2022
WASHINGTON GUIDE Washington Sports Scene is Thriving
Savor a Trip to the Pacific Northwest
With a Variety of Attractions, Washington is a Perfect Spot To Gather
The Evergreen State is a Beautiful Place to Host Your Event
A Premier Travel Media publication www.SportsPlanningGuide.com
Welcome to Washington! WHEN IT COMES TO NATURAL BEAUTY, few states can match Washington’s array of mountains, forests and crystal-clear lakes. When it comes to sports fervor, Washington is also virtually unmatched as its fanbase for both professional and amateur sports are among the loudest and most passionate in the nation. Pair those two things together and you have the perfect state to host your next sporting event. From professionals to amateurs, Washington is an inclusive state that proudly offers sports for everyone. Washington hospitality goes beyond the sporting venues: Our luxury hotels, award-winning restaurants and range of leisure activities make for an ideal experience for both locals and visitors attending your event. Washington’s impressive sports history spans from the legendary Olympics rowing team of 1936 to its modern teams that compete and thrive in football, baseball, basketball and soon … hockey. This past decade alone, the state of Washington has seen a Super Bowl champion in the National Football League (Seattle Seahawks) and two titles in the Women’s National Basketball Association (Seattle Storm). Washington is also poised to host the National Hockey League’s newest team, the Seattle Kraken, which will be unleashed on the hockey world for the first time this upcoming season. Lovers of outdoor activities will also cherish a visit to Washington, as we are home to three national parks, 140 state parks and a multitude of hiking and biking trails amid a picturesque backdrop that will dazzle any lover of the great outdoors. The people of Washington will be your loyal fans, sponsors, promoters and hosts. Dedication – It’s how we do things in the State of Washington.
North Sea Tac Park Photo courtesy of Alabastro Photography
Sincerely, Tammy Dunn Executive Director Snohomish County Sports Commission
Stocker Fields in Snohomish Photo courtesy of Snohomish County Sports Commission
2
Sports Planning Guide
@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
WASHINGTON 6 Savor a Family-Friendly Trip in Washington 8 W ashington Sports Scene is Thriving Once Again ©iStock.com/bgblue
SI Site InSpections
10 Snohomish County
16 Visit Tri-Cities
12 Seattle Southside
18 Yakima Valley
13 Bellingham 14 Olympia
ON THE COVER: Soccer in Snohomish County Photo courtesy of the Snohomish County Sports Commission
North Sea Tac Park Photo courtesy of Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority
4
Sports Planning Guide
@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
Photo courtesy of Flowstate Creatives
Savor a Family-Friendly Trip in Washington With a multitude of attractions and outdoor activities, Washington is a perfect spot for families to gather By Isabella Wilkes
Boating in Olympia is a tranquil and beautiful experience.
W
hen planning a trip with children in tow, the state of Washington is a perfect destination to visit. With a variety of family-friendly activities and a beautiful outdoor backdrop, Washington has something for everyone. These five destinations, in particular, have plenty to offer family members of all ages.
6
Sports Planning Guide
@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
OLYMPIA
With an abundance of arts, entertainment, history and delicious food options, Olympia has something for everyone. Olympia is located near many natural attractions and the most efficient way to visit them is through bike rentals. One such example is a free bike rental stop in Tenino at the beginning of the Yelm-Tenino Trail. The trail, spanning 14 miles in total, is the most family-friendly trail for younger children, with paved paths and plenty of exciting stops along the way. The trail also passes by the Yelm Bike and Skate Park and Main Street Cookie Company. With extra time during your visit, it is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of the multiple venues geared towards children in this area. The Hands On Children’s Museum is a giant facility, with 150 hands-on exhibits located both indoors and outdoors. DEFY Olympia trampoline park, Laser Fun Zone, Olympia Pinball Museum and the Puget Sound Estuarium are attractions that are perfect for groups looking to fill an afternoon with actionpacked activities suited for all ages. A trip to Washington would not be complete without visiting a brewery. The Olympia region offers many kidfriendly breweries that allow groups with children to dine-in while exploring the region’s wines and brews. Some of our favorites are McMenamin’s Spar Café, Top Rung Brewing Co., Three Magnets Brewing Co. and the Well 80 Brewhouse.
SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE
This region of western Washington, just a few miles away from downtown Seattle, is popular for its proximity to the city, abundance of attractions and affordability. Those seeking action-packed days filled with fun will find everything they are looking for. iFly Seattle Indoor Skydiving, SkyKart Indoor Racing and Wild Waves Theme Park and Water Park will entertain kids of all ages. The Marine Science and Technology Center, and the Museum of Flight are ways to slip a learning opportunity into your trip. In an attempt to see the Pacific Northwest’s breathtaking views, there are multiple scenic drives that start in Seattle Southside, most of which can be completed in a day. The Historical Military Road Scenic Drive is one of the most popular scenic routes. Stop off this route for a scenic picnic at Angle Lake Park or try some amazing seafood at Anthony’s HomePort. Take the Marine View Drive route for a shorter but equally beautiful road trip near Puget Sound. Along the way, there are plenty of noteworthy places to grab a bite: Wally’s Chowder House, Des Moines Dog House, and Salty’s at Redondo Beach to name a few.
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Located in the Northwestern region of Washington, Snohomish County offers hundreds of miles of coastline flanked by sky-scraping mountain ranges, making it a perfect stop for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking to the highest point in Snohomish County, Glacier Peak, will probably not be realistic for kids. However, there are many kid-friendly trails in this region: Japanese Gulch, North Creek Trail, and Lowell Riverfront Trail. Whitehorse SportsPlanningGuide.com
Trail and North Mountain Bike Trail are beginner-f riendly biking trails great for families. There are plenty of other activities in Snohomish County to fill your group’s free time during your stay. For the thrill-seekers, there are plenty high-intensity ways to enjoy the outdoors at High Trek Adventures, including Captain’s Rope Course and Ziplines, and Axe Throwing. Or, visit the Funko Headquarters where you can go on a tour and make a Funko figure yourself. This region is also home to numerous food trucks, all representing different cuisines from across the world. Lloyd’s BBQ is well-loved by locals, Lari Adda serves up authentic Pakistani food, Tacos Tecalitan is known for their carne asada sopes, and Levantine Cuisine offers Syrian-style Mediterranean food.
TRI-CITIES
The Tri-Cities region is located in southern Washington at the confluence of three major rivers: the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia. With 300 days of sunshine each year, this region’s ideal weather allows ample opportunity to explore everything Kennewick, Pasco and Richland have to offer. Agritourism flourishes year-round in the Tri-Cities and there are endless opportunities to incorporate the f resh produce, farmer’s markets, and food-inspired festivals into your stay. Pasco Farmer’s Market is the largest open-air market in Washington, open May through October. Bill’s Berry Farm allows groups to pick their own seasonal organic fruit, a perfect activity for kids. Nearby, Goethals Nature Park, Columbia Park Family Fishing Pond, and Pompy’s Lessons along the Sacagawea Heritage Trail are locations that entertain kids while being immersed in nature. Or, take advantage of the rivers by partaking in water activities like paddle boarding, jet skiing, or boat rentals. For an educational activity, your group can learn about the local history of the Manhattan Project at the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. The Bechtel National Planetarium and the Robert & Elisabeth Moore Observatory are also perfect for those curious minds who wish to explore the mysteries of the universe in state-of-the-art facilities.
YAKIMA VALLEY
Yakima is located in the southern region of Washington. Equal parts big city and rugged outdoors, this city has anything for all ages and interests. In your free-time, there are plenty of venues nearby that host family-friendly activities. Mini-golf, batting cages, and go-karts are featured at Yakima Family Fun Center. During the baseball season, your group can visit the Yakima County Stadium to watch the local team, the Yakima Pippins. Yakima is flanked by miles of beautiful Washington landscape ready to explore. Visit Leavenworth Outdoor Center for tubing, kayaking and rafting on the Yakima River. Groups interested in bird and other wildlife viewing should visit Fort Simcoe State Park. In the winter, Yakima is a picturesque place to ski or snowboard at the White Pass Ski Area. A visit to Yakima is not complete without visiting Yakima Steak Company or Hoptown Wood-Fired Pizza for a taste of local cuisine. Sports Planning Guide
7
Photo courtesy of Ty Michaelson
WSWA Greco Roman State Boys Wrestling
Washington Sports Scene is Thriving Once Again The Evergreen State is a beautiful place to host your event By Jason Paha
P
rior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of Washington was a flourishing sports haven filled with cacophonous gymnasiums and bustling fields. While the pandemic took some of the starch out of the Evergreen State’s momentum in 2020 as stadiums and complexes were forced to shutter, Washington’s sports scene has again undergone a resurgence in 2021. Across the state, cities are welcoming tournaments and complexes are full on a weekly basis. Here are some destinations that have been thriving in 2021.
OLYMPIA
Washington’s capital city, Olympia is filled with natural beauty, from the historic falls of Tumwater to the denselyforested parklands of Lacey. It is also a popular sports destination as one of its finest athletic venues, the Regional Athletic Complex in Lacey, has been busy. “Our golf courses are full, our Regional Athletic Complex has been turning away spring and summer tournament 8
Sports Planning Guide
business because everyone is looking to get outdoors,” said Jeff Bowe, vice president of sales and development for Experience Olympia & Beyond. “Our biggest challenge is finding sports events that fit need periods for our hotels.” The Regional Athletic Complex is regarded as one of the top outdoor sporting venues in the state. This 100acre facility features spectacular views of Mt. Rainier and houses five softball/baseball fields and six regulation-sized soccer/football/rugby fields. In recent months, the RAC has hosted a USA 12U state fastpitch tournament and Cal Ripken 9U, 10U, 11U and 12U state and regional baseball tournaments. It’s also accommodated the Flag Football Championship Tour, a Washington State girls high school fastpitch tournament and youth baseball and softball tournaments. Continuing its multifaceted ways, the RAC has also hosted events like the Capital Lakefair volleyball tournament, Ultimate frisbee leagues and the Lacey Pocket Gophers semi-pro soccer club. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
Seattle Southside is home to top-flight facilities just a few miles away from a world-class city’s downtown. Its cities of Tukwila, SeaTac and Des Moines are ideally situated to make the most out of visitors’ Pacific Northwest excursions. Starfire Sports in Tukwila has earned a reputation as one of the best soccer venues in the country. Located minutes from Seattle, the 54-acre campus features 12 outdoor and two indoor pitches, Starfire Stadium, which has spectator capacity of 4,000, a world-class athletic center, restaurants and retail and a sports performance center and physical therapy. “We started to reopen for activity in mid-June 2020 with various socially distant soccer club practices, with various league games returning starting earlier this year in January. Larger events and tournaments started to return in April,” said Kelley Talbot, campus resource manager for Starfire Sports. Starfire’s exceptional campus attracts more than 100,000 unique visitors per year and more than 15 youth and adult tournaments take place there annually. Among the events held at Starfire in 2021 include Seattle Seawolves Major League Rugby, the Puget Sound Premier League WA Cup Qualifier, Seattle Soccer ID camp, the 2021 Sounders FC Cup and FC Barcelona and Real Madrid soccer camps.
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Nestled between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowcapped peaks of the Cascade Mountains, Snohomish County is an ideal spot for adventurous travelers. The sporting scene started trending upwards in June 2021 as sports tournaments returned to play. The diversity of sports coming back included figure skating, lacrosse, soccer and wrestling. “In April, we hosted our first major sports events of the year,” said Tammy Dunn, executive director of the Snohomish County Sports Commission. “We hosted a USA Gymnastics Washington State XCEL Gold/Platinum/ Diamond State Championships, American Cornhole League Regionals and National Amateur Disc Golf Tour. It was exciting to have sports events coming back.” In 2021, Snohomish County’s outdoor venues have been busy with baseball, soccer, lacrosse, and rugby. Phil Johnson Ballfields, four lighted turf baseball/softball fields, and Meadowdale Athletic Complex, three lighted turf infield baseball/softball fields and two turf multi-purpose fields, have been hosting baseball and fastpitch tournaments every weekend. Stocker Fields Soccer Complex has 15 grass soccer fields with a beautiful backdrop of the Snohomish Valley has hosted three major soccer tournaments. Other events held in Snohomish County in 2021 included Spikeball National Tour Series, USTA PNW Section Championships, Kayak Point Open Disc Golf Tournament, and Trifecta Seattle North Spartan Race.
TRI-CITIES
These three closely-linked cities (Kennewick, Pasco and Richland) in Eastern Washington are popular destinations thanks to the area’s 300 sun-filled days each year. Recreation and sports enthusiasts cherish the area’s biking and hiking trails as well as its Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers, which are great spots to enjoy water sports. SportsPlanningGuide.com
Starfire Sports hosts a variety of soccer camps.
Photo courtesy of Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority
SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE
“Sports in the Tri-Cities are back in full force with us finishing up the month of June with our largest softball tournament since the pandemic began with approximately 100 teams,” said Hector Cruz, vice president of Visit Tri-Cities. “In addition, we are hosting our largest outdoor event, the Tri-City Water Follies, which is expected to draw 18,000 people along our river shores for the hydro boat races.” The area’s major venues, the Pasco Sporting Complex, Southridge Sports & Events Complex, and Columbia Playfield have all been busy this spring and summer. The Pasco Sporting Complex has six softball fields, two sand volleyball courts, batting cages and an aquatic playground. The complex has been the headquarters for major tournaments such as USA Softball Western Nationals, National Softball Association and Triple Crown Sports. Columbia Playfield, in Richland, is a 28-acre venue with five softball fields, which hosts college, regional and state level tournaments. Southridge Sports Complex is a 52-acre multi-sports facility in Kennewick that contains four lighted softball/baseball fields and two multi-use sports fields. The complex houses the 30,000 square-foot indoor Numerica Pavilion that hosts events such as basketball, volleyball, futsal, pole vaulting and antique shows.
YAKIMA VALLEY
Yakima Valley features some of the most respected winemakers in the Northwest, making it a favorite destination for visitors from across the country. It also has a flourishing sporting scene thanks in part to its sunshine and lovely natural setting. “After being shut down for most of 2020, and the start of 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, sports are definitely coming back to the Yakima Valley,” said Rich Austin, director of sports development, Yakima Valley Sports Commission. “Once restrictions were relaxed, event organizers began scheduling their tournaments. The first ones to host events were the outdoor sports, such as football, soccer, softball and lacrosse.” Among the many events Yakima Valley has hosted include Yakima Canines indoor football games at the fabled Yakima Valley SunDome (which can host gatherings for up to 8,000); the YakAttack 5v5 soccer tournament and 7 on 7 Association football tournaments at the Sozo Sports Complex (a premier indoor/outdoor complex that features 15 fields plus a 13,500 square-foot indoor facility); several USTA and local tournaments at the Yakima Tennis Club; youth softball and baseball tournaments at the Gateway Sports Complex and multiple golf tournaments at the beautiful Apple Tree Golf Resort. Sports Planning Guide
9
Snohomish County, WA
Scan to discover more of what Snohomish County Sports Commission offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
EXPLORE SNOHOMISH COUNTY’S DIVERSE LANDSCAPE AND HISTORY TO FIND THE PERFECT FACILITY FOR YOUR UPCOMING TOURNAMENT
Angel Of The Winds Arena
Located just north of Seattle, Snohomish County is directly connected to Interstate 5. Paine Field Everett Airport, just 10 miles from downtown Everett and 7 miles from Lynnwood, has commercial air service with Alaska Airlines. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is just 45 miles south of Snohomish County.
10
Sports Planning Guide
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
Angel Of The Winds Arena
Basketball, cheerleading, dance, Endurocross, figure skating, gymnastics, hockey, martial arts, volleyball This 10,000-seat multipurpose arena features two NHL-ice sheets that can be converted into a 57,000-square-foot space for hosting trade shows and special events. The Edward D. Hansen Conference Center is equipped with three 900-square-foot meeting rooms and an 11,000-square-foot ballroom
that can be arranged into a number of different configurations. The Angel Of The Winds Arena is home to the Everett Silvertips, a Western Hockey League team. Past events include 2018 Skate America and 2020 Fed Cup – The World Cup of Tennis.
Meadowdale Athletic Complex
Baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball, Ultimate Frisbee Meadowdale Athletic Complex plays home to many Adult Softball, Youth Baseball and Fastpitch tournaments throughout the year. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
The athletic complex is one of the locations for multiple Perfect Game Northwest baseball tournaments in 2021. The complex features three lighted adult/youth softball/baseball fields and two lighted multipurpose turf fields which are lined for soccer, lacrosse and fastpitch/baseball, the facility is equipped with concession stands, a .67-mile walking trail, basketball court, play structure, picnic facilities, pond, restrooms and parking.
Walt Price Fitness Center at Everett Community College Basketball, gymnastics, martial arts, volleyball
This 49,000-square-foot fitness center offers a gym with a basketball court and retractable bleacher seating for up to 2,250 spectators, four team locker rooms, two coaches meeting rooms, concession area and a multipurpose room. The college has over 1,600 parking spaces available. The venue has been home to the NWAC Men & Women Basketball Championships since 2016 and have hosted multiple USA Gymnastics Washington State Championships.
POPULAR ACTIVITIES
Lake Tye Park
Baseball, lacrosse, skateboard, soccer, softball, triathlon, wakeboard Located on the shores of Lake Tye in Monroe, this community park covers 64 acres and a 42-acre recreational lake. This beautiful park features one grass baseball field, two lighted all-weather turf multi-use fields which are marked for baseball/softball, lacrosse and soccer, concessions, a serene beach area, picnic area, restrooms, a 1.5-mile walking/ biking loop, pedestrian boat launches a children’s play area, skate park and a parking lot for approximately 200 vehicles.
▶ Visit Funko Headquarters in downtown Everett, one of the leading innovators of licensed pop culture products you can expect to see vinyl figures, action and plush toys, apparel and more.
▶ Spend your afternoon shopping at Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip, where an upscale collection of more than 130 designer names awaits your every need.
▶ Spend a day at Arena Sports Mill Creek bowling, playing arcade, laser tag, rope course & zipline, climbing wall and playing virtual
SNOHOMISH COUNTY SPORTS COMMISSION
reality games.
▶ Dive into the history of the
Tammy Dunn, STS
Tulalip Tribes by taking a trip to
Executive Director
the Hilbulb Cultural Center. This
425-309-2744
center is approximately 23,000
tammy@snocosports.org
square feet and features a 50-acre
www.snocosports.org
natural history preserve.
Walt Price Fitness Center
Meadowdale Athletic Complex
Hibulb Cultural Center
SportsPlanningGuide.com
Sports Planning Guide
11
Seattle Southside, WA FABULOUS SPORTS COMPLEXES, FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARKS AND COLLEGE-LEVEL GYMNASIUMS ENTICE PLANNERS AND TEAMS TO ENJOY UNFORGETTABLE SPORTING EVENTS AT SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE
Scan to discover more of what Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“Seattle Southside does a great job for us. They’ve helped us with getting information on different activities going on during March so we can give our attendees the information on where to go, what to do and have a good time.”
Starfire Sports
— Jeff Lovell, President and Executive Director of the Automotive Service Association
North SeaTac Park
From world-class sports facilities to thrill-filled activities, Seattle Southside provides traveling sports teams the chance to explore Seattle’s backyard. Not only is Seattle Southside a beautiful locale that will appeal to anyone, it has plenty to do for family members of all ages.
POPULAR ACTIVITIES
▶ A t The Museum of Flight, visitors can hop in the pilot’s seat and see what it’s like to soar through the sky with surreal and exciting flight simulator rides.
▶ iFLY Indoor Skydiving makes the dream of flight a reality with indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel. iFLY is safe for kids, challenging for adults, exciting for teens, and realistic for skydivers.
12
Sports Planning Guide
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Starfire Sports Soccer, rugby
One of the largest synthetic-turf soccer complexes in the nation, Starfire Sports is the home of numerous soccer and rugby teams, including the practice field of the Seattle Sounders FC and home to Major League Ruby team, Seattle Seawolves. Featuring five grass fields, two indoor FieldTurf fields and seven outdoor FieldTurf fields, the complex’s main stadium also has a capacity of 4,500 spectators.
Field House is an ideal location for basketball tournaments, featuring a gym with 4,000 square feet and a capacity of 225 guests.
North SeaTac Park
Softball, baseball, basketball, BMX racing, disc golf With 160 acres and three different baseball and softball fields available for rent from March to October, North SeaTac Park features an outdoor basketball court, walking and running trails, a BMX track and a disc golf course.
The City of Des Moines
Basketball, volleyball, tennis, cross country, fishing, water sports With a plethora of walking and running trails, beach access and a neighboring marina offering wet and dry moorage for 840 recreational vessels, Des Moines Beach Park has outdoor and indoor space ideal for smaller youth sports teams and events. Listed on the Register of Historic Places, Des Moines
SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE REGIONAL TOURISM AUTHORITY Caitlyn Shearer Business Development Manager 206-686-7261 Caitlyn@SeattleSouthside.com www.seattlesouthside.com @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
Bellingham, WA
Scan to discover more of what Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
WITH A SCENIC LOCATION NEAR THE CANADA-U.S. BORDER, BELLINGHAM AND SURROUNDING WHATCOM COUNTY TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF THEIR REGION’S ABILITY TO HOST TOP-NOTCH TOURNAMENTS
Civic Athletic Complex
Western Washington University
Interstate 5 runs right through central Bellingham on the road south to Seattle. If you’re flying into the region, Bellingham International Airport (BLI) is the third-largest commercial airport in Washington and offers flights through Alaska Airlines, American Airlines and Allegiant Air to major West Coast destinations.
POPULAR ACTIVITIES
▶ Bellingham is serviced by dozens of forested, interurban and waterfront parks, including hundreds of miles of easily accessible hiking and biking trails.
▶ T he SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention is a science and
history museum full of hands-on interactive exhibits. SportsPlanningGuide.com
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
Civic Athletic Complex Multipurpose
The crown jewel of Bellingham’s facility scene, the Civic Athletic Complex is comprised of a Sportsplex, Civic Stadium, Joe Martin Field, the Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, Bellingham Skate Park and Frank Geri Softball Fields. Civic Stadium has covered seating for up to 4,000 fans. Joe Martin Field has permanent seating for 1,600 fans and room for more on the surrounding lawns. The Civic Athletic Complex has indoor space in the Sportsplex. It features NHL regulation-sized sheet of ice and can support indoor soccer, ultimate frisbee, flag football, wrestling, hockey and figure skating.
Phillips 66 Soccer Park
Soccer, lacrosse, ultimate Frisbee, flag football With spectacular views of Mount Baker in the background, this soccer complex is a mustschedule for tournament planners. Featuring
11 regulation soccer fields, including nine grass fields and two turf fields with lights.
Western Washington University Multipurpose
The university’s Carver Gym complex features five regulation courts, including a championship court for volleyball with a video replay scoreboard and seating for 2,500. Carver hosted the 2019 Men’s and Women’s GNAC Basketball Championships in March. The volleyball matches are played on a convertible SportCourt. Harrington Field is a lighted multipurpose AstroTurf option with seating for 500, while Viking Field hosts softball games with a capacity for 300 seated spectators.
BELLINGHAM WHATCOM COUNTY TOURISM Eric Rainaud-Hinds 360-671-3990, ext. 210 eric@bellingham.org www.bellingham.org Sports Planning Guide
13
Scan to discover more of what Experience Olympia & Beyond offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
THE OLYMPIA REGION’S ELITE SPORTS FACILITIES, STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY, EXCITING ATTRACTIONS AND A PASSIONATE SPORTS SCENE MAKE IT AN IDEAL SPORTS DESTINATION
Lacey-Thurston County Regional Athletic Complex
The Olympia region’s central location in Washington provides reasonable driving distances from several major cities. Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver are all less than a two-hour drive away; while places like Spokane and Yakima are between a 3-5-hour drive. There are two airports serving the Olympia region. Seattle-Tacoma Airport offers daily flights from national and international destinations. 14
Sports Planning Guide
Lacey-Thurston County Regional Athletic Complex Baseball, softball, soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse, ultimate f risbee
A premier outdoor sports venue, the 100acre Lacey-Thurston County Regional Athletic Complex can accommodate a number of sports events, large and small. The facility features five softball/baseball fields and six regulation-size soccer/football/rugby fields. There are also two miles of walking trails and splendid views of Mount Rainier.
The Evergreen State College
Soccer, basketball, track & field, volleyball Home of Geoducks athletics, The Evergreen State College has several facilities that can be used for your sports event.
Saint Martin’s University
Basketball, baseball, volleyball, tennis, track & field Located just east of Olympia in Lacey, Saint Martin’s University boasts top sports venues that have hosted a range of events over the @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
years. It has welcomed the GNAC Basketball Championships, the NWAC Cross Country Championships, and the GNAC Softball Championships. Sports planners can rent the Marcus Pavilion & TwinStar Court for basketball and volleyball tournaments, the SMU Baseball field and the SMU Softball Field for baseball and softball events, and the SMU Soccer Field and SMU Track & Field Complex for soccer and track & field competitions.
South Puget Sound Community College Basketball, volleyball
South Puget Sound Community College, home to Clippers athletics, is available to host basketball and volleyball events at its Gymnasium.
Rainier Vista Community Park
Soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, sand volleyball, basketball, football, rugby, pickleball, ultimate f risbee Rainier Vista Community Park welcomes all kinds of athletic activities throughout the year. The 46-acre park features three football/ soccer fields, three baseball/softball fields, four tennis courts, four pickleball courts, three sand volleyball courts, a basketball court and a skate park.
experiences as it features four ballfields (three lighted) that convert to three soccer fields.
▶ Visit the magnificent Olympia Waterfront. Stroll around the
Swantown Marina to see boat
Pioneer Park
launches out to the sea or take
Baseball, softball, soccer, sand volleyball
a walk on East Bay Trail to get a view of some of the local
Pioneer Park is the perfect place to plan a sports tournament or family event with one baseball field, two softball fields, three soccer fields, two sand volleyball courts, children’s play areas, trails, and access to the beautiful Deschutes River.
bird wildlife.
▶ Check out the Olympia
Farmers Market, the second largest farmers market in Washington.
▶ Experience natural beauty at
Capital Soccer Fields Soccer
Tumwater Falls Park, where
Conveniently located just minutes south of Olympia, this immaculately-groomed soccer complex offers six fields, with two of those fields lighted. Capital also features ample parking and easy access from Interstate 5.
the Deschutes River ends its journey tumbling into Capitol Lake. Take a one-half mile walk on the trails to admire the cascading falls and reflective pools of the park.
▶ Get a glimpse of the Washington political scene Jeff Bowe, VP of Sales & Development
with a visit to the State Capitol
360-704-7544
Building. Take a free guided
Jeff@ExperienceOlympia.com
tour of the Legislative Building
www.OlympiaSportsCommission.com
or wander the campus to view the memorials and gardens.
LBA Park
Baseball, softball, tennis, running Little Baseball Association Park was developed for youth sports games. Its athletic fields are now used for baseball events of all ages and skill levels.
Yauger Park
Baseball, softball, soccer, skating, horseshoes Developed in 1982, Yauger Park resides on 40 acres and offers a wide range of recreation
“The Northwest Athletic Conference has worked with multiple sports commissions throughout the Pacific Northwest on our championship events. Experience Olympia sports commission’s service, hospitality, and regard for our events is second to none. It is because of Experience Olympia Sports Commission we continue to look at future NWAC events coming to the Olympia area.” —-Marco Azurdia, Northwest Athletic Conference Facilities
South Puget Sound Community College
Ranier Vista Community Park
SportsPlanningGuide.com
Sports Planning Guide
15
Visit Tri-Cities, WA
Scan to discover more of what Visit Tri-Cities offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
FUN IN THE SUN IS THE WAY OF LIFE IN THIS GROWING METROPOLITAN AREA IN SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“The Tri-Cities is a very hospitable and welcoming community. The facility and lodging staffs are easy to work with and everyone rallies around the tournament to make it a successful event.” — Steve Jensen, National Softball Association of WA
Southridge Sports and Events Complex
Pasco Sporting Complex
Centrally located within the Pacific Northwest, the Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco and Richland are connected through Interstate 182 from east to west. By air, the Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco offers direct flights from Seattle, as well as destinations like Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Phoenix/Mesa.
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Columbia Playfield Softball
Located in the heart of Richland, Columbia Playfield stretches across nearly 29 acres with 5 softball fields. A recent upgrade has provided new fixtures to the park, giving it updated LED lights and aluminum bleachers with fabric covers. The complex is home to annual youth and collegiate-level tournaments.
Pasco Sporting Complex Baseball, softball
POPULAR ACTIVITIES
▶ The Columbia River snakes through the region, enabling visitors to take it in via boat, kayak or paddleboard.
▶ Hand-carved in 1910, the Gesa
Carousel of Dreams is a treasured
work of quality art in Kennewick. 16
Sports Planning Guide
This complex, located in Pasco, hosts baseball and softball tournaments and contains six softball fields, two sand volleyball courts, a playground area, a water play area and a concession building with restrooms. Adjoining to the complex is Gesa Stadium, home field of the Tri-City Dust Devils professional baseball team, and one of the finest youth soccer facilities in the Northwest, the Tri-Cities Youth Soccer Association Soccer
Complex, which includes 15 full-sized soccer fields on 45 acres.
Southridge Sports and Events Complex
Baseball, softball, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball, gymnastics, futsal, pole vaulting This 52-acre multisports development in Kennewick offers a variety of sporting, recreation and event amenities to enjoy. It offers baseball and softball fields, an indoor sports pavilion, multiuse fields and the Gesa Carousel of Dreams, a world-class piece of art the whole family can touch and ride. The complex houses the Numerica Pavilion, the only indoor sports pavilion in the region.
VISIT TRI-CITIES 800-254-5824 Sales@VisitTRI-CITIES.com www.VisitTRI-CITIES.com @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
Yakima Valley, WA
Scan to discover more of what Yakima Valley Sports Commission offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
WASHINGTON’S WINE COUNTRY HAS YIELDED AN INCREDIBLE CROP OF TOURNAMENT-READY SPORTS FACILITIES AND EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YAKIMA VALLEY
Yakima Valley SunDome
The Yakima Valley is mainly accessible from north and south via Interstate 82. If you’re flying in, Alaska Airlines offers connecting flights from Seattle/ Tacoma to the Yakima Air Terminal. The Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, 86 miles away, is the next closest to offer domestic flights.
18
Sports Planning Guide
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
Yakima Valley SunDome Multipurpose
Located on the grounds of State Fair Park and Event Center, the SunDome annually hosts WIAA State championships in volleyball, basketball, and dance and drill. This multipurpose indoor facility is an ideal venue for tournament planners, where 8,000 spectators can attend tournaments, events and conferences. Recently renovated, the SunDome now is outfitted with video scoreboards, LED lighting, and new permanent seats.
Sozo Sports Complex
Soccer, futsal, multipurpose indoor and outdoor, basketball, lacrosse, running, football The Sozo Sports Complex saw its fifth year of development in 2021, when it continued to make progress on the Sozo Arena, an 80,000-square-foot indoor facility that will hold up to four futsal courts, eight basketball courts or 16 volleyball courts. The complex is home to 13 multipurpose outdoor fields as well, making it a powerhouse for any competition throughout the region. Sozo hosted tourneys @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
and events in several sports this year including soccer, football, lacrosse, pickleball, basketball and running.
Gateway Sports Complex Baseball, softball
With a professional staff dedicated to taking care of your tournament needs, the Gateway Sports Complex has you covered. This stateof-the-art complex features eight softball fields, each with first-class Musco lighting, professional infield mix, electronic scoreboards and more. A PA system reverberates through the park, which also has a basketball court, volleyball court, two picnic shelters, a skate park, three playgrounds, multipurpose field and coach/umpire rooms. The complex is the host site for several WIAA state softball championships each year.
Carlon Park Girls Fastpitch Complex
POPULAR ACTIVITIES
Yakima Tennis Club Tennis
This well-maintained and visually striking tennis club is a hotspot for tournament action, seeing competition f rom the collegiate, high school and adult levels on a yearly basis. The facility maintains 13 outdoor courts, eight indoor courts, a renovated swimming pool with a children’s play area, a clubhouse with locker rooms, a catered snack bar and a pro shop. The club hosted several USTA tennis tournaments in 2021.
Apple Tree Golf Course Golf
Carved from the natural rolling terrain of 100-year-old apple orchards, Apple Tree is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier golf destinations. Over 6,900 yards of championship course features a variety of scenic challenges, including its signature 17th apple green.
▶ More than 40 organic commercial crops are grown throughout the Yakima Valley, so a trip to leaf through some of the valley’s farms and produce is sure to be a hit.
▶ The Yakima Valley’s celebrated arts scene is on display with tasting rooms, museums, local galleries and more found throughout the valley.
▶ Bring the whole family to cool off at the Rotary YMCA Aquatic Center.
Baseball, softball
This newly remodeled complex features four girls tournament-quality fastpitch fields with permanent 200-foot fences and state-of-the-art lighting systems on each field. The complex hosted the 2022 WIAA 2A State Softball Championships among numerous WASA Softball tourneys.
YAKIMA VALLEY SPORTS COMMISSION Rich Austin, Director of Sports Development 509-594-2742 rich@yakimasports.org YakimaSports.org
Yakima Tennis Club
Apple Tree Golf Course
Sozo Sports Complex
SportsPlanningGuide.com
Sports Planning Guide
19
The Yakima Valley is your
SPORTS EVENT DESTINATION WASHINGTON STATE SEATTLE
SPOKANE
YAKIMA
PORTLAND, OR
200 Miles from SEAttle, WA, Spokane, WA, Portland, OR
CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE YOUR EVENT RICH@YAKIMASPORTS.ORG • YAKIMASPORTS.ORG • 509-594-2742
