Virginia Tourism Corporation and our world-class Sports Virginia partners are excited to welcome you, your athletes, and families to come experience all that Virginia has to offer. Whether it’s your first time or you’re back for seconds, there is always something new to discover when you visit Virginia!
Sports Virginia is a statewide collaboration of professionals from local convention and visitor bureaus, sports commissions, parks and recreation offices and facilities. Virginia has been hosting successful sporting events for decades and we are committed to providing excellent service.
With many new state-of the-art facilities opening all around the state in 2022 and 2023, Virginia continues to prove that it is the premier destination for sports. Read about the new venues in this year’s Virginia Sports Planning Guide.
A true, year-round sport and vacation destination, Virginia has something for everyone. From theme parks for thrill seekers, to over sixty state and national parks for those looking for adventure, to American history buffs looking to explore the birthplace of our nation, Virginia offers more than just state-of-the-art athletic facilities. In Virginia the beach is only a few hours away from the mountains, the charm of small town is a short drive away from urban cities. Endless breweries, wineries and local cuisine that will make you come back for seconds. No matter what you decide to do on your visit one thing is guaranteed, you will be met with southern hospitality wherever you go in Virginia.
Visit SportsVirginia.org for more information or please contact me at dsaadat@virginia. org for personal assistance and remember…Virginia is for Sports Lovers!
The new Hampton Aquaplex opened Fall 2022.
Photo courtesy of Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau
Danish Saadat
National Sales & Marketing Manager
Virginia Tourism/Sports Virginia 804-545-5543
• dsaadat@virginia.org
ON THE COVER:
Bryce Resort is a fourseason sports and recreation resort featuring a mountain bike park with beginner, intermediate and expert trails and lift access.
Photo courtesy of Andrew DeVier-Scott
From the mountains to the coast to the cities large and small, no matter where your competition takes you in Virginia, there are a wealth of vacation options to explore.
The mountains are the perfect backdrop for any outdoor activity. There’s 700 miles of hiking trails and plenty of biking from mountains to an urban greenway system. Or bring your swimsuit and paddle the Roanoke River Blueway. Virginia’s Official Museum of Transportation highlights the region’s rail history. Visit the O. Winston Link Museum for amazing photography of the last days of locomotive steam engines.
There’s so much to see and explore in Lynchburg, including historic sites, urban trails a riverfront downtown and indoor activities for those rainy days. Nearby, discover the American Civil War Museum-Appomattox and its rich collection of artifacts. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, a National Historic Landmark, is considered an architectural masterpiece. Legacy Museum of African American History provides rotating exhibitions on all aspects of local African American history.
Whether you’re inside or outside, there are incredible activities in Loudoun County. There’s a day trip to our nation’s capital or a visit to the nearby Steven F. Ubar-Hazy Center, National Air & Space Museum. Summit Ropes Indoor adventure is the largest indoor rope course in the U.S. At iFly, you’ll float on a cushion of air. Your need for speed will be satisfied at Autobahn Indoor Speedway, Virginia’s largest indoor go-karting.
Known for its Civil War battlefields, scenic beauty and outdoor experiences, visitors are sure to discover there’s much more for them to enjoy. The Manassas National Battlefield, Bristoe Station Battlefield and the Ben Lomond Historic Site are just a few of the historic sites worth a visit.
There’s so much history in Stafford, you must get out for the experience. A guided tour of Washington’s Ferry Farm shares how young George Washington spent his formative years. Historic Kenmore focuses on the Lewis family and Betty Washington Lewis sacrifices during the Revolutionary War. It’s always Farm Fun Season at Belvedere Plantation. The Battlefield Tour takes you through the Fredericksburg National Battlefield Visitor Center, Chatham and Stafford Civil war Park.
This bright spot on I-95 is filled historical significance, outdoor activities and award-winning attractions. One of the first capital buildings in the new United States, it’s well worth a visit. American Civil War Museum explores the war from perceptions of Union and Confederate, enslaved and free African American, soldiers and residents.
The county curves around the City of Richmond to the north, east and west and many of the most popular
attractions have Richmond addresses. America’s premier “short track” hosts the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series and the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and observatory is sure to please. Richmond National Battlefield Park commemorates 13 Civil War sites.
Opening in Spring 2023, SplashDown Park will follow and adjoin the Fall 2022 opening of Hampton AquaPlex. It promises 26,000 feet of fun. Before you jump in and get wet, there’s plenty to see and do. In August 1619, the first ship carrying “20 and odd” enslaved Africans arrived at Point Comfort where Fort Monroe is today. They were traded for rations and thus became an important event in our history. The Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center displays the intersection of American, Indian, African and European cultures.
Much of our nation’s beginnings can be traced to the Williamsburg area. There you will discover a living history museum of 17th century Virginia history that traces European colonization in America begin, interaction with the Powhatan Indians and the West Central Africans that followed through galleries, films and living history. The English surrender takes you through the time a young nation won its freedom with dynamic galleries, films and outdoor living history.
You would think wide-sandy beaches and a world-class, three-mile boardwalk would be enough for any Virginia Beach visitor. However, that’s just the beginning. There’s family friendly fun at the Military Aviation Museum, Cape Henry Lighthouse, hiking trails at First Landing State Park, The Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Center, or the Atlantic Wildlife Heritage Museum.
Throughout the Commonwealth, there are new additions to Virginia’s sports footprint while offering new options for planners.
By Dave Bodle
With so many new and upcoming facilities joining the Virginia landscape, the sports scene in the Old Dominion State has never looked brighter. Here are some of the recent and upcoming developments:
(Opened September 2022)
Located in Arcola, this massive park features 11 multipurpose soccer fields, two turf fields and four baseball/ softball fields with batting cages, a cricket field, four tennis/ pickleball courts and grandstands. The 2023 U.S. Soccer Eastern Regional will bring more than 200 boys and girls youth teams.
“Opening the park allowed us to bid and fortunately get this event,” said Torye Hurst, director of Sales Sports & Services for Loudoun Sports.
Hampton’s proximity and heritage are tied to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean which makes sense that this coastal community is home to one of the largest competitive aqua facilities in the Mid-Atlantic.
“The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex will have a great economic impact on the City of Hampton and the surrounding region. The facility will bring thousands of athletes and their families to Hampton to compete in multi-day events and stay in in area hotels,” said Mary Fugere, director of the Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau.
Features of the new facility include an 8-lane 50-Meter Competition Pool with two moveable bulkheads, an 8-Lane 25-Yard Competition Programming and Warm-Up Pool, two 1-Meter Springboards for competitive diving and two-3-Meter Springboards for competitive diving.
Patriot Park North a 67-acre facility in Fairfax, Virginia is under construction. When completed it will feature four 90-foot turf diamonds, lighted and adjustable to 70’, 60’ and 50’ with fences of 375-feet. The diamonds will be in a wagon wheel configuration. There will be two turf 70foot diamonds lighted and adjustable to 60’ and 50’ with 225 feet fences. Each field will have portable mounds, bullpens, batting cages, scoreboards and press box. There will also be a lookout tower for scouting. Concession stands, picnic pavilion, restrooms and playground round out the amenities.
Work continues on the 115,166 continuous-square-foot event space with the opening planned for September 2023. The new venue will offer 12 NCAA basketball courts and 24 volleyball courts. The equipment is state-ofthe-art ceiling-mounted allowing for rapid changes. A championship/convocation venue-seats 3,500-plus. There will be four Team Meeting Rooms and two Team Rooms with shower areas. The coach’s room will be adjacent to the mezzanine viewing area.
Pickleball has a new home in Virginia Beach. Converted from a former tennis facility, this new venue has 25 courts with 20 more completing renovations. The facility spans 14 acres and includes a Pro Shop and locker rooms with showers. It hosts a variety of year-round tournaments.
In mid-March, the United States Tennis Association MidAtlantic Section (USTA MAS) announced plans to build a state-of-the-art 36-court tennis campus. In addition to community-based tennis and outreach, USTA MAS anticipates the tennis campus will be a top venue to draw regional, national and international events that will engage fans and players from around the country and beyond. The organization anticipates hosting 50 annual events after the anticipated grand opening in 2025.
Top level decision makers representing sport Rights Holders and Olympic NGBs and key industry destinations and suppliers converge on Richmond for four days of professional development sessions.
A lineup of notable industry leaders will serve as speakers for the Inside Sports Conversation, The Evolution of the Sports Complex, Informative Sessions and sharing Round Tables.
Running simultaneously, the Collegiate Championship Symposium on December 5 caters to academic institutions and athletic conferences with emphasis on the process and opportunities for hosting collegiate sport championships. On December 6 and 7, Economic Development Corporations/Chambers of commerce, Government and Municipalities and Parks and Recreation are invited to register for a conference within a conference – US Sports Congress Economic Development & Sports Tourism Summit. For more information and registration visit ussportscongress.com.
U.S. Sports Congress 2022 will be headquartered at the Omni Richmond Hotel featuring luxurious amenities and exceptional service within the vibrant Shockoe Slip Historic District overlooking the James River. The US Congress networking outings are perfect for connecting with attendees and Richmond has rolled out the red carpet. The Golf Outing will feature Magnolia Green Golf Club in nearby Mosley. Transportation, Lunch, golf and cart are included. The Walking Foodie Tour is a 1.5-mile stroll through historic Church Hill neighborhood. Take a closer look at Richmond here visitrichmondva.com.
Virginia Beach, located in the Coastal Virginia Region, has a reputation as one of the most attractive destinations in the country. A vibrant coastal city with unique districts that is open year-round, it features a variety of attractions and a beautiful oceanfront and boardwalk. Visitors can reach Virginia Beach from I-80, I-85, I-95 and I-64.
This state-of-the-art facility which opened in October of 2020 can host a diverse roster of sporting events and tournaments. With 285,000 square feet of space, including 117,000 square feet of multi-purpose space and 195,000 square feet of programmable space, the center is built to accommodate 12 basketball courts, 24 volleyball courts, a 200-meter, hydraulically banked track,
Scan to discover more of what Virginia Beach CVB offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
seating for 5,000 spectators and more. It also offers two skybox meeting rooms overlooking the track and one skybox meeting room overlooking the courts.
This complex features 16 Musco-lit, multipurpose fields, eight of which are fully fenced and equipped with irrigation systems, electronic scoreboards and shaded player benches. Planners can choose between four
full-sized synthetic fields and scoreboard or four hybrid Bermuda fields. Between games, spectators can picnic at two nearby Gazebos with four seated areas.
Host your next sporting event in the beautiful, eco-friendly Virginia Beach Convention Center. The center features more than 959,551 square feet of meeting space, 26 meeting rooms and can handle sports of any capacity. The center features portable walls, a staging area, and its largest room is 150,012 square feet. Its second-largest room stands at 112,509 square feet and its column-free exhibit space totals 150,012 square feet.
Fat tire biking, roller skating, running, soccer, surfing, ultimate frisbee, beach volleyball
This pristine waterfront is home to a 28-footwide boardwalk that stretches three miles and features a separate bike path ideal for strolling, rollerblading and biking. Along the boardwalk there’s a wide variety of shopping,
outdoor restaurants and vendors offering bike and surrey rentals. Live music and street performers can be found at the Oceanfront, but it is also a go-to place for sporting events and has hosted the North American Sand Soccer Championships, the Shamrock Marathon, and the East Coast Surfing Championship.
This complex is located in the beautiful city of Virginia Beach with easy access to restaurants, attractions, hotels and the oceanfront. The facility has two turf fields with lights and 22 Bermuda grass fields and hosts more than 7,00 games, practices and clinics every year. It also includes two state-of-the-art turf fields, both with Musco lighting (one field has stadium seating for 260 spectators).
Dani Timm
Director of Sports Marketing 757-385-6648
DTimm@visitvirginiabeach.com www.visitvirginiabeach.com/sports
▶ Enjoy the majestic views of the Oceanf ront, Sandbridge and Chesapeake Bay beaches or take a peaceful walk or bike ride along the three-mile long Virginia Beach Boardwalk
▶ The Cape Henry Lighthouse is the fourth-oldest lighthouse in the country and offers an unimpeded coastal view and can be enjoyed from the 360-degree lantern room.
▶ Groups can savor Cape Henry’s beautiful 2,888-acre First Landing State Park, where more than a million visitors hike, bike, swim and camp every year.
▶ The Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the largest private collections of World War I and World War II era military aircraft in the world.
“The accessibility of Virginia Beach really does allow us to attract the national audience.”
— Bob Ferraro, Executive Director, NHSC
Virginia Beach Sports Center boasts a sprawling 285,000 square feet with 12 basketball courts, 24 volleyball courts, 200 meter hydraulically banked track, and seating for 5,000 screaming fans. Awaken to a sunrise over the ocean and walk or bike to a tournament at the Sports Center. Take in any number of outdoor adventures and unique dining experiences just blocks away – now this is what we call a sportscation.
DANI TIMM, CSEE Sports Marketing National Sales Manager
Scan to discover more of what Sports Richmond, VA offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“The RRT staff, from start to finish, is one of the most supportive sports tourism teams we have had the opportunity to work with. They offer a truly collaborative planning process, aid in making community connections, and are on site during the event to lend a helping hand. They somehow have found the perfect balance of providing professional event experience while allowing us as a client to feel like family.”
— BJ Berteges, Executive Director, United States Collegiate Athletic Association
Richmond is an aptly named city, rich in American history as the site of great events such as Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty, or give me death” speech. Thanks to its advantageous location at the fall line of the James River, Richmond is within a day’s drive to half of the U.S. population by Interstates 64, 95 and 295.
▶ Stay on the history trail with a walk or bike ride on the Virginia Capital Trail.You’ll encounter various courthouses, forests and rivers.
▶ James River awaits those who enjoy white water rafting and boating. This 348-mile wonder starts in the Appalachians and continues into the Chesapeake Bay.
River City Sportsplex encompasses 115 acres of top-notch athletic fields, including 12 all-weather turf fields, all of which are fully lighted. In addition to warmup areas, River City Sportsplex includes a plaza and common area with access to electricity, bleachers on both ends, indoor restrooms and a concession stand.
Teams will feel like champions no matter what the score at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, located only minutes from Richmond International Airport. The 700,000-square-foot facility boasts the title as largest convention center in Virginia with 180,000 square feet of exhibit hall space.
This 400-acre park is conveniently located 10 minutes from Richmond International Airport and features abundant competition fields and amazing amenities for the traveling fan. The park features six (four slow pitch and six fast pitch compatible) softball fields, seven 12-andunder baseball fields, one 13-and-up baseball field and seven football/soccer fields with one field featuring a 500 seat grandstand. There is also an 18-hole disc golf course, five miles of horseback riding trails and hiking trails.
Danny Bonifas, Director of Sports and Events 804-783-7422
dbonifas@visitrichmondva.com sportsrichmondva.com
As part of Northern Virginia (NOVA) and the Washington metropolitan area, Prince William County (PWC) is a surefire pick for sporting events with its prime location and diverse and abundant facility options. From indoors to outdoors, no matter the sport PWC has you covered for events. Outdoor venues like James S. Long Park, PWC Stadium Complex and Valley View Park all offer a plethora of options, with top-notch fields and facilities.
Soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, baseball, basketball, tennis, equestrian Haymarket’s James S. Long Park is perfect for outdoor sports, with ample space and quality fields and courts for major events. Seven multipurpose fields of various sizes for different ages make up the bulk of the action here, with three 225 ft by 360 ft lighted artificial turf fields and four smaller grass fields. There are three baseball diamonds, one with a 300 ft fence, two for Little League at 200 ft and one for t-ball at 135 ft. The park also has
Scan to discover more of what Prince William, VA offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“The best thing I can say about working with Prince William Sports is that they take the time to understand what we do and use that investment to help us anticipate needs and navigate obstacles. Michael’s efforts make him like a member of your team that happens to also work for the destination.”
— Eddie Meador, President 3v3 Live National Soccer Tour 2021 and 2022 Atlantic Regional Championships
batting cages, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, an equestrian ring, a concessions and education building and more.
Located in Dale City, Prince William Ice Center offers a full range of year-round ice hockey and skating programs on Olympic-sized and NHLsized ice sheets. Professional instructors are available for lessons at all ages and skill levels. A full-service pro shop is available at the center for skate repairs, sharpening and more. The center
also has a café for snacks, meals and catering with space for parties and business meetings.
The main stadium at PWC Stadium Complex in Woodbridge meets Minor League Baseball specifications, featuring an electronic scoreboard, press box, professional audio capabilities and a seating capacity of 4,000. In addition to the main stadium on the quad, there are three softball fields with bleachers. All four diamonds are lighted. Plentiful parking surrounds the complex and on-site concessions and a gift shop are available.
With 110,000 square feet of space, Freedom Aquatics and Recreation Center has something for everyone. The large natatorium holds a 50-meter competition pool, a leisure pool with serpentine slide and swirling vortex, as well as a whirlpool spa for adults to relax after a
workout. Aquatic fitness classes and swimming lessons are available for multiple age groups. In addition to the natatorium, the center also has an on-site indoor gymnasium and track, strength room, aerobics studio, cardio room and spacious locker rooms.
Softball, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey Nokesville’s Valley View Park is a haven for a multitude of outdoor sports. Five lighted softball diamonds all feature fences at 300 feet, with electronic scoreboards, covered dugouts and bleachers Six 225 ft by 360 ft bermuda grass multipurpose fields are ripe for soccer and more. All of the fields at Valley View Park are irrigated.
Michael Rojas
mrojas@pwcgov.org 571-454-4433 www.visitpwc.com/sports
▶ The National Museum of the Marine Corp in Triangle has several permanent military exhibits, including the incredible Leatherneck Gallery, and draws over 500,000 annual visitors.
▶ Farm Brew Live in Manassas offers delicious craft beer and food along with live local music all within a 12-acre brewery campus. It recently opened an indoor events center and is building a 60-room on-site boutique hotel.
▶ Splashdown, Virginia’s largest waterpark, features 13 slides, interactive play areas and more.
▶ Potomac Mills Mall is Virginia’s largest outlet mall for premier shopping experiences.
▶ For a natural escape, Potomac Heritage Scenic Trail offers history, nature, recreation, wildlife and conservation, all of which can be enjoyed via biking, hiking and paddleboarding.
Michael Rojas (He/Him/His)
Sports Tourism Manager mrojas@pwcgov.org 571-454-4433
Scan to discover more of what Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Henrico County has been hosting USA Softball of Virginia girls youth fast pitch softball tournaments for the past 6 years. The decision to come to Henrico County was based on its central location in the state, facilities available, and the wonderful staff. All facilities are kept in great shape and its field crews are excellent.”
John McPhail,Commissioner USA Softball of VA
The Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority is responsible for Henrico County, Virginia’s sports tourism program which brings in over $60 million in economic impact annually as well as the management of Henrico’s public/private investments. This includes the current construction of the indoor athletic and events center at Virginia Center Commons and the future build of the 18,000seat arena at the GreenCity site.
This athletic facility, in Glen Allen, features four restored RF&P train cars, picnic shelters, and athletic fields, including The Glen Allen Stadium at RF&P Park. This park seats 600+ and has hosted many World Series and National Tournaments. The park features five youth fields, convertible for baseball or softball, each with 200-foot fences; one dedicated youth baseball field with grass infield; one 60/90 grass infield baseball stadium and one football field.
Basketball,
Henrico County’s new $50 million indoor sports and event center is expected to open in September of 2023. The 115,000-squarefoot center will be located at Virginia Center Commons in Glen Allen. The center will feature an adaptable event space of more than 115,000 square feet with room for up to 12 regulation basketball courts or 24 volleyball courts and a 3,500+ seat arena with stadium seating. The center also will include a mezzanine level with
viewing areas, multiple entrances and exits, meeting and changing rooms, vendor and concessions areas and a broadcast room, among other amenities.
Baseball, tennis, hiking, softball
Dorey Park is the largest park in Henrico, encompassing 400 acres in the eastern portion of the county. The park includes something for everyone: sports, trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters, disc golf course, and even a dog park. Henrico County recently added a trailhead that links to the Virginia Capital Trail. The park is home to a five-acre lake with the entire shoreline accessible, six multi-purpose fields, four tournament fields, convertible for softball or youth baseball, each with 300-foot fences, two youth fields, convertible for baseball or softball, each with 200-foot fences, a dedicated youth baseball field with grass infield, a 60/90 baseball field with grass infield, three tennis courts and one 18-hole disc golf course.
Volleyball, soccer
Glover Park features four synthetic turf fields with lights, eight sand volleyball courts, restrooms, and a parking lot. Future construction will add a running trail, playground, additional fields, and other features. This tournament-quality complex is consistently used for local schools, recreation leagues, and tournament play.
This park in Glen Allen features 12 pickleball courts with lights, softball and multipurpose athletic fields, picnic facilities, and an accessible and inclusive playground. The park has held the World Pickleball Tour Tournament.
▶ One of the top gardens in the country, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden was recognized by the Travel Channel as a best botanical garden in the U.S.
▶ Short Pump Town Center is an open-air premier shopping mall in the Richmond, Virginia area. The center offers some of the best shopping and dining in the region.
▶ Unforgettable adventures await at Kings Dominion, home to some of the best things to do around Richmond. With more than 60 rides, shows, attractions, a kids area, and a waterpark, Kings Dominion has fun for everyone. ▶ Have fun with the National Pastime at a Richmond Flying Squirrels game, a minor league baseball team in Richmond.
HOME OF THE VIRGINIA 10 MILER AND THE VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH GAMES, LYNCHBURG IS A SMALL CITY WITH A BIG HEART, READY TO WELCOME SPORTS FANS OF ALL
Scan to discover more of what Visit LYH offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“The experienced staff at the Virginia Amateur Sports organization held a hugely successful 2019 State Games of America. The City of Lynchburg welcomed us with open arms and we still receive compliments from our athletes on Lynchburg’s first-class facilities. I would highly recommend event planners take a serious look at hosting their event in the Lynchburg, VA area.”
— Eric Engelbarts, National Congress of State Games President
Home of the Virginia 10 Miler and the Virginia Commonwealth Games, Lynchburg is a small city with a big heart, ready to welcome sports fans of all ages. Whether it’s popping in to locally-owned eateries, taking a stroll on the Blackwater Creek Trail and Bluffwalk, or visiting the Lynchburg Museum, Lynchburg has amenities, activities and sports facilities for the entire family.
Peaks View Park, City of Lynchburg Baseball, softball, disc golf, soccer, tennis, fishing, football, lacrosse, field hockey, mountain biking, rugby
The second largest park in Lynchburg, Peaks View Park offers both passive and active recreation for the entire family. The park has three lighted tennis courts, seven multi-purpose fields (soccer, football, softball and baseball), volleyball courts, a basketball court, mountain bike trails and a disc golf course. The park also has a popular sprayground and is ADA compliant.
Track, field, judo, jujutsu, ninja challenge, tae kwon do, wrestling, aquathon
Liberty University added a state-of-theart indoor track facility to its impressive list of athletic complexes in January 2017. The 169,000-square-foot facility features a dynamic track, which is one of only a handful of tracks in the country to offer a six-lane, 20-meter hydraulically banked oval. The complex is 425 feet long by 300 feet wide and
includes room for all six field events, with the weight throw, shot put and high jump pits located outside the track oval.
Originally constructed in 1939 as a complex for professional baseball teams, Bank of the James Stadium is home to minor league baseball team the Lynchburg Hillcats, a low-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. This classic stadium seats 4,300 fans and has undergone a slew of renovations, most recently in 2005, with six new luxury boxes and a video board in right field. City Stadium, primarily hosting football events but also more recently home to Lynchburg FC professional soccer club, can seat audiences up to 10,000. Renovations completed in 2016 include a new ticket booth, concessions, restrooms and locker rooms and a new scoreboard.
Opened in 2018, the 75,000-square-foot natatorium has become a prime venue for collegiate and competitive swimming and diving, standing out in the crowd as one of the few facilities in the nation with an Olympic-distance competition pool and separate 17-feet diving well. Connected to the Liberty Indoor Track Complex, the natatorium features a nine-lane, 50-meter pool with a moveable bulkhead. The complex shares a 6,554-square-foot weight room and a 2,400-square foot training room that includes a 1,000-square-foot hydro room with an underwater treadmill and two plunge pools.
Andrew Marks 434-485-7298
Andrew.Marks@LynchburgVA.gov
Lynchburgvirginia.org
▶ With James River Adventures, guests can canoe or kayak the city’s downtown riverfront and within minutes be in a natural river setting teeming with fish, birds and other wildlife.
▶ Experience Earth’s Majestic Wonders at SeaQuest. Interact with the species we share this planet with at this “petting zoo feeding aquarium experience.” SeaQuest provides enhanced, age-specific adventures for all ages, inspiring conservation and protection of our planet’s diverse inhabitants.
▶ Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre specializes in year-round mountain activities. Blast down tubing runs or ski/snowboard in all four seasons on Snowflex slopes. It also offers one of the prettiest sunset views around.
Scan to discover more of what Visit Williamsburg offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Great organization to work with. Very involved in the whole planning process and execution. Made our National Softball Association World Series a success.”
Frank Rachubka, National Softball Association Hall of Fame
Located less than three hours from Washington, D.C., and conveniently accessible via three international airports and Amtrak, Williamsburg has all the ingredients needed to make your sporting event a success. Long revered for its historic charm, you’ll find an unmatched combination of attractions and activities that promises to delight athletes and families alike.
Whether your team dons a glove, bat, or tennis shoes, Kiwanis Park is the place for you to host your next sports tournament, championship, or competition. This 27-acre park in Williamsburg has four softball fields with electronic scoreboards, dugouts, and bleachers. It also features a basketball court, six lighted tennis courts, a playground area with a pavilion, a concession building, and restroom facilities.
The Warhill Sports Complex is an excellent facility for outdoor sports. The venue features three lighted youth baseball fields, one lighted majors baseball field, four T-ball fields, outdoor batting cages, and a concession building with restrooms and a playground. Warhill also houses a soccer/multiuse complex that contains four intermediate grass soccer fields, four premier full-size soccer fields, six synthetic turf multi-use fields, and a concession building.
The McReynolds Athletic Complex in Yorktown is a 70-acre park with 13 lighted athletic fields that are available to rent for games, tournaments, and camps. The complex features four regulation soccer fields, two instructional soccer fields, two youth baseball fields with grass infields, three youth baseball/ softball fields with skinned infields, one adult softball field, and one adult baseball field.
Quarterpath can simultaneously hold outdoor or indoor league play, championship tournaments, or showcase events. This 23acre facility in Williamsburg features three lighted softball fields, four indoor volleyball courts, three tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts, a picnic shelter with tables and grills,
and a children’s play area. The park also houses the Quarterpath Recreation Center, a 35,000-square-foot indoor facility that offers a wide array of amenities.
William and Mary fields NCAA Division I teams for men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, diving, and tennis. Each of these teams, along with the school’s non-Division I programs, compete in topnotch facilities. Among them is Walter J. Zable Stadium at Cary Field, which houses football and track and field programs.
Robert Larson
757-920-6294
robert.larson@visitwilliamsburg.com visitwilliamsburg.com
▶ Williamsburg features premier golf courses designed by all-time greats of the game alongside endless teambuilding, recreational, cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities.
▶ Bite into the eclectic and exciting food scene, enjoy a variety of craft beer breweries and small-batch distilleries, tour a sprawling vineyard and winery and attend interactive cooking experiences with farm-to-table creations.
▶ Get your adrenaline pumping on world-class roller coasters, thrilling water slides, tree-top zip lines and roaring go-karts.
Planning any sporting event is a challenge, but allow us to check one thing off your list: location. Williamsburg not only offers world-class fields and facilities, but also all the amenities of a top-notch vacation destination. Put your game face on and meet us in Williamsburg.
JUST 25 MILES FROM WASHINGTON, D.C., LOUDOUN COUNTY IS THE IDEAL SPORTS DESTINATION, ATTRACTING OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS, FOODIES AND TOURNAMENT PLANNERS ALIKE
Scan to discover more of what Loudoun Sports Tourism offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Located just west of Washington, D.C., Loudoun County is bordered by Interstate 81 to the west, I-70 to the north, I-66 to the south and I-495 to the east, where state route 267 runs out of the city and through the county’s countryside. If you’re flying in, Washington Dulles International Airport is located in southeastern Loudoun County.
The facility includes four 400’ fields and two 200’ fields with a completely resurfaced parking area. Brambleton Sportsplex has been the host for several tournaments including the PONY Nationals, USSSA “C” National Championships, USA Softball Eastern Nationals, and Senior Softball-USA Eastern Nationals.
Soccer,
Coming Fall 2022! Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park will include 17 athletic fields – 10 multipurpose soccer fields, four baseball/softball fields, a cricket field and two artificial turf fields as well as 75 acres of passive recreational space and infrastructure.
Figure skating, hockey, speed skating
The 90,000-square-foot facility features two NHL ice sheets, including a 3,500-seat area in addition to a full-service gym, café, pro shop, medical room and hockey training room, among other amenities. Ion annually hosts several MYHockey Tournaments and will be the site of the 2022 US Figure Skating Championship Series presented by Toyota. The center, with nearly 1,000 parking spaces, has room to expand to four ice sheets on the 16.5-acre site.
The 47-acre athletic complex has won numerous national awards including the 2019 Senior Softball USA Softball Complex of the Year Award. The Sportsplex includes four lighted softball fields with 300-foot permanent fences and 200-foot temporary fences as well as six large, irrigated, adjacent soccer fields.
Located within Philip A. Bolen Memorial Park is Segra Field, which is the home of Loudoun
United FC, a Division II affiliate of DC United playing in the United Soccer League; Old Glory DC, a member of Major League Rugby and the Washington Spirit, a member of the National Women’s Soccer League. Segra Field has a seating capacity of 5,000 and includes eight, 24-person suites, which are available for groups.
The nearly 44-acre facility features four fully lit, over-sized FIFA certified, bio-turf fields capable for the use of a variety of sports. The stadium features bleachers and can seat approximately 1,500 people with additional seating in CroppMetcalfe Park and auxiliary seating, which can be brought in if needed. CroppMetcalfe Park & Adventure Course complement the fields with more destination features including a zip-line.
Torye Hurst
Director of Sales, Sports & Services 703-669-2005
Hurst@VisitLoudoun.org www.loudounsportstourism.com
▶ Have a ball and compete with friends or family at Topgolf
▶ Experience the thrills of flying without having to jump out of an airplane when you visit iFly, Loudoun County’s premier indoor skydiving venue.
▶ The largest indoor ropes course in the U.S., Summit Ropes is a one-of-a-kind indoor adventure park consisting of 16,550 square feet of ropes course with integrated VIA Ferrata climbing. Fun for all ages, Summit Ropes is divided into a children’s course and an adult course.
▶ Speed demons will thrive at the Autobahn Indoor Speedway, where the Italian pro-style electric go-karts zip you around the track at speeds up to 50 MPH.
“2022 was the sixth year USSSA has held our Eastern National Championship in Loudoun County. Their fields and facilities are second to none. Add in exceptional lodging and endless entertainment for the whole family, and it is no wonder our first choice is Loudoun County. They are a home run!”
— Andy Wisk, Program Operations, USSSA East
Scan to discover more of what Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge Sports offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
This picturesque area is home to an abundance of wellmaintained, centrally-located fields and facilities that can accommodate all types of sports. With over 1,000 miles of trails, Virginia’s Blue Ridge has established itself as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure. The challenging elevations of its landscape allow for many sports such as mountain biking, triathlons, marathons, and disc golf.
Softball,
James I. Moyer Sports Complex hosts events ranging from youth, adult, and high school events to collegiate and national level events.
The Moyer Complex boasts four fields. Moyer also has a 50/30 lighting system and electronic scoreboards. Stay tuned for the all new Moyer Complex opening in 2024 with new and improved seating, lighting and turf with additional parking and amenities!.
Basketball, hockey, volleyball,
The Berglund Center is one of Western Virginia’s premier full-service facilities. The multi-purpose facility can accommodate sports events of all sizes, and hosts more than 350 events every year. It features a 10,500 seat Coliseum, 2,148 seat Performing Arts Theatre, 10,000 sq./ft. Exhibit Hall, and a 46,000 square foot Special Events Center.
Roanoke
Donald J. Kerr
Basketball, track & field, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, indoor track & field
The Cregger Center is a 155,000 sq./ft. athletic center that includes a 2,000-seat arena, a field house that has an eight-lane, 200-meter track, event seating space for 1,000, a training room, and enhanced locker rooms. Donald J. Kerr Stadium at Roanoke College adjoins the beautiful Cregger Center. Kerr Stadium has seating for 1,400 fans.
Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling, boxing, pickleball, equine, cheerleading, football, baseball
The Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex offers a diverse group of facilities, including the Salem Civic Center, the Salem Football Stadium and the Salem Memorial Ballpark, all located approximately one mile southeast of downtown Salem. The Salem Civic Center consists of an indoor Virginia’s Blue Ridge Sports arena with a 22,000-square-foot floor, seating for 7,000, an annex of 10,000 square feet and various meeting spaces. The Salem Football Stadium is a 7,157-seat municipal stadium. The stadium proudly hosted the NCAA Division
Ill Football Championship for 25 years and the championship plans to return to Salem Stadium in 2023 for its 50th Anniversary Championship. The stadium features dual team coaches’ boxes, suites and broadcast quality lighting. Salem Memorial Ballpark is home to the Single-A Salem Red Sox and can seat 6,300.
The Botetourt Sports Complex is located within the 125-acre Greenfield Recreation Park which features a cross-country course, soccer fields and a hiking trail. The complex features four championship level softball and youth baseball fields, all with beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
John Oney
Director of Sales 540-342-6025 joney@visitvbr.com www.VBRsports.com
▶ Welcome yourself to Virginia’s Blue Ridge by visiting the must-see Roanoke Star that sits atop Mill Mountain and offers scenic views of Roanoke Valley.
▶ The vibrant arts and culture scene includes amazing attractions like the Taubman Museum of Art, the renovated Center in the Square, the Virginia Museum of Transportation and more.
▶ Make sure to pay a visit to the Cheers Trail – a delightful collection of local breweries, wineries, and distilleries that will quench anyone’s thirst.
▶ Put on your hiking boots and experience the many incredible footpaths in the Appalachian Trail.
▶ Explore your wild side at Treetop Quest at Explore Park. Zip-lines and aerial obstacles will give you the thrill you crave.
▶ Check out the nation’s second largest municipal park, Carvins Cove Nature Reserve, and go hiking, biking or fishing.
“As the new training ground for VBR TWENTY24, a women’s professional cycling development team, Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a top notch location for our multi-discipline team. It is the perfect place to train with all the natural assets. The team can take advantage of the great road conditions, beautiful climbs, mixed surface terrain, including stellar gravel roads and skill building technical single track.”
— Nicola Cramner General Manager,
VBR TWENTY24 Team
Scan to discover more of what Stafford County Tourism offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Stafford County, Virginia, is becoming a go-to place for sports tournament rightsholders looking for a location with ample facilities for events, hotels, and other infrastructure to support players on and off the field. One of our goals as an organization is to make it easy and convenient for sports rightsholders to choose Stafford. The Stafford team also has a competitive incentive package for sports operators to take advantage of.
Situated in the heart of Stafford, the stately Embrey Mill Park is conveniently located near the county’s major thoroughfares, shopping centers, restaurants and hotels, making it the ideal stop for teams and their families. The impressive multi-sport complex houses eight fields — six synthetic, lighted rectangular fields and two lighted grass fields, and a recently added practice field with ample parking. Adjacent to the sports complex is the
This 76,000 square-foot world-class Olympic sized sports complex is equipped with a 50-meter by 25-yard competition pool with seating for more than 800 spectators and movable bulkhead, a 25-yard recreation pool, and a warm-water wellness pool. Additionally,
the Rouse Center features a full-size basketball court, a group exercise studio, a fitness floor, restrooms, a full- service cafe and parking. The athletic facility presents 5,000 square feet of exercise space and workout equipment, strength and conditioning machines and free weights.
The water is open for any sports adventure. With creeks and tidal tributaries of the Potomac River, many sports have caught wave to our hidden gems. Kayak fishing, specifically for bass have put Stafford on the map for a hidden “fish town” and we have become the epicenter for snakehead fishing on the east coast.
Stafford boasts two challenging disc golf courses at Curtis Park and John Lee Pratt Park that wind through woods within the parks and feature 18-holes at each, offering year-round recreation and tournament play. Adjacent to Curtis Park is the Gauntlet Golf Club, which frequently partners to host two-round tournaments for unique and exclusive play.
Bring your upcoming outdoor sporting event to the spacious Chichester Park, a county park that offers five lighted baseball/ softball diamonds and a concession stand. The vast park also features walking tracks, hiking and jogging trails with a natural mulch surface, a pavilion, restrooms, picnic areas with BBQ grills and tables and a new playground. Chichester Park promises protected spectator seating to enhance the fans’ experiences while watching nail-biting tournaments. The venue is conveniently near major transportation thoroughfares, making traversing to and from the park and other locations throughout Stafford stress-free.
▶ Stafford is the home of George Washington’s Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm; Georgian-style Chatham Manor; Stafford Civil War Park, which all played a huge part during the Civil War.
▶ Take some time to explore Government Island, an island which provided Aquia sandstone for the construction of the U.S. Capitol and the White House.
▶ Block off the whole evening for dinner and a show at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, stroll the nearby historic downtown, or wander the grounds of a famous artist at Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont.
Lisa Logan, Assistant Director, Stafford County Department of Economic Development and Tourism 540-658-4580 tourism@staffordcountyva.gov www.tourstaffordva.com
▶ If you’re hosting an adult competition, consider spending some down time sipping along Stafford’s breweries and wineries trails or taste local flavors from Stafford area food trucks and restaurants.
“KBF is excited to continue our partnership and bring tournaments to Stafford County, Virginia for the KBF Trail Series and other Snakehead Fishing tournaments. The hospitality, amenities, water access, host venues, and world class fishing make Stafford County the perfect host for our event series.”
— Chad Hoover, KBF Founder/President
