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NORTH CAROLINA GUIDE
A LEADER ON THE DIAMOND EVENT- READY DESTINATIONS HIGHLIGHTING TOP VENUES
North Carolina is filled with great facilities
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL IS BIG FUN A Premier Travel Media publication www.SportsPlanningGuide.com
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Jason Philbeck NCSA Chair Dear Sports Event Rights Holders,
As we all know, teamwork and partnerships are crucial to hosting a great sports event and you will not find any place where this is more evident than the great state of North Carolina. SportsNC is North Carolina’s statewide sports development effort dedicated to growing and promoting the sports event i ndustry. In partnership with Visit NC, this ongoing effort is championed by the North Carolina Sports Association (NCSA), a statewide collaboration of Sports Commissions, CVBs, Park and Recreation entities and Sports Authorities from across North Carolina, who share a direct interest in supporting sports tourism. The NCSA exists to help you explore North Carolina to find the perfect community to host your next successful sports event! North Carolina’s arsenal of sports venues is as impressive as the state’s wide-ranging and geographically diverse footprint. From the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to some of the highest mountains on the East Coast, it’s a footprint of unrivaled sports terrain whether you are a participant or spectator. Sports events rights holders choose North Carolina year after year due to our unbeatable venues, hospitality, temperate climate and central location on the East Coast.
Whether you are looking to bring a new event to North Carolina or already have an event in the state, SportsNC’s partners are ready and willing to provide unparalleled service to ensure the success of your event. From amateur events to international championships, North Carolina can provide the perfect location for any sports event. The state is home to world-class venues, world champion professional sports, superior amateur sports and the best collegiate sports in America. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram as our members continue to spotlight their sports destinations throughout 2018! Get to know what makes each of our members such great sport partners as they'll be giving you a behind the scenes look into their destination. Join us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings, and visit the SportsNC website for partner contact information and more.
For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities and award-winning venues in North Carolina, please contact: info@sportsnc.com. As always, we look forward to assisting with your next event! Yours in Sport,
Jason Philbeck NCSA Chair
NC
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North Carolina is a Leader on the Diamond Minor League Baseball is Big League Family Fun
Mooresville, NC Greensboro, NC Greenville, NC Nash County, NC Wilmington and the Beaches, NC Winston-Salem, NC
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orth Carolina has long legs in hosting competitive events for traveling teams. From the beginning, baseball and softball competitions have been regulars on the state’s sports scene. Here’s a look at the destinations and their venues that are wooing event planners.
The USA Baseball National Training Complex in 2019 will enter its 12th season hosting top-notch baseball events. The stadium field and three practice fields each have dimensions of 330 feet down the lines and 400 feet to straight-away center field. The stadium field features a press box with two suites, an official scorer’s table and a press row. There’s spectator seating for 2,000 at the stadium field and restrooms and concessions are available at each field.
PLAY BALL!
North Carolina is a Leader on the Diamond From the mountains to the piedmont to the coast, North Carolina is a given when event planners are reviewing baseball and softball sites
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Wilmington
In addition to seven various city park fields, three of which are lighted, Wilmington features two stadiums/complexes in their mix. For baseball, Godwin Stadium is lighted, seats 1,000 and has plenty of parking. The Legion Sports Complex features a lighted artificial turf field, 3,500 seats, home and visitor field house, concessions, press box and paved parking. Olsen Park also features five lighted baseball/ softball fields, a restroom/vending building, a picnic shelter and parking. Brooks Field on campus for baseball and Boseman Field on campus for softball at UNC-Wilmington are both NCAA Division I fields.
Baseball and softball are hugely popular in the Tar Heel State as numerous cities offer fabulous ballpark experiences.
Greensboro
Although Greensboro is best known for aquatics, basketball and soccer, Carolyn Allen Park is no stranger to hosting ballgames. Four baseball/softball tournament fields feature 300-foot fences with temporary fencing available for Adult Slow Pitch Softball, Girls Fast Pitch Softball and Youth Baseball. There’s a concession stand, bleacher seating and a picnic area just outside the park. Check out the minor league baseball Greensboro Grasshoppers schedule while your event is in town.
Fayetteville
Scattered throughout the area are eight baseball/softball venues to fit your every need. 360 Elite Sports Training features six Astro Turf high school-sized fields and two portable pitching mounds along with six batting cages. Larger 300 feet completion fields are available at Glendale Acres Elementary School, Greenwood Park, R. Max Abbott Middle School, Terry Sanford High School and Milton E. Mazarick Park. Make sure to catch a minor league baseball game at the new stadium.
Rocky Mount
Just four miles off I-95, the Rocky Mount Sports Complex sits on 143 acres with 11 fields dedicated to baseball/softball. There are six youth playing fields each with six-foot fences at 200 feet. Four softball/multipurpose fields are 325 feet with six-foot fences. Portable fencing can reduce the fields to 200 or 225 feet. The championship baseball field features 350/380-foot fences. All fields are lighted and irrigated and feature Bermuda grass infields and outfields and a professionally mixed sand and clay infield.
Gaston County
Belmont Abbey College has been a great partner for Gaston County. A Division II college, Abbey Yard is the college’s home baseball field and an excellent championship venue. The college’s softball field also serves as a championship site. Nearby, George Poston Park features four baseball/softball lighted fields and picnic shelters. In Gaston, an additional four lighted baseball/softball fields can be found in the 48-acre Martha Rivers Youth Complex.
Greenville-Pitt
The East Carolina University Pirates, an NCAA Division I American Conference member, has baseball and softball stadiums capable of hosting events. Clark-LeClair Stadium seats 5,000, and measures 320 feet down the lines and 390 feet to center field. The stadium also features indoor and outdoor batting cages. Among the many player amenities are the spacious clubhouse and locker room. ECU Softball Stadium contains a state-of-the-art video board in right center field with a three-camera system. Near the ECU campus, Elm Street Park Stallings Stadium is no stranger to championship play. Greenville’s Sara Law Softball Complex provides four natural grass fields and two practice fields.
Winston-Salem
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Winston-Salem is fortunate to have an Atlantic Coast Conference university with outstanding facilities. David F. Couch Ballpark on the campus of Wake Forest University features a state-of-the-art indoor batting facility and two home plate programmable pitching machines. Throughout the city, there are a variety of competition ballparks. Blum Field, historic Hanes Hosiery, Parkland Field, South Park Field and Washington Park No. 1 are lighted. Secondary practice fields are also available. For additional information about ballfields in the Tar Heel State contact info@sportsnc.com. SPG Sports Planning Guide
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NORTH CAROLINA MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Is Big League Family Fun
With fun promotions, entertaining mascots and specialty foods, North Carolina’s 11 minor league boys of summer are the best value in professional sports
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orth Carolina has plenty of options for families and teams to enjoy off the field. For those visiting between early spring and late summer, catching a ballgame featuring one of the state’s 11 minor league baseball teams should be high on the list. There’s likely a stadium near your competition event. The Asheville Tourists are a Class A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies playing in historic McCormick Field. Built in 1924, it was a popular stop for major league teams heading north after spring training. The New York Yankees, with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and in 1948, the Brooklyn Dodgers with Jackie Robinson, played at McCormick Stadium. Renovated in 1991, the facility made numerous changes to make it a fan-friendly venue, but the field remained the same. Friday Fireworks, Dollar Dog Night and Kids Eat Free are regular promotions. Having played their first two seasons on the campus of Campbell University’s Jim Perry Stadium, the class A Advanced affiliate of the Houston Astros, the Buies Creek Astros will be moving to a new venue in nearby, downtown Fayetteville for the 2019 season. The new $37.8 million stadium will be ready for opening day and a team name is in the works. More than 1,400 entries submitted team names with the final choice narrowed down to five. A Rookie affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, the Burlington Royals have an interesting and historic stadium story to tell. Burlington Athletic Stadium was originally built in Danville, VA. In 1959, the ballpark was pur338
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chased for $5,000 and reconstructed in Burlington and ready for the 1960 schedule. The Dollar Monday Madness promotion includes general admission, hot dogs, soda, peanuts, candy and chips, all for a buck each. Could there possibly be a cooler name in baseball than the Carolina Mudcats, or a mascot named Muddy the Mudcat? You’ll need to make up your own mind by visiting Five County Stadium in Zebulon, NC just 25 miles from downtown Raleigh. The Class A Advanced affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers has been playing baseball at Five County Stadium since 1991 with no shortage of major league talents. Miguel Cabrera, the 2012 Triple Crown Award winner and two-time American League MVP and Dontrelle Willis led the Mudcats to a record season in 2003. Uptown Charlotte is home to BB&T Ballpark, the most visited venue in Minor League Baseball and the Triple A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, the Charlotte Knights. From the opening in 2014 through the 2017 season, the Knights have 110 sell-outs at BB&T Ballpark. The Knights play in the competitive International League South. Postgame fireworks, regular bobblehead giveaways and A Fan Could Win $50,000 are popular promotions. The Down East Wood Ducks, a Class A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, brought baseball back to Kinston in 2017 after a five-year drought. The Wood Ducks compete in the Southern Division of the Carolina League. Grainger Stadium, home field to the Wood Ducks, has seen plenty of action going back to its Kinston Indians days. Today, fans @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
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When visiting North Carolina, baseball fans have the option to enjoy a game played by any of the state’s 11 minor league baseball teams.
are enjoying quality baseball in a family friendly venue. The always-popular Fireworks Friday and Dollar Hot Dog Night are regular promotions. When visiting the Triple A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, the Durham Bulls, you can expect to see a welcome video possibly featuring scenes from the 1988 hit movie Bull Durham. Much of the filming was done at the historic ballpark where the Bulls had played since the 1920s. When the current Durham Bulls Athletic Park opened in 1995, it followed the movie’s lead with the “Hit Bull Win Steak” outfield sign. Fireworks Friday and Saturdays and $1 concession nights are big hits. Mark the Hickory Crawdads as another cool North Carolina Minor League Baseball name. Entertaining mascots Conrad the Crawdad and Candy the Crawdad add plenty of fun to an evening with the Class A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. Bring your appetite if you dare to try one of baseball’s more unusual promotions, the “CLAWlossal Challenge.” For $25, you’ll have six outs to eat a foot-long chili & cheese dog, pub chips, an eight-ounce hamburger, a barbecue sandwich, a corn dog, five onion rings, two jalapeno peppers and two pickle strips. Winners get their money back and a T-shirt. Meet Miss Babe Ruth, Master Yogi Berra and Miss Lou Lou Gehrig. They’re part of the game day crew of the Greensboro Grasshoppers, the Class A affiliate of the Miami Marlins. The three black Labradors take the stadium experience to a new level. They’ll take balls to the umpires, retrieve bats and participate during the in-game skits. The fun and action SportsPlanningGuide.com
takes place in downtown Greensboro’s NewBridge Bank Park, which opened to begin the 2005 season. Money Off Mondays and Fireworks on Fridays and Saturdays are regular events. In the heart of North Carolina motorsports, it just makes sense the Kannapolis Intimidators name pays tribute to NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, Sr. Intimidator Stadium has many motorsports themed spaces. A NASCAR standings board is next to the standings in the South Atlantic League board. The concessions for the Class A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox are equally themed with Dale’s Mater Sandwich a favorite. Chicken Fried Fridays, Saturday Fireworks and assorted bobbleheads add to the fun. The Winston-Salem Dash, a Class AAdvanced affiliate of the Chicago White Sox have played ball in the city’s downtown BB&T Ballpark since the 2010 season. In addition to great Carolina League baseball, the stadium concessions offer the one-of-a-kind, cheesy pig dog. A hot dog is topped with macaroni and cheese and barbecue. Dash mascot Bolt makes the rounds during the games entertaining the kids. Friday Fireworks, Family Sunday and Free Food Tuesday are just a few of the season’s promotions. There’s hardly a doubt that an afternoon, or evening at any North Carolina Minor League stadium will be packed with fun. The teams welcome groups beginning with as few as 20 paid with a variety of seating options and package experiences. When your team is away from the field, check out the stars of tomorrow. SPG Sports Planning Guide
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Fayetteville, NC In the heart of North Carolina, Fayetteville has a historic charm packed with culture, excitement and top-notch sports facilities.
Sports and athletics are dear to the heart of any hometown. In Cumberland County, it’s almost a more elevated kind of experience. Our love of country and the American spirit means we take a little bit of extra joy in a hard-fought competition. Our wide variety of venues provides an amazing array of opportunities for athletes, tournament organizers, and even dedicated spectators. From soccer to basketball, skeet shooting to fishing, racquetball to wrestling, we have the facilities, accommodations, community amenities and support system to ensure your event goes off without a hitch.
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there or, especially on hot summer days, go kayaking at the Spring Lake Outpost.
How to Get to Fayetteville Interstate 95, a major north-south artery, goes right through Fayetteville. Florida and Georgia drivers can take it up from the south, and it connects with New York, Baltimore and Washington D.C. to the north. I-95 connects with I-20, which goes west through much of the South. On the south end of town is the Fayetteville Regional Airport, servicing flights through American, Delta and United Airlines. Other regional airports are in Raleigh, Charlotte and Myrtle Beach.
Cumberland County offers amazing opportunities to explore and revel in action-packed adventures. Start out with a leisurely stroll through the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Ironically, there’s nothing to fear and everything to love, since the garden is filled with the exotic flora of nature, plus model trains zipping through 80-acres of blossoming land. Further exploration awaits at Carvers Creek State Park, encompassing over 4,000 acres of wild lands, fishing grounds and forest preserves. Take a hike 340
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Houston Astros Baseball Stadium Sports: Baseball
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Located in the heart of historic downtown Fayetteville this NEW stadium is set to open its doors in April 2019. The Houston Astros Baseball Stadium will offer a state-of-the art field complete with an entertainment center and modern amenities. This iconic $38-million stadium will be home to the Houston Astros’ Advanced Class A Carolina League affiliate. In addition, it will host the Big South Baseball Tournament for the next three years starting in May of its opening season. Off the field, the venue will seat about 4,800 fans and provide access to Wi-Fi, concessions and restrooms. The Fayetteville Amtrak, Prince Charles Hotel and Airborne & Special Operations Museum are located just minutes away.
2. Crown Complex Sports: Indoor sports The $55 million Crown Complex has hosted NBA games, pro boxing matches and NHL exhibition games. Located directly on business I-95, this multi-use complex offers two buildings suited for a variety of sporting events. • Crown Coliseum - The state-of-the-art Crown Coliseum opened in October 1997 and has continued to set success records. With seating for 13,500 this versatile facility can host ice-hockey, arena football, high school, college and professional basketball games and tournaments, boxing and rodeos. • Crown Arena - The popular, multi-purpose Crown Arena seats up to 5,000 and can host a wide variety of athletic competitions, including wrestling, basketball, cheerleading and soccer tournaments.
Planner Perspective “We want to personally thank the bureau for its support to the Junior World Skeet Championship, held in July 2014. When we started planning, we had no idea how to address some areas. Your staff was so helpful in many areas particularly Jesse and Bhairavi, whom we dealt with the most. Helping arrange hotel contract and providing items and information for the welcome bags was critical and they suggested other places and people for possible support. Our job of planning the event was made easier with the help of the bureau’s staff. Attendees were very happy they came to the Fayetteville/Fort Bragg area.” – Jim and Belinda Tiner, Tournament Directors
3. Fayetteville State University Sports: Football, basketball Serving as the home site for the Fayetteville State University Broncos’ men’s and women’s basketball teams, Felton J. Capel Arena was completed in 1995 and is known as one of the best in the NCAA’s Division II. Featuring more than 12,000 square feet of competition space, the arena houses an Olympic- sized swimming pool, a 4,000-seat basketball arena, indoor track, racquetball courts, outdoor tennis courts and the FSU athletic department’s training facility.
4. Jordan Soccer Complex
Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Stephanie Decatur Sports Sales Manager Phone: 910-835-5089 Email: sdecatur@visitfayettevillenc.com Website: www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com SportsPlanningGuide.com
Sports: Soccer, rugby, ultimate frisbee, lacrosse A $1.5 million, this eight-field multi-sport complex, is said to be one of the finest facilities in the south. The complex, which is adjacent to Methodist University, features 8 high-quality Bermuda grass fields. A full-service snack bar, restrooms and ample paved parking are part of this stellar venue. Sports Planning Guide
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Mooresville, NC
Baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, tennis, Gymnastics… this town can do just about any sport. They call it Race City, USA. This is appropriate because, let’s face it, Mooresville, North Carolina, just 25 miles north of Charlotte, is America’s car racing capital. The town is home to many NASCAR teams and related businesses, along with an INDYCAR team. In addition to offering two automotive museums—Memory Lane Motorsports and Historical Automotive Museum and North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame—Race City is also the home to NASCAR teams JR Motorsports, Team Penske, Kyle Busch Motorsports and Kasey Kahne Racing to name a few.
Things to do in Mooresville The aforementioned automotive museums are fascinating, especially for racing fans, while other main attractions include Zootastic Park and Lazy 5 Ranch for family-friendly options. For those who want to try their hand at racing (but perhaps want something a little safer than Indycar), the Pit Indoor Kart Racing and GoPro Motorplex can fill the need for speed. If climbing is on your list, CliffHangers Rock Climbing and Fitness Gym is a state-of-the-art facility with indoor and outdoor climbing walls.
How to Get to Mooresville Mooresville sits just off of Interstate 77, which runs northsouth and grants residents easy access to Charlotte. Other roads include Highways 150, 152 and 115. Interstate 40 runs just north of Mooresville to connect to Winston-Salem and Greensboro to the East or Asheville to the West. Interstate 85, located just south of Mooresville, runs through Charlotte and connects to major population centers like Atlanta. The closest major airport to Mooresville is Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Situated 34 miles from the center of Mooresville, this airport offers both international and domestic flights.
Planner Perspective “We appreciate the relationship we have built with Leah and the Mooresville CVB over the past 4 years. Our lacrosse tournament has grown and it takes a partnership with folks all working in the same direction to make that happen.” - Trent Brown, Carpetbagger Lacrosse SportsPlanningGuide.com
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Mazeppa Park Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse This do-it-all sports complex boasts a regulation-sized baseball field, three softball fields and six soccer fields—two of which are made up of artificial turf. Beyond the basics, Mazeppa Park offers free Wi-Fi, shelter areas, a paved walking track, mountain bike trail and a playground. With so many different features, this site has been a favorite among baseball, softball, lacrosse and soccer tournament planners, as well as families looking to enjoy a picnic and joggers who want to enjoy a nice run.
2. Talbert Recreation Center Sports: Basketball, wrestling, volleyball, gymnastics This 26,000-square-foot facility provides patrons a chance to get involved in athletic programs and fitness classes, while it also offers open gym time Monday through Saturday until 6 p.m. In total, the complex offers two regulation basketball courts that can also be used for volleyball, gymnastics and wrestling events.
3. Edgemoor Park Sports: Tennis This new tennis complex offers seven lighted courts including a championship court with bleachers and a hitting wall. Edgemoor also has free Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art playground and two shelter areas.
Mooresville Convention & Visitors Bureau Leah Mitcham Executive Director Phone: 704-799-2400 Email: leah@racecityusa.org Website: www.racecityusa.org Sports Planning Guide
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Gaston County, NC With a suburban feel and easy access to the big-city amenities of Charlotte, Gaston County is an ideal location for outdoor sporting events in North Carolina. Planning an out-of-town sporting event is never an easy task; choosing the right location with the proper facilities can be extremely taxing. In Gaston County, there is an abundance of fully-equipped outdoor sporting venues that include amenities such as lighted fields, concession stands, restrooms, playgrounds and bleachers. With beautiful scenery and opportunities for outdoor exploration, Gaston County’s local college, parks, lakes, rivers and mountains make it an ideal destination for outdoor sporting events.
North Carolina’s convenient and growing Interstate highway system makes Gaston County easily accessible by car via various major highways. Cities in the Northeast, Midwest and Southwest can reach Gaston by I-40, I-77 and I-85. I-44 offers an important east-west link to Charlotte, just a 20-minute drive to Gaston. With more daily flights per capita than any other airport in the nation, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) flies non-stop to over 130 destinations with over 650 flights per day.
Things to do in Gaston
Planner Perspective
When planning outdoor sporting events, it’s important to keep in mind not only the athletes, but their families and friends as well. While coaches and teams usually have their hands full, there is essentially a lot of downtime for those in the bleachers. When taking a sometimes much needed break from outdoor sporting events, Gaston County has plenty to offer. When the kids are at practice, parents can tour North Carolina’s first legal rum distillery at Muddy River Distillery in Belmont. Head eight miles south just along the banks of Lake Wylie to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden for a relaxing day at this 380-acre property filled with flourishing gardens, iridescent fountains and tropical plants.
“It has been a pleasure working with Brandon Black and GO Gaston – Gaston County Travel and Tourism. Brandon has a great insight as to the factors that bring sporting events like The Tarheel Cup and The Western Regional to his county. He is a great resource for anticipating the needs that we as coaches sometimes overlook. Brandon was a tremendous help with our Grant application as the requested sponsorship funds were secured through his efforts and those of the tourism advisory board. Many thanks to Brandon for his guidance.” – Marty Hutchins, Chairman, North Carolina Golf Coaches Association
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How to Get to Gaston
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
3. Martha Rivers Youth Complex Sports: Football, softball, baseball, soccer, cross country
1. Belmont Abbey College Sports: All As part of the NCAA’s Division II Conference Carolinas, Belmont Abbey College provides venues for all indoor and outdoor sporting events. Abbey Yard, home to Belmont Abbey baseball, has undergone several renovations and upgrades including a new outfield wall and a field turf ring. Lights have also been recently added, allowing nighttime baseball games. Alumni Field hosts amenities for soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. Crusader Field is equipped with new brick backstop with a netting system and new 75’ x 30’ batting cage with artificial turf flooring and covered roof, and the Wheeler Center, fully equipped with volleyball and basketball courts and wrestling mats. Reidy Tennis Center has expanded to 11 courts.
This 48-acre, collegiate-level park in Gastonia houses four fenced baseball and softball fields and four regulation multipurpose fields, all equipped with hybrid Tifway Bermuda grass, automatic irrigation systems and metal halide lighting for night games. Also featured are two-story, climate-controlled towers with telephones, enclosed dugouts, electronic scorekeeping equipment and water fountains.
4. Catawba River Sports: Water sports, boating, fishing, bowling, tennis, cycling A boater’s paradise, the Catawba River spans two states and more than 200 miles with endless opportunities for sports events. Guided canoe and kayak tours are provided, while private boating route suggestions are also available ranging from three to 20 miles with various difficulty levels.
2. George Poston Park Sports: Football, softball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, biking, cross country, fishing With 100 acres, seven miles of nature and hiking trails and several sports facilities, George Poston Park in Gastonia is a great location for outdoor sporting events. The park features four softball and baseball fields with metal halide lighting for night games, a beach volleyball court and four lighted multipurpose soccer and football fields, all with groomed hybrid Bermuda grass. It will feature a new 10,000-square-foot pumptrack that will be completed in September 2018.
Go Gaston Brandon Black Sales & Marketing Manager Phone: 704-825-4044 Website: www.gogaston.org
Go Gaston. Get Outside.
Beautiful scenery and opportunities for exploration make Gaston County’s natural venues an ideal destination for outdoor sporting events. GASTON COUNTY VISITORS CENTER 620 N. Main St., Belmont, NC 800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 | #gogaston | gogaston.org
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GREENSBORO, NC THE CITY OFFERS THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF SPORTS AND LEISURE, WITH PREMIER ATHLETIC VENUES, TOP-NOTCH MUSEUMS AND A BIG-TIME WATER PARK Greensboro is one of the Tar Heel State’s finest cities, especially in terms of sports. With a plethora of premier complexes, an event planner is making a great choice by bringing a tournament to this town. Some of the best track and field meets take place at NC A&T State University, while the Greensboro Aquatic Center has hosted USA Swimming on numerous occasions.
Things to do in Greensboro Greensboro is a historical city, and between games visitors will have intriguing opportunities to learn. Greensboro Science Center offers a great package—it contains an aquarium, a museum, zoo and SKYWILD, an animal inspired adventure ropes course. Though it is undergoing renovations now, it should be even better when fully completed in 2020. The International Civil Rights Center and Museum, located in the heart of Greensboro, is great for all ages. Its fascinating exhibits will teach children and adults about racial injustice and the ways in which blacks fought to be recognized. Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe will give people of all ages a chance to splash and swim in one of North Carolina’s top water parks. Spread over 40 acres, Emerald Pointe is the 12th-largest water park in the United States.
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Planner Perspective A heartfelt thank-you to Henri Fourrier and our primary contact Brian Ambuehl at the Greensboro CVB office for seeing the incredible value in youth sports. From the very beginning, their insight and service have been a guiding force in NC AAU consistently growing our event base in the Gate City. —Sean Kilmartin, Governor, NC Amateur Athletic Union
How to Get to Greensboro I-85, I-40 and I-73/74 are three major interstates that converge in Greensboro, making travel by car simple. The city is also just a five-hour drive from both Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Piedmont Triad International Airport services all major airlines without the long lines of larger airports.
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3. Irwin Belk Track at NC A&T State University Sports: Track and field
1. Greensboro Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized swimming This 79,423-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility features leading-edge concepts in aquatic design. The GAC brings together all major aquatic sports—competitive swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized—in one venue. It features three bodies of water—a competition pool, warm-up pool and diving well. The GAC hosts high school and collegiate events, USA Swimming events, Master’s swimming USA Synchro and USA Water Polo events as well as myriad local, regional, national and international competitions. The GAC also serves local citizens through its diverse programs, including therapeutic rehabilitation and “Learn to Swim” classes. The venue has quickly emerged as one of the top aquatic facilities in the nation.
2. Bryan Park Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer
This IAAF-certified track is composed of a Mondo Super X Olympic-style surface. The 23,000-seat complex features eight 48” running lanes, dual-direction runways for long jump, triple jump and pole vault, multi-directional high jump and brushed concrete shot and discus circles.
4. Greensboro Coliseum Sports: Basketball, volleyball, wrestling gymnastics Greensboro Coliseum is the largest indoor public assembly facility in the Piedmont Triad and surrounding region. The arena can seat up to 22,000 but maintains a round-house curtaining system that can automatically reduce the arena seating capacity to as low as 4,500 for a general session. The Coliseum has seven dressing rooms, backstage function space and a 298-seat theater for intimate gatherings or press conferences. It regularly hosts concerts, college basketball contests, conventions, motorsports and touring family shows.
Originally built in 1990, Bryan Park Soccer Complex has 18 Bermuda grass fields and two artificial turf fields, nine of which are lighted. The facility has hosted countless successful events. After current renovations are completed, the soccer complex will have 21 fields—19 Bermuda grass and two artificial turf—which allows for non-stop sports action regardless of weather. It will also boast nine lighted fields in addition to the McPherson Stadium complex, which features a fieldhouse, press box, concessions and seating for 3,000.
Greensboro Convention & Visitors Bureau Brian Ambuehl Sports Sales Manager Phone: 800-344-2282 Email: bambuehl@visitgreensboronc.com Website: www.VisitGreensboroNC.com
COMPETE IN THE CENTER OF IT ALL. From world-class championships to youth tournaments, Greensboro makes sporting events successful. Come and see for yourself. You will be surprised by all we have to offer.
visitgreensboronc.com #VisitGSO
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GREENVILLE, NC SOUTHERN CHARM, A PASSION FOR SPORTS, AND A GROWING METROPOLITAN REGION MAKE THE EAST COAST’S EMERALD CITY A SPORTS PLANNER’S DELIGHT Greenville is a nationally-known city among several youth sports and is also home to East Carolina University, which brings with it a lively atmosphere with a passion for sports. All in all, this destination is one that should be at the top of any sports planner’s list.
Things to do in Greenville-Pitt County While sports may be the focal point of your visit to Greenville, there is so much to see and do off the field that you will have no problem coming up with an action-packed itinerary. The Greenville region is lush, beautiful, and serene, making it a great place to get out and explore nature. And what better way to experience an area’s natural beauty than from its waterways? Knee Deep Adventures is a watercraft outfitter that rents out kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUP) so you and your group can navigate the Tar River and explore the forests at a leisurely pace. For another peaceful getaway, check out River Park North, a 324-acre park with something for everyone – there is camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and boating, and the park is open to visitors year around. The culinary scene in Greenville is thriving – making it the perfect place for athletes, coaches, and chaperones who are hungry after the big game. For a hearty meal and a taste of real southern barbeque, check out the Pitt County Brew & Cue Trail, which is perfect for adults looking to explore the bourgeoning barbeque and brewery scene. 348
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant Uptown Greenville district’s independently owned restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, live music venues, and rooftop bars, or work up an appetite off the field by throwing down at the new Stumpy’s Hatchet House on Dickinson Avenue!
Planner Perspective It’s always a pleasure working with the Greenville, NC CVB because they take an active role in assuring the pieces are in place for success. From community contacts to experience and expertise, the CVB flexes its muscles to help meet your needs. —James Wilber National Championships & Competitions Manager, USA Rugby
How to Get to Greenville-Pitt County If you’re coming from points west such as Raleigh-Durham, head east on US-264 for about 90 miles, and from Charlotte head northeast on I-85 to US-264 for about 250 miles. About an hour and a half to the west of downtown Greenville is Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which offers countless domestic and international flights to meet travelers’ needs.
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the Pirates’ football program; the 8,000-seat ECU Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum for both basketball and volleyball games; and the 1,000-seat Stewart Johnson Soccer Stadium.
1. ECU’s North Recreational Complex
3. Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park
Sports: Cross-country, disc golf, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, Ultimate Frisbee
Sports: Baseball
Just 10 minutes from the ECU campus, you’ll find a selection of versatile playing fields, all surrounding a quaint lake that makes for the perfect backdrop to any event. The North Recreational Complex features eight multi-purpose fields and one championship field, along with walking and jogging trails. This is the perfect setting for cross-country, where runners can follow any of the six trails or the 5k running route. The 18-hole disc golf course offers a unique layout, and the fields are a popular spot for Ultimate Frisbee, with invitational tournaments taking place throughout the year.
Greenville has a strong connection to baseball, and in particular, Little League. Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park is a premier choice when planning an event in the region, and is the site of the 2018 Southeast Tournament of State Champions. The stadium is also the permanent home to the Greenville Little Leagues City Championship Series, and could be the site of your next big event! While players have been stepping up to the plate here since the 1950s, the stadium itself was completely renovated in 2012, making for a state-of-the-art experience. There are 234 stadium seats, 400 right field bleacher seats, and additional space for lawn seating - in all the stadium can seat around 1,000 spectators.
2. ECU Sports Facilities Sports: Baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball East Carolina University's facilities are state-of-the-art and home to some exceptional collegiate talent. These same venues are also available for tournaments, meets, competitions, and other events that sports planners are putting together throughout the year. Be sure to check out the 50,000-seat, fully lit Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home to
Greenville-Pitt County Convention & Visitors Bureau Gray W. Williams Director of Sports Development Phone: 252-329-4200 Email: gray@visitgreenvillenc.com Website: www.visitgreenvillenc.com
P L AY. CO M P E T E . CO N N EC T.
visitgreenvillenc.com/sports
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Rocky Mount, NC /BTI $PVOUZ JT ZPVS QSFNJFS EFTUJOBUJPO GPS XPSME DMBTT TQPSUT FWFOUT BOE PVUEPPS BEWFOUVSF JO UIF 5BS )FFM 4UBUF Twice recognized as an All-American City, Rocky Mount is home to a majority of the region’s restaurants, shopping and lodging accommodations.
Rocky Mount Event Center, is a 165,000-square-foot, multi-million-dollar facility, hosting everything from sports events, trade shows and concerts to weddings, graduations and more. Opening in November 2018.
Things to do in Rocky Mount One major concern sports planners have when choosing an ideal location for an event is the activities players and their families can enjoy after the final buzzer sounds. From outdoor adventure to educational experiences. Rocky Mount has everything you’re looking for. The Imperial Centre for Arts and Sciences in Rocky Mount is one of the premier cultural facilities on the eastern seaboard. Players and families can compare alligator and crocodile skulls in the wetland predator display in the PNC Live Animal Gallery, or wander through the Arts Center Permanent collection, featuring more than 400 works by artists primarily from North Carolina. At the Rocky Mount Mills, parents can explore the region’s only beer incubator with seven on-campus breweries, accompanied by various restaurants and other event venues. Vast outdoor spaces abound for live music, playing a game of cornhole or rowing down the Tar River Paddle Trail.
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How to Get to Nash County Major highways that reach Rocky Mount are I-95, I-85, I-77 and US-64. Nash County is within a two to six-hour drive from several major cities, including Charlotte, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Charleston and Richmond. Located just 60 miles west of Rocky Mount, RaleighDurham International Airport is Nash County’s nearest major airport, primarily serving Raleigh, Durham and the Research Triangle region of North Carolina.
Planner Perspective Awesome complex and great staff to work with. As the NC Fastpitch State Director, I held the first fastpitch tournament at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex when it opened in 2006. It has turned into a great partnership between Nash County, Rocky Mount and NC USSSA. We have held tournaments there monthly (March-November) since 2006 and hope to continue this partnership for many years to come. The facility is one of the best on the east coast and has an amazing staff. It has truly been a pleasure to be associated with the Rocky Mount Sports Complex and its staff. – Rod Skinner, State Director, NC USSSA @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
to host everything from National Championship Cheer and Dance Competitions, to top flight basketball and volleyball tournaments.
1. Rocky Mount Sports Complex Sports: Soccer, baseball, softball, disc golf, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse
3. Rocky Mount Athletic Stadium
Rocky Mount Sports Complex is dedicated to providing the highest level of of customer service by offering firstclass facilities, outstanding staff and a professional level of maintenance. This 143-acre facility is home to an assortment of recreational programs. The complex includes six youth baseball fields, four interchangeable baseball and softball fields, one championship baseball field, eight soccer and football fields, a professional disc golf course, two outdoor basketball courts, outdoor volleyball courts, picnic shelters and a walking trail.
Part of Rocky Mount Sports Complex, Rocky Mount Athletic Stadium is home to the North Carolina Wesleyan College football program. The stadium seats over 5,000 spectators and features a natural grass playing field, team field house, large press box and elevated coaching areas. Further amenities at the stadium include an upgraded athletic training facility, a private locker room, weight training area and the Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Practice Field.
2. Rocky Mount Event Center Sports: Cheerleading, dance, basketball, volleyball The ultimate sports tourism, events and entertainment destination in North Carolina, Rocky Mount Event Center has hosted more than 100,000 players and visitors annually at its outdoor sports complex since 2006. This 165,000-squarefoot, multi-million-dollar facility is dedicated to providing spectacular event, tournament and competition experiences. The Rocky Mount Event Center itself is set to open in Fall 2019, projecting to consistently draw players, coaches and parents from more than 24 different states and generate an average annual economic impact of more than $20 million a year over the first five years of operation. The facility is predicted
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Sports: Football
Rocky Mount Sports Complex Lynn Driver Sports Complex Supervisor Phone: 252-467-6483 Email: lynn.driver@rockymountnc.gov Website: www.Rockymountsportcomplex.com
Rocky Mount Event Center Chip Hutchinson Sports & Sponsorship Sales Manager Phone: 919-368-0616 Email: chutchinson@sportadvisory.com
Website: www.rockymountevents.com
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WILMINGTON AND ISLAND BEACHES, NC COME SEE WHAT THE HYPE IS ABOUT AND PLAN YOUR NEXT SPORTS EVENT IN THIS IDEAL TAR HEEL STATE REGION ALONG THE ATLANTIC COAST With a stunning landscape ranging from the Appalachian Mountains to Atlantic Ocean beaches, it’s no wonder sports planners want to take their teams to North Carolina. In Wilmington and its surrounding area, visitors flock to indulge in the state’s most accessible coastal destination with a vibrant riverfront, the National Register Historic District and three colorful island beaches. If you’re wondering how the area is holding up after the recent storms, you’ll be happy to know the city and beaches you love have made a comeback. They’re open for business, and ready for competitors and spectators to come back, too.
Things to do in Wilmington and the Beaches Across the river from downtown Wilmington, Battleship NORTH CAROLINA beckons visitors to walk her decks, luring guests to envision the daily life and intense battle undergone in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Named a top aquarium in the U.S. by Trip Advisor on several occasions, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher boasts more than 2,500 animal residents. Located on the southern tip of nearby Kure Beach, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s favorite attractions include Luna, the aquarium’s beloved albino alligator and Adventure Reef, an outdoor interactive play area for children. 352
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Planner Perspective USA Wrestling has loved our relationship with the Wilmington and Beaches CVB! Our wrestlers, parents and fans are at "home" when they come to Carolina Beach. The welcoming, relaxed atmosphere is a great break from the stress of everyday events, and our participants look forward to Beach Nationals with great enthusiasm. We often hear about participants who were reluctant to come the first time, but vow to never miss another because they are "hooked" after their visit! It is not just a great event, but also a great community that helps create that "hooked" feeling, and we have seen our event grow every year as a result. —Ed Duncan, NCUSA Wrestling
How to Get to Wilmington and the Beaches The major interstate highway leading to Wilmington and the beaches reachable by both East and West coasts is I-40. Other U.S. Highways intersecting the area are 17, 117, 421 and 74/76. The area is approximately a five-hour drive from major cities such as Charlotte, Charleston, Atlanta, Washington D.C. and Savannah. Wilmington’s nearest major airport is Wilmington International Airport.
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1. Cape Fear Regional Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer, cross-country, lacrosse Seven full-size soccer fields make Cape Fear Regional Soccer Complex Wilmington’s leading soccer facility. Built for challenge and classic soccer leagues, adult leagues and other tournaments, Cape Fear is also capable of hosting lacrosse and cross-country races and meets.
2. Althea Gibson Tennis Complex at Empie Park Sports: Tennis Althea Gibson Tennis Complex at Empie Park honors this legendary South Carolina athlete, boasting 19 lighted tennis courts and a 1,500-square-foot clubhouse with a lounge, meeting room and snack counter. All courts are open to the public and free of charge, making this first-class sports facility an ideal location for planners on a budget. Teams and players can play a match, get lessons or practice at this state-of-the-art tennis complex.
3. Legion Sports Complex Sports: Tennis, baseball, lacrosse, soccer, swimming Without a doubt one of North Carolina’s most diverse and athletically-flexible sports facilities, Legion Sports Complex is home to several playing fields, including Jurgenson-Gabriel Field, Legion Back Field, Buck Hardee Baseball Field and Robert Shipp Pool. Other than these fields, the complex
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features four lighted tennis courts, seating for 6,000 spectators plus 40 handicapped seats, four acres of paved parking and fully-equipped concessions in the grandstand. Jurgenson-Gabriel Field is an ideal location for exhibitions, performances, athletic events and other activities.
4. Olsen Park Sports: Baseball, softball, volleyball, football, lacrosse, basketball Five lighted softball and baseball fields, restrooms, concession stands and a picnic shelter make Olsen Park one of Wilmington’s top sports facilities. An ideal location for large-scale tournaments in a plethora of athletic events, Olsen Park also features ample parking, a volleyball court and Miracle Field, a special rubberized turf playing surface enabling individuals with mobility issues to participate in a variety of sports.
Wilmington and Beaches CVB Robert Cox CDME, CSEE Director of Sports Development Phone: 800-650-9064 x124 Email: rcox@wilmingtonandbeaches.com Website: www.SportsWilmington.com
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Winston-Salem, NC With an impressive range of sports facilities, Winston-Salem is a must-see destination of the South. 2 Winston-Salem has consistently been the go-to place for tournament planners because the city provides state-ofthe-art facilities that are fit for any sport. With on-site staff and impressive amenities, these venues are sure to maximize performances. Winston-Salem is home to Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem State University, Piedmont International University and Salem College, so young athletes will enjoy touring the college grounds.
Breathtaking Tanglewood Park, which houses natural beauty and signature golf courses, is especially known for hosting the Festival of Lights, with more than a million lights, is the largest holiday lighting display in the Southeast. Nature buffs will also love exploring the North Carolina Zoo. Just under an hour away from WinstonSalem, this state-owned attraction is the world’s largestwalking zoo and features animals such as chimpanzees, elephants, flamingos, black bears and lions.
Things to do in Winston-Salem Upon arriving in Winston-Salem, you’ll immediately be drawn to a variety of attractions and hotels that total more than 5,000 rooms. Set your belongings down and take a stroll through the Old Salem Museums & Gardens to view more than 100 restored buildings and learn about the city’s founders. Another great educational option is the Kaleidium Downtown (formerly known as the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem). Here, young athletes can participate in hands-on activities, explore kid-sized forests and learn the value of teamwork.
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How to Get to Winston-Salem Visitors traveling to Winston-Salem can take a one-hour drive from Charlotte or a two-hour drive from Raleigh, the state’s capital. Those farther away may fly in from the Piedmont Triad International Airport, directly east of the city. The airport is serviced by Allegiant, American Airlines/American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Spirit Airlines and United. Offering 64 non-stop flights from various destinations.
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. BB&T Sports Park Sports: Lacrosse, soccer, running, Ultimate Located along the scenic Yadkin River and only 15 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, BB&T Sports Park boasts 13 full-sided fields, 11 of which are lighted and four artificial turf fields. Off the field, players may retreat to the field house, train in the athletic room or review practice performance from the park’s film tower video tapes. Everyone will have room to watch the game from a 1,400-seat stadium featuring plenty of other elevated seating arrangements.
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2. JDL Fast Track Indoor Track Facility Sports: Crossfit, track & field JDL Fast Indoor Track Facility is set for a busy season as the hosts of the USATF Masters Indoor Track & Field Championships in March 2019. But this premium 105,000-square-foot facility is no stranger to prestige. Sporting a 200-meter oval track made of Mondotrack FTX surfaces, this complex has held three national championships in the past four years. Teams will also have access to a 100-meter training track and fitness room.
3. Benton Convention Center Sports: Cheer/dance, fencing, martial arts
Planner Perspective "BB&T Sports Park has provided U.S. Soccer’s Development Academy with a facility that aligns with our goal to improve world class player development. We look forward to once again providing our players, coaches, referees with the opportunity to perform in a premier environment." – Jared Micklos, Academy Director, U.S. Soccer Development
Since undergoing a major $20 million renovation, the downtown Benton Convention Center has enhanced its reputation as one of WinstonSalem’s prime sports venues. Most recently, the convention center hosted the USA Gymnastics Region 8 Congress tournament in June 2018. The Benton covers 105,000 square-feet of space and includes flexible pre-function space, as well as exhibit halls and ballrooms for martial arts, fencing and cheer/dance competitions. In addition, the facility is conveniently joined with the Marriott Hotel Winston-Salem and Embassy Suites Hotel Winston-Salem.
4. Wake Forest Tennis Complex Sports: Tennis
Visit Winston-Salem Bonny Bernat, CSEE Senior Sports & Events Sales Manager Phone: 336-728-4215 Email: bonny@visitwinstonsalem.com Website: www.visitwinstonsalem.com SportsPlanningGuide.com
This complex opened in the summer of 2011 and is one of the finest facilities in college tennis. Home of the Wake Forest University’s men’s and women’s tennis teams along with the ATP’s Winston-Salem Open, this state-of-the-art venue features 13 Deco-Turf II courts, the same court that is used at the U.S. Open. The six courts used for varsity matches are divided into two banks of three that are arranged in a V-shape, allowing for ideal spectator viewing.
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