2019 SPG's State Guide to Sports in Indiana by Premier Travel Media

SPG Keeping the Hoosier State Active Sports Indiana promotes tourism, economic development

EventReady

Destinations For Your Next Event

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

2019

INDIANA GUIDE

Welcome to Indiana

Shannon Sullivan Sports Indiana

Sports Indiana is a statewide effort dedicated to maintaining and strengthening Indiana’s deep sports traditions. The Hoosier State has been referred to as the birthplace of contemporary sport tourism, home to the Greatest Spectacle in Racing and the Amateur Sports Capital of the World. We have hosted hundreds of successful youth, collegiate, Olympic national and international championships across the state, and it would be our honor to host your event in Indiana. Indiana communities are committed to being the best sports destinations in the country. Our venues span the spectrum from historic to state-of-the-art, so we can find the perfect space to fit your needs. No matter where you go in Indiana, you’ll find consistent, top-notch service from our community members and partners. In addition to experienced professionals, we possess that one invaluable resource – dedicated volunteers who cater to the needs of every participant and fan. Our state is centrally located, so traveling to Indiana is convenient and affordable. We are within a day’s drive for most of the country, and we have several regional and international airports for those who are farther or prefer to fly. Once you arrive in Indiana, you may be surprised to find the terrain varies greatly across the state, from the beaches along Lake Michigan in the north to the rolling hills in southern Indiana. You’ll discover vibrant cities and quaint towns, boasting plenty of attractions for you to enjoy once the event has concluded. For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities, please visit sportsindiana.org or contact me directly at 317-237-5025. We are eager to help you in the planning process and look forward to sharing our Hoosier Hospitality with you. Sincerely,

Shannon Sullivan Sports Indiana

I NDIANA

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Indiana Offers a Treasure Trove of Fun Sports Indiana Grants Keep the Hoosier State Active

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Evansville, IN

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Grand Park Sports Campus, IN Terre Haute, IN Indiana Sports Corp Fort Wayne, IN South Bend Mishawaka, IN

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n 1937, a General Assembly resolution proclaimed “Crossroads of America” the new Indiana state motto. Today, with 14 Interstate highways beginning, ending or passing through the state, that declaration still holds true. Which is fortunate because Indiana is awash with compelling cities offering a wealth of entertainment options. And with so many highways crisscrossing the state, the majority of these locales can be reached in a quick, efficient manner. Here are a few cities and towns across the state that will entertain guests of all ages when their sports tournament has concluded.

Bloomington

This town located 50 miles south of Indianapolis is home to one of the

best universities and basketball hotbeds in the country: Indiana University. The university is also the location of the Eskenazi Museum of Art, one of the foremost university art museums in the country featuring an internationally acclaimed collection. The WonderLab Museum of Science, Health and Technology is a renowned science museum in the heart of Bloomington which features immersive hands-on exhibits and programs. Oliver Winery is one of the largest wineries east of the Mississippi and is a world-class destination, providing a myriad of top-rated wines that share one common characteristic: fruit-forward taste.

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The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo contains more than 1,000 animals of 200 different species.

OFFERS A TREASURE TROVE OF FUN

From big cities to small towns, Indiana will entertain the entire team 4 192

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Elkhart

Indianapolis

home to two gardens replete with natural beauty: The Wellfield Botanic

abundance of entertainment options including the Children’s Museum of

Gardens and Linton’s Enchanted Gardens. Wellfield is a living museum

Indianapolis, which is the largest of its kind in the world. The museum con-

dedicated to the celebration of nature and art. Situated just north of down-

tains 433,000-square-feet of exhibit space and features five floors of fun

town Elkhart on 36 acres, Wellfield’s gardens contain wide paths that

and interactive learning where families can visit with archaeologists, visit

wind through charming themed gardens enhanced by sculptures. The

a gallery that pays tribute to the men and women who helped make space

gardens are also home to a handsome collection of bronze wildlife,

exploration possible, and run, drive, jump, putt and play at the indoor and

including kingfishers and herons. Linton’s is Indiana’s largest home and

outdoor exhibits of Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience.

Elkhart, located about midway between Detroit and Indianapolis, is

garden center where visitors can ride a train around the grounds, play on bumper boats, climb a tree house and pet animals at a petting zoo.

The state’s capital and most populous city, Indianapolis features an

Located downtown in White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is a 64-acre zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. The zoo contains

Seventeen miles down the road from Elkhart is Nappanee, home to

approximately 3,800 animals and 320 different species, and patrons can

Amish Acres, the only Amish farm listed in the National Register of

walk through various ecological systems, from an African Savannah to an

Historic Places. Guests can visit a vintage farmhouse and learn about

Asian temperate forest. The zoo’s White River Gardens includes a 5,000-

the heritage, culture and history of the Amish and also take a wagon ride

square-foot conservatory and three acres of beautifully landscaped out-

to a one-room Amish school where they can participate in an old-fash-

door garden rooms.

ioned spelling bee. Amish Acres also offers a family-style Threshers Dinner in the century-old barn restaurant, featuring ham and bean soup served from cast iron kettles, baskets of homemade bread, sweet and sour pickles, meats and mashed potatoes.

South Bend

South Bend may be best known as the home of the University of Notre

Dame, but cheering on the Fighting Irish during a football Saturday is

“Elkhart is a vibrant and welcoming city offering fun for the whole

merely the tip of the iceberg. Sightseers can experience whitewater

family to enjoy during any sports competition in the Northern Indiana

rafting at East Race Waterway, the first artificial whitewater course in

region,” said Sonya Nash, director of group and experiential sales and

America; canoe and kayak at St. Patrick’s County Park and Potato Creek

marketing for Elkhart County.

Evansville

The Southern Indiana city of Evansville, which resides on the pictur-

Park and skate at the Compton Family Ice Arena, a 5,022-seat, two-rink facility. South Bend is an ideal destination for sporting events but also has plenty to do off the field,” said Nick Kleva, sports market development manager for Visit South Bend Mishawaka. “Many of our best attractions

esque Ohio River, has plenty to offer visitors, starting with Angel Mounds

– East Race Waterway, Potawatomi Zoo, Rum Village aerial park and

State Historic Site, nationally recognized as one of the best-preserved

more – are family friendly. South Bend is a well-rounded place to spend

prehistoric Native American sites in the United States. The Evansville

the weekend.”

Museum of Arts, History and Science, located in the Historic District downtown, contains comprehensive collections in art, history, anthropology and science and has a permanent collection of more than 30,000 objects

Hamilton County

Hamilton County, located just north of Indianapolis, is home to the

including fine arts, historic documents and photographs. The Mesker

iconic Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield. This 400-acre sports

Park Zoo and Botanic Garden sits on 45 scenic acres of rolling hills and

campus includes 31 multi-purpose fields suited for soccer and football to

houses more than 700 animals from around the globe as well as thousands

name a few sports, and the diamond portion of the campus includes 26

of exotic and regional botanic species.

baseball and softball diamonds. While Grand Park is impressive, it is but

Fort Wayne

a portion of the offerings Hamilton County contains. The county is also home to three of the state’s 20 largest cities and towns: Carmel (8),

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has been called one of the nation’s

Fishers (9) and Noblesville (14). Hamilton county features a slew of

finest zoos, as its 40 acres contains more than 1,000 animals of 200

attractions, including Strawtown Koteewi Park, a 750-acre park in

different species. Fort Wayne, the second largest city in Indiana, is also

Noblesville that encompasses more than 800 acres, has eight miles of

home to the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, one of the only

multi-use trails and stretches across three miles of the White River. The

botanical conservatories located in an urban setting. The conservatory

Carmel Arts and Design District, located in the heart of Old Town Carmel,

features lush, seasonal displays, four outdoor gardens and a tropical

is one of the Midwest’s premier arts and design destinations. It’s a

garden with orchids, palms, and a cascading waterfall. Children and

dwelling for interior designers, art galleries, showrooms, restaurants,

adults alike can explore Science Central, Fort Wayne’s hands-on science

antique stores and a variety of specialty retail shops. Fishers was named

museum.

one of America’s friendliest towns by MSN.com, and it offers the historical

“Tournament directors have told us that Fort Wayne is a great youth

allure of Conner Prairie, which spans nearly 1,000 wooded acres and

sports destination,” said Visit Fort Wayne CEO and President Dan

has various outdoor historically themed destinations and indoor experi-

O’Connell. “Sure, the venues are top-notch, built for getting multiple

ential learning spaces. Conner Prairie contains 12 outdoor and indoor

games completed over a few days. But also having family-friendly

destinations and experiences, including 1836 Prairietown, 1859 Balloon

attractions and other things to do is a big hit for the other members of

Voyage and 1863 Civil War Journey, which will enable the family to learn

the family not competing, or during the down time between games.”

about history while having fun doing so. SPG

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SPORTS INDIANA GRANTS KEEP THE

Hoosier State Active Group’s mission is to promote sports tourism and positive economic development statewide

Sports Indiana’s mission is to promote sports tourism and positive economic development statewide through a variety of sports and sporting events.

ports are an integral part of Indiana’s proud heritage and contin-

“The (curling national championship) was the first big curling event

ued growth. The state is home to the NCAA, USA Gymnastics,

held in South Bend,” said Nick Kleva, sports market development director

USA Track and Field, USA Diving, USA Football and a multitude

of Visit South Bend Mishawaka. “Curling was first introduced in South

of other governing bodies. Indiana has also hosted hundreds of collegiate

Bend when the Compton Family Ice Arena opened in 2011. Visit South

and Olympic national and international championships.

Bend Mishawaka was going after this event shortly after the facility

With so many athletic competitions seeking a host site on a regular basis, the state relies on the efforts of Sports Indiana, a private, not-forprofit organization comprised of allied sports and tourism representatives, to help attract some of those events.

opened, and finally, in 2014, South Bend and Notre Dame was awarded the arena championships.” “VSBM had to cover all the costs for the event, which were more than we expected,” Kleva added. “The Sports Indiana grant helped cover the

Sports Indiana’s mission is to promote sports tourism and positive

cost of the event, especially the ice costs for five days. Without this grant,

economic development statewide through a variety of sports and sporting

VSBM probably wouldn’t have been able to host this event. It is a great

events. Since 2011, the organization has been doing just that thanks in

benefit to have access being a member of Sports Indiana. It gives our

part to grants created from funding by the Lt. Governor’s Office and the

community the opportunity to host bigger events that otherwise we wouldn’t

Indiana Office of Tourism Development. The goal behind these grants is to

be able to host. We will definitely use the grant program for other events

assist communities in attracting and growing high-quality sporting events

in the future.”

to generate significant economic impact through participant spending.

From 2011 to 2017, $553,900 in grant money was awarded to 76 events

The grants not only cover traditional sports like baseball, basketball,

throughout the state. These events, which took place in 28 cities and

golf and soccer, they also help fund niche sporting events like archery,

assisted 26 different types of sports, attracted more than 101,082 partic-

boat racing, disc golf, water polo and curling. South Bend, which accom-

ipants and 1 million spectators and generated at least 13 million hotel

modates huge college football games a half dozen times every year as

room nights. One-third of the visitors who attended these events were

home of the University of Notre Dame, benefited from a grant in 2017

from out-of-state.

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Among the cities that received aid from grant funding are Elkhart (2016 @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Here’s How to Obtain a Grant

ith Sports Indiana grants being so beneficial to the state’s communities, questions often arise how cities and organizations can obtain a grant. According to Shannon Sullivan, project manager at Sports Indiana, any organization hosting a sporting event in Indiana is eligible to apply. Here are some additional details: Applications are accepted year-round The grant committee reviews applications once a month ■ Key considerations: • Bringing a new event to a community • Enhancing an event to keep it in Indiana • Impact of the event on the community – room nights, visitors • Fits within the goals and strategic plan of the community’s sports initiatives • Emerging sports, Olympic sports • Relationships with event owners ■ Applicants must have a grant sponsor. A grant sponsor is a Sports Indiana community member representing the area where the event is held. The purpose of the grant sponsor is to engage the CVB or sports commission with the event, provide guidance to the applicant and provide information to Sports Indiana regarding the history/importance of the event to the community. ■ This is a reimbursement grant. Grant recipients will receive the funding once the post- event report has been approved. ■ Visit sportsindiana.org/grant-program ■ ■

Amateur Softball Association’s Men’s Fast Pitch Open East Champi-

light. The welcome display and video board made the runners feel good

onships), Bloomington (2017 USA Water Polo Champions Cup), Michigan

and important, but it really helped with the fan experience as well. Again,

City (9th Annual Great Lakes Grand Prix in 2017), Evansville (2018 Ohio

this grant helped us promote the sport of cross-country, the specific event

Valley Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships),

we hosted and helped us with possible future bids all at the same time.”

Columbus (2016 USSSA Great Lakes World Series), and Fort Wayne (2018 Adaptive Sports USA Junior Nationals).

While the grants tend to focus mostly on amateur and youth sports, they also have been used to attract some professional competitions.

“Riverview Park Softball Complex in Elkhart will host the USA Softball

Recent pro events the grants have helped bring to Indiana include the

Fast Pitch Men’s Open East National Championships for the third

Tyr Pro Swim Series (which took place in May 2018 at the Indiana

consecutive year in 2018,” said Elkhart Mayor Tim Neese. “Sports Indiana

University Natatorium in Indianapolis).

has been a sponsor of the event for two of the last three years. The 2016

With amateur, youth and professional sports continuing to grow in pop-

tournament coincided with Riverview Park’s 50th anniversary and was

ularity and communities increasingly relying on these events for financial

the first national championship ever hosted by the city. The City of Elkhart

gain, initiatives like Indiana’s grant program become more important by the

is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Sports Indiana and work

day. Fortunately for the Hoosier State, this program is situated to facilitate

together to provide an added amenity to residents and reinforce our city

that growth and keep Indiana active for years, and generations to come.

parks as economic drivers for the community, crucial to future talent attraction and retention.”

“The Sports Indiana grant program is a huge asset that allows us to be competitive with other cities around the country,” said William Knox,

“Terre Haute had applied for the Sports Indiana grant to help welcome

Sports Indiana president. “Because of grants, our communities have had

cross-country participants and fans to the 2016 NCAA Div. I Cross Country

the opportunity to host events like the Big Ten Men’s Soccer Champi-

Championships held at the LaVern Gibson Championship Course,” said

onships, Adaptive Sports USA Junior Nationals and the Ohio Valley

David Patterson, executive director of the Terre Haute Convention &

Conference Basketball Championships, all of which have a significant

Visitors Bureau. “As many know, unfortunately, the sport of cross-country

economic impact. The grants are also important for creating memorable

does not always get a lot of media coverage. This grant assisted with out-

experiences for event owners, participants, and spectators that make

fitting the Indianapolis airport and showed the heralded sport in a positive

them want to come back to Indiana again and again.” SPG

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Evansville, IN Evansville is teeming with fascinating sports history, state-of-the-art facilities and endless educational experiences for players, families and spectators.

The famous line spoken by Tom Hanks in A League of Their Own may have even occurred in Evansville, considering that scenes at Dottie and Kit’s farm, Willie’s Suds Bucket and Racine Bells field were filmed in this cherished Hoosier State city. Visitors can visit Bosse Field, the site where Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Madonna once occupied, also known as the first municipally owned sports stadium in the nation and the third-oldest ballpark still in regular use for professional baseball, third only to Fenway Park in Boston and Wrigley Field in Chicago.

Things to do in Evansville

Other than planning memorable sports events, choosing a city with unforgettable activities to partake in is another vital aspect to consider when choosing a location for your next sports event.

and spectators can explore this 45-acre zoo situated on rolling hills and featuring over 700 animals from around the globe. Visitors can gaze upon thousands of exotic and regional botanic species as well as animals. Endless educational experiences are always happening at Evansville Arts, History and Science Museum, the Children’s Museum of Evansville and Dream Car Museum.

How to Get to Evansville

As a hub for the Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois tri-state area, Evansville is most commonly reached by US Highway 41 and Interstate 164. Major cities located within a fivehour drive from Evansville include Chicago, Louisville, St. Louis, Nashville and Indianapolis. The nearest major airport to Evansville is Evansville Regional Airport (EVV), located five miles from the city center and featuring various domestic flights.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the USS Landing Ship Tank 325 is a fully operational amphibious vessel designed to land-battle ready tanks, troops and supplies directly onto enemy shores. The ship offers hour-long, guided tours for groups and sports teams. At Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, players, families 8 196

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@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Deaconess Sports Park Sports: Baseball, softball

Deaconess Sports Park is an eight-field complex ideal for girls, women’s and men’s fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball, adult and co-ed softball league play and boys baseball for 12 and under tournaments. These state-of-the-art fields feature Musco Sports lighting, batting cages, shaded spectator seating, brick-covered dugouts, bullpens, team warm-up areas and a Wi-Fi tower for live streaming games. Further amenities at the fields include wireless scoreboards, two full-service concession stands, tournament director offices and an umpires locker room. For family members and spectators, the park offers a nine-foot wide, mile-long walking path, two playgrounds, a spray park, amphitheater and a large common area.

2. Goebel Soccer Complex

Sports: Field hockey, lacrosse, soccer

Planner Perspective

“Deaconess Sports Park is one of the best parks in the Midwest. It has everything to offer, a great overall layout, along with the best playing surfaces you will find anywhere. But, what stands out the most is the staff, from the CVB to the whole Park Staff. Great to work with and they always have our customers in mind. Cannot say enough good things. Come experience it yourself. You will not be disappointed!” – John and Trisha Grass, USSSA Baseball/Softball Directors, 3Up 3Down Events

Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau Brooke Harmening

Sports & Convention Sales Executive Phone: 812-421-2203 Email: bharmening@evansvillecvb.org Website: www.visitevansville.com

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A multi-purpose sports facility designed to serve local and regional tournaments and the community at large, Goebel Soccer Complex extends 70 acres with 10 different playing fields, including two fescue fields, seven Olympicsize irrigated Bermuda grass fields and one Olympic-size AstroPlay synthetic turf, six of which are lighted. Amenities at this top-notch sports facility are concessions, a training room, on-site restrooms, a visitor’s center, and office. Upcoming events at Goebel Soccer Complex include the Veterans Invitational Tournament in Nov. 2018; the facility also hosts several football and lacrosse events throughout the year. The complex is currently home to the Evansville Enforcers semi-professional football team of the Great Midwest Football League.

3. Ford Center Arena

Sports: Basketball, hockey, figure skating As the region’s center for sports and entertainment, Ford Center Arena is a stunning and exciting multi-purpose facility with 290,000 square feet and the capacity to seat 11,000 spectators. With 20,000 square feet of usable space, the arena can be modified for basketball, hockey, concerts, conventions, rodeos, expos and any other event imaginable. Home of the NCAA Division I University of Evansville Aces men’s basketball team and the SPHL Evansville Thunderbolts hockey team, Ford Center Arena has all the necessary amenities a sports facility needs, including wheelchair accessible seating, men’s, women’s and family restrooms, elevators, concessions, assisted listening devices, drinking fountains, first-aid assistance and several nearby hotels.

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GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS, IN LOCATED JUST 30 MILES NORTH OF INDIANAPOLIS, GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS IN WESTFIELD IS A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR SPORTS PLANNERS SEEKING WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES

A youth and adult recreational sports village designed to become a family sports destination like no other, Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield is a carefully designed 400-acre sports complex with championship-level facilities for baseball, softball, soccer, football, field hockey, lacrosse and so many more. With 26 diamonds and 31 multi-purpose fields, three indoor fields and eight indoor courts, it’s no wonder sports tournaments planners are flocking to Grand Park Sports Campus for their next world-class sporting event.

Things to do around Grand Park During downtime, coaches, players, family members and spectators have a wide variety of activities to choose from in and around Indianapolis. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers guests the opportunity to partake in indoor exhibits, outdoor sports experiences and live theater shows. At NCAA Hall of Champions in Indianapolis, two levels of interactive exhibits invite visitors to engage and create a true understanding of what it takes to be a NCAA Championship team. Trivia challenges, current team rankings, video highlights and donated artifacts are a few things guests can expect to find at the museum. Kids will love a trip to Indianapolis Zoo for a day of exploration and educational experiences.

Planner Perspective We recently completed the 2018 US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional Championships at Grand Park in Westfield, Indiana, and had an outstanding experience. For years, I’ve been telling people that Grand Park has the absolute best soccer park in the country. Sure, there are other parks that have high-quality fields and there are other parks that have a lot of fields, but Grand Park combines both quantity with quality in one pristine property. —Jonathan Meersman, Chair US Youth Midwest Regional Championship

1. Field Sports Facilities Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, football, flag football, Ultimate Frisbee Grand Park’s Field Sports facilities feature 24 Kentucky Bluegrass fields, seven synthetic fields, and one championship/ stadium field (with eight fields being lighted); all of which are outdoors. These 31 multi-purpose full-size fields are surrounded by three concession stands, each equipped with a second level that contains a 360-degree view of the fields. This area is also used for bookkeeping, meetings and scouting. The facility, which is home to the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp for the next 10 years, offers a Field Sports Administration Building with office and meeting space for officials, teams and classrooms, with additional restrooms and a set of locker rooms. The Events Center provides 3 indoor full-size synthetic fields for multi-use within the 377,000 square feet facility; which also includes a restaurant, bar lounge, and meeting space.

2. Diamond Sports Facilities Sports: Baseball, softball The Grand Park Diamond Sports facilities feature 26 diamonds surrounded by four concession stands and 14 batting cages. Of these diamonds, eight are FULL synthetic turf fields with lights and 18 are full synthetic turf infields with grass outfields; each featuring covered dugouts and bleachers. With turf infields, teams are guaranteed to play through rain, snow and cold weather at Grand Park. Diamonds are uniquely designed to accommodate play for multiple competition levels, including youth, high school, and collegiate divisions. The Diamond Sports Administration Building is also an asset for tournament directors who are in need of meeting space.

How to Get to Grand Park The campus can be reached by both I-465 East and US-31. Grand Park Sports Complex is situated in Westfield, less than a four-hour drive from major cities such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Louisville, Cincinnati and St. Louis. Major airports nearest the facility are Indianapolis International Airport, O’Hare International Airport and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. 10 198

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Grand Park Sports Campus TJ Land Business Development Manager Phone: 317-804-3010 Email: tjland@grandpark.org Website: www.grandpark.org @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Terre Haute, IN Situated by the breathtaking Wabash River and the beautiful Indiana State University (ISU) campus, the city of Terre Haute offers a host of options for your next sporting event venue.

The quaint, charming ambiance of Terre Haute mixed with a slew of arts and activities offers athletes and their families the chance to explore after a long day of sports. The multitude of options for athletic venues that Terre Haute provides makes the city a prime spot for sports planners to take their next away game. When teams are finished with their fun-filled days of games, a variety of restaurants, lodging accommodations and things to do will be sure to keep parents and athletes entertained.

Things to do in Terre Haute

Start your trip the right way, giving your young ones the chance to venture into the delightful Children’s Museum filled with fun activities such as the Toddler Zone, Fiddling with Physics and Health Zone. Alternatively, take a trip to Bogey’s Family Fun Center and Bouncin Barn for indoor and outdoor fun, including go-karts, bumper cars, arcade games, miniature golf and indoor inflatable bouncy centers. If you prefer peaceful nature walks, Dobb’s Park Nature Center equipped with a prairie, three-acre pond, a butterfly trail and three miles of gorgeous trails. For all the aspiring bakers on your team, visit the Clabber Girl Museum to gain more knowledge about the beginnings 12 200

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of American baking in the home. Also, established in 1995 by Eva Mozes Kor, the C.A.N.D.L.E.S Holocaust Museum allows visitors to learn about the Holocaust and engage in conversation with a Holocaust survivor.

How to Get to Terre Haute

Known as the “Crossroads of America” in the Heartland of the U.S., Terre Haute is roughly 120 miles from Indiana’s three navigable waterways, and close to several mainland highways. The main east-west access to the city is Interstate-70, and the most popular north-south access points are U.S. Highways 41 and 40. Indianapolis International Airport (IND), situated one hour from Terre Haute, is an appropriate choice for sports teams and families traveling from far away.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. LaVern Gibson Championship CrossCountry Course Sports: Cross country

Did you know this course is one of the few purpose-built cross-country courses in the world? This top-tier, 250-acre course provides ample space for runners to show off their endurance and speed, and offers a fenced-in, secure area for fans to cheer. This natural grass, spectatorfriendly course was meticulously designed for viewers to watch the entire race from the spectator section atop of a hill. The complex provides accommodations for high school meets and national championship events, and has hosted 15 national championships and 12 Nike Championships. The facility also has a press-box, parking, seating, restrooms and concessions.

2. Gibson Track and Field on the campus of ISU Sports: Track and field

Planner Perspective “Terre Haute put on a great show at the aquatic center hosting the 2018 Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Swimming and Diving Championships and the Indiana Swimming Southwest Divisional Championship. We bid on these meets to bring swimmers and fans to Terre Haute to compete in a championship format for the first time ever.” – Randy Jensen, Director, Terre Haute Aquatic Center

Terre Haute Convention & Visitors Bureau David A. Patterson

Executive Director Phone: : 812-234-5555 ext.11 Email: david@terrehaute.com Website: www.terrehaute.com

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Situated on the banks of the Wabash River, this top-notch track and field facility is equipped with a 400-meter track, a three-story press box facility, a Daktronics video board and accommodations for all NCAA field events that require multi-directional options. In its first four years, the facility has hosted three MVC championships. Named after longtime ISU supporters Max and Jackie Gibson, the track complex includes nine four-feet lanes, two 110-meter straight-aways, two high-jump zones, four vaulting runway spots and many throwing areas. Home to ISU’s men’s and women’s track teams, the complex ensures comfort and relaxation for your next track event.

3. Terre Haute Action Track

Sports: Midget car racing, sprint car racing, motocross Located on U.S. Route 41 along the south side of Terre Haute, this action track is perfect for hosting your next car racing event. This half-mile, slightly banked dirt oval track takes the stress off drivers and spectators with its convenient dirt, grass pits situated outside of the track for both racers and fans. Additionally, pit concessions are available, and tires and fuel are accessible at the track. Credit cards are accepted at the front gate, and easy access to grass parking makes getting situated easier and worry-free. Spectators can watch and enjoy the festivities in grandstand seating, guaranteeing an excellent view of the races. For those who want a close-up look at the thrilling races, tents and campers with hookups can be arranged, and coolers are allowed to enjoy a nice, cold beverage in the warm Indiana sun.

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Indiana Sports Corp

A major hub for U.S. professional sports, this Midwestern city welcomes athletes with a wealth of incredible venue options. Things to do in Indy

We know that any sports event can be taxing for athletes, coaches, and chaperones alike, so why not spend some time outside soaking up a bit of nature right in the heart of Indianapolis? At the Canal Walk you can stroll leisurely along the waterway as gondolas reminiscent of Italy take riders effortlessly up and down stream, or you can even rent a boat of your own. The canal walk is popular among walkers, runners, and bikers, and leads from 11th Street to White River State Park, a 250-acre park on the edge of downtown that is a beautiful place to relax and take in the skyline views. Just across the pedestrian-friendly White River Trail from the park, you’ll find the everpopular Indianapolis Zoo.

How to Get to Indianapolis

Major interstates I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74 lead to and from Indianapolis in all directions. Chicago is three hours to the northwest and Louisville is two hours to the south along I-65. Located just a 15-minute drive from the center of downtown, Indianapolis International Airport offers direct flights all over the U.S. and to four countries.

Our Commitment

Indiana Sports Corp, a not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1979 as the nation’s first sports commission. Early investments in premier events and venues, along with attracting major sports entities, solidified Indiana’s place in the world of sports. We believe that the fun, positive power of sports enhances vibrancy in Indiana communities. By bringing world-class sporting events to Indiana, we aim to boost the state’s reputation and create economic growth now and in the future. - Indiana Sports Corp

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Lucas Oil Stadium

Sports: Football, soccer, basketball Recognized on a national scale as the host of Super Bowl XLVI and home to both the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts and the USL’s Indy Eleven, this is a venue with a reputation for quality at the highest level. Situated in the heart of downtown and with incredible city views, this state-of-the-art facility offers so much in the way of space beyond what you see on the field. There is seating for around 70,000 including 139 executive suites for added luxury, and seven locker rooms.

2. Bankers Life Fieldhouse

Sports: Basketball, gymnastics, ice hockey, wrestling The arena is home to a few big names in sports, including the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. It’s also played host to major events such as the Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the USA Gymnastics P&G Championships, so sports planners know it has a reputation you can count on.

3. IU Natatorium

Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized swimming For nearly 40 years the IU Natatorium has been an important part of the swimming and diving community not just locally, but regionally as well. The center has been a host venue for such major events as the NCAA Swimming & Diving Championships, NCAA Water Polo Championship, U.S. Olympic Team Trials for diving, USA Swimming Arena Pro Series and High School Swimming State Championships, all of which speak volumes to the caliber of the events taking place here.

Indiana Sports Corp

Director of Tourism Phone: 317-237-5000 Website: www.indianasportscorp.org 14 202

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. LaVern Gibson Championship CrossCountry Course Sports: Cross country

Fort Wayne, IN

Adaptive sports facilities, renowned arenas and colossal coliseums invite planners to organize their next sports event in this Northeast Indiana city. Due to the Hoosier State’s rich basketball history as a five-time NCAA Championship winner for men’s basketball, it is no surprise the rest of the state has an abundance of modern sports facilities. In Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne has some of the finest arenas, adaptive sports facilities, field houses and historical coliseums in the state.

2. Gibson Track and Field on the campus of ISU

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Sports: Track and field

1. PlassmanSituated AthleticonCenter at Turnstone the banks of the Wabash River, this

Sports: Wheelchair basketball, powerwith soccer, top-notch track andwheelchair field facilitytennis, is equipped adaptive golf, sled hockey, goalball, quad rugby, a 400-meter track, a three-story pressboccia box facility,

Things to do in Fort Wayne

a Daktronics video board and accommodations Providing adaptive sports and recreation for over two decades, for all NCAA field events that require multi-directional Turnstone is a leader in adaptive sports for children and adults with options. In its first four years, the Athletic facility has disabilities. Their new, state-of-the-art Plassman Center hosted three championships. Named after a andMVC recreational opportunities, featuring offers both competitive longtime ISU supporters Max and Jackie Gibson, 75,000-square-foot field house, a 230-meter track, four collegiate the track includes basketball courts and a complex warm water pool. nine four-feet lanes,

For those coming from the East, take Interstates I-90 W, I-76 W and I-71 S to US-30 W. If coming from the South, take Interstates I-75 N, I-24 W, I-65 N and I-69 N to Illinois Road. Fort Wayne is nearest Fort Wayne International Airport, with passenger flights reaching twelve airline hubs of Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Philadelphia.

driversIcehouse and spectators with its convenient dirt, SportONE Parkview is a multi-purpose rink with state-ofgrassnamely pits situated of the for both the-art amenities, its threeoutside NHL sized icetrack surfaces. As the only racersinand fans.and Additionally, concessions are the three-sheet facility Indiana one of thepit largest in the region, available, and tires fuel are accessible at the icehouse features both youth andand adult recreational and competitive track. Credit cards are accepted at the front gate, leagues, and has partnerships with the Fort Wayne Amateur Hockey andWayne easy access to grass parking makesTech getting Association, Fort Ice Skating Club and Indiana Hockey situated easier and worry-free. Spectators can Teams.

Planning a sports event isn’t just about the athletic facilities a region, city or town provides, but also what sorts of activities athletes and their families can enjoy two 110-meter straight-aways, two high-jump in their downtime. At the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, zones, War four vaulting runway spots and many 2. Allen County Memorial Coliseum visitors can gaze upon rare and bizarre animals, such as throwing areas. Home to ISU’s men’s and women’s Sports: Basketball, hockey, wrestling, volleyball Amur leopards, De Brazza’s monkeys, zebra sharks and track teams, the complex ensures comfort and A multi-use arena, Allen County War Memorial Coliseum was initially Plannerhornbills. Perspective wrinkled A unique and valuable resource for the relaxation for your next track event. built in 1946 as a living memorial to the nation’s war veterans. Since Northeastern Indiana community, the Genealogy Center “Terre Haute put on a great show at the aquatic center hosting the its construction, the coliseum has held several major sporting events, offers group Collegiate tours to educate aboutSwimming family 2018 free Heartland Athleticvisitors Conference and Diving 3. Terre Haute Action Track including the 1955 and 1956 NBA Finals and the 2010 NCAA Men’s history, with more than one million physical collection Championships and the Indiana Swimming Southwest Divisional Sports: Midget car racing, sprint car racing, Division I Ice Hockey Tournament Midwest Regional. Today, this massive items to help researchers discover detailsto ofbring their swimmers lineage. and fans Championship. We bid on these meets motocross arena is home to the Fort Wayne Komets, Fort Wayne Mad Ants and the to Terre Haute to compete in a championship format for the firstFort Wayne Derby Located Girls.on U.S. Route 41 along the south side How to Get to Fort Wayne time ever.” of Terre Haute, this action track is perfect for Those coming from the West Coast or Midwest states 3. SportONE Parkview Icehouse – Randy Jensen, Director, Terre Haute hosting your next car racing event. This half-mile, like Iowa and Illinois, take Interstate I-80Aquatic E, thenCenter take Exit Sports: Hockey, sled hockey, iceoval skating, curling slightly banked dirt track takes the stress off 31 for State Highway 49 toward Chesterton/Valparaiso.

Planner Perspective

Terre Haute Convention & Visitors Bureau

“We host events all over the nation and Fort Wayne is our David A. Patterson favorite by far! Fort Wayne’s welcoming community and Executive Director outstanding facilities are second to none.” Phone: : 812-234-5555 ext.11 - Todd Hensley, Gym Rats Basketball Email: david@terrehaute.com Website: www.terrehaute.com

204 Sports Planning Guide SportsPlanningGuide.com

watch and enjoy the festivities in grandstand seating, guaranteeing an excellent view of the Visit Fort look Wayne races. For those who want a close-up at the thrilling races, tents andStephanie campers with hookups Coleman can be arranged, and coolers are allowed to enjoy Group Sales Manager, Sports a nice, cold beverage in the warm Indiana sun.

Phone: 260-424-3700 Email: stephanie@visitfortwayne.com Website: www.visitfortwayne.com/sports-events/

15 @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 201

2 1

South Mishawaka, IndianaBend Sports Corp IN

Searching the globe for the ideal destination to host your sporting event? Find it in South Bend, Indiana, A majorany hubtournament for U.S. professional sports, this Midwestern cityfor welcomes where or competition is sure to be a victory all. athletes with a wealth of incredible venue options. Things to do do in in Indy South Bend Mishawaka

South We know Bend, that Indiana any sports offersevent morecan than bejust taxing state-of-the-art for athletes, sports coaches, facilities. and chaperones It also offers alike, thesoopportunities why not spend to make some those time outside unforgettable soakingmemories up a bit ofthat nature will right build in teamwork the heart and of Indianapolis? camaraderieAt among the Canal yourWalk teamyou members can stroll thatleisurely will along transfer the waterway onto theas court gondolas or field. reminiscent Your thrill-seeking of Italy take teammates riders effortlessly can take up advantage and down stream, of unique or attractions you can even like the rentEast a boat Race of your Waterway, own. The thecanal first man-made walk is popular whiteamong water rafting walkers,course runners, in North and bikers, America, and to leads form from teams 11thand Street work together to White to River raceState against Park, opposing a 250-acre teammates. park on the Players edge whose of downtown sweet tooth that isisainsatiable beautiful place after hours to relax of and exhausting take games in the skyline are likely views. to find Justa across stop atthe The pedestrian-friendly South Bend Chocolate White RiverCompany Trail fromfor thea park, tour of you’ll the find factory the and evera look at popular the store’s Indianapolis chocolates Zoo. and sweets the perfect reward. A tour around the University of Notre Dame’s campus How to Get the to Indianapolis experiencing rich athletic tradition or a day at Four Major interstates I-65, the I-69,South I-70, and I-74 lead to and from Winds Field watching Bend Cubs minor league Indianapolis in play all directions. Chicago is three hourssports to the baseball team will inspire the most dedicated northwest and Louisville is two hours to the south along enthusiasts. I-65. Located just a 15-minute drive from the center of How to Get to South International Bend Mishawaka downtown, Indianapolis Airport offers direct South location it is conveniently flights Bend’s all overcentral the U.S. and to means four countries. accessed by all reaches of the country. Southern teams can South Bend through U.S. Route 31 which passes Ourreach Commitment just westSports of theCorp, city by its airport. Teams coming from Indiana a not-for-profit organization, was the east or west can as utilize U.S. Route or I-80/I-90 which founded in 1979 the nation’s first20 sports commission. both throughin the city and spanand from coast to coast. Early pass investments premier events venues, along Recently expanded from justentities, regionalsolidified service to include with attracting major sports Indiana’s international flights, place in the world ofSouth sports.Bend International Airport is becoming a leading provider of travel to and from the area. We believe that the fun, positive power of sports enhances vibrancy in Indiana communities. By bringing Planner Perspective world-class sporting events to Indiana, we aim to boost “The Southreputation Bend Mishawaka areaeconomic has been growth a vital now the state’s and create location tofuture. the success of our events for a number and in the of years now. The facilities, hotels, and surrounding - Indiana Sports Corp atmosphere in the area have attracted teams from around the country to the tournaments we host locally. South Bend Mishawaka is one of the top two or three locations we focus on nationally!” - Tom Davidson, Pastime Tournaments 16 202 Sports Planning Guide SportsPlanningGuide.com

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Compton Lucas Oil Stadium Family Ice Arena

Sports: Football, Ice hockey, soccer, figure basketball skating, broomball, curling Experience Recognizedallonthe a national victories,scale teamwork as theand host bonding of Super memories Bowl XLVI and home to both NFL’s Indianapolis Colts and the USL’s of competition in a the state-of-the-art facility when you choose Indy Eleven, is a venue with reputation foryour quality Notre Dame’sthis Compton Family IceaArena to host nextat the highest level. Situated in the heart of downtown and sporting event. The 212,000-square-foot building houses itswith incredible city views, this state-of-the-art facility offers so much 4,500-seat, NHL-sized Charles W. “Lefty” Smith Jr. Rink suited in the way of space see on theOlympic field. There for competitions andbeyond the 350-seat, Olympic-sized Rink what you is seating arounddrills 70,000 perfect forfor warm-up and including practice. 139 executive suites for

added luxury, and seven locker rooms.

2. Byer’s Softball Complex Sports: 2. Bankers Softball, Lifebaseball Fieldhouse

Sports: Basketball, gymnastics, ice hockey, wrestling

Byer’s Softball Complex is another example of what makes South The arena is home to and a few big names inbring sports, the Bend, Indiana a classic dynamic city to anyincluding kind of sports NBA’sto. Indiana Pacersfive and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. It’s also team This facility’s well-maintained diamonds not only will playedyour hostplayers to major as the Big Ten Men’s ensure canevents play tosuch the best of their ability eachand game, Women’s Basketball the NCAA Women’s Final but also have won the Tournaments, James Farrell Award of Excellence 15 times.

Four and the USA Gymnastics P&G Championships, so sports

3. Jr. Irish Soccer planners know it has aComplex reputation you can count on. Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee

3. IU Natatorium Located right by the South Bend International Airport, the Jr. Irish Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized Soccer Complex offers convenient access in and out of the city for swimming teams traveling by plane. This outdoor complex contains 12 soccer For nearly 40 years the IU Natatorium has been anfor important fields of natural turf playing surface, making it ideal larger part of tournaments the swimming and diving community not just locally, soccer requiring multiple simultaneous games and but regionally aswarm-up well. Thespace. center has been a host venue extra practice or for such major events as the NCAA Swimming & Diving Championships, NCAA Water Polo Championship, U.S. Olympic Team Trials for diving, USA Swimming Arena Pro Series and High School Swimming State Championships, all of which speak volumes to the caliber the events taking place here. Visit of South Bend Mishawaka

Nick Kleva

Indiana Sports Corp Sports Market Development Manager Director of Tourism Phone: 574-400-4021 Phone: 317-237-5000 Email: nkleva@visitsouthbend.com Website: www.indianasportscorp.org Website: www.visitsouthbend.com @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 205

Your sponsors want to leverage this partnership to build brand awareness, increase publicity, boost sales, improve customer loyalty and differentiate from the competition. Studies have demonstrated a connection between the goodwill of a sporting event with the sponsoring corporation’s employee loyalty. In an article published by Human Resource Management, pride in one’s company directly correlates to its sponsorship of the Olympics. It wasn’t just the super recognizable name of the sporting event that led to the increase in pride either. It was its ties to community and peaceful efforts that led employees to view their company in a more positive light. Curious to know what you can do to drive up the value of your sponsorships and get more quality companies to sponsor your sporting events? Statistics collected by IEG in 2018 will shed some light on this:

Most Valuable Sponsor Perks Much of what sponsors want nowadays extends beyond just getting a logo printed on uniforms. Due to the ever-increasing rise of digital, the most valuable sponsorships are ones that utilize a multi-channel approach. These are the most valuable sponsorship perks as indicated by survey respondents: 55 percent want category exclusivity 42 percent want digital, mobile, and social media advertising 38 percent would like tickets and hospitality for entertaining purposes n 32 percent want to be featured on on-site signage n 19 percent would like access to the sports governing body’s audience data n n n

Russell Athletic continues to serve as the official uniform provider for Little League Baseball, even though it’s pivoted in recent years away

from uniform sponsorships. However, its 30-plus-year relationship with Little League Baseball has proven to be a worthwhile investment for the company. Clif Bar & Company offers its well-publicized goody bag program to sports organizations seeking sponsorships from the company. Within the program, they hope to get their brand in front of “community-minded, human-powered, athletic and/or socially responsible and sustainablyminded events for all kinds of people all over the nation.” For sporting events that get accepted into the goody bag program, Clif Bar & Company lends its logo for promotion across all channels: on-site, digital, merchandise and more.

Most Common Objectives for Sponsors These are the most common objectives corporations want a sponsorship to help them attain: 50 percent want to boost brand visibility 46 percent want to increase customer loyalty 33 percent want to entertain clients or prospects with sporting event tickets n 30 percent want to reach more prospects and, in turn, increase trials and sales n 29 percent want to demonstrate their company’s commitment to community and social responsibility n 26 percent hope to sell their products or services to the sports organization n n n

DICK’S Sporting Goods is an example of a company that targets sponsorship opportunities within local communities. With 68 percent of companies exploring new opportunities, it’s up to you to make your sponsorship program as attractive as it can be.

Gustavo Frazao/Bigstock.com

Beyond Banners: What Sponsors Really Want from Sports Tournament Sponsorships By Brenda Barron

ports event sponsorship is a big deal for businesses. For some, it’s a way to get their products directly into the hands of their target user base. For others, it’s about increasing visibility of their brand. Still, there are some who use it as a way to give back to the local community. For your sports governing organization, it’s about drumming up revenue to balance out the costs of running those events. According to Sponsorship.com, estimates put sports sponsorship revenue at around $17.05 billion in 2018. Keep in mind, however, that just because your event has a well-publicized sponsorship program, that doesn’t mean every corporation you approach (or that has been involved in it) will want to support your next event. In fact, 58 percent of surveyed businesses are currently looking to get out of a sponsorship. Corporations have to be very careful about how they handle their advertising spend. The wrong sponsorship opportunity could lead to a lot of wasted spend, which makes this a decision that most businesses will heavily scrutinize before signing on the dotted line. 24 SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide

With 68 percent of companies currently exploring new opportunities, it’s up to you to make your sponsorship program the most attractive it can be. The following guide will break down why many sponsors get involved with sporting events and, consequently, provide you with some guidance for developing your own program.

What Do Sponsors Look for in Sports Sponsorships? Sponsorships might be what fuel your sporting event, but, to your sponsors, they’re a new marketing opportunity. As such, companies need to ensure that any money put into it will result in a positive return on investment. It doesn’t matter if you’re appealing to sponsors for: n Money n Uniforms n Equipment n Refreshments n Travel-related costs n Or something else 17 @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 25

Your sponsors want to leverage this partnership to build brand According to sponsorships. the DICK’S Sporting Goods Community page: from uniform However, its 30-plus-year relationship with awareness, increase publicity, boost sales, improve customer loyalty and “DICK'S Sporting Goods Community proudly supports Little League Baseball has proven to be aProgram worthwhile investment for the differentiate from the competition. leagues, teams, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts through thousands company. Studies have demonstrated a connection between the goodwill of of youth outdoor recreation organizations in communities Clif sports Bar & and Company offers its well-publicized goody bag program to a sporting event with the sponsoring corporation’s employee loyalty. In surrounding our stores.”seeking sponsorships from the company. Within the sports organizations an article published by Human Resource Management, pride in one’s program, they hope to get their brand in front of “community-minded, Popular Sponsorship company directly correlates to its sponsorship of the Olympics. It wasn’t Most human-powered, athletic and/orChannels socially responsible and sustainablyThese are the channels that in highest by sponsors: just the super recognizable name of the sporting event that led to the minded events for all kinds ofare people all overdemand the nation.” increase in pride either. It was its ties to community and peaceful efforts For sporting events that get accepted into the goody bag program, n 98 percent would like social media promotions that led employees to view their company in a more positive light. Clif Bar & Company lends its logo for promotion across all channels: n 79 percent want a press release Curious to know what you can do to drive up the value of your sponon-site, digital, are merchandise more. n 79 percent interestedand in hospitality benefits sorships and get more quality companies to sponsor your sporting n 77 percent want to leverage space on-site to provide an experience or sell goods at events Most Common Objectives for Sponsors events? Statistics collected by IEG in 2018 will shed some light on this: n These 56 percent want traditional advertising are the most common objectives corporations want a sponBuckeye partnership with the Equine Affaire is a good Most Valuable Sponsor Perks sorship to Nutrition’s help them attain: Much of what sponsors want nowadays extends beyond just getting example. n 50 percent want to boost brand visibility a logo printed on uniforms. Due to the ever-increasing rise of digital, the While the event gets to take advantage of Buckeye’s nutritional feed n 46 percent want to increase customer loyalty most valuable sponsorships are ones that utilize a multi-channel approach. products forpercent its horses, Buckeye twooron-site opportunities in n 33 want to entertaingets clients prospects with sporting These are the most valuable sponsorship perks as indicated by survey exchange. Thetickets first is a booth where staff can answer questions horse event n have. 30 percent want to more prospects and, in turn, respondents: owners The second is reach an opportunity to present during a seminar increase trials and horse sales performance and nutrition. on the connection between n 29 percent want to demonstrate their company’s commitment to n 55 percent want category exclusivity Nesquik has spoken openly about what types of platforms it’s happy community and social responsibility n 42 percent want digital, mobile, and social media advertising to leverage in its sponsorship of soccer and other sporting events n 26 percent hope to sell their products or services to the sports n 38 percent would like tickets and hospitality for around the U.S. organization entertaining purposes “On-site presence is a very important aspect of all our sponsorships n 32 percent want to be featured on on-site signage DICK’S Sporting Goods is an example a company teams that targets and we leverage our local presence marketingofambassador to n 19 percent would like access to the sports governing argus456/Bigstock.com body’s audience data sponsorship opportunities withinpresence local communities. continuously build out the on-site with clubs…Social media and retail integration are also becoming more and more important comRussell Athletic continues to serve as the official uniform provider for ponentsWith of our sponsorship activations.” 68 percent of companies exploring new opportunities, it’s up to you Little League Baseball, even though it’s pivoted in recent years away to make your sponsorship program as attractive as it can be.

Sponsors are Interested in Data, Too

It doesn’t stop at the event gate. Sponsors want insight into your teams and fans. 50 percent want assistance measuring the ROI of their sponsorship campaign. n 46 percent would like a fulfillment audit. n 34 percent want to know what your audience thought of their brand’s image. n 31 percent would like your help developing related content. n

Coca-Cola takes its cause-related sponsorships so seriously, it’s worked with Demos to develop its own metrics for evaluating the impact its sponsorships have had both internally as well as externally.

What Will Your Sponsorships Offer? As you can see, it’s not just about billboards, uniforms, or running advertisements during live broadcasts anymore. Sponsors expect to get a valuable return on their investment, which means offering a trade-off that works just as well for you as it does for them. Now, take this info and run with it! SPG

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

matimix/Bigstock.com

18 SportsPlanningGuide.com 26 Sports Planning Guide

Brenda Barron is a writer from southern California. She enjoys spending time with her family, doing yoga, knitting, and completing random craft projects. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 25

Sponsors are Interested in Data, Too

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

matimix/Bigstock.com

26 SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide

Brenda Barron is a writer from southern California. She enjoys spending time with her family, doing yoga, knitting, and completing random craft projects. 19 @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 25

Evansville, Indiana is an easy drive and centrally located between St. Louis, Nashville, Indianapolis and Louisville. And we have two great parks in one complexâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Deaconess Sports Park and Goebel Soccer Complex. Both parks have ample and convenient parking, concessions, a walking trail and Zagster bike rental. Deaconess Sports Park 8 fields Playgrounds & splash pads Shaded bleachers

(800) 433-3025 VisitEvansville.com/Sports

CROSS COUNTRY

Goebel Soccer Complex 10 fields Olympic field with synthetic turf Suitable for field hockey & lacrosse

The Evansville Convention and Visitors Bureau team offers free sporting event planning materials and services. We are ready to host your next event and make your Evansville experience a success.

HOCKEY

SOCCER

BASKETBALL

GOLF