-fed lake you will find space for 20 beautiful white sandy beach volleyball courts perfect for college competitions.

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GIVE YOUR DEFENSIVE PLAYERS A CHANCE TO LET THEIR GUARD DOWN. In Pasco, our pristine playing surfaces and beautiful sports complexes are just the beginning. With our vibrant culture, stunning nature and exciting leisure activities, your athletes will discover the perfect place to train, compete and enjoy life.

VisitPasco.net

Kissimmee, FL Warm weather and sunshine invite year-round play, and nearby attractions make Kissimmee a fun-filled escape for both athletes and spectators.

Creek Airboat Adventures, meet a few alligator friends at Gatorland, and climb through a tree-tops obstacle course at Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park.

In one word, magic. That’s not to say that your sports event will magically plan itself and go off without a hitch, but it might feel like it. A sports event in Kissimmee puts teams right in the center of the Florida action. The destination offers elite sporting venues amidst top attractions and beautiful scenery, making it an ideal spot for players and spectators. The region boasts great weather, so teams can play here all year long—no matter the sport.

There are also endless possibilities for places to stay in Kissimmee. With 45,000 accommodation options, varying from comfy motels and high-end hotel suites to private villas and luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone – and every budget.

Things to do in Kissimmee

How to Get to Kissimmee

In Kissimmee, the thrills don’t stop on the playing field. This ideal location puts participants and spectators in the heart of Central Florida’s popular activities and attractions, and right next door to world-famous theme parks. Just minutes away is Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Parks & Resorts Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

As a popular year-round destination, Kissimmee welcomes visitors from around the world. Located just 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), guests from everywhere have easy-access to accommodations and sporting facilities – plus, for additional flight options, Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is less than an hour away. This Central Florida destination also proves convenient for driving, as Kissimmee is located just off West U.S. Highway 192, the primary corridor of the area, and is accessible via the Florida Turnpike.

The excitement continues outside the theme parks with Kissimmee’s incredible ecotourism experiences. Kayak through the Florida Everglades at The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek, fly across the water in an airboat at Boggy 22 320

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Sports: Archery, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, dance, field hockey, martial arts, soccer, track & field, tennis

Located at Walt Disney World Resort, the 255acre ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex hosts more than 100 events each year. This state-ofthe-art venue can host nearly every sport, from football and basketball to martial arts and soccer. The facility includes the 9,500-seat Champion Stadium; two multipurpose arenas – HP Field House and VISA Athletic Center – which offer seating capacity of 6,200; 18 multipurpose fields at Marathon Sports Fields used for soccer, football and lacrosse, and 16 baseball and softball fields; 10 tennis courts at Centre Court Stadium; and a track and field complex. Plus, the complex recently opened The Arena at ESPN Wide World of sports – a one-of-a-kind multipurpose 8,000seat, 300,000 square-foot arena, one of the largest in the nation designed specifically for cheer and dance events.

2. Osceola Heritage Park Complex

Sports: Basketball, BMX, cheerleading, equestrian, football, gymnastics, rodeo, volleyball

1 Planner Perspective

“The International Shuffleboard Association chose Kissimmee, Florida as the host destination for our 35th World Shuffleboard Championship in 2016. The Kissimmee Sports Commission went out of their way to make this a truly memorable and extremely successful event. Immediately following the world championship, our visiting competitors and family members stayed additional days to enjoy the area’s various amusement parks, wonderful restaurants, and of course numerous shopping outlets. Fabulous Hosts. Go Kissimmee!” – Michael R. Zellner, Past President, International Shuffleboard Association

This climate-controlled facility can accommodate a wide range of events due to its expansive layout. Located on an impressive 150 acres, the facility features the 10,500-seat Silver Spurs Arena, 60,000 square-foot Event Center, 3,500 squarefoot Heritage Club, and the 5,000-seat Osceola County Stadium, each space unique and flexible to host an assortment of sporting events. The venue has previously hosted the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo and AAU Basketball.

3. Austin-Tindall Sports Complex

Sports: Cheerleading, field hockey, football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, Ultimate Frisbee The recently-expanded complex features 10 multipurpose fields built to World Cup soccer regulations and three half-sized practice fields. Plus, the facility is home to a new championship stadium with seating capacity for over 3,000 and a clubhouse with meeting space and locker rooms. The venue has previously been home to the American Youth Football and Cheer National Championships and USL Pro Training.

4. ChampionsGate Sports Field Complex

Kissimmee Sports Commission John Poole

Executive Director Phone: 407-569-4838 Email: jpoole@kissimmeesports.com Website: www.kissimmeesports.com

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Sports: Lacrosse, soccer, rugby

These professionally-maintained fields sit adjacent to the AAA Four-Diamond Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate. The facility includes eight regulation fields with electronic scoreboards, a clubhouse with concessions, and flexible bleacher options. The complex has previously hosted the North American Caribbean Rugby Association and Major League Soccer pre-season training. Sports Planning Guide

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FLORIDA’S TREASURE COAST

THE TREASURE COAST, AS THE NAME SUGGESTS, IS HOME TO THE CROWN JEWELS OF NEARLY EVERY TYPE OF SPORTS FACILITY

This subtropical paradise, which runs along the Indian River, consists of over a dozen picturesque land and water facilities that will support every athlete, audience and sports competition. What’s more, you will almost never have to worry about insurmountable weather conditions, as the Treasure Coast (Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County) is widely known for its combination of sunny and breezy temperatures. The Treasure Coast offers athletes and coaches sports sanctuaries where they can participate in tournaments of every kind, from shooting competitions to international fishing and renowned PGA tournaments. The region has larger multi-sport arenas for those who wish to test their endurance in triathlons.

Things to do on the Treasure Coast The Treasure Coast, situated on the Central East Coast of Florida, boasts a myriad of fishing hotspots; walking, hiking and biking trails; and world-class beaches, such as Hobe Sound, Santa Lucea and Bathtub Reef. An aquatic center for competitive swimmers featuring towering slides and a lazy river for recreational use, Sailfish Splash Water Park is a favorite year-round activity on the Treasure Coast. Come for a day and splash away in the center’s championship caliber, Olympic-sized, FINA-compliant Myrtha pool.

Planner Perspective The Treasure Coast Sports Commission is truly a partner with the USSCMC helping us to promote sailing while bringing wonderful events to our community. These are events that generate much needed revenue for our area all the while generating customers for our local restaurants, hotels and retail stores. —Alan Jenkinson, Executive Director US Sailing Center of Martin Count

How to Get to the Treasure Coast The Treasure Coast is situated conveniently by Interstate 95. I-95 extends from Bridge Road in Hobe Sound to Fellsmere and the Treasure Coast. Other popular routes include the Florida Turnpike and U.S. Highway 1. Melbourne International Airport (53 miles) and Palm Beach Airport (69 miles) are within driving distance. 24 322

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1. First Data Field Sports: Baseball This gorgeous grass field is home to professionals and rookies alike, as the New York Mets train here during the spring. The High-A St. Lucie Mets and Gulf Coast Mets rookie teams take to the field during their respective seasons. First Data seats 7,160 people. Sterling Facility Services operates multiple full-service food and beverage stands. Free parking is available onsite.

2. Historic Dodgertown Sports: Baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, crew/rowing, rugby Historic Dodgertown in Vero Beach has four full fields, one 100 x 130-yard sport field that is used for soccer, rugby, lacrosse and football, one half-field, four softball/youth baseball fields, eight indoor pitching tunnels, a 60-yard agility and warm-up area, mini-field for bunting practice and 32 mounds/home plates for individual practices. Almost all of these facilities are equipped with AAA/AA Musco lighting. This venue offers food and beverage options plus has 80 villas onsite for overnight stays.

3. Halpatiokee Regional Park Sports: Soccer, football, tennis, softball, baseball, hockey, biking, fishing With 65 acres of beautiful parkland surrounded by 470 acres of wetland preserve and wildlife, Halpatiokee Regional Park prides itself in being the largest park in Martin County, Florida. Athletes have the dual pleasures of going head to head in all kinds of games and becoming one with nature. When you’re not playing on any of the natural grass fields, rent a canoe or kayak to see what lies in the South Fork of the Lucie River. Halpatiokee is the Seminole Indian word for “Alligator Water,” so keep your eyes and ears open.

Treasure Coast Sports Commission Rick Hatcher Executive Director Phone: 772-871-5458 Email: rhatcher@treasurecoastsports.org Website: PlayTreasureCoastFlorida.com @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER, FL ONE OF THE LARGEST CONVENTION CENTERS IN THE COUNTRY, THE ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER IN ORLANDO IS NOT ONLY KNOWN FOR ITS SPACE, BUT ALSO FOR ITS HOSPITALITY The second-largest convention center in the country, the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando is not only known for its space, but also for its hospitality. This massive venue welcomes sports events of all kinds while maintaining amenities and the capacity to handle anything from professional tournaments to regional events. The OCCC is on the brink of a major transformation with the construction of two new projects that will drastically improve the North/South building. The Convention Way Grand Concourse and an all-new Multipurpose Venue will provide even more meeting and event space for planners and attendees.

Things to do in Orange County Orlando is home to six of the world’s top 25 theme parks, which means there is no end to the fun visitors can have when they have an event at the Orange County Convention Center. Check out Universal’s Orlando Resort and SeaWorld for some great family entertainment. If theme parks aren’t your thing, there’s plenty more to see and do: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Topgolf Orlando, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf and much more.

Planner Perspective The Orange County Convention Center is our go-to partner when it comes to hosting successful events for USA Volleyball. We consistently rely on the outstanding OCCC team to assist us in planning and executing several events each year, including the 600+ team ASICS Florida Volleyball Challenge. The Orange County Convention Center facility has truly earned the title of being the Center of Hospitality. —Steve Bishop, Executive Director and President Florida Region of USA Volleyball, Inc.

How to Get to Orange County Orange County and the Orlando area are easily accessible for most people all over the country and just as easy for international attendees. It’s within a few hours’ drive of many major cities in the Southeastern portion of the U.S. Both area airports—Orlando International Airport and Sanford Orlando International Airport —are served by most major airlines. SportsPlanningGuide.com

1. West Concourse Located in the heart of Orlando’s tourism corridor, the award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) provides space for a variety of event options in two beautifully appointed buildings. The Center’s West Concourse showcases tropical atriums, skylights and intimate courtyards, and has welcomed more than 34 million visitors since opening in 1983. Located 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport, the OCCC is situated close to more than 118,000 hotel rooms, including more than 5,000 directly connected to the facility by a pedestrian bridge.

2. North/South Concourses When completed in 2003, the Orange County Convention Center’s North/South building brought the total exhibition space to 2.1 million square feet. The building is connected to the West Concourse with the Oversight Pedestrian Bridge, a 1,500-foot span with moving sidewalks. With its distinctive architecture and tropical ambiance, the North/South building delivers a space that is customizable and functional for a myriad of events. The Center’s broad offering of show management and exhibitor services, ranging from catering to telecommunications, are considered some of the finest in the convention industry.

3. Nearby Sports Venues and Facilities If you need more space for your sports events, there are a few other options nearby. The Amway Center is an indoor arena that was part of the Orlando Centroplex. Camping World Stadium and Orlando City Soccer Stadium are located just west of the Amway Center in downtown Orlando.

Orange County Convention Center Rodney Gutierrez Director of Sales Phone: 407-685-5731 Email: Rodney.gutierrez@occc.net Website: www.occc.net Sports Planning Guide

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Orlando North, Seminole County, FL great restaurants, attractions, amazing sports complexes and plenty of sunshine … what more can a person ask for?

There are plenty of reasons to visit Orlando North and the Seminole County area outside of its close proximity to world famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. There are also a slew of fabulous athletic facilities around the destination, making it a great place to host a sports tournament. Baseball players and coaches won’t want to miss the awe-inspiring, 100+ acre Boombah Sports Complex of Seminole County, and will be enthralled with a visit to historic Sanford Memorial Stadium. Softball enthusiasts will be equally mesmerized with two prime venues: Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park and Seminole County Softball Complex.

Things to do in Orlando North Orlando North offers endless opportunities for nature and outdoor activities, special events, arts and culture, nightlife and entertainment. Those visiting Wekiva Island can rent canoes, kayaks or paddleboards and spend a day floating down the picturesque Wekiva River. The river hosts an annual art festival and gallery with the chance to get an up-close look at artists while they work. 26 328

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Idyllically situated just 24 miles from Orlando and 36 miles from Daytona Beach, Sanford is a quaint town blessed with Southern charm. Downtown Sanford is teeming with boutique shops and nationally recognized eateries, such as Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Cafe, a renowned German restaurant serving schnitzel, bratwurst and other German classics. Black Hammock Adventures attracts visitors with topnotch airboat rides. When embarking on an airboat ride, guests can expect to stop at the Live Gator Exhibit, do some souvenir shopping at the gift shop, enjoy a meal at the facility’s restaurant or have a cocktail at the Lazy Gator Bar.

How to Get to Orlando North Interstates 4 cuts right through Orlando, running from Daytona to Tampa. Interstates 75 and 95 are also major routes that take you around the state, while Florida’s Turnpike goes north-south through Orlando. Located right in Orlando North, Orlando Sanford International Airport offers a range of domestic and international flights in the backyard of your final sports destination. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse

Boombah Sports Complex is the cream of the crop when it comes to American baseball facilities. Boombah Sports Complex spans 100 acres and boasts 3 batting cages, 15 playing fields, bullpen space and state-of-the-art LED lighting. Nine of the fields consist of artificial turf, while the other six are natural grass. The fences vary is distance from 315 to 385 feet, making this venue perfect for tourneys geared towards just about any age group. The complex also has more than 900 parking spaces, a 1.2-mile recreational trail, three concession stands and a playground. Complete with shaded bleachers, the complex is a perfect spot to relax and watch a great sports event.

2. Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park

Sports: Softball, youth baseball

Planner Perspective “Central Florida USSSA gives the highest recommendation for Seminole County. We host numerous events throughout the year, ranging from qualifiers to state/national events. Their professionalism and work ethic are top notch, thus surpassing their competitors. They are in constant communication with us from the planning stage to the finalization of every event which in return eliminates errors/confusion. Their fields and facilities are maintained to the highest degree by their highly trained staff. We look forward to our continued partnership.” – Tonya Waters, USSSA State Director, Girls Fastpitch

Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park offers six lighted athletic fields, all of which are natural turf and have 220-foot fences. All the fields are build and designed to meet NCAA softball regulations. One field is designated as the Stadium Field, and boasts increased capacity and is used for championship games. Some popular amenities include an indoor meeting space, a playground, walking paths, and an eight-lane batting cage, ensuring players can practice as much as they would like.

3. Seminole County Softball Complex Sports: Softball

Those looking to host a softball tournament in the Orlando area should look no further than Seminole County Softball Complex. It has five lighted fields with 305-foot fences and covered dugouts. Players and coaches love the water fountains and ice machines in the dugouts and the venue also features an 8,000-square-foot operations center.

4. Sanford Memorial Stadium Sports: Baseball

Orlando North Seminole County Sports Danny Trosset

Director of Sports Tourism Phone: 407-665-2902 Email: dtrosset@seminolecountyfl.gov Website: www.playorlandonorth.com

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This recently-renovated, 2,000-seat stadium once hosted the likes of Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson and Willie Mays. Built in 1951, it was once home to the New York Giants and the Boston Braves, certifying its importance in baseball history. Extensive renovations were made to the stadium in 2001, including major improvements to the grandstands, a new arc design roof, and new clubhouses for both teams.

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St. Pete-Clearwater, FL Located in Florida’s sunny Tampa Bay area, St. Pete-Clearwater spotlights several spacious sports facilities and entertaining attractions for your upcoming athletic event.

Located in Florida’s scenic Tampa Bay area, St. PeteClearwater is popularly known for its spectacular sand beaches and striking sunny weather. With a number of sports complexes, aquatic centers and playing fields, the vast region supplies facilities and resources for several sports. Additionally, you cannot go wrong with the long list of things to do off the field in St.Pete-Clearwater. Several museums and outdoor adventure tours will give visitors insight into what makes the beautiful area special, including aquariums and zipline tours stretching across the Tampa Bay region.

Things to do in St. Pete-Clearwater

The warm-weather and welcoming environment of St. Pete-Clearwater allows visitors to soak up the sun, play on the sand beaches and delight in excellent activities. Start off your trip with a visit to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a working marine hospital home to Winter the dolphin, star of the Hollywood-produced Dolphin Tale movies. Afterwards, head over to The James Museum where visitors will learn more about the culture of the wild, wild American West through diverse art. Next, continue museum-hopping by touring Imagine Museum, a top28 330

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notch art institution featuring glorious glass artwork and beautiful masterpieces. For those athletes who can’t get enough of the outdoors, several dolphin tours bring you up-close and personal with majestic dolphins, where you can watch the world’s most beloved animals.

How to Get to St. Pete-Clearwater

Getting around the St.Pete and Clearwater area by car is easy and stress-free, as the roads typically follow a grid system. The two major highways are I-75 and I-275 that join to the surrounding neighborhoods. St. PeteClearwater International Airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes away, roughly 12.5 miles, and services the following airlines: Allegiant, Sun Country Airlines, Sunwing and Flair Airlines.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Sand Key Park

Sports: Beach volleyball, beach soccer, surfing, beach sports, outdoor water sports Grab your swimsuit and check out Sand Key Park, a deluxe, picturesque beach for swimming, surfing, fishing and other outdoor athletic activities. This great family outing area also supplies beachgoers with resources like beach cabanas, a designated dog park, a playground, large bathhouses with lockers and showers, loads of parking and seasonal lifeguards. Two grand full-service beachside resorts are just moments away from the white-sand beach, allowing teams and their families to stay in comfortable hotels close to the Gulf. Concessions, picnic areas and restrooms are available onsite, and watersport and beach gear rental is offered.

2. North Shore Aquatics Complex

Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, water sports St. Pete’s premier pool spotlights a number of facilities that will enhance your swimmers’ taxing days of practices and meets. The complex features a 50-meter main pool, 25-meter warm-up pool, a play pool equipped with flume slides and zero depth entry, a splash pad, a low dive and a shaded picnic area. A swim team building, offices and parking also make arranging team meetings and events worry-free. Swim lessons and a variety of classes are also extended to swimmers of all skill-levels, accommodating the most seasoned of swimmers and starters in the sport.

3. Long Center Aquatic Complex

Planner Perspective “This was our first year working with VSPC and it could not have gone better. There was a sense of partnership right away, that they equally cared about the success of the event. As an event planner, I was incredibly thankful for their approach to planning and making sure that we were always on the same page. We could not have been happier with how the event was managed and all success is owed to VSPC and their team. We are actively looking to take more events back there and look forward to years of partnering with VSPC.” – Ryan Cunnane, Director of Events, USA Water Polo (UANA Jr Pan American Championships)

St. Pete Clearwater Sports & Events Sarah Kirchberg

Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, water sports, indoor sports The newly renovated Long Center Aquatic Complex is the ultimate destination for your next lengthy swim tournament, as it highlights an indoor Olympic-sized 50-meter swimming and diving facility. The complex is also equipped with a 25-yard training and therapeutic pool with consistent year round water temperature spanning about 90 degrees. Other indoor amenities at the Long Center include a gymnasium and fitness centers with treadmills, stationary bikes, rowing machine, free weights and other equipment. Outdoor resources feature soccer fields, a playground and walking/jogging trails. Several other camps and classes are offered at Long Center Aquatic Complex, making it accessible for swimmers and athletes of all skill-levels.

Senior Business Development Manager Phone: 727-464-7242 Email: sarah@visitspc.com Website: www.PlayStPeteClearwater.com

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Start with our 35 miles of award-winning white sand bliss. Add an endless supply of things to do, from outdoor activities to museums to Gulf-to-grill eateries. And our sports facilities? World-class. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a spectator or participant, come play.

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