xSPG2025_complete_weblinks_op-compressed_compressed (1)

The state of the art sports facility in the state of Texas

Come play in Round Rock, the Sports Capital of Texas. Our city’s reputation as a champion destination for sports continues to grow with nationally recognized facilities, exemplified by our one-of-a-kind Multipurpose Complex featuring both synthetic and natural championship fields, along with Musco lighting on every field. Round Rock’s dedicated commitment to maintaining premium facilities attracts tournaments and athletes from across the country and around the world. In addition, we have top-tier restaurants, attractions, and hotels that win over our guests!

THE NATION’S #1 TOURNAMENT HOUSING PARTNER, PROUDLY SERVING YOUTH SPORTS FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS!

Let our team work for your team!

CHRISTOPHER D. SILBERNAGEL

ROBIN BAXTER AND ELLIS MAIR

SITE INSPECTIONS BY REGION

Listed in this guide are hundreds of facilities that host sports tournaments at the country’s leading sportsfriendly destinations. These Site InSpections help event planners organize their next tournament of any size.

STATE GUIDES

Highlighting both on and off-the-field activities, SPG state guides help tournament planners get a complete perspective of top state organizations and destinations.

ALWAYS ONLINE

Rugby action gets heated.

Photo courtesy of Seattle Seawolves Rugby

JASON PAHA

WSports Tourism Soars in 2025 and Beyond

elcome to the 2025 edition of Sports Planning Guide. As you can tell by the size of this mammoth guide, sports tourism is booming, and business is good. How good, you ask?

According to the most recent Sports ETA State of the Industry Report, total direct spending associated with the sports travel sector was $52.2 billion and Americans took a record 204 million sports event-related trips in 2023.

Sports Business Journal also reports more than $1.5 billion was spent building youth and amateur sports facilities from 2020-2023, and another $1.6 billion is expected to wrap up by the end of next year.

Many of those facilities are featured in this year’s SPG (which is undoubtedly, our best issue to date). SPG not only features 18 state guides providing an in-depth look at what each state has to offer, we also spotlight more than 200 destinations in our industryleading and beautifully redesigned Site InSpections. These SIs feature the most up-to-date information on venues and attractions and are an invaluable resource for event planners across the country.

SPG’s talented stable of writers and in-the-know guest contributors will keep you on top of the latest trends with our comprehensive feature stories.

We report on essential strategies for effective emergency action planning in sports event management, how virtual reality has become a game changer for sports tourism and we provide important details on the proper insurance coverage for youth and amateur sports. SPG also explores the economic and social benefits of sports tourism for local communities.

SPG also interviews Sports ETA President and CEO John David, who shares his thoughts about the state of the industry heading into the future. And, of course, legendary prognosticator Jon Schmieder returns with his sports industry trends for 2025. You won’t want to miss John, or Jon’s prescient thoughts.

These stories and more can also be found on our crowd-pleasing website, SportsPlanningGuide.com, which features in-depth planning guides, comprehensive facility spotlights and showstopping destination videos.

Once again, SPG sets the standard for coverage of the sports tournament industry. We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we loved creating it.

And when you pick it up, be sure to lift with your knees.

Happy planning,

Jason Paha Chief Editor

Sports Planning Guide

Vol. 16, No. 1, 2025 Edition

Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Chief Editor – Jason Paha jason@ptmgroups.com

Writer & Social Media Editor –Christopher D. Silbernagel, chris@ptmgroups.com

Contributing Writers

Emily Joseph

Jon Schmieder

Kristen Cerney

Justin Marques

Billy Stampfl

Abriana Guerra

Anina Chea

Jennifer Peacock

Robin Baxter

Melissa Corless

Ashley Whittaker

Michael Caravette

Jacob Fopma

Ellis Mair

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Graphic Designer – Romeo Alcantara

Production Coordinators –Kelsey Ledford, kelsey@ptmgroups.com Theresa O’Rourke, theresa@ptmgroups.com

Michael Caravette, michael@ptmgroups.com

Content Development Specialist – Tyler Drag tyler@ptmgroups.com

Business Development Manager – Cheryl Rash cheryl@ptmgroups.com

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos or manuscripts.

Sports Planning Guide (ISSN 2153-4179) is published annually by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. Postage paid at Willowbrook, IL and Lebanon Junction, KY. The magazine is distributed free to sports events organizers. Single copies for all others are $9.95.

Send Address Change to:

Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

publication All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in

Sports Tourism: Economic Growth and Community Building

Exploring the economic and social benefits of sports tourism for local communities

By Christopher D. Silbernagel

It is no secret that destinations throughout the United States and across the globe are reporting that sports tourism creates a strong, annual economic impact, not just on a large scale like a Super Bowl or NCAA Championship, but also youth tournaments and events. However, economic impact is not the only key component to the industry and its success. Sports tourism has also played a major part in community building in terms of sociocultural factors.

HOW SPORTS TOURISM BUILDS COMMUNITY AND BRAND IMAGE

The big events that bring people together are great for making tourists and locals alike happy, as delivering these events offer unique experiences to communities, but the financial gains also assist in community interests. While financial commitments are not always sports related, since education, roads and other needs are important, when money is invested into building or improving existing sports facilities it is not just the event runners that prosper. In DuPage County, an investment by DuPage Sports Commission in tournament-caliber temporary softball fencing improved the facility for local softball players as well as helping to drive greater sports tourism for the area.

When a college or high school basketball arena is improved, the young athletes also get to utilize the facility and the school benefits

Softball in DuPage County, Illinois

from potentially drawing in more usage from local and out-of-state operators. The new local sports center or gym that opened, with multiple fields and courts, is not just a space for traveling teams. People within the community use these types of facilities for anything from local leagues to pick-up games and even non-sporting events like watching a big game in groups or a birthday where on-site food and drinks can be enjoyed.

This all equates to brand imaging for destinations, not unlike a company or organization marketing to become more appealing to a larger audience to increase revenue or donations for a cause. Building your brand is a critical part of current social and economic cultures, which is why the Olympics are still a “dream” event to host despite the financial strain they can often place. Being able to host something as grand as the Games or FIFA World Cup are not only feathers in the cap and, if done right, able to generate an enormous economic impact, but also a way to share the host’s culture with a large audience.

UNDERSTANDING THE SOCIOCULTURAL EFFECTS

Sports tourism has evolved into a vital component of community development, blending cultural heritage with economic opportunity. By hosting major sporting events, communities can showcase unique cultures and natural beauty, which provides the opportunity to enhance visibility on a statewide, national or even world stage. Sports tourism’s role in fostering economic growth is underscored by its ability to drive infrastructure investments, create jobs and stimulate local business growth.

Community First Champion Center in Grand Chute, Wisconsin, opened in November 2019 with 164,000 square feet of adaptable indoor space for a wide variety of sports. It was a major step forward for Fox Cities communities, accounting for about 40 percent of sports tourism efforts in the area, witnessing steady growth in the number of visiting teams events and hotel room nights over the past three years.

“We put 25 percent of our room tax collections away into our Tourism Development Grant fund for community development,” said Matt Ten Haken, director of sports marketing at Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Since our CVB’s foundation in 1988, we have given over $10 million in grants to brick and mortar campaigns. We know that the majority of the use and enjoyment of parks, museums and performing arts centers are by community members. Sports tourism can obviously drive business and that’s really

important, but the community benefit is just as important, and we can do both if we do it wisely.”

In addition to the aforementioned benefits, sports tourism is a powerful tool for promoting social cohesion and community pride. Sports tournaments, marathons, regional championships and more encourage participation and community engagement, which fosters a sense of shared identity.

“Beyond the ‘heads in beds’ of sports tourism, [Community First Champion Center] has allowed us to provide more opportunities for kids to play,” said Ten Haken. “My daughter is playing in a volleyball camp there as we speak.”

According to a 2023 study on the impact of environment, culture and sports tourism on the economy by Sonia Lohana et al., “sports tourism promotes community engagement and social cohesion,” uniting residents and visitors in shared experiences that celebrate local culture and environmental assets. This cultural exchange enhances mutual understanding and enriches the community’s social fabric, strengthening bonds that can be long-lasting.

By hosting major sporting events, communities can showcase unique cultures and natural beauty, which provides the opportunity to enhance visibility on a statewide, national or even world stage.

“What I’ve found over the past 14 years in this position is that there’s nothing more rewarding than to help create facilities or events in this community,” said Ten Haken. “Seeing kids playing in tournaments here and their families visiting local businesses is super rewarding to see, knowing that [money spent] is going directly to our friends and neighbors who own and operate

Moreover, sports tourism encourages the preservation of cultural heritage by placing value on local traditions, landscapes and customs. Lohana et al. note that preservation is often supported by infrastructure development tailored to maintain and highlight the area’s unique qualities. By strategically combining

cultural assets with environmental beauty, communities create an appealing destination image that attracts tourism sustainably, supporting both heritage preservation and environmental health.

With these combined benefits, sports tourism has emerged as a community builder and cultural connector. This dual impact illustrates the power of sports tourism to foster sustainable growth, build lasting cultural bridges and create a legacy of social and economic vitality within host communities.

SPORTS TOURISM’S DEEPER ECONOMIC IMPACT

Employment opportunities often increase significantly in tandem with sports tourism. From event management to hospitality and retail positions, sporting events and the facilities that host them bring full-time, part-time and temporary jobs that generate income for residents and support local economies.

“We employ 40 part-time employees, most of which are high school or college students in the area,” said Ten Haken on employment and opportunities created by Community First Champion Center. “Getting them that first taste of working in the sports industry and customer service, a lot of skills that they’re learning are transferable to many other career paths.”

In the study Creating Community Through Sport by Cimarron Global Solutions, long-term infrastructure development is another crucial benefit of sports tourism. On a grander scale, to accommodate and attract major events, communities often need to invest in infrastructure, upgrading sports facilities, transportation systems and public amenities, such as for the recent 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. If done right, these improvements benefit not only the visitors but also enhance the quality of life for the community, leaving a legacy of wellmaintained, high-quality infrastructure that continues to serve families long after the events have concluded.

Igor Bakovic, director of sports at DuPage Sports Commission (DSC), spoke about the positive effects of investments, which has helped in creating and expanding its vast number of tournaments and events throughout the years.

“DSC thoughtfully reviews its budget so we can use our funding in the most advantageous way possible,” said Bakovic. “Each opportunity is viewed from all perspectives: impact for our venues, benefits for residents and local athletes, the goals of our partner organizations and the economic impact of driving sports visitation. We look forward to growing financial support so we can continue to make these important investments locally and for the industry as a whole.”

A STRATEGIC PATH TO ECONOMIC GROWTH

Sports tourism offers communities a dynamic pathway to both economic growth and sociocultural enrichment. Through local and national events, destinations are seeing substantial economic impacts not only in revenue but also in job creation, infrastructure development and brand visibility. Beyond the financial gains, sports tourism strengthens community bonds, fosters local pride and offers the chance to preserve cultural heritage.

The results are enduring, where communities become more cohesive, facilities serve locals year-round and a destination’s appeal broadens. For communities looking to enhance their economic and social vitality, investing in sports tourism is a strategic move worth taking.

Photo courtesy of Fox Cities

Community FIrst Champion Center in Appleton, Wisconsin

Emergency Action Planning:

Mitigating Risk

IN Sports Event Planning

Effective risk management is critical in sports event planning. Always be prepared.

ESSENTIAL STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE EMERGENCY ACTION PLANNING IN SPORTS EVENT MANAGEMENT

By Robin Baxter and Ellis Mair

Effective risk management is critical in sports event planning, ensuring the safety of participants, staff and spectators while safeguarding the integrity of the event. Comprehensive risk management encompasses several key areas: Emergency Action Planning (EAP), policy development, proper medical staffing, staff training and documentation.

IMPORTANCE OF HAVING AN EAP

An EAP is the cornerstone of risk management in event planning. It outlines the procedures to follow

during emergencies, ensuring a swift, organized response to medical emergencies, weather incidents or security threats. The EAP serves as a blueprint for action, minimizing chaos and confusion during critical moments.

Attendees and participants are coming to your event with the expectation that you have a wellthought-out plan that follows up-todate best practices that your entire team and staff are aware of and able to execute on. If you’re just getting started, the newly updated “National Athletic Trainers’ Association Position Statement: Emergency Action Plan Development and Implementation in Sport” can serve as a valuable resource.

While creating an EAP is the first step, regular reviews are essential to ensure its effectiveness. Conducting drills and simulations helps staff familiarize themselves with the plan, identify potential weaknesses and make necessary adjustments. Be sure to document who is present and when you practice your plan as this falls in line with current best practices. Continuous review and updates are crucial, especially when there are changes in venue, staff or regulations. The plan should be shared with all stakeholders, including staff, volunteers, participants and emergency responders. Circulating the EAP ensures that everyone involved knows their roles and responsibilities,

photos courtesy of AC Collins licensed under Go4

Make sure you have proper medical staffing.

fostering a coordinated and efficient response during emergencies.

BEST PRACTICES FOR YOUR EAP

Developing comprehensive policies based on the latest research is essential for managing specific risks. A starting point for your policy development list should include the following:

WEATHER: Implement protocols for severe weather conditions, such as lightning, wind, tornado, extreme heat or cold. These should include constant monitoring of weather conditions, determining safe participation levels, implementing evacuation or sheltering procedures and criteria for event delays, modifications or cancellations.

CONCUSSION: A concussion management policy outlines

procedures for identifying, assessing and managing head injuries. This includes guidelines for return-toplay decisions, documentation and post-injury monitoring.

CATASTROPHIC INJURY: Prepare for catastrophic injuries by having a plan for immediate medical response, transportation to medical facilities and communication with families and media.

MISSING CHILD: A missing child policy should detail steps for search and rescue, communication with parents and authorities and a plan for a found child that needs to be reunited with parents.

MASS CASUALTY INCIDENT: In the event of a mass casualty, having a clear plan for triage, medical care

and coordination with emergency services is critical. While these scenarios can be hard to think about, it is critically important that you discuss possible situations. Understanding the hierarchy of policies between the facility and the event renter is crucial. Event organizers must ensure that their policies align with and complement those of the facility. Clear communication and collaboration with facility management can prevent conflicts and ensure cohesive risk management practices.

PROPER MEDICAL STAFFING

Medical Staff Ratios determine the appropriate ratio of medical staff to participants that is essential for effective risk management. This ratio can vary depending on the type of sport, level of competition, number

Make sure your staff is properly trained.

of participants, number of playing surfaces and the level of risk involved.

National Governing Bodies (NGBs) often provide guidance in regards to proper medical staffing ratios.

Facility Layout is important, with medical stations strategically placed for easy access in view of all playing surfaces and clear signage directing participants and spectators to these areas. Understanding the facility’s layout also aids in planning evacuation routes and emergency access points.

Credentialed Healthcare Professionals with the proper qualifications and experience are paramount to ensuring proper care.

Athletic Trainers (ATs) are highlyqualified, multiskilled healthcare providers that are leaders in sideline care for athletes. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) can be useful on site in the event of an emergency, but when it comes to making return-to-play decisions, concussion evaluations or orthopedic evaluations, ATs are the healthcare provider that you want on your staff.

Appropriate Insurance coverage is a vital aspect of risk management. This includes liability insurance for the event and workers’ compensation for staff, independent contractors and volunteers. Adequate insurance protects against financial loss and provides a safety net in case of unforeseen incidents. It is also important to ensure that the healthcare providers that you are hiring carry their own professional liability insurance.

Planning for the Long Day, such as providing breaks, restroom access, meals and access to shade, A/C or heat, ensure that your staff is able to care for your participants.

Schedule shifts that will prevent fatigue, provide sufficient supplies and equipment.

TRAINING YOUR STAFF

Pre-Event Communication, such as meetings, are essential for briefing staff on their roles, discussing the EAP and addressing any concerns. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, reducing the likelihood of mishaps during the event.

Pre-Event Medical Meeting allows medical and event staff to discuss their roles, assess potential risks, review protocols and ensure that all equipment and supplies are ready.

On-Site Collaboration provides coordination between medical personnel, security and event organizers and staff to ensure a unified response to any incidents. Establishing clear lines of communication and channels, with walkie talkies, cell phones, etc., and having a designated point person for emergencies will improve efficiency.

Debrief by gathering staff to discuss what went well and identifying areas for improvement helps refine future risk management strategies. Take on-site notes in real time to reference back to in this meeting. Documenting lessons learned and incorporating feedback into the EAP enhances preparedness for subsequent events.

DOCUMENTATION

HIPAA Compliance ensures that all medical records and personal information are handled securely, protecting the privacy of participants. Compliance with HIPAA standards is not just a legal requirement but also a

demonstration of commitment to ethical practices.

Shareable to Patient/Parent documentation should be accessible to those it concerns, such as patients and their parents/guardians. Providing copies of medical records and incident reports ensures transparency and facilitates better communication between medical staff and families.

Seven Years is the recommended amount of time that records should be meticulously maintained and preserved, though timelines might change depending on regulations in your state. This retention period aligns with legal requirements and best practices, ensuring that documentation is available for future reference if needed. Proper archival of records also aids in tracking patterns, identifying risks and improving safety measures over time.

Robin Baxter brings over 18 years of sport industry experience in a variety of roles including coaching, event management, housing, NGB event sanctioning and risk management.

Ellis Mair is a certified athletic trainer and the Co-Founder of Go4, a cutting-edge platform that provides a comprehensive risk management solution. Leveraging advanced technology, Go4 automates the creation of emergency action plans, facilitates the hiring of athletic trainers from a national network of over 23,000 professionals, and offers a HIPAA-compliant electronic medical record (EMR) system.

Youth and Amateur Sports Insurance

A rundown of the important details on the proper insurance coverage for youth and amateur sports

By Jennifer Peacock

Youth and Amateur Sports is a dynamic and thriving industry, yet it comes with inherent risks that can jeopardize the financial stability and operational success of all involved. Insurance is a critical component in safeguarding against these risks, providing financial security for club owners, event operators, venues, industry partners and the parents/players

who participate in the space. This compendium of the youth insurance deep dive by the Sports Events and Tourism Association (Sports ETA) and U.S. Sports Club Insurance (USSCI) explores types of insurance essential for the industry, such as the specific needs of different stakeholders, the benefits of using an insurance broker and strategies to maximize coverage and save on premiums.

The score on cost for sports insurance

TThere is no straightforward answer to questions of cost since “youth and amateur sports insurance” is a broad term for the various types of insurance used within the sports realm. It’s more important to understand that not securing the proper coverage can potentially be at a far greater cost and risk to

From General Liability to Travel Insurance, there are 12 types of insurance coverage for youth and amateur sports that are important to understand. To read a complete rundown of each type, please visit Sports ETA.

• General Liability Insurance

• Directors and Officers (D&O) - Liability

• Accident Medical Insurance

• Commercial Property & Equipment Insurance

• Equipment-Related Liability

• Workers’ Compensation

• Cyber Coverage

• Sexual Abuse and Molestation

• Umbrella Liability

• Sports Fee Insurance

• Event Cancellation Insurance

• Travel Insurance

Learn more at www.sportseta.org

your organization. Ensuring there are no hidden exclusions in your policy is crucial.

Parents can protect their investments with individual sports fee insurance, which is tailored to protect the financial commitments that are made to play competitive sports. Becoming a standard offering, it’s designed to protect both clubs and families from financial losses when unexpected events sideline young athletes. This ensures that if an athlete can’t participate, it won’t lead to significant financial hardship for families or clubs. Clubs can often acquire a group rate, while parents might opt in during registration, making this type of coverage versatile.

Why you may need an insurance broker

An insurance broker acts as an intermediary between you and an insurer. Armed with both your background and their insurance know-how, they bring industry-specific expertise to help navigate complex insurance needs and find the best solutions for your operations and events. These specialty brokers understand the latest market trends and help to compare rates and policies from different carriers, ensuring the most competitive rates and the best coverage options to avoid unnecessary cost. In the event of a claim, brokers offer support to streamline the process and achieve faster resolution, minimizing disruption to your operations.

Navigating industry sectors

By understanding and addressing specific insurance needs, NGBs, event operators, sports clubs, venues and industry partners can better protect themselves against potential risks and ensure the smooth operation of their activities within the sports ecosystem.

National Governing Bodies (NGBs) play a crucial role in the sports ecosystem by overseeing and regulating their respective sports. They typically provide specialized insurance to their affiliated clubs and event organizers through the sanctioning of events. This often includes:

• Liability Insurance: Covers claims of bodily injury or property damage during sanctioned events.

• Excess Medical Insurance: Provides additional medical coverage for participants, ensuring that any injuries sustained during events are adequately covered.

Event Operators face unique risks and require comprehensive insurance coverage to protect against financial losses. The primary insurance needs include:

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims of bodily injury or property damage during events.

• Event Cancellation Insurance: Covers financial losses due to unforeseen cancellations, such as severe weather or other emergencies.

• Participant Accident Insurance: Provides coverage for injuries sustained by participants, ensuring medical expenses are taken care of.

Sports Clubs play a vital role in the youth and amateur sports ecosystem. Their insurance needs vary based on whether they own and operate their facilities or utilize rentals. Key insurance considerations include:

• General Liability Insurance: Essential for protecting the club against claims of injury or property damage.

• Property Insurance: Necessary for clubs that own their facilities to cover potential damage or loss of property.

• Participant Accident Insurance: Ensures that injuries sustained by athletes during club activities are covered. This coverage can also be provided through player cards obtained through the NGB, usually purchased directly by the parents.

Venues have specific insurance requirements to protect their physical assets and operations. Essential insurance types include:

• Property Insurance: Covers the venue’s buildings and contents.

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage occurring on the premises.

• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Provides coverage for employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses.

What the states say on the need for insurance

Utilizing 2023 weather-related data associated with air travel, out of the 606,218 scheduled domestic flights, 35,462 were either delayed or canceled due to weather conditions, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation and FlightAware. This highlights the significant impact that severe weather can have on air travel schedules, emphasizing the need for robust contingency planning and insurance solutions to mitigate financial and logistical challenges. This also illustrates the effect that weather can have on both outdoor and indoor sporting events, leading to potential cancellations and disruptions.

Event cancellation insurance is a critical component for event operators, venues and participants in the industry. This insurance mitigates financial risks associated with the unforeseen cancellation of events, such as severe weather,

natural disasters, or other emergencies, ensuring that all stakeholders are protected from potential financial losses.

What is hard-to-place coverage?

If you find yourself with hard-to-place coverage or rates that are skyrocketing, then it may be time to explore alternatives to the traditional insurance market. As insurance premiums rise, and some policies become unavailable, alternative solutions may exist within secondary markets or captive insurance programs. Controlling risk factors and implementing risk reduction plans can help reduce costs as well.

With all of this in mind, what options are available for those who are turned down for traditional insurance? Secondary/ surplus lines insurance markets specialize in taking on hard-toplace risk exposures that a business may have or if they simply have had issues with the severity or frequency of claims.

How to save on premiums

Choosing policies with higher deductibles can also lower insurance costs. Ensure that you ask for different deductible options when reviewing the coverage being quoted. Although higher deductibles can increase your out-of-pocket expenses for claims, weighing your options is an important part of choosing the right coverage for you.

Some risks, such as the location and type of business facility, can be managed to influence insurance costs. Risk factors like community crime rates, fire protection and building security can impact insurance rates. A well-maintained, secure building with good access to emergency services can lower premiums. Historical safety records and history also play a role in determining rates.

Implementing risk reduction plans can minimize the need for extensive insurance coverage. Examples include enhancing workplace security to reduce burglary and theft risks and establishing safety programs to lower accident rates. By actively managing risks, businesses can potentially reduce insurance requirements and associated costs.

Protecting your sports facility with commercial property insurance could help in the event of damage or destruction.

The Next Evolution of Youth Sports Destinations

How Mixed-Use and Multi-Purpose Will Define the Future of Sports Tourism Complexes

By Ashley Whittaker

For the last decade, youth sports have been booming thanks to the rise in popularity of travel teams and regional tournament scenes. On the climb toward its projected $70 billion valuation in 2026, the youth sports industry, currently valued at $52.2 billion in direct spending by the Sports Events & Tourism Association (AKA Sports ETA) has now caught the attention of private equity firms, big-name investors, and real estate developers. Enter the rise of the mixed-use development anchored by youth sports mega-facilities.

Bluhawk in Overland Park, Kansas

THE GAME IS CHANGING

The pendulum of development has swung from the local use, government-led parks and recreation projects to tourismled sports mega-facilities that drive thousands of visitors each year. We’ve seen the intersection of these two ideas creating the ‘hybrid’ mega-facility which not only hosts a bevy of tournaments each year that throw off millions in economic impact through tourism spend, but also hosts local programming, community events, entertainment, and wellness initiatives. Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater in Albertville, AL and the Hoover Met Complex in Hoover, AL are two great examples of facilities hitting both community engagement AND sports tourism goals for their cities. With dedicated city leadership and proven operating partnerships, the unifying factor for these facilities has been public funding and public oversight.

In both Alabama-based examples, the economic impact of new market

spend from sports tourism has created measurable community development around the properties. By attracting families, creating economic activity, and enhancing local real estate values, these facilities are setting a new standard for community-centered development. Youth sports facilities are the “hottest mixed-use anchor” because they don’t just serve athletes—they engage entire communities. Public-privatepartnerships (P3s) are the key to unlocking a development like this in a community – and maintaining control on pricing, programs, and performance of the asset. The success of these complexes stems from their ability to attract high volumes of visitors who stimulate local economies by patronizing nearby businesses, hotels, and restaurants. For developers, anchoring a mixed-use development with a youth sports facility creates a stable, high-traffic center that draws diverse groups— from athletes and their families to local community members—who interact with

the surrounding retail, entertainment, and dining options.

These facilities generate foot traffic comparable or exceeding that of shopping malls or entertainment centers, fostering a “halo effect” that spills over into neighboring properties.

For example, AdventHealth Sports Park at Bluhawk in Overland Park, KS is one of the nation’s best examples of a purpose-built youth sports development anchor. This massive 260,000-squarefoot facility includes eight basketball courts, an NHL-regulation sized ice rink, a 40,000 square-foot indoor turf field, sports performance center, two dining options and entertainment galore. Developed by the Price Brothers Management company and operated by The Sports Facilities Companies, this facility anchors 270,000 square feet of retail, 110,000 square feet of office space, 180 single-family homes and 200 apartment units.

EXPERIENCE MATTERS

The success of these facilities speaks to a broader trend in real estate: the move toward experiential destinations that offer more than just places to shop or dine. Today’s families are looking for communities where they can live, work, and play, and youth sports facilities are a natural fit within this vision. Youth sports tourism has been hailed as ‘recession resistant’ thanks to its performance during the great recession in 2008-2009 – the only travel sector not to decline during that period- and again as a major contributor to the recovery of the travel and tourism industry following the COVID-19 pandemic.

If your only vacation is a “tourna-cation” you might be looking to extend that weekend in Myrtle Beach to give your family time at the beach. Or to explore the Great Smoky Mountains after your visit to Rocky Top Sports World in Gatlinburg. You might also be looking for the simpler comforts; on-site entertainment for little brother or sister, better options for lunch than your typical concession-stand hotdog.

ACCESS & EQUITY

Youth sports facilities are designed to be inclusive spaces that support recreational activities and provide gathering places for families and community members. By integrating sports complexes into mixed-use developments, developers are not just creating economic hubs; they are building vibrant communities where people can connect, engage and enjoy shared experiences.

Here’s the thing, though, when you build a sports complex for $120 million dollars the pressure is on to create a development – or sports operation – that is sustainable. With pressure on the micro-economics of youth sports, there are many families who simply can’t afford to play.

Where public tax dollars are in the mix, there is an inherent responsibility for affordability in the community. Many municipalities are solving this with local discounts or zip-code based pricing models, income-based scholarships, ongoing subsidies, and leveraging the freemium model. The freemium model is a business strategy that involves keeping the price for basic features

free or low-cost but offering upgrades for an additional cost.

ANCHORS IN REAL ESTATE

As the demand for youth sports facilities continues to grow, so does their potential as anchors for new real estate developments. From providing economic stability to enhancing community cohesion, these complexes are proving to be valuable assets for cities and developers alike. Youth sports megafacilities represent a new era of mixeduse development, where the needs of families, athletes, and communities come together to create thriving, interconnected spaces. These facilities are more than just sports venues—they are the anchors of the communities of tomorrow, driving economic vitality, fostering community connections, and enhancing quality of life for all who visit.

Ashley Whittaker, Partner, Sports Facilities Companies, is a dynamic leader at Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), overseeing brand strategy, marketing, and sales, where her initiatives have tripled inbound leads and garnered media features in outlets like HBO and Forbes. As Editor in Chief of Community Playmaker and head of SFC’s in-house agency, she spearheads industry-leading platforms and strategies that amplify the brand and support local government leaders and SFC venues nationwide.

REVOLUTIONIZING SPORTS TOURNAMENT PLANNING

with Innovative Technology Solutions

In the rapidly evolving world of sports tourism, tournament planning can often resemble a juggling act. With numerous moving parts—team registrations, venue coordination, hotel bookings and stakeholder communications—event planners face an uphill battle in their quest for efficiency and organization.

Enter EventConnect, a transformative all-in-one platform that has been making waves over the last year in the sports event planning landscape. With its innovative technology solutions, EventConnect is redefining how tournaments are managed, helping organizers streamline operations, save valuable time and enhance the overall experience for participants and attendees.

Growth of the Platform

Since its inception in 2013, EventConnect has experienced exceptional growth, establishing itself as a critical player in the sports tourism industry. Founded with a vision to simplify sports event management, the platform has quickly expanded its offerings to meet the demands of tournament organizers across the sports tourism industry.

“Things were just starting to click and come into a groove,” said Matt Trinnear, VP of strategic partnerships at EventConnect, commenting on company growth over the past twelve months.

“We reflected and looked at that list [of new partners and others in the pipeline], which has only become larger and more

exciting with onboarding [increasing] times 10—times 15.”

Milestones in their evolution include strategic partnerships with prominent sports organizations and expansion into new markets, allowing EventConnect to refine its technology and continuously enhance its user experience. As the platform evolves, so does its commitment to innovation, making it an invaluable asset for event planners.

A case in point is EventConnect’s current commitment to leading-edge innovation, specifically over the last 24 months with a seven-figure investment in core team members, machine learning and AI features (chatbot, voice, email) to further enhance its competitive advantage but

EventConnect’s software provides tournament organizers with a comprehensive set of features that streamline the planning and execution of sports events, including real-time data and reports.

also to lead the industry with groundbreaking investments.

Simplifying Tournament Planning

At the heart of EventConnect’s appeal is its suite of advanced tools designed to tackle the specific challenges tournament planners face. Or, the ability to tap into their open API documentation allowing for easy integrations across most systems in the space. The platform is revolutionary with features aimed at simplifying communication, automating tedious processes and managing tournament travel logistics.

“Working with EventConnect has been an absolute gamechanger,” said Laura Szczepaniak, VP travel operation at 200x85. “Previously, we had relied on multiple sources to gain access to necessary information. EventConnect has significantly improved our ability to have immediate insight into teams’ travel trends and data to help support workflows [and] shifted their programs to adapt to our needs.”

DMOs have also seen significant results, finding that participant satisfaction is markedly higher when logistics run smoothly. From instant access to accommodation options to tailored travel packages, attendees experience a seamless journey from registration to the final whistle.

Hotel bookings are also accessible through EventConnect. The platform integrates tools that allow planners to secure room blocks and coordinate with local accommodations.

“EventConnect has been instrumental in providing world-class service to enduser customers, but to the hotel and CVB clients as well,” said Lance Fite, VP of sports with Visit Mesa. “Time and time again, their team has proven that their superior technology and product simplifies all facets of housing, registration and reporting to the benefit of every destination and rights holders they serve. EventConnect understands that every destination is different, from reporting needs to RFP sourcing to hotel supply— and it is their willingness to collaborate and customize that have been key to our ongoing success here in Mesa, Arizona.”

CEO John D’Orsay says EventConnect continues to improve its technology in response to the growing needs of its partners. Currently, EventConnect works with more than 4,000 events in over 800 North American cities and destinations.

Maximizing Involvement

The CityConnect platform is a dedicated DMOs tool designed to bridge the gap between event planning and community engagement. Unlike traditional event management solutions, CityConnect extends its focus beyond logistics to foster deeper involvement from local businesses and organizations. By providing DMOs with comprehensive insights and analytics, the platform empowers them to strategically engage local partners—from hotels and restaurants to recreational facilities—ensuring that events benefit the broader community. This approach maximizes economic impact by integrating community assets into the event experience, transforming local engagement into a seamless extension of event operations.

One of CityConnect’s defining features is its ability to tailor event strategies to amplify local benefits. DMOs can use the platform’s robust data tools to identify peak business opportunities, enabling them to coordinate special promotions and packages that align with event timelines. This collaboration not only boosts revenue for local stakeholders but also enriches the attendee experience by showcasing unique aspects of the host community.

With streamlined booking tools and real-time updates, CityConnect ensures participants can easily access local services.

The Future of Sports Tourism

EventConnect is positioned as an essential partner for event planners as it streamlines business operations and boosts efficiency through technology,

shaping the future of the sports tourism industry. With a comprehensive platform integrating event registration, accommodation booking and financial tracking, this significantly reduces time spent on administrative “chores”. Instead, organizers can redirect their energy toward enriching the event by refining participant experiences, fostering community engagement or driving impactful results.

As the sports tourism industry continues to expand and evolve, EventConnect is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory.

With the demand for more efficient, high-quality events rising, platforms that can seamlessly blend technology with human insight are becoming indispensable. EventConnect’s blend of automation, data intelligence and usercentric design positions it as a trailblazer, ready to set new standards in how sporting events are organized and executed, ultimately contributing to industry growth and innovation.

“It’s quite amazing to be in an industry where the core component of sport doesn’t change [and] everything else around it is still at its infancy,” said Eric Vardon, president of EventConnect. “The nuances of sports evolve somewhat, but [the future is more focused on] the technology and the process of traveling to a tournament, the way you’re registering, or the way you communicate with your team.

“Those kinds of things evolve. If we can be ahead of the game and continue challenging our business and partners, we’ll be at the forefront of where the industry is going.”

Photos courtesy of EventConnect

sports

Earn honors in sports management when you plan your tournament in Starkville.

Our Cornerstone Sports Complex features 12 tournament-ready diamonds, just minutes away from easy lodging, restaurants and entertainment. 428

Balancing Growth and Sustainability

Sports ETA President and CEO John David talks about the future of sports tourism and the industry's evolving challenges

Sports Planning Guide (SPG): Sports tournaments generate a lot of economic benefits to local communities, but they also come with environmental costs. How can the industry balance the desire to bring in new tournaments with the consumer's desirability for more sustainability?

John David:

It's so topical for you to bring this question up because we recognize the exact needs. We're about to unveil the largest amount of sustainability education that the industry has ever seen. We'll be launching a course on our Sports Tourism Learning Institute (STLI) called Sustainability 101, and we'll be including live education around sustainability. By summer of next year, we're going to have an entire sustainability track where we can have certified-sustainable Sports ETA members.

SPG: There’s been breakneck growth of facility development going on across the U.S. While much of this is painted as being positive, there’s a financial cost which is often the burden of local taxpayers. Resident sentiment isn’t always behind these complexes. Is there a balance that the industry should be striving towards in facility development?

JD: Sports ETA is doing a tremendous amount of advocacy work in explaining the benefit of these types of facilities and

Sports ETA hosts a number of live events.

showcasing case study after case study of the incredible economic impact. In a recent case study we presented, we showcased a multi-field baseball complex that has both a robust tourism initiative and local programing. The Park & Recreation department reported over 200,000 tournament participants and a cost recovery of 73%. Additionally, the cities economic development department estimated $900,000 is local and state tax revenue and $12.5 million to total visitor spending. It really goes back to resident sentiment, and how are we explaining that benefit? I'm excited to share that we've got a couple of great case studies and we'll soon be having a white paper on this as well.

SPG: We've already talked about STLI and the great strides you’ve made in taking over what I thought was a brilliant idea from Al Kidd in improving the educational offerings of the industry. If you had to project out a vision for what you see this becoming, what are you hoping to achieve?

JD: Our goal is to be the go-to place for the entire sports tourism industry, where people go to find education and resources whether that's through our free playbooks or through our STS certification courses like the sustainability ones that I mentioned earlier. For us, it's how do we find the problems. We’re listening to members by being out in the marketplace. The joke we make internally is that I was on an airplane 31 times last year, and that's 31 opportunities that I had to listen to our membership to hear what they need. Our plan with the Sports Tourism Learning Institute is to constantly evolve and build out

that education portfolio while at the same time creating even more opportunity.

Mission number one is taking care of our current members and helping them in their professional journey—but how are we developing that future workforce?

One example is we've just recently added a student membership, where if you want to engage in sports tourism as a student, it's a $25 membership. Our intent is to build that out to where, in the future, we've got collegiate-level course offerings that we can amplify.

SPG: Sports ETA hosts a number of live events throughout the year, and in this industry there's new events popping up continuously. We've seen a pushback in other markets from those that are funding these events because they see the same buyers time and time again at different events. How much is too much?

JD: I think there's going to be somewhat of a shakeout in the future on events. We can't just keep adding new things. Events must contribute to the industry and offer unique value to participants.

When we look at the marketplace, the question that we always ask ourselves is are we covering all the bases of membership through our event portfolio? Between our Symposium, 4S Summit, Chief Executive Summit and Women’s Summit, we couldn't be happier with the live event portfolio that we have. 4S Summit in El Paso increased by 22 percent and had a rating of 4.5 out of 5. Chief Executive Summit increased by 107 percent and had a rating of 4.5. Women's Summit increased by 25 percent, had a

rating of 4.5, and Symposium increased by 14 percent [with] a rating of 4.4.

We feel very strongly that we're delivering the right content at the right time, but we will always evaluate what the market needs. [The] advantage is that that board of directors of 20 [is] constantly working with staff to make sure that we're hitting the mark.

SPG: With the industry clicking on all cylinders, where do you see the greatest opportunity for sport tourism professionals?

JD: In my 25 years in sports tourism events, this is probably the most intriguing time I've ever seen. We've had great consistency growth on one leg, which is our youth and amateur and those traditional sports where it's families and athletes traveling together.

On the other leg, where it's just going for fan experience, that has exploded at levels that we haven't seen before—where people are choosing to vacation as a part of sports fan experience. I think that's very intriguing.

In the next 10–15 years, we're going to see the most international events that have ever been hosted in the U.S. The trickle down of those major events is going to be huge.

The other thing that we're seeing from a trend perspective is that major destinations that had previously only focused on mega events are coming in and saying we need a piece of youth and amateur sports. Some major market destinations have come in and said, “hold on, we need to be a part of this.”

At the same time, we're also seeing a surge in average daily hotel (ADR) rates. That's creating this massive opportunity for our small and mid-markets as our rights holders are being priced out of major markets. Some small and mid-markets have opportunities they've never had before because rights holders are fishing deeper.

The final trend I'll tell you is I think what we're going to see is some great opportunities for sports tourism professionals in the next 10 years. There is going to be an onslaught of high-level jobs that are going to open. There’s going to be a lot of great opportunities for professional growth.

SPG: As a parent whose kids are involved in travel sports, I have seen a disparity between those who can play and those who can afford to play. If there’s a rub on sports

Photos courtesy of Sports ETA

tourism, it’s that it caters to individuals and families who can afford to travel and pay the participation fees.

Many of the kids who would benefit most feel that travel sports are out of reach for them. Is there anything that we can do in this industry to create more of a level playing field and provide access and affordability in sports?

JD: Without question, it's got to be something that's top-of-mind for all of us in this industry. We have to get creative in asking what our event organizers can do, what our hosts can do to create special opportunities for athletes of all economic abilities.

You can expect to see some educational content coming out from the association that starts to produce solutions.

In our future events, you'll see conversations pointed directly at that so we can address it, tackle it and start solving it, because we need all athletes to be able to have access, regardless of economic circumstances.

Another thing that I'll tell you is we're going to have a massive initiative within the parks and recreation space. We know that over 80 percent of our membership has told us that they lean on parks and recreation facilities to host events.

But we often know too that parks and recreation doesn't necessarily “speak” sports tourism. We're working to be that conduit between those two entities.

SPG: As competition heats up, more destinations are helping fund events through bid fees. How is this changing the landscape of where events are held?

JD: The 2023 Sports ETA State of the Industry report indicated that the average destination bid fee pool had increased from $200,000 in 2021 to $400,000 in 2023. That tells you volumes.

We also asked the rights holders how they make decisions on locations. The number one response was incentives and host fees, and number two was discounted venue cost. Being a rights holder for 25 years, I understand that.

At the same time, we have to be respectful for our rights holders because I can tell you that their expenses have gone up to an extreme level.

From the association's perspective, we have to look at both sides of the business and make sure we understand what each unique problem is and how we can support it.

As a rights holder, when you go in and you work with a destination and you create that magic; sure, maybe they're coming in and financially supporting that event to get it there, but when you're doing it with a sustainable focus for longterm growth and long-term relationships, you will always be better by and large.

We have to talk about hotel room rebates the same way. I will talk to our rights holders and say, “Hey guys, there's a tipping point. At that point, it becomes counterproductive for us. Let’s be reasonable and look at this honestly and know what our families can and can't afford.”

To that end, you will see the rights holders policing each other. When somebody makes a comment saying, “Hey, we're doing this and it's amazing,” other rights holders will say, “But hold on, are you thinking about this? Maybe you're pushing the limits a little too far sp let's come up with a reasonable agreement.”

SPG: Will we have destinations reach that point where they'll realize that the juice isn't worth the squeeze in regard to bid fees?

JD: To that point, we have some of the best data tracking we've ever had in terms of tax generation and economic impact. When destinations are looking at their budget, they're looking at what the revenue generation is and then they're budgeting against that.

What has happened with sports tourism is once we've broken down the numbers through the Sports ETA and Destination International economic impact calculator, the revenue was a lot higher than we thought.

Knowing the issue that we talked about earlier is keeping participation affordable, we can utilize that tool to help understand financial impact and potentially offset some of the costs.

SPG: Anything keeping you up at night?

JD: The thing that keeps me up at night is [whether] we are bringing the resources that our membership needs and are we bringing them fast enough.

I live this with our members. Our whole team talks to our members every single day and we want to give them everything they need to be to be successful. When we hear a problem, we jump in to try to find out how somebody else solved it.

So, honestly, just making sure that we are who we say we are and that we're bringing things to the table fast enough for the way that the industry is growing.

When I look at all the trend lines, I'm extremely optimistic about where we are. We had such a stellar year where we increased membership by 9.3 percent. But let me tell you what's even better: We increased [the number of] new members by 48 percent with 100 new members in the last fiscal year. That membership growth has just been phenomenal and it's across all membership categories. We set a very aggressive goal for fiscal year 2025, and by all indications, we're well on track to reach those goal numbers.

We're just very excited about that. Our staff's done a great job.

JOHN DAVID is the President and CEO of the Sports Events & Tourism Association. He served as a member of the Sports ETA Board of Directors for eleven years, representing the Rights Holder category. In 2022, John became the Secretary of the Board, making him the first Rights Holder elected to the Executive Committee.

Sports ETA increased membership by 9.3 percent last year.

Photos courtesy of Sports ETA

Nestled in north Central Florida, Ocala/Marion County is the perfect destination to host a variety of sporting events. Surrounded by stunning nature, fantastic weather year-round, top-notch facilities and plenty of fun activities to do while you are here, the Horse Capital of the World® is sure to deliver your athletes an experience to remember.

Nestled in north Central Florida, Ocala/Marion County is the perfect destination to host a variety of sporting events. Surrounded by stunning nature, fantastic weather year-round, top-notch facilities and plenty of fun activities to do while you are here, the Horse Capital of the World® is sure to deliver your athletes an experience to remember.

OcalaMarion.com

HONDA TENNIS CENTER

BAYAMÓN, PUERTO RICO

Boricua [boh-ree-kwah] is more than a word to identify a person from Puerto Rico. It’s a way of life that means we live for every moment, Our unmatched spirits will inspire and invigorate players and attendees, and our vibrant culture, incredible location, year-round weather, and abundant natural wonders mean that when the game ends, the fun and adventure are just beginning. Learn more at DiscoverPuertoRico.com/Sports.

REQUIRED NOPA SSPOR T FOR U.S. CITIZENS

DISCOVER

PUERTO

RICO

A sun-bleached Caribbean island 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, Puerto Rico boasts the climate and scenic beauty necessary for a successful athletic tournament. But warm weather and aesthetic thrills aren’t everything, because this island also features prime athletic complexes and attractions, the kind that keep people coming back for more. The famed Island of Enchantment is a vibrant destination with attractions that cater to diverse interests, from cultural experiences to outdoor activities. For one, it is home to a rich array of museums that showcase its unique history, art, and culture. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in San Juan houses an impressive collection of Puerto Rican artworks, while the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo provides a more modern perspective. For history enthusiasts, the Museo de las Américas in Old San Juan offers a deep dive into the island’s indigenous and colonial past through its three permanent collections.

COLISEUM OF PUERTO RICO

Wrestling, Basketball, Volleyball

The Coliseum of Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot, located in San Juan, is the region’s premier indoor arena, with a seating capacity of up to 18,500. This state-of-theart venue hosts a wide range of events, including major sports competitions, concerts, and entertainment shows. It is renowned for its modern facilities and versatility.

SAN JUAN NATATORIUM

Swimming, Diving, Water Polo

This swimmer’s dream is a world-class aquatic facility situated in the heart of Puerto Rico’s capital. Featuring an Olympic-sized pool, the natatorium is designed for competitive swimming and diving, meeting international standards. It serves as a key training venue for athletes and hosts significant aquatic events throughout the year.

PUERTO RICO CONVENTION CENTER

Multipurpose

The Puerto Rico Convention Center in San Juan is the largest and most technologically advanced convention facility in the Caribbean. Spanning over 600,000 square feet and able to accommodate groups of up to 10,000, it provides a multiuse space for a wide range of events, including sports competitions, trade shows, and conferences.

HONDA TENNIS CENTER Tennis

One of Bayamón’s best venues is this premier tennis facility, which features multiple well-maintained hard courts suitable for both recreational play and competitive matches. The center regularly hosts local, regional, and international tournaments, attracting players of all levels. It has excellent infrastructure and commitment to promoting tennis.

Puerto Rico

BAYAMÓN SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Tennis

The Bayamón Soccer Complex is a leading soccer facility in Puerto Rico, offering top-tier fields that meet international standards. Located in Bayamón, this facility is home to both amateur and professional soccer teams and regularly hosts local, regional, and international tournaments.

ECO’S

SPORTS PARK Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Football, Ultimate Frisbee, Beach Tennis, Dodgeball, Padel

Interested in sports? Almost every single one is possible at Eco’s Sports Park in San Juan, an innovative facility designed with a strong focus on sustainability. The park offers various sports amenities, including soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts, all within an eco-friendly environment.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“What Discover Puerto Rico offers us as an event planner is an opportunity to do something in a tropical environment with a culture that is unlike anything you can find within our domestic events, while still being a domestic event. It is something extremely unique and that you cant find anywhere else.”

DISCOVER PUERTO RICO

Carlos Deliz, Director of Sports Tourism carlos.deliz@discoverpuertorico.com (787) 400-0197 www.discoverpuertorico.com/sports

— Pro-Am Beach Soccer

The Eastern area of the United States is the most populated of our

It is also the locale of numerous sportsfriendly communities that cater to all types of events. Not only do these destinations feature impressive sports facilities, they have an abundance of amenities and attractions off the field that will keep the entire family entertained.

Photo courtesy of Visit PA

Driving Excellence in Athletics

The Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland unifies communities through dynamic events and partnerships

Maryland Boosts Sports Tourism with Grant

State tourism grant and legacy fund aim to push Maryland higher in sports tourism industry

Make Maryland Yours!

ON BEHALF OF MARYLAND SPORTS COMMISSION AND OUR DEDICATED

PARTNERS ACROSS MARYLAND, we’re thrilled to welcome you to experience our state as the premier destination for your next sporting event. From the energetic streets of Baltimore to the scenic shores of Chesapeake Bay, and from the rolling mountains in the west to the vibrant coastal plains in the east, Maryland’s diverse landscapes and state-of-the-art venues make it the perfect setting for unforgettable competitions.

Our state has a proud history of hosting world-class events. In recent years, we have been home to everything from the Maryland 5 Star equestrian event at Fair Hill to the Preakness Stakes, the middle jewel of the Triple Crown, as well as numerous NCAA championships, the AAU Junior Olympics and the USSSA Eastern Nationals.

Maryland’s commitment to excellence is evident in every event we host. Our teams of event professionals and passionate volunteers work together to ensure every moment of your competition goes smoothly and that each participant feels at home.

With Maryland’s proximity to major East Coast cities, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York, access is seamless. Our transportation network makes travel convenient and affordable, whether you’re driving or flying into one of several major airports. Once here, your athletes and families will find countless ways to experience Maryland’s warm hospitality, explore its historical landmarks and enjoy a mix of charming towns and dynamic urban centers.

When the competition wraps up, Maryland continues to inspire. Visitors can unwind at the Inner Harbor, explore the trails and waterfalls of our state parks or sample the best of Maryland’s famous seafood. Our communities, with their pride and enthusiasm, are ready to create lasting memories for your athletes and guests.

In this guide to Maryland sports, you’ll find everything you need to make your event a resounding success in the Old-Line State. We invite you to discover why so many people have already chosen Maryland for their tournaments, championships and festivals. Let us make your next event an experience that celebrates sport, community and the unique spirit of Maryland.

Scan to discover more of what Maryland offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

ON THE COVER:

rides her horse Danito at the 2022 Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill.

Maryland’s beaches are a perfect spot to enjoy any sports activity.

Tamra Smith

Photo courtesy of Shannon Brinkman

Photo courtesy of Maryland Sports

Grants help Maryland attract a slew of sports to the state. All photos courtesy of the Maryland Sports Commission

Maryland Boosts Sports Tourism with Grant

and Honors Michael Erin Busch’s Legacy

State tourism grant and legacy fund aim to push Maryland higher in sports tourism industry

By Kristen Cerney

The Youth and Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund enables Maryland, and the Maryland Sport Commission, to be a proactive competitor within the sports tourism industry. With these funds, Maryland will distinguish itself from competitor sets regionally, nationally and internationally. The state will be able venture into new spaces within youth and amateur sports, while simultaneously boosting its already merited reputation.

Qualifying sporting events have a capacity of at least 750 participants and 1,500 spectators, increase spending by out-ofstate visitors by $100,000 and generate stays at 500 hotel rooms overnight. The minimum grant award is $2,500 and the maximum is $75,000 per event.

The Maryland Sports Commission has attended over 3,500 events, resulting in $1.775 billion in direct spending on Maryland’s economy. While this feat is outstanding for the state, Maryland

Sports projects that these events will continue to generate growth for the economy in the long term.

THE LEGACY OF MICHAEL ERIN BUSCH

In 2003, Micahel Erin Busch became House Speaker in the House of Delegates. For 30 years, he served Maryland and the people of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, up until his death in 2019. Throughout his colored career, Speaker Busch sat in a multitude of committees, notably as Chair of the State Commission on Physical Fitness from 1989 to 1994.

Attending St. Mary’s High School in Annapolis, Speaker Busch was an active student, taking on three sports at one time. His athleticism was highlighted when he was awarded the Rhodes Trophy for being the premier football player in Anne Arundel County. Years later, he was the starting run back on the 1967 Temple University football team.

As a sophomore, he was recruited into the AllConference team, exemplifying his outstanding performance as an athlete. Speaker Busch suffered from an extensive knee injury in his junior year, hindering any plans for a career playing football. This did not stop him from attaining a remarkable life dedicating his work to education, coaching and public service.

One of Speaker Busch’s hallmarks was gender equity within youth sports, pushing to have equal athletic opportunities for female athletes. Throughout his position as administrator for youth sports programs within the

Department of Recreation and Parks Department in Anne Arundel County, he elevated facilities and programs nationwide, many of which continue to thrive due to his support.

Outside of work, he was a proud husband to his wife, Cynthia, and dedicated father to his two daughters, Megan and Erin, who went on to play Division I Lacrosse at Coastal Carolina University and Stetson University. Speaker Busch volunteered as a coach and referee for youth, high school and community college sports. His supportive nature led countless athletes to form a strong bond with each other on and off the field.

Youth sports were a great passion for Speaker Busch, yet he also advocated for state parks, educational programs and higher education. He and his family devoted time to appreciating the arts and bolstering local art programs. His commitment to supporting his community is felt to this day and continues to live on through the programs and centers he loved.

The Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts commemorated his life by renaming itself the Michael E. Busch Center for the Arts and Maryland Hall. The Annapolis Branch of the Anne Arundel County Library took the same initiative, honoring his lifetime of achievements by naming itself after him. To celebrate the positive impact that Speaker Busch had on youth and amateur sports, Maryland Legislature officially approved the Maryland Sports Commission Youth and Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund in 2020.

Enjoy top-of-the-line basketball in Maryland.

Maryland hosts an array of amateur sports.

Driving Excellence in Sports

The Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland unifies communities through dynamic events and partnerships

By Justin Marques

As the nonprofit arm of the Maryland Sports Commission, Sport & Entertainment Corp of Maryland is a 501(c)3 committed to elevating the quality and success of large-scale sports and entertainment events across the state. Founded in 2019, the organization’s efforts include supporting major events through economic research, strategic partnerships and sponsorship opportunities.

By promoting regional, national and international sports events, Sport & Entertainment Corp of Maryland has boosted the Old-Line State’s economy, enhanced its media presence and improved quality of life for communities. By actively seeking contributions from businesses, government entities, additional nonprofits and individuals, the organization has further strengthened its vibrant sports culture and a strong economic impact for Maryland.

INTRODUCING FOUR MAJOR KEYS

While Maryland and Sport & Entertainment Corp of Maryland are focused on a multitude of sports and sporting events, four major events stand out. These major keys include the AAU Junior Olympic Games in Baltimore, the Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, the Maryland Cycling Classic and the Preakness Festival. To return steeplechase racing to Fair Hill, the Sport Corp hopes to relaunch racing in the spring of 2025.

AAU JUNIOR OLYMPIC GAMES

Baltimore is full of rich American history and a vibrant professional and amateur sports scene. The city will host the AAU Junior Olympic Games in 2028 and 2032—a big win for the community and the organization.

The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is one of the world’s largest nonprofit amateur sports organizations and its Junior Olympic Games happen to be the largest national multi-sport event for youth athletics in the United States. The Games bring together thousands of young athletes to compete in various sports such as track and field, swimming, wrestling and more.

Marking a major milestone for the city and state in the world of youth sports, the 2028 event will be the first time Baltimore has ever hosted the Games. The event will be held at Morgan State University and is expected to create a significant economic impact for hotels, shops, restaurants and more, further boosting Maryland’s position among the top sports tourism states in the country.

MARYLAND 5 STAR AT FAIR HILL

The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is a premier event in the world of equestrian sports, held at the renowned Fair Hill Special Event Zone. As one of only a few competitions of its kind in the United

States, it draws elite riders and horses from around the globe to compete in dressage, cross-country and show jumping.

The event is not just a showcase of top-level equestrian talent but also a celebration of sport’s rich tradition and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of Fair Hill’s landscapes, the Maryland 5 Star offers an unforgettable experience for spectators, blending competition with the beautiful countryside. Cecil County has a history of hosting equestrian events, and Sport & Entertainment Corp of Maryland has been hosting this one since 2019.

MARYLAND CYCLING CLASSIC

Gear up for the Maryland Cycling Classic, a relatively new addition to the world of competitive cycling that is set to take place in 2025. After having to be postponed in 2024, the third race will showcase top cyclists from around the globe, racing through Maryland’s countryside and cities.

The Maryland Cycling Classic promises an action-packed experience for both competitors and fans. As a highlight on the international cycling calendar, the event will bring together elite athletes and cycling enthusiasts for a mixture of speed, skill and tough competition. Community building and giving back are also part of the spirit of the event, with 50 new bikes and helmets being donated to two schools to help promote better health and fitness.

PREAKNESS FESTIVAL

In May 2025, Maryland will commemorate a remarkable milestone: the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes. This momentous occasion serves as the foundation for the state’s vision to create a nationally recognized celebration that attracts participants and enthusiasts from around the globe. With Governor Moore’s historic $400 million investment aimed at wrapping up the redevelopment of Pimlico by 2027, Maryland is poised to elevate the Preakness Stakes and showcase the vibrant spirit of Baltimore and the wider Maryland community.

This significant investment not only enhances the racetrack’s infrastructure but also ensures that the benefits of this initiative will be felt across the entire state, promoting long-term growth and accessibility for all Marylanders.

The Preakness 150 celebration is not just a nod to a storied past; it represents a catalyst for the future of Maryland’s horse racing industry. The robust festival will be brimming with activities, seamlessly connecting existing events with new initiatives throughout the state and fostering a sense of community and excitement that embodies the essence of Maryland’s equestrian heritage.

Maryland Cycling Classic

Bike Jam activities during MCC

Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill

TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND

Located on Maryland’s eastern shore, Talbot County is a convenient MidAtlantic destination for hosting youth sports tournaments. The county boasts quality athletic facilities that can accommodate various sports, from ice hockey, soccer, and baseball, to rowing, and more. The indoor Talbot County Community Center & Ice Rink is a multi-purpose venue offering year-round ice, a curling rink, sports court ideal for basketball, pickleball, or volleyball, and meeting space. The North Easton Sports Complex features natural grass fields for rectangle or diamond play. The county’s picturesque waterways include multiple rivers and direct access to the Chesapeake Bay, offering unique opportunities for water sports, such as kayaking, rowing, or fishing. Beyond the fields, Talbot County’s vibrant waterfront communities, historic towns, and familyfriendly attractions offer plenty of opportunities for athletes and their families to relax and explore between games, providing a well-rounded experience for tournament organizers and participants. Participants can savor a real Maryland steamed crab feast, hop on a narrated river cruise, or plan a bicycle or kayak tour of Maryland’s Eastern Shore to explore its deep history as the birthplace of Frederick Douglass. Warm hospitality, group-friendly lodging, gourmet restaurants, and more than 600 miles of shoreline offer endless opportunities in Talbot County, Maryland.

TALBOT COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER & ICE RINK

Ice Hockey, Curling, Soccer and more Indoor and Outdoor Sports

An indoor facility featuring an 18,000-square-foot gymnasium, with 40-foot ceilings and a year-round ice rink with separate lanes for curling. Outside, you’ll find lighted, natural grass soccer and baseball fields.

NORTH EASTON SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Basketball and more Outdoor and Indoor Sports

Great diamond tournament setup for youth events with cloverleaf design and onsite amenities, including lights and restrooms. Facility features natural grass rectangular fields for soccer and/or lacrosse as well as a small skate park and pump track.

Combined with Talbot County’s easy accessibility from major cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, its top-tier facilities and natural amenities make it a prime location for youth sports events.

TALBOT COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM (410) 770-8000 kgoller@talbotcountymd.gov www.TourTalbot.org

TALBOT COUNTY WATERWAYS

Boating, Paddling, Fishing and more Outdoor Sports and Recreation

With more than 600 miles of tidal shoreline, Talbot County is a wateroriented community. Boating, paddling, and fishing options abound on rivers, including the Choptank, Tuckahoe, Wye, Tred Avon, and Miles with direct access to the Chesapeake Bay.

CHARLES COUNTY, MARYLAND

Charles County, Maryland is a vibrant destination featuring exceptional sports facilities that cater to a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in team sports, aquatic recreation or nature-based adventures, this area offers outstanding options for athletes and spectators alike. With venues like North Point High School, Laurel Springs Park and the scenic Mallows Bay Park, there are opportunities to host everything from high school sports tournaments to outdoor festivals.

Beyond its impressive sports venues, Charles County boasts several popular attractions that draw visitors year-round. Regency Furniture Stadium, home to the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, provides an exciting atmosphere for baseball enthusiasts and hosts various events and concerts. For those interested in history, Stagg Hall, built in 1766, offers guided tours that highlight the rich architectural heritage of the area. Nature lovers can explore Gilbert Run Park, which features hiking trails, a freshwater lake for fishing and seasonal activities like pedal boating. Mallows Bay Park is also a designated National Marine Sanctuary, home to a “ghost fleet” of over 100 abandoned vessels from World War I, making it an excellent location for kayaking and viewing wildlife.

Charles County also hosts a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination. From outdoor concerts to seasonal festivals, visitors can enjoy engaging experiences that celebrate the county’s vibrant community and history.

LAUREL SPRINGS PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer

Laurel Springs Park is a versatile facility that includes two full-size baseball, five softball, three little league, one football and five soccer fields. The park features a unique multipurpose turf field that allows for soccer, lacrosse and more, making it an excellent choice for teams in need of a reliable playing surface. One of the park’s highlights is the “Field of Dreams,” a specially designed baseball field with a rubber surface to ensure accessibility for children with disabilities, allowing them to participate in America’s pastime.

NORTH POINT HIGH SCHOOL

Basketball, Football, Soccer, Swimming

North Point High School features a spacious gymnasium that can accommodate a variety of indoor sports, including basketball, volleyball and gymnastics. The gym is equipped with modern amenities to ensure highquality experience for athletes and spectators alike. The facility includes a regulation outdoor football field, which serves as the home ground for the school’s football team and is frequently used for track events. Additionally, the soccer field is well-maintained and has lighting for evening games, making it versatile for practice and competition.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Charles County Recreation, Parks and Tourism staff is very quick to anything we have requested from getting fields for games, scrimmages, practices …”

— Tom Conrad, Jr., Coach, Marucci Prospects

CHARLES

COUNTY

RECREATION, PARKS

& TOURISM (301) 932-3470

tourism@charlescountymd.gov explorecharlescounty.com

MALLOWS BAY PARK

Kayaking, Fishing, Birdwatching

Mallows Bay Park is a stunning natural area that offers a unique blend of recreational opportunities and rich history. Situated along the Potomac River, this designated National Marine Sanctuary is renowned for its “ghost fleet” of over 100 abandoned vessels from World War I, which provide a striking visual landscape for visitors. The park features a kayak launch that allows easy access to the water, making it a favorite spot for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. Anglers can enjoy fishing in the river, known for its diverse aquatic life, including bass and catfish.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, the Orioles’ stadium is a must-see Baltimore landmark. Located in the heart of downtown Baltimore, beautiful Oriole Park at Camden Yards is home to Baltimore’s Major League Baseball team.

If you’re staying downtown, Rash Field is an ideal spot for an express workout. There are sand volleyball courts available for a quick game, plus a skatepark, nature park and a playground with wooden climbing towers.

Baltimore is a vibrant community that honors the past while keeping a keen eye on the future. This city is where you can see the largest public collection of Matisse in the world, sip a craft beer in the sanctuary of a converted church and stay in a four-star hotel poised atop an historic recreation pier.

The National Aquarium has been a can’t-miss destination in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and is consistently ranked as one of the best aquariums in the country. Come face-to-face with animals from all over the globe, including sharks, crocodiles, jellyfish and even two-toed sloths.

Science gets fun at the Maryland Science Center, an interactive and educational destination featuring three levels of exhibits exploring subjects such as astronomy, paleontology, the human body and physics.

Where Baltimore’s shipbuilding and steel mills once stood, you’ll now find a busy destination for fun. The Baltimore Inner Harbor has everything, from scenic waterfront views to fresh seafood restaurants to spectacular museums.

BALTIMORE CONVENTION CENTER

Volleyball, Basketball

The convention center features an 300,000 square feet of contiguous space, accommodating up to 47 volleyball courts or 30 basketball courts, along with a 36,000 square foot ballroom and 50 meeting rooms. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, it is surrounded by a diverse hotel community that ranges from budget options to luxury accommodations. The convention center has successfully hosted a wide range of events, including volleyball, fencing, futsal, soccer, lacrosse, basketball, boxing, as well as cheer and dance competitions.

CFG BANK ARENA

Basketball, Soccer, Gymnastics

CFG Bank Arena is a world-class concert and entertainment venue with a seating capacity of over 14,000, following extensive renovations totaling more than $250 million. These upgrades include state-of-the-art acoustics, luxurious suites, exclusive club levels, and premium contemporary seating, as well as reimagined concourses and upscale culinary offerings. Spanning 400,000 square feet, the arena features an arena bowl with 28,600 square feet, a striking new exterior façade, green landscaping, and enhanced lighting.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Baltimore has been the gracious host city for the CIAA Basketball tournament since 2021. Our time in The Charm City has been met with great enthusiasm, an electrifying atmosphere, genuine hospitality and committed partners who value the CIAA brand. Nestled around the Baltimore Harbor, the offerings of hotels, cultural experiences and a strong community presence has deemed Baltimore a premier destination for the CIAA—drawing athletes, fans and enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.”

— Jacqie McWilliams Parker, CIAA Commissioner

VISIT BALTIMORE (410) 659-8375

eteisch@baltimore.org baltimore.org

M&T BANK STADIUM

Football, Lacrosse

M&T Bank Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 71,008 and has hosted a variety of significant events, including the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship, the Men’s Lacrosse Face-Off Classic, a friendly match between Tottenham and Liverpool, and the CONCACAF Gold Cup Quarterfinals, as well as the Army-Navy football game. The Baltimore Ravens, in collaboration with the Maryland Stadium Authority, have achieved a LEED-certified “Gold” designation for the stadium.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND

Along the border of the nation’s capital, there is a beautiful peninsula with excellent athletic spaces ready to host your next event. The venues and deep history of Prince George’s County, Maryland, allows you to compete and then learn about our nation and its founding. You can even overlook D.C. by riding The Capital Wheel, a ferris wheel located on the border.

The waterways at the National Harbor are the gateways to the region where you can take part in water sports and even host events. The largest hotels, restaurants and shopping centers, including the Tanger Outlets, are located in the harbor area, which also features a convention center. You can also hit the amusement parks for more excitement with the whole family.

Teams looking to learn a thing or two can visit the Riversdale House Museum, which is a National Historic Landmark. The Patuxent Museum, located on 7,000 acres of land and an old tobacco plantation, can put you right back into the Revolutionary era to learn about our nation’s founding times.

WAYNE K. CURRY SPORTS AND LEARNING CENTER

Track and Field, Aquatics, Gymnastics, Football

Wayne K. Curry Sports and Learning Center at Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex contains just about everything, including a gym, competition pool, football field and track, making it perfect for practices and tournaments alike. It is easily accessible to the surrounding areas, built well into the community and has state-of-the-art technology in its competitive facilities. The complex also has multiple meeting spaces for rental, including larger lecture rooms.

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY EQUESTRIAN CENTER AND SHOW PLACE ARENA

Equestrian, Basketball, Gymnastics, Wrestling

The race tracks at the Equestrian Center are steeped in history, having hosted races since the mid-18th century. The center is equipped with everything you need for horse racing and the storied track has been utilized for many other events as well. Adaptable as a sports and entertainment facility, the on-site Show Place Arena has hosted college basketball tournaments, cheer and dance events, consumer shows, concerts and the Prince George’s County Fair.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Our partnership with Experience George’s and the Maryland Sports Commission was truly a breath of fresh air. Their unwavering support throughout the entire process made a tremendous impact, helping us navigate every challenge with confidence.”

— Arion Herbert, League Owner, SDLT Executive Chair

EXPERIENCE

PRINCE GEORGE’S (301) 925-8300

marketing@experiencepgc.com experienceprincegeorges.com

EPPLEY RECREATION CENTER

Cheer and Dance, Table Tennis, Martial Arts

The Rec and Wellness Centers at the University of Maryland are excellent event spaces. Having hosted the National Spelling Bee, this facility is absolutely ready for massive events. It is a full-service facility, located right on the Potomac River, with a massive natatorium, five basketball courts, six acres of outdoor grass fields, a synthetic turf multipurpose field, beach volleyball courts, softball and multipurpose fields and a 55-foot climbing wall.

CECIL COUNTY, MARYLAND

Cecil County, Maryland, offers a rich blend of outdoor adventure, familyfriendly attractions, and serene landscapes that make it a hidden gem in the Mid-Atlantic region. Conveniently located near bustling Baltimore, Cecil County combines small-town charm with vast recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore scenic parks, embark on thrilling water activities, enjoy unique wildlife experiences, and soak in the area’s natural beauty and historical significance.

One of the county’s standout attractions is the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, a sprawling, 126,000-square-foot indoor aquatic paradise, kept at a balmy 84 degrees year-round. For those looking to explore Cecil County’s natural waterways, Bay Venture Outfitters provides on-site and off-site kayak, paddleboard, and bike rentals, along with guided tours through tributaries and freshwater marshes. It’s a perfect way to experience the Chesapeake Bay’s stunning landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for team-building or unique outdoor celebrations.

For nature and wildlife lovers, Plumpton Park Zoo in Rising Sun is a must-see. Home to over 180 exotic animals, the Jeremiah Brown House and Mill Site, this charming zoo makes for a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Additionally, Cecil County is home to beautiful state parks like Elk Neck, Bohemia River, and Fair Hill NRMA.

FAIR HILL SPECIAL EVENT ZONE Equestrian

The Fair Hill Special Event Zone is a premier equestrian venue, boasting world-class facilities that cater to a variety of disciplines. Completed in 2020, the site features an Ian Stark-designed crosscountry course, new arenas for dressage and show jumping, and a historic turf course. It is the first equestrian center to offer both a thoroughbred training center and an international CCI5* venue. With over 5,000 acres of trails and fields, the facility also supports youth outreach programs through its on-site nature center and 4-H programs.

UPPER CHESAPEAKE RIVERS Fishing

The Upper Chesapeake Rivers have become a hotspot for premier fishing tournaments, especially for largemouth bass. Maryland’s tidal rivers have seen a rise in tournament popularity due to excellent catch rates and increasing fish sizes, with competitions like the 2024 Ike’s Pro Am Bass Tournament drawing significant attention. These waters provide ideal conditions for both amateur and professional anglers, making the region a top destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a challenge.

With easy access along I-95, Cecil County Maryland is centrally located between Philadelphia and Baltimore. Pair your sporting event with vibrant small towns, 200 miles of waterfront, foodie destinations, and scenic countryside as the perfect backdrop for adventures and making memories!

DISCOVER CECIL (410) 996-6299

sturner@cecilcountymd.gov www.DiscoverCecil.com

FAIR HILL NRMA Biking, Hiking

Spanning 5,656 acres, Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers stunning landscapes. Located near the Pennsylvania and Delaware borders, it features an 80-mile trail system designed for multi-use by hikers, bikers, runners, and equestrians. Fair Hill’s pristine woodlands and open fields are known for their natural beauty, making it an exceptional spot for nature lovers. The park’s trails wind through varied terrain and scenery, providing an immersive experience for outdoor events at all levels.

ALLEGANY COUNTY, MARYLAND

Discover the convenience of Allegany County, Maryland, where pleasant weather sets the stage for year-round outdoor adventures and sporting events. There are various opportunities for outdoor recreational activities and popular attractions that are suited to accompany a healthy lifestyle and tournaments of all sizes.

Popular attractions include the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile rail trail overlooking stunning landscapes offering cycling, hiking and jogging opportunities. The region is also known for its historic railroad, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which rides through valleys and humble towns.

For a scenic approach with a twist, Tracks and Yaks Rail Biking is recommended if you prefer to pedal to your own speed along the historic railway track, which is known to be popular with families. You can also enjoy swimming and camping at Rocky Gap State Park or visit the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park to gain valuable insights into the region.

FROSTBURG STATE UNIVERSITY

SPORTS COMPLEX (INDOORS)

Basketball, Volleyball, Football And More Indoor Sports

Providing a wide range of state-of-theart NCAA DII athletic facilities, making FSU an ideal location for sports events. Bobcat Arena has a versatile, synthetic Versa-Turf 360 surface. The 3,000-capacity Bobcat Stadium is equipped with modern lighting, artificial turf, an eightlane all-weather track with height for a dedicated throwing facility. There is also the 3,600-seat Harold J. Cordts Physical Education Center, with multiple courts, dance studio, climbing wall and more.

FROSTBURG STATE UNIVERSITY

SPORTS COMPLEX (OUTDOORS)

Tennis, Softball, Baseball, Soccer And More Outdoor Sports

Also located on the Frostburg State University campus are top outdoor sports facilities, including tennis courts, diamonds and four additional grass fields. Cordts Tennis Complex includes six well-maintained, lighted tennis courts and classes. Bob Wells Field and Bobcat Field offer baseball and softball fields respectively where the university has hosted multiple conferences.

Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, is home to nearly 70,000 acres of public land, over 200 miles of developed trail systems, including the internationally-known GAP and C&O Canal Towpath, and is home to incredible road routes. For sports or outdoor recreation, consider a destination where… We’ve Got a Trail for That.

ALLEGANY COUNTY TOURISM (301) 777-5132

tourism@alleganygov.org www.mdmountainside.com

PARRIS N. GLENDENING RECREATION COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Football And More Outdoor Sports And Events

Parris N. Glendening Recreation Complex is a 27-acre outdoor sports facility that offers a wide range of both sporting and recreational activities, making it a hit in the area for hosting community events as well. The complex features seven multipurpose fields, two outdoor basketball courts, along with two additional pickleball courts. Amenities include pavilions, playgrounds, fishing ponds and walking trails.

QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY, MARYLAND

Speckled with natural wonder, Queen Anne County is overflowing with breathtaking scenery. The local parks highlight this beauty, while pairing it with state-of-the-art facilities that make fantastic hosts for sporting events.

Old Love Point Park exemplifies the scenery with its wide-range of sporting amenities laid seamlessly into the environment. Surrounded by lush trees and plant life, the Park holds facilities for over seven sports. Another local treasure is Church Hill Park, a slightly larger location with just as much diversity. Perfect for families and athletes alike, this spot offers special amenities that will keep visitors entertained and satisfied. The largest spot of the three, Route 18 Park is over 50 acres and covered with high quality facilities for countless sporting events.

Adventure awaits in Queen Anne’s County where visitors can take Chesapeake Water Tours, Chesapeake Bay Sunset Cruises or Sightseeing Cruises and enjoy live music. Afterwards, dine by the water at some of the best waterfront dining establishments in the region, with an option of twelve restaurants and dock bars.

Spend an afternoon at the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center, located on a peninsula, patrons can kayak around Marshy Creek and learn about the vibrant biodiverse environment and possibly sighting a river otter or sting ray while at it.

For some retail therapy, enjoy antique, retail and resale shopping at Queenstown Premium Outlets

With plenty of hotels to choose from, most within 15 minutes of the facilities, find the perfect place to stay in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland.

OLD LOVE POINT PARK

Baseball, Softball, Basketball and More Outdoor Sports

Located in Stevensville, Old Love Point Park is jam-packed with athletic fields and courts, with endless possibilities for any sporting event. The 30.5-acre park is home to two lighted baseball and softball diamonds, two additional baseball and softball fields, a lighted tennis court, a lighted sandy volleyball court, a lighted basketball court and multipurpose fields for soccer and lacrosse. Concession stands are available, as well as picnic tables, a playground and pavilions.

CHURCH HILL PARK

Baseball, Softball, Basketball and More Outdoor Sports

Hundreds of beautiful trees and flowers encompass the 40 acres that make up Church Hill Park. This spot has two baseball diamonds, a lighted multipurpose field for lacrosse, soccer or football, basketball courts, a softball field and a multipurpose artificial turf field. Fend off those hunger pains at the concession stands or make something on the park’s grills. Restrooms are open from April through October, and portable toilets are available November through March.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Queen Anne’s County is a sportsman’s paradise! Surrounded by water, trails, nature and wildlife; it’s a picturesque environment for any activity. The tourism team, business and local community are incredibly supportive and welcoming.”

- Chris Hopkinson, Founder, Bay Paddle QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY ECONOMIC & TOURISM DEVELOPMENT (410) 604-2100 welcome@visitqueenannes.com visitqueenannes.com

ROUTE 18 PARK

Baseball, Softball, Multipurpose

The luscious green fields of Route 18 Park in Centreville guarantee a spacious and hassle-free destination for sporting events. With over 50 acres spanning across multiple athletic fields, the park has the diversity and space for any event planner. Situated within, John Selby Sports Complex provides two lit ball diamonds, two unlit diamonds, a concession stand, a new playground and bathrooms. Adjacent to the complex are three multipurpose grass fields. Paved walking trails extend 1.5-miles long, encircling the athletic fields.

WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Nestled along the stunning Atlantic coastline, Worcester County, Maryland offers a diverse range of athletic activities and events year-round. From thrilling water sports on the picturesque Assawoman Bay to nine exciting championship golf courses and well-maintained athletic facilities, Worcester County is a playground for sports and outdoor enthusiasts.

Speaking of outdoors, Assateague Island National Seashore and State Park is renowned for its wild horses, with stunning untouched natural beauty that is unlike any other along the mid-Atlantic. The nearly 18,000acre Pocomoke State Forest is fantastic for fishing, kayaking and more, providing a unique experience beyond the beaches and coastal bays with a serene and mysterious river rumored to be the deepest in the world. Enjoy a more leisurely stroll along Ocean City Boardwalk, which is home to great hotels, restaurants and attractions befitting a world-class seaside resort. Worcester County is also home to many unique small towns like Berlin, Snow Hill and Pocomoke City, with each providing family-friendly experiences that can only be found within.

WORCESTER COUNTY

RECREATION CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal, Track and More Indoor Sports

Worcester County Recreation Center (WCRC) includes a 520-seat arena with two multipurpose courts for various sports. For tournament play, two sport courts can be laid down to accommodate four basketball courts or six volleyball courts and a four-lane track located within. The WCRC flooring system, with shock-absorbing cushion, was designed for increased return of energy. WCRC also has an additional 6,000-square-foot fitness room and workshop space.

NORTHERN WORCESTER

ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer and More Outdoor Sports

Northern Worcester Athletic Complex (NWAC) features a total of six diamonds—one lighted senior league field at 380’ and one little league field at 200’ for baseball, both with grass infields, and three little league fields at 180’, 200’ and 250’ along with two warm-up fields, each with dirt infields. The facility also has five Bermuda grass multipurpose fields, four of which are lighted. Amenities include a lighted pavilion with grills, and concessions.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Partnering with such professional individuals is the reason Maryland Supremes’ League has operated smoothly.”

— Bryon Johnson Maryland Supreme Director

WORCESTER COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION (410) 632-2144

recandparks@worcester.md.us marylandscoast.org

JOHN WALTER SMITH PARK

Softball, Soccer, Disc Golf and More Outdoor Sports

Snow Hill, Maryland’s John Walter Smith Park not only houses the WCRC, but it also has plenty of outdoor facilities for tournaments and events. The park includes an 18-hole disc golf course, three multipurpose fields, two tennis or four pickleball courts, senior league baseball field at 327’ with grass infield and six softball fields with dirt infields, two of which are 275’, three at 200’ and one at 175’. Park amenities include a basketball court, walking trails, concessions, batting cages and more.

DORCHESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Nestled along the scenic Chesapeake Bay, Dorchester County, Maryland offers a wonderful blend of outdoor activities, rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Combine the thrill of your sports tournament or event with the beauty of nature and adventure.

For history buffs, explore historic Handsell, a late-18th-century Georgianstyle manor home in Vienna, where you can explore the past with its preserved architecture and rich house history. Read up on the region’s past at Dorchester Historical Society through their fascinating exhibits, artifacts and archival materials, or take your loved ones to experience nature at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, surrounded by a 28,000-acre land that offers stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor recreational activities for the whole family to enjoy.

From the Harriet Tubman Visitors Center to the Chesapeake Mural Trail, the Harriet Tubman Byway and the Underground Railroad, Dorchester County offers a rich cultural experience with its diverse attractions, abundant outdoor opportunities and favorable weather to host your next sporting event.

DORCHESTER COUNTY ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Indoor Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Pickleball and more Indoor Sports Located at Leonard’s Lane, Dorchester County Athletic Complex is a premier indoor sports facility, featuring top-of-the-line indoor soccer courts, basketball courts that can be transitioned into volleyball courts, as well as tennis and pickleball courts to host competitive matches or a friendly game with friends and family. The facility also offers other amenities, from locker rooms and showers to a pro shop with sports equipment guaranteed to make your time an enjoyable one.

“We are so proud to extend our collaboration with IRONMAN as the host venue for both the IRONMAN Maryland and IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman triathlons. These races have become an integral part of our community’s calendar. We eagerly anticipate welcoming participants and spectators to our unspoiled landscapes and coastal communities each year.”

-

Holly Gilpin, Director of the Dorchester County Department of Tourism

VISIT DORCHESTER COUNTY

(410) 228-1000

hgilpin@docogonet.com https://visitdorchester.org/

GARRETT COUNTY, MARYLAND

Garrett County, Maryland, offers a perfect retreat for sports tournaments and events, seamlessly combining top-tier facilities with natural beauty and familyfriendly attractions. Located just a short drive from the Baltimore and D.C. metro areas, Garrett County is close to the big cities while also providing access to a convenient airport, state parks, forests, and more.

Beyond the excitement of team-sports action, the area provides an ideal setting for relaxation, with stunning outdoor recreation spaces, abundant natural resources, and fun attractions for the whole family. World-class road climbs and events like the Garrett County Gran Fondo and the Savageman Triathlon are truly second to none, drawing athletes and enthusiasts from far and wide.

Garrett County features seven state parks and two state forests, offering a multitude of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and archery. Swallow Falls State Park is a particular standout, showcasing a variety of picturesque waterfalls, including the state’s highest free-falling waterfall. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while participating in guided tours or educational programs that highlight the area’s natural history. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, Garrett County provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences.

SCHOOL TURF FIELDS

Football, Soccer, Lacrosse and More

Outdoor Sports

Both Southern and Northern Garrett High Schools have premier turf fields that are perfect for hosting sports tournaments and events. Each field is surrounded by an all-weather running track and there’s plentiful stadium seating. Amenities at both locations include concessions, locker rooms for athletes, modern lighting for evening events and more. Both complexes are highly regarded and have hosted regional tournaments. In addition, Garrett College has a multipurpose turf field that can be rented for additional games or practices.

MUNICIPAL TOWN PARKS

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Pickleball and More Outdoor Sports

Several towns in Garrett County have versatile facilities dedicated to organized sports. With pickleball courts, tennis courts, and wellmaintained baseball and softball fields, the venues can meet the needs of athletes and teams of all levels. The town parks provide the perfect setting for tournaments and leagues, offering ample space for competitive play and training. The scenic surroundings and playgrounds enhance the experience, creating an inviting atmosphere for players, coaches, and spectators alike.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Hosting our Gran Fondo road cycling fundraiser in Garrett County, MD, has been instrumental to its success. While the natural beauty and topography are highlights for the cyclists, as event planners we depend on the tremendous support of the Garrett County Government and local businesses.”

- Josh Spiker, Garrett Trails Executive Director VISIT GARRETT COUNTY (301) 334-7242

info@garrettchamber.com garrettchamber.com

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Skiing, Wakeboarding, Mountain

Biking and More Outdoor Sports and Recreation

Garrett County is home to Maryland’s only ski resort and is the home of Deep Creek Lake, the state’s largest man-made lake. A recent emphasis on infrastructure has created over 15 new miles of multi-purpose trails. The county’s seven state parks have diverse landscapes and activities on offer, from fishing at the mouth of the Savage River at Big Run State Park to an Off-Road Vehicle park at the2,039-acre Wolf Den Run State Park near Kitzmiller.

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

With 10 miles of pristine sand along the Atlantic coast, Ocean City, Maryland, is perfect for sporting events of all kinds. Its prime location not only caters to activities like surfing and bodyboarding but also provides a stunning backdrop for any event. The facilities are well-equipped to host tournaments for various team sports, ensuring an exceptional experience for both participants and spectators.

Ocean City is a popular family vacation destination, and the same amenities and attractions enjoyed by visitors are readily available to sports participants. This includes the free 10-mile stretch of white sand beach, ideal for relaxation between events. Additionally, the famous three-mile OC boardwalk features over 200 restaurants, offering a diverse range of dining options, and boasts an incredible number of shopping venues to explore after a day of competition.

If amusement parks are more your style, Jolly Roger Amusement Park, Trimper Rides and Amusement Park, and Frontier Town are sure to impress with thrilling rides and entertaining attractions. For history buffs and those seeking to experience more of the local culture, the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum offers fascinating insights into the area’s maritime history, while Seacrets Distilling Company provides an opportunity to sample delicious local spirits in a vibrant setting. Whether you’re competing or just enjoying the atmosphere, Ocean City has something for everyone.

THE BEACH

Beach Volleyball, Beach Soccer, Jet Skiing And More Beach And Water Sports

Ocean City’s “main event beach” is right on the bustling OC boardwalk with up to 100,000 walkbys on “in season” weekends. The space is large enough for up to 60 sand volleyball courts and 30 sand soccer fields. The site has hosted the AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, USAV Beach Open Championships, Spartan Games, Dew Tour and sand soccer tournaments with over 300 teams. Additionally, Oceanside is perfect for water sports and Bayside for sailing, fishing and more.

ROLAND E. POWELL CONVENTION CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling, Cheer, Dance And More Indoors

Sports And Events

Equipped to handle any size or type of indoor sporting event with its adjustable 214,000 square feet of space while providing stunning views of the bay. The floor space can also be converted into a 5,000-seat arena for specific types of sports and events like wrestling. The Performing Arts Center is the perfect space for hosting a variety of events, including cheer and dance competitions and award ceremonies.

Ocean City is the ideal spot for your next sporting event! Boasting top-notch facilities and a diverse range of amenities, such as 11,000 hotel rooms, 200 restaurants, and 10 miles of pristine white sandy beach, there is something for everyone here. It truly is the ultimate playcation destination.

VISIT OCEAN CITY (410) 289-2800

ask@ococean.com www.ococean.com

NORTHSIDE PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Basketball And More Outdoor And Indoor Sports

Ocean City’s largest and most popular park facility is a 58-acre bayfront complex for both indoor and outdoor sports. It features several fields, including one baseball field, two softball fields, one standard-size soccer field and one multipurpose field as well as bleachers for the outdoor space. The indoor space has two full gymnasiums where each can accommodate two basketball or volleyball courts, a full indoor soccer field, two small soccer/ futsal fields or 6 pickleball courts.

FREDERICK, MARYLAND

Welcome to Frederick, Maryland, where history meets adventure and sports tourism is booming. Nestled in the heart of Maryland’s picturesque countryside, the City of Frederick offers a dynamic blend of outdoor activities, vibrant local culture and of course thrilling competition from the likes of Keys baseball to top ice hockey tournaments.

Being part of the Maryland countryside certainly has its benefits with Tree Trekkers close by. Whether you’re ziplining through the trees, adventuring over bridges and through tunnels or enjoying 15 trails with eight difficulty levels, there’s something for everyone. For more outdoor fun, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo has over 300 species and allows each guest to get as close to the animals as safety permits.

For thrills, Adventure Park USA has pulse-pounding rides, exhilarating go-kart races and captivating attractions that will leave you breathless. Enjoy video games in virtual reality with @VR and its nine stations to experience sports, action and more. South Mountain Creamery has downtime covered, where you can bottle feed calves, enjoy some premium ice cream and other tasty treats, all made on-site.

SKATE FREDERICK

Ice Hockey, Ice Skating and More Ice Sports and Events

Frederick has the area’s top skating facility, featuring two NHL-regulation rinks, perfect for ice hockey as well as skating practices and events and other ice sports. Spectator seating is available for both rinks and on-site The Pro Zone shop has equipment, skates and more for sale. Skate Frederick also offers plenty of amenities, including a snack bar, video games and skate rentals.

KNOTT ATHLETIC RECREATION CONVOCATION COMPLEX

Basketball, Volleyball and More

Indoor Sports and Events

Knott Athletic Recreation

Convocation Center is a 105,000-squarefoot facility used for fitness and recreation, intercollegiate athletics and entertainment. Located at Mount St. Mary’s University, the center is made up of a main arena and multipurpose space. The arena, featuring Jim Phelan Court and home to Mountaineers men’s and women’s basketball teams, has a capacity of 3,500 for basketball and up to 5,000 for other events.

Few destinations are more centrally located to America’s mid-Atlantic attractions than Frederick County. We are just a few hours from New York, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, and 45 minutes from Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD. Frederick County offers a variety of sports venues for hockey, baseball, pickleball, and basketball. During their stay in Frederick County, visitors can explore the history, shopping, dining and outdoor adventures.

VISIT FREDERICK (301) 600-4047

bbickerton@fredco-md.net visitfrederick.org

NYMEO FIELD AT HARRY GROVE STADIUM

Baseball, Pro Wrestling and Other Sports And Events

Home to the Carolina League/MLB Draft League’s Frederick Keys, Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium features a seating capacity of 5,500 for baseball games and is capable of hosting other major events. Amenities include concessions and updated restrooms, ADA-compliance and is currently scheduled to receive a $39-million upgrade beginning in 2025 through 2026. Construction will not inhibit stadium usage or baseball season.

HAGERSTOWN, MARYLAND

Hagerstown, Maryland, is quickly establishing itself as a premier destination for sports and recreation. With top-tier facilities like Meritus Park and the soonto-open Hagerstown Field House, the area offers exceptional opportunities for hosting various sports events. Whether you’re interested in professional baseball at America’s newest ballpark or indoor competitions in basketball and volleyball, Hagerstown has the resources to accommodate athletes and spectators alike.

In addition to its vibrant sports scene, Hagerstown is rich in history and outdoor adventures. The C&O Canal National Historical Park provides a scenic backdrop for cycling and hiking, showcasing the region’s early transportation history while allowing visitors to explore natural beauty. The 184.5-mile pathway is perfect for those looking to engage with the area’s historical and recreational offerings. For history enthusiasts, Antietam National Battlefield offers guided tours that delve into the significance of the Maryland Campaign of 1862, while Sharpsburg Ghost Tours provides a unique blend of history and ghostly tales.

Hagerstown also boasts Flying Boxcars Baseball, where affordable, familyfriendly fun returns to the area. As America’s newest and most innovative ballpark, it provides group rates and locally crafted food and beverages, making it an exciting destination for baseball fans. The city invites visitors to explore its diverse attractions, including Greenbrier State Park, which offers kayaking, swimming and hiking in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains.

MERITUS PARK

Baseball, Soccer and Other Outdoor Sports and Events

Home to the Flying Boxcars and featuring a professional baseball stadium with a turf field, numerous concessions and meeting spaces. In addition to outdoor sporting events, the park offers versatile event spaces such as the Cintas Club for banquets and receptions, the Point Broadband Picnic Deck for large gatherings and the Meinelschmidt Left Field Bar for casual events. With year-round field and facility rental availability, Meritus Park is designed to host your events.

HAGERSTOWN FIELD HOUSE

Volleyball, Basketball, Dance, Cheer and More Indoor Sports

Opening in January 2025, is a cuttingedge facility featuring an indoor turf field, four different kinds of courts, a large gymnasium, a fitness center and multipurpose rooms. Designed for a range of indoor sports, such as volleyball, basketball, dance, and cheer, the facility also includes a café, lounge and an upper-level viewing area. With flexible event spaces and modern amenities, the Field House is set to become a premier destination for sporting events and community gatherings

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The location and amenities offered in Washington County, Maryland help to make our National Terrier Trials a success every year. The staff at Visit Hagerstown & Washington County CVB provide excellent support every step of the way from planning to managing the event, they are true partners.”

—Terri Batzer, National Coordinator, Jack Russell Terrier Club of America

VISIT HAGERSTOWN (301) 791-3246

info@visithagerstown.com www.visithagerstown.com

WASHINGTON COUNTY

AGRICULTURAL CENTER

Track Events, Tractor-Pull, Horse

Riding and More Sports And Events

The Washington County Agricultural Center is a premier rental facility offering 68 acres of both indoor and outdoor spaces. With a wide variety of venues including multi-purpose buildings, pole barns, pavilions and a horse ring, it’s perfect for hosting festivals, trade shows, track events and agricultural showcases. The center also offers bleacher seating for up to 1,500 at its tractor-pull track, making it a versatile venue for both community and regional events

CECIL COUNTY, MARYLAND

Beautiful Cecil County hugs the upper banks of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can explore small towns or hike one of several lush state parks in the area. Quaint waterside towns and outdoor dining scatter the county and restaurants featuring incredible food can be found everywhere. Choose from such delicacies as blue claw crab, crab soups and other local fare. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park and Resort at Perryville offers a wide variety of fun family attractions from indoor and outdoor water slides to interactive activities. It is well-known for its 84-degree indoor waterpark, featuring pools, waterslides, a kiddie play area, and more. The rest of the lodge offers family-friendly activities and attractions and is filled with delicious dining options for every appetite. The comfortable, inviting rooms provide a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and getting online is easy, with Wi-Fi throughout the lodge. Whether you enjoy the action at the Casino or the panoramic views from the Turkey Point lighthouse overlooking the bay or the banks of the C&D Canal where ships from across the globe cruise through, there is plenty to see and do in Cecil County.

CALVERT REGIONAL PARK

Basketball, Disc Golf, Lacrosse, Rugby, Football, Soccer, ltimate Frisbee, Volleyball

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“A

very nice place to go take walks, go fishing and do all kinds of fun activities. Had my friend’s birthday party there yesterday really enjoyed it had a great awesome time! I’ll definitely be back!”

— L Robinson

Home to Cecil County’s first regional park, Calvert consists of two synthetic turf multipurpose fields, basketball courts, natural grass multipurpose fields, a one-mile paved trail, playgrounds, a disc golf course, paved parking, four pickleball courts, pavilions, and a concession stand. The new 112-acre park has 19 full-sized playing fields with two of the fields being lit synthetic turf stadiums. Lacrosse is a popular sport here with the park hosting huge events that host as many as 250 teams. Other sports, including rugby, football, soccer, Ultimate frisbee, pickleball and volleyball have utilized Calvert Regional parks’ remarkable fields.

CECIL COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION (410) 656-5125 ccantor@ccgov.org www.ccgov.org

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND

Montgomery County, Maryland provides premier sporting opportunities like no other while also being home to family-friendly attractions and activities. While n Montogomery County, visitors can enjoy Rio, a premier shopping and dining destination. Located in the heart of the county, Rio is a 760,000-square-foot open air retail, entertainment and restaurant district, guaranteed to have something xciting for everyone.

For those seeking adventure, consider journeying to Adventure Park, the largest man-made outdoor climbing park in the world. There you can travel on aerial trails through the trees on bridges and platforms dozens of feet off the ground. With 15 trails to choose from, visitors can pick their difficulty and height level as they navigate the obstacle course. You will have to climb, jump and zipline your way to victory.

The county also has interesting historical sites like the Josiah Henson Museum and Park—a former plantation where Rev. Josiah Henson was enslaved. Henson would become a prominent figure in the Underground Railroad and the inspiration for Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Visitors can learn about the history of the United States, the life of Rev. Henson and visit the Riley/Bolten House and its attached log kitchen, dating back to the early 1800s.

MARYLAND SOCCERPLEX AND ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE FIELDHOUSE

Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball and More

Outdoor and Indoor Sports and Events

This 24-field complex entertains over one million competitors and spectators annually. In addition to its two-dozen fields, of which eight are artificial turf, the complex also contains eight basketball/ volleyball courts, food trucks, concessions and over 2,000 parking spaces. The quality of the fields is unmatched with varying elevation, drainage and irrigation integration in each field.

OLNEY BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

Lacrosse, Soccer, Rugby and More

Outdoor Sports and Events

Olney Boys & Girls Club Community Park (OBGC) is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization that seeks to provide children of all ages the opportunity to play sports. OBGC believes that through sports children can build confidence, self-esteem, teamwork and leadership skills while improving their health. The park features ten multipurpose fields, five baseball diamonds and two parks with concessions conveniently located in between.

Get in on the action in Montgomery County, where sports and thrills combine for an exciting experience. Enjoy hightech swings at Topgolf, soaring through the air while indoor skydiving, going for a goal with your family at a premier soccerplex, grabbing a pint on a working horse farm, and more— all in Maryland’s Cultural Capital.

VISIT MONTGOMERY (240) 641-6750 info@visitmontgomery.com VisitMontgomery.com

GERMANTOWN AQUATIC CENTER

Swimming. Diving and More

Watersports

Germantown Aquatic Center is a 60,000 square-foot complex equipped to host any aquatic-based sport. The center features a recreation pool, competition pool, a leisure pool and hydrotherapy pools. Spectator seating is available from three sides for the competition pool, as well as one-, three- and ten-meter diving boards.

HOWARD COUNTY, MARYLAND

Howard County, Maryland is home to a rapidly expanding sports scene that is perfect for hosting a wide range of sporting events and tournaments. The multipurpose facilities and large open venues like Blandair Regional Park and Troy Park allow for flexibility and customization to meet any need.

When in Howard County you can explore the unique urban areas such as Merriweather District, Koreatown or Historic Ellicott City. Each blends a beautiful tapestry of history, culture, food and activities for the whole family. The diverse selection of restaurants, shops, museums and galleries is guaranteed to fill your afternoon with adventure.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature at the Robinson Nature Center. Learn about sustainable energy including solar panels and green roofs, visit the digital planetarium, full-dome theater and hands-on children’s Discovery Room. Of course, the outdoors and trails are available to explore, allowing for relaxation within the wildlife.

BLANDAIR REGIONAL PARK

Field Hockey, Football, Soccer And More Outdoor Sports

Blandair Regional Park is undergoing a revolutionary renovation that will transform the park into a premier sports destination. Sprawled across 300 acres, park amenities include three lighted, synthetic turf multipurpose fields, two lighted synthetic ball fields, press boxes, bleachers, pavilions, tennis courts, restrooms and parking lots. Blandair also houses one-acre worth of playgrounds with six distinct play areas, shade structures and a universal design that offers ADA compliant accessibility items.

TROY PARK IN ELKRIDGE

Football, Lacrosse, Soccer And More

Outdoor Sports

Troy Park currently consists of four lighted synthetic multipurpose fields with press box structures and bleachers, parking areas, pavilions and a playground. Each field can comfortably hold over 300 spectators, with one featuring “stadium seating” that can hold 800 visitors on bleachers lining both sides of the field. Across this 101-acre park, future development could include a brand new, state-ofthe-art indoor track venue.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The National High School Lacrosse Showcase (NHSLS) has grown and flourished to one of the top lacrosse recruiting events in the country. Much of the NHSLS’s success can be attributed to Howard County’s tremendous facilities, professional staff, and general support of the event.”

- Joshua Mayhorne, Owner/Operator SMH Lacrosse, LLC

VISIT HOWARD COUNTY

Info@howardcountytourism.com (410) 313-1900 www.visithowardcounty.com

MEADOWBROOK ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball, Multipurpose

Meadowbrook Athletic Complex (The MAC) can accommodate almost any event or sporting need, housing 35,000 square feet of unobstructed gymnasium space designed to serve all ages and all levels of play. The MAC also includes three baseball fields, two tennis courts, two basketball courts, two picnic pavilions, a playground and a large parking area. The 77-arce plot also includes 2.5 miles of sidewalks and pathways throughout the park that wraps around the entire venue.

HARFORD COUNTY, MARYLAND

Harford, Maryland offers top-notch sports tourism opportunities with expansive and inclusive complexes. While traveling in Harford, visitors can explore everything the county has to offer, including the beautiful outdoor scenery. Rocks State Park features 3.5 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas and Deer Creek, perfect for fishing, tubing or wading. You can also head to Mariner Point Park for additional trails, fishing, kayaking and more.

The county also includes many learning opportunities such as the Ladew Topiary Gardens where families can walk through 22-acres of gardens and learn about plant and animal life through various activities. Harford also has the Discovery Center at Water’s Edge, a STEM facility dedicated to exploring the past, present and future of technology. This includes exhibits on computers, 3D printing, agriculture and other topics.

For those with a sweet tooth, pay a visit to the Ice Cream Trail, a series of local favorite ice cream shops around Harford. These shops range from classic diner experiences to homemade ice cream to unique confection creations.

CEDAR LANE REGIONAL PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football And More Outdoor Sports

Cedar Lane Regional Park hosts 19 tournaments per year, along with 15 leagues, attracting more than half a million visitors. The complex features 13 professionally maintained fields, 12 of which are natural grass and one turf, LED scoreboards and video display, over 900 seats, ample parking and a 1.46-mile trail or walking, hiking and more with training obstacles at various points. During games and tournaments concessions are available for spectators.

COPPERPLEX

Lacrosse, Soccer, Field Hockey And More Outdoor Sports

CopperPlex boasts eight expansive turf fields integrated with LED lighting, making it a go-to sporting destination for outdoor events. Located right off I-95, the venue stretches across 40 arces and features 650 on-site parking spots, along with 350 off-site for larger tournaments. There will also be a brand-new concession stand opening in Spring 2025.

“Harford County, Maryland supports a wide range of sports providing diverse opportunities to athletes of all ages and abilities. So journey to a lighthouse, cross a covered bridge, experience Ripken Stadium, hike to a waterfall, play Maryland’s best golf & more! We are the first in our area to open a Sensory Trail at Schucks Regional Park. This unique, accessible trail allows citizens of all ages to interact with sensory stations. This park is also home to the Miracle League of Harford County baseball field. We hope you’ll visit us!”

VISIT HARFORD (410) 838-7777 info@visitharford.com www.visitharford.com

THE RIPKEN EXPERIENCE ABERDEEN Baseball

The Ripken Experience Aberdeen is truly one-of-a-kind and provides novelty fun for any baseball fan. The complex features nine state-of-the-art fields, each replicating famous MLB ballparks of the modern era. Fields include Fenway Park, Memorial Stadium, Wrigley Field, Old Yankee Stadium and many more. Additionally, the venue features 15 batting cages, 16 bullpens, a warmup area, concession stands, plentiful parking and 2,500 seats in its Cal Sr’s Yard field.

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MARYLAND

Baltimore County, Maryland is part of the larger Baltimore metropolitan area, providing access to a large population to draw from for tournaments and events. The county is renowned for equestrian sports, with the top-rated Maryland State Fairgrounds a staple in this sector, as well as traditional and emerging sports across multiple facilities.

There’s plenty to experience away from the action, including Catonsville Art District’s eclectic and fun mix of specialty shops, boutiques, antiques and more. The Fire Museum of Maryland is a delight for the family, with beautifully preserved antique fire engines with lantern lights, reenactments, live music, wine tastings and other events.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Rocky Point Park and Beach’s sand volleyball courts, fishing pier, bathhouse and boating opportunities, as well as the Irvine Nature Center’s child and adult programs to explore nature and get away from the hustle and bustle. For a deeper dive into nature, the 16,043-acre Patapsco Valley State Park has eight developed recreational areas for camping, canoeing, horseback riding and more.

MARYLAND STATE FAIRGROUNDS

Equestrian, Rodeos, Motorsports, Lacrosse and more Sports and Events

Located in Timonium, Maryland, the Maryland State Fairgrounds has a multitude of facilities for a variety of sporting events. The 163-stall equestrian lighted show ring is a big highlight for events and sports like polo, and the horse racing 5/8-mile oval track adds more thrills with the infield allowing for up to six fields for sports like lacrosse. The onsite Cow Palace is not only an exhibition center but a great spot for sporting events with an adaptable floor that can be split into three sections.

GENESEE VALLEY

Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby and more Outdoor Sports

Expertly groomed and maintained sports fields are available at Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center, including seven regulation-size multipurpose fields and two youth fields. Located in Parkton, Maryland, the fields can be utilized for practices, scrimmages, tournaments, runs like cross country and more. As a learning center, Genesee Valley also has programs like adventure therapy through enjoying the outdoors, summer day camps and other youth options.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Baltimore County Trailriders have been running races at the Maryland State Fairgrounds for 50 years. It is a great event to be able to bring the whole family of all ages to enjoy. The Maryland State Fairgrounds is a great facility.”

— Meg Neal Race Manager

Baltimore County Trailriders Association

Flattrack Motorcycle Races

DISCOVER BALTIMORE COUNTY

tourism@baltimorecountymd.gov (410) 887-4095

discoverbaltimorecounty.com

TOWSON UNIVERSITY

Football, Basketball, Track and Field and other Indoor and Outdoor Sports

Towson University has multiple sports facilities for a variety of sports. Johnny Unitas Stadium, named in honor of the legendary football player, seats 11,198 and includes a track for track and field events. The 117,000-square-foot TU Arena has 5,200 seats, which not only hosts the university basketball, volleyball and gymnastics teams but also sports and events outside of the university spectrum like indoor soccer tournaments and NCAA lacrosse championships for both men and women.

WICOMICO COUNTY, MARYLAND

Wicomico County, Maryland offers a diverse range of sports and recreational activities, making it a premier destination for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The county’s sports venues provide top-notch facilities, while the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

From taking in a Delmarva Shorebirds minor league baseball game, to exploring the expansive local parks, Wicomico County is packed with leisure and adventure options for visitors. Spend a day with the family at Salisbury Zoo, where you can enjoy free admission and see over 100 animals in naturalistic enclosures. For more outdoor fun with some historical flare, visit Pemberton Historical Park, a 262acre nature reserve surrounding Pemberton Hall, a plantation home that’s rich in Eastern Shore history.

Just a short drive away, Ocean City beckons with 10 miles of pristine beaches, perfect for unwinding after the competition, as well as a lively boardwalk. Along with exciting shopping experiences, the boardwalk has amusement and water parks, museums, galleries and more. Combined, the two offer a wonderful day of sun, sand and adventure.

HENRY S. PARKER ATHLETIC COMPLEX Baseball,

Softball

Located in Salisbury, Maryland, Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex is the area’s premier outdoor sports facility, encompassed by shade trees and ideal for hosting major tournaments. The complex features eight lighted baseball/softball fields with Bermuda grass outfields. Four of the fields have dirt infields while the other four have synthetic turf, with press box and scoreboard at fields 1 and 5. Amenities include two full-service concession stands, two meeting rooms, shaded playground area and more.

WICOMICO CIVIC CENTER

Basketball, Wrestling, Cheer and Dance and More Indoor Sports and Events

Wicomico Civic Center has indoor sports covered with a 30,000-squarefoot arena and a 10,000-square-foot secondary arena with four SnapSport flooring systems, both of which are fit for dozens of sporting events. Max capacity for the largest arena is 5,000-6,000 depending on the set-up. Amenities include 10 meeting rooms, on-site catering, locker rooms, a promoter’s lounge and ample space backstage. For visitors, a staggering 15 hotels are available within a few short miles.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I’ve worked for and with recreation departments across the state and region for 35 years, been involved with three different softball associations for over 30 years and worked in the corporate world for 24 and I can honestly say, I’ve never been associated with such a professional and responsible group.”

- Bill Dowell, Past Vice President of USSSA Fastpitch

MARYLAND’S WICOMICO COUNTY (410) 548-4914

jpolizzi@wicomicocounty.org www.wicosports.org

THE COURTS AT HARMON FIELD

Pickleball, Basketball

Built in 2023, The Courts at Harmon Field feature 12 courts for pickleball, two basketball courts and a playground for younger guests to enjoy. Located just behind the YMCA and around the corner from the Zoo and Salisbury City Park, there’s plenty more to see and do between the action. On-site parking is available, and for larger competitions the YMCA provides additional parking.

ANNAPOLIS & ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND

Annapolis and Anne Arundel County offer a captivating backdrop for any sporting event, featuring stunning views along the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its rich maritime heritage, Annapolis boasts a charming waterfront, historic sites, and a vibrant shopping and dining scene. This easily navigable city invites visitors to immerse themselves in the heart of Maryland’s capital, providing an ideal setting for exploration.

Just beyond the bustling city of Baltimore, Anne Arundel County presents a wealth of attractions and ample open space to enhance your stay. Conveniently accessible from BWI Marshall Airport, this region is perfect for sports teams seeking expansive fields and diverse recreational opportunities, including non-traditional sports. While Annapolis is renowned for its historic charm, explore the county’s scenic parks and facilities tailored for various athletic activities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rich history of the U.S. Naval Academy or join in on thrilling tours. For a true taste of the region, be sure to savor the famous Maryland crabs and seafood. With its unique blend of sports, history, and culinary delights, Annapolis and Anne Arundel County is where sports meet adventure.

NAVY MARINE CORPS

MEMORIAL STADIUM

Football, Lacrosse, Rugby and more Sports and Events

Located off the prestigious US Naval Academy campus, this open-air stadium offers planners various events to host. While primarily known for hosting football and lacrosse games, the versatility extends beyond the realm of sports where music concerts, community festivals or a corporate retreat can be tailored to accommodate. The 34,000-capacity stadium features chairback seating and luxury suites overlooking a synthetic turf field.

CHESAPEAKE BAY

Sailing, Swimming, Dragon Boat Racing and more Watersports

Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, a vast estuary known for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, is truly a sailor’s paradise. From leisurely cruises to competitive regattas, the bay offers a wide range of sailing opportunities including dragon boat racing, which has become popular. Whether you’re planning a competition, team-building exercise or a community event, Chesapeake Bay is guaranteed to appeal to athletes and spectators alike and leave a lasting impression.

Annapolis & Anne Arundel County is the perfect destination for sports tourism! With our beautiful waterfront location, stateof-the-art facilities, parks, and fields, and experienced event professionals, we are confident that we can exceed your expectations and create a memorable experience for all of your attendees!

VISIT ANNAPOLIS & ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

(410) 280-0445

INFO@VISITANNAPOLIS.ORG www.visitannapolis.org/sports/

BACHMAN SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball, Soccer

Located in the heart of Arundel, Maryland, Bachman Sports Complex is a sprawling 55-acre paradise for athletes of all skill levels. This premier facility offers the perfect setting for your next competitive league, recreational game, or friendly tournament, with six regulationsized, lighted softball fields that can be converted to be utilized as smaller soccer fields, ideal for 9v9 or 3v3 tournaments. The complex also offers scoreboards, press boxes, on-site parking, restrooms and two concession stands.

Pennsylvania is a Premier Destination

The Keystone State hosts a variety of events big and small

PA Sports Celebrates 20 Years

Statewide organization continues to attract big events to Pennsylvania

Hello!

On behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we invite you to host your next sporting event in the Keystone State, home to The Great American Getaway.

Pennsylvanians share great passion for travel and sports, from little league to professional leagues to events that bring us together in the spirit of competition. Sports play an important role in our families, our lives, and our economy.

Pennsylvania provides the natural resources and facilities needed for regional, national, and international sport. From rugged terrain and soaring mountains to technologicallyadvanced venues and roaring rivers, the Commonwealth provides endless opportunities to create memorable experiences in all four seasons. Our diverse market – which includes youth and adult amateur, college, and professional sporting events – attracts out-of-town and out-of-state visitors to an array of destinations and attractions across the state.

PA Sports is an organization of 13 member destinations throughout Pennsylvania that are home to some of the top sports tourism attractions in the country. Our sports professionals understand that success in hosting events is a team effort. From Erie and Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and the Lehigh Valley – and everywhere in between –Pennsylvania has just what you and your colleagues are looking for. To learn more about our sports facilities across the state or to book your next sporting event, visit SportsinPA.com. To start planning your getaway to one of Pennsylvania’s cultural, historic, and greater-than-great outdoor destinations, head over to VISITPA.com

There’s no better time to create your Great American Getaway in Pennsylvania!

Warm regards,

Anne Ryan Deputy Secretary of Tourism PA Department of Community & Economic Development

Adult Irish Games in Pennsylvania.

The Easton Twilight Criterium is a popular race that takes place in Lehigh Valley.

PENNSYLVANIA IS A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR

With more than 1,500 facilities, Pennsylvania hosts a variety of events big and small

By Justin Marques

WW SPORTS AND ATTRACTIONS

ith the countless experiences Pennsylvania has to offer, there is always something new to discover. The Keystone State offers breathtaking landscapes, plenty of history and numerous outdoor activities in and around its 124 state parks; visitors can catch a game at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia or 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial in Johnstown; or simply enjoy the many charming small towns and vibrant cities that make up the Commonwealth.

Pennsylvania also proudly hosts a wide range of events, from Wrestlemania and Ironmans to college and high school tournaments. Sporting events are a cornerstone of the state’s tourism industry, and PA Sports, the lead agency for sports tourism in Pennsylvania, is dedicated to being a top choice for sports associations and organizations planning their next event. Here are some of the top events that have been held in Pennsylvania in 2024 and some additional non-sporting attractions that each member of PA Sports is known for.

BUTLER

Butler, located 35 miles north of Pittsburgh, hosted the Premier Ice Prospects Labor Day Girls Fest at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex. It featured 66+ teams of youth girls hockey from all over the U.S. and Canada competing in front of college scouts. Butler is also home to Moraine State Park, Lernerville Speedway, Historic Pullman Park, and Jennings Environmental Education Center. Butler is known for excellent biking and hiking trails, golf courses, and disc-golf courses.

CHESTER COUNTY’S BRANDYWINE VALLEY

Chester County’s Brandywine Valley is home to premier sports facilities designed for tournament play; 11 outdoor fields and a 127,000-squarefoot indoor facility at United Sports; 4 NHL-regulation ice rinks at Ice Line; collegiate-level venues at West Chester University; and Equestrian venues with acres of multipurpose space. Players and spectators can enjoy the region’s vibrant, teamfriendly downtowns.

DELAWARE COUNTY

Delaware County hosted The Delaware County Senior Games this past June. This Olympic-style competition welcomed over 100 senior athletes from across the county to showcase their skills in events such as

track and field, pickleball, swimming, golf and more. There are plenty of ways for visitors to Delaware County to get out and be active. Hike, bike or horseback ride on any of our hundreds of miles of tracks and trails.

ERIE

Erie hosted the 2024 International Indoor Junior Lacrosse (IIJL) World Junior Lacrosse Championship at the Erie Insurance Arena this past August. Founded in 2016, the IIJL showcases top young lacrosse players globally, with this year’s tournament featuring players from Australia, Canada, Poland, Scotland and the U.S.

Erie also lays claim to the Erie Insurance Arena, which can seat up to 7,000 and serves as home to the Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League. Opened in 1983 and recently

renovated for $47 million, the venue can also host wrestling, cheerleading, basketball, concerts and community events.

HAPPY VALLEY

Famously home to Penn State University, Happy Valley highlights a blend of academic excellence and spirited college-town-culture. People who enjoy the outdoors will find plenty to do, from the trails of Penn State’s surrounding forests to the stunning views from Mount Nittany.

In 2024, Happy Valley held the famous IRONMAN 70.3 competition. The race features a 1.2-mile swim in Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, a 56-mile bike ride through scenic hills, and a 13.1-mile run on Penn State’s campus, ending with a finish line experience inside Beaver Stadium.

HERSHEY-HARRISBURG

The Hershey-Harrisburg region combines the family fun of “Chocolatetown USA,” which includes Hersheypark® and Hershey’s Chocolate World, with the charm of Pennsylvania’s capital city. The area is also home to three professional sports teams, supported by an enthusiastic local community. Giant Center ℠ , a state-of-the-art arena, is home to Hershey Bears Hockey, and also accommodates basketball and wrestling tournaments, concerts and more.

JOHNSTOWN

The All American Amateur Baseball Association (AAABA) National Tournament is a signature event in Johnstown that will celebrate its 80th year in 2025. The summer tradition

features top teams from across the U.S. competing for the national title. The tournament has hosted some of the top players in Major League Baseball including Ken Griffey Jr. and Reggie Jackson.

Johnstown has many unique attractions including the Johnstown Flood Museum and the World’s Steepest Vehicular Inclined Plane.

LEHIGH VALLEY

With a difficult 0.8-mile circuit that includes six turns through downtown, the Easton Twilight Criterium in Lehigh Valley is a biking event that attracts approximately 500 cyclists. Competitors from around the globe, including Canada, Europe, and New Zealand, ranging from amateurs to professionals, compete for a portion of over $10,000 in prizes.

MONROEVILLE

The Atlantic Coast Cap Classic is AC Baseball’s biggest tournament of the year. The event hosts more than 200 teams from across the country. With special events like an opening ceremony at PNC Park before a Pirates game, this tournament is known to have some of the toughest competition for youth athletes. Monroeville features sporting and event facilities, including the Monroeville Convention Center, featuring 100,000 SF of exhibit space.

PHILADELPHIA

In April 2024, Philadelphia hosted the 40th edition of WWE’s biggest annual event, WrestleMania. This week-long event became the most successful in WWE’s history and further demonstrated Philadelphia’s

Photo

exceptional track record of hosting major sporting events.

Philadelphia is set to become the centerpiece of the sporting world in 2026 when Lincoln Financial Field hosts six FIFA World Cup soccer matches; MLB’s All-Star Game returns to Citizens Bank Park; the NCAA’s March Madness men’s basketball tournament is back at the Wells Fargo Center; and Aronimink Golf Club hosts the 108th PGA Championship.

PITTSBURGH

For the first time, Pittsburgh hosted the Special Olympics North America Softball Championships at the No Offseason Sports Facility in early September.

This marks the first national Special Olympics event held in Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh is famous for many reasons, some of which include its iconic skyline, Carnegie Museum of Art and the Andy Warhol Museum. Pittsburgh also has a history of winning with its black and gold-clad professional teams – including the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins.

VALLEY FORGE

The YMCA Gymnastics Nationals & Invitational brought together top athletes from 81 YMCA programs across the country. It took place in June 2024 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, a 240,000 square-foot facility

suitable for a variety of indoor sports.

Montgomery County is a historic and scenic area known for its role in America’s history, best known as the location of the Valley Forge National Historical Park.

YORK

Located in South Central Pennsylvania, York is known for its historical heritage, with landmarks such as the York Historic District and the Colonial Complex showcasing its role in American history. The York Expo Center is one of the largest exposition centers in South Central Pennsylvania, features more than 250,000 square feet of space and can host a variety of events.

Photo courtesy of PA Sports

In 2024, Happy Valley held the famous IRONMAN 70.3 competition.

Johnstown, Pennsylvania hosts the All American Amateur Baseball Association National Tournament.

PA SPORTS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Statewide organization continues to attract big events to Pennsylvania

By Jason Paha

BBack in 2005, five sports tourism leaders gathered in Pennsylvania.

Their objective was to form a group to help sports commissions and destination marketing organizations in Pennsylvania maneuver through the early days of the sports tourism industry.

These five members, Happy Valley, Hershey, Reading, Valley Forge and York, formed an organization known as Ready, Set, Go! Little did they know 20 years later, the group they created would become an influential sports tourism powerhouse.

“(2005) was a long time ago in terms of the industry itself,” said Gregg Cook, past chair of PA Sports and executive director of the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority. “At the time, we couldn’t have imagined the growth of all aspects of the sports tourism industry. We were always hopeful that we could continue to grow and prosper and have a presence.”

Grow and prosper, they did.

A SPORTS LEADER EMERGES

This year, PA Sports (formerly Ready, Set, Go!), is the lead agency for sports tourism in Pennsylvania and is celebrating its 20th anniversary. PA

Sports has grown to 13 members from across the Commonwealth: Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Chester County Tourism, Discover Lehigh Valley, Erie Sports Commission, Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance, Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority, PHL Sports, Sport York, SportsPITTSBURGH, Valley Forge Sports, Visit Delco, Visit Johnstown and VM Sports. It is recognized as one of the premier sports organizations in the country and is renowned for how well the members mesh with one another.

“The ultimate goal of PA Sports is to attract as many tourism driving sporting events to Pennsylvania as

possible,” said PA Sports Chair Mark Jeanneret, who is also executive director of the Erie Sports Commission.

“While many of our members are competing for many of the same events, the collective goal of the group is to help one another have a positive impact on our respective communities.”

“The way our group has continued to work together is impressive,” Cook added. “We are 13 destinations and we’ve been able to make it work without any significant personal issues. Everything is for the good of the group.”

BIG EVENTS COME TO PA

PA Sports’ mission is to attract and host international, national, regional and local sporting events and showcase Pennsylvania as a viable sports event destination for professional, collegiate, interscholastic, amateur and youth sporting ventures. And it has done so to a successful degree that would surprise the 2005 members of Ready, Set, Go!

In 2023, the 13 members of PA Sports combined to host/support more than

460 events generating $480 million in estimated economic impact to Pennsylvania. Among some of the sizable events PA Sports members have helped attract in 2024 alone include Wrestlemania XL in Philadelphia, the IRONMAN 70.3 in Happy Valley, the Special Olympics North America Softball Championships in Pittsburgh, the YMCA 2024 Gymnastics Nationals & Invitational in Valley Forge, the All American Amateur Baseball Association National Tournament in Johnstown and the IIJL World Junior Lacrosse Championship in Erie.

What a difference 20 years makes.

“Back when we started, the big (organization everyone wanted to replicate) was Sports Illinois,” Cook said. “We were striving to have the visibility and positive perception that Sports Illinois had at that time, and I think we’ve been able to do that. We’ve gotten to the upper echelon of big sports groups where people know us, recognize us and see us at all the shows. When we go to the show now, we go to the show as Pennsylvania.”

PA Sports has proven the economic impact from sports tourism has value that extends beyond the actual competition. The state has long been a popular travel destination and extending tourism beyond the events is a significant part of the PA Sports mission.

“Funding was the biggest obstacle for us (at the start),” Cook said. “We all had great ideas of the things we’d like to do. But to make an impact, to be visible, noticeable and relevant in most cases, especially in the early days, individual bureaus did not have the funding in their budget dedicated to sports that allowed us to do what we wanted to do. Finally, after years of hard work and the success we had, most of our members have seen increased budgets along the way. We were able to prove to the state tourism office the reality of what we’ve accomplished. They’ve taken notice and invested in us.”

And that figures to continue for the next 20 years and beyond.

Let your games begin at  sportsinpa.com.

The IIJL World Junior Lacrosse Championship was held in Erie in August.

Photo courtesy of Erie Sports Commission

BUTLER COUNTY

This dynamic sports region is home to a wide variety of sports facilities, making it possible for numerous planners to host their tournaments at once

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex Ice Hockey, Figure Skating and more Ice Sports

This sports complex is the primary practice and training facility for the Pittsburgh Penguins, as well as a comprehensive outpatient facility for UPMC Sports Medicine. A premier tournament destination, this first-of-its-kind facility in the Pittsburgh region is a true partnership between two worldclass organizations, featuring 185,000 square feet of total space dedicated to treating and training with two ice rinks and nutrition-based concessions.

2. Slippery Rock University Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Volleyball and more

This NCAA Division II school’s facilities rival some Division I venues. The school supports 17 different varsity sports, with facilities available for baseball, softball, football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey, lacrosse, volleyball and indoor and outdoor track. The crown jewel is the 10,000-seat Thompson Stadium, which is home to DiSpirito Field. The field is surrounded by a 400-meter track and has an AstroPlay artificial surface, lighting.

3. UPMC Passavant Sportsplex at Graham Park Pickleball, Football, Soccer, Lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports

UPMC Passavant Sportsplex at Graham Park is a large community sports park complete with athletic fields for a multitude of outdoor sports. It features Miracle League Field, Out-of-the-Park playground, Dek Hockey Rink and SportCourts, which is primed for bocce, horseshoes, pickleball, tennis and basketball.

BUTLER COUNTY SPORTS COMM

Latimer Sales Manager (724) 234-4619 perry@visitbutlercounty.com

LEHIGH VALLEY

With the elite sports venues and attractions of three destinations rolled into one, sports organizers have everything they need right at their fingertips in Lehigh Valley

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. PPL Center

Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Wrestling, Indoor Racing and more Indoor Sports

Located in downtown Allentown, PPL Center is a stateof-the-art arena and home to the Phantoms, an AHL affiliate of the NHL Philadelphia Flyers. The venue also plays host to regional events from hockey leagues and figure skating competitions to numerous NCAA championship events. The arena seats over 10,000 for concerts and more than 8,500 for ice hockey, and features on-site food, parking and more.

2. Valley Preferred Cycling Center Cycling

Lehigh Valley’s Velodrome represents the cycling capital of the U.S. with a capacity of 2,500 and a 333.3 m concrete surface. Valley Preferred Cycling Center and the roads of the Trexlertown area are renowned for being some of the best by cyclists worldwide. The Velodrome hosts a premier weekly racing series each summer, as well as national championships, large group rides, charity rides, cyclo-cross events and much more.

3. Lehigh Valley Sports Fields

Soccer, Baseball, Ultimate Frisbee and more Outdoor Sports

Lehigh Valley Sports Fields are a first-class sports complex, hosting several local and national tournaments and drawing teams from the Mid-Atlantic and Eastern states. The venue features eight soccer fields and six baseball fields, three of which are equipped with lights. Amenities include a picnic pavilion, a running track and plentiful parking.

Maizee Freeman Manager, Tourism Development

(218) 536-0418

Maizee@DiscoverLehighValley.com LEHIGH VALLEY

UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex Perry

Valley Preferred Cycling Center

Discover Lehigh Valley®

PHILADELPHIA DELAWARE COUNTY

Amazing getaways come easy in Philadelphia, a popular destination for history lovers and a wide variety of sports and entertainment, including the FIFA World Cup 26™

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Lincoln Financial Field

Football, Soccer, Lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports and Events

Home to the Philadelphia Eagles and Temple Owls, Lincoln Financial Field (the Linc) seats nearly 70,000 and is widely regarded as one of the finest stadiums in the United States. The venue is home to a huge variety of premier events, including WrestleMania, the Army-Navy Game, NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championships, FIFA World Cup 2026 and much more.

2. Wells Fargo Center

Ice Hockey, Basketball and more Indoor Sports and Events

This multipurpose indoor arena is home to the NHL’s Flyers and the NBA’s 76ers, with a seating capacity of 19,541 for hockey and lacrosse and 20,318 for basketball. The arena is part of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, which also includes Xfinity Live!—an indoor-outdoor dining and entertainment venue located next door.

3. Subaru Park

Soccer, Rugby, Lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports

This soccer-specific stadium, located just outside Philadelphia, is the home stadium of Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union. This 18,500-capacity stadium has played host to the MLS All-Star Game, several U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team matches, international friendlies, elite rugby competitions, NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Quarterfinals and much more.

PHL SPORTS

Brea Webster-Stanko, Director Business Development & Sports Marketing

(215) 636-3319

brea@discoverphl.com

Delaware County, PA, is a convenient and affordable location for hosting sports events and tournaments, offering easy access to major highways and proximity to Philadelphia

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. WSFS Bank Sportsplex

Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football, Field Hockey, and much more

The WSFS Bank Sportsplex, located on the Philadelphia Union’s campus in Chester, PA, is a 365-day-a-year sports and recreation complex. The facility includes three full-sized grass fields, three full sized turf fields, a grass 9v9 field, and a stateof-the-art indoor sports performance center. The pristine facility serves as the training home for the Philadelphia Union first, second, and academy teams. Additionally, the WSFS Bank Sportsplex is a premier destination for youth sports and activities, with options from soccer, lacrosse, flag football, field hockey, and much more. Find out more at www.wsfsbanksportsplex.com

905-6492

kpaschall@visitdelcopa.com

Lincoln Financial Field WSFS Bank Sportsplex

CHESTER COUNTY’S BRANDYWINE VALLEY

Escape to the rolling hills and charming villages of Chester County’s Brandywine Valley, featuring worldclass gardens, rich histories, and premier sports facilities

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. United Sports Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Basketball

United Sports is the region’s largest sports complex with both indoor and outdoor spaces. It features a 127,000-square-foot facility with turf fields, courts, a training center and more to provide the ultimate sports and recreation experience in Downingtown. United Sports also offers a new full-size turf field under the Kinetic Dome, as well as 11 premier fields adjacent to the indoor facility.

2. Ice Line Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Curling

The rush to score goals starts on one of four NHL-regulation ice surfaces at Ice Line in West Chester, each with a seating capacity of 500. 20 locker rooms with VIP options are also available, along with the Method Hockey Training Gym, traditional concessions and a full-service restaurant, The Goal Line Pub, which overlooks rink 4.

3. West Chester University Lacrosse, Soccer, Football, Basketball, Swimming, Diving

West Chester University utilizes nine top-notch facilities for its 24 intercollegiate athletic programs. Along with premier upgrades to the school’s 7,500-seat football field, John A. Farrell Stadium, which doubles as home to the men’s and women’s outdoor track & field squads, there are also three turf and five grass multipurpose fields for competitions. Indoors, enjoy the traditional surroundings of 2,500-seat Hollinger Field House which is nestled in the hub of North Campus, as well as the six-lane Graham Natatorium.

CHESTER COUNTY’S BRANDYWINE VALLEY

United Sports

HERSHEY-HARRISBURG JOHNSTOWN

With dozens of sports tournaments successfully planned and executed each year, Hershey-Harrisburg is quickly soaring to the top of the sports world

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center

Basketball, Volleyball, Cheer, Archery and more Sports and Events

Each year, the multipurpose Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center hosts a variety of exciting sports events, highlighted by MADE & Marquee Hoops Basketball Showcases and Keystone Regional Volleyball Association events. Overall, the complex has over one million square feet under one roof with 11 halls and three arenas. The largest space is the 172,000 square foot expo hall.

2. GIANT Center SM

Ice Hockey, Figure Skating and more Ice Sports and Events

GIANT CenterSM is the regular venue for the Hershey Bears AHL hockey team. This state-of-the-art, 10,500-seat arena hosts ice shows, concerts, state high school championships for wrestling, competitive cheer and basketball, graduations and more. The U.S. Figure Skating Eastern Sectional Synchronized Skating Championships have been held here on several occasions.

3. Hersheypark® Stadium

Football, Soccer, Lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports and Events

Hersheypark® Stadium is the most prominent outdoor stadium between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, hosting events such as the Big 33 Football Classic, state high school championships, band competitions and more. Opened in 1939, the stadium has been upgraded with a state-of-theart synthetic turf system and has spectator seating for up to 16,000 for sports and 30,000 for concerts and other events.

HERSHEY HARRISBURG

Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania, Johnstown is where visitors come for the sports and stay for the scenic beauty and wealth of outdoor activities

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War

Memorial

Ice Hockey, Wrestling, Cheer, Martial Arts

As one of the premier sports facilities in Cambria County, the 1st Summit Arena has become a go-to for sports planners looking for top quality amenities and event planning assistance. This 4,000-seat arena has hosted tournaments, games, concerts and more, and is home of the famous film Slap Shot. Home to both a local junior and university hockey team, the arena caters to both players and fans.

2. Sargent’s Stadium at the Point

Baseball, Football, Soccer and more Outdoor Sports

Sargent’s Stadium at the Point is a baseball stadium and multipurpose complex located in the heart of Downtown Johnstown. The park is scenic, practical, and features new full turf. More recent upgrades include a top-notch press box and a new suite area. Sargent’s Stadium can seat about 8,000 spectators and is home to the annual All American Amateur Baseball Association national tournament.

3. Rock Run Recreation Area

ATV,

UTV, Dirt Bike, and Adventure Sports

There are more than 140 miles of trails within the Rock Run Recreation Area just waiting to be explored, and the area has become a popular weekend getaway for ATV, dirt bike, OHV and side-by-side enthusiasts. There are trails dedicated to beginner riders as well as the most experienced. On-site camping is encouraged, with over 350 primitive and 16 electric campsites spread among 6 campgrounds.

VISIT JOHNSTOWN

GIANT CenterSM

Sargent’s Stadium at the Point

MONROEVILLE ERIE

A combination of convenience, affordability, entertainment and excellent athletic facilities makes Monroeville, Pennsylvania a go-to sporting destination

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Monroeville Convention Center

Wrestling, Cheer, Martial Arts and more Indoor Sports and Events

Monroeville Convention Center is a private suburban convention and event center in Western Pennsylvania that has a unique campus-like setting. The center features more than 100,000 square feet of event space, Specifically, its North Hall has 45,000 square feet of exhibit space and the South Hall 35,000 square feet of carpeted space. There are also four breakout rooms and an office that total 12,000 square feet.

2. All American+ Fieldhouse

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Soccer and more Indoor and Outdoor Sports

All American+ Fieldhouse features more than 170,000 square feet of space for outdoor and indoor sports. The sevenfloor, three-room indoor space can accommodate up to five high-school regulation-size basketball courts, seven volleyball courts or 17 pickleball courts. The fieldhouse also has an outdoor turf field and one indoors.

3. Monroeville Park West

Baseball, Soccer, Pickleball, Tennis and more Outdoor Sports

Monroeville Park West is a delightful family-friendly retreat for sports and leisure. It features four lit youth-sized baseball fields with newly turfed infields, 14 soccer fields—one of which is FIFAregulation sized—six pickleball courts, two tennis courts—or an additional six for pickleball—two volleyball courts and a basketball court. Five pavilions can accommodate up to 850 guests.

The picturesque lakefront city of Erie, Pennsylvania is a premier destination for sports planners who seek quality facilities and a community dedicated to sports

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Erie Sports

Center

Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Lacrosse

Erie Sports Center is a premier sports complex offering a variety of amenities for a wide range of sports and recreational activities. The complex spans over 60 acres and includes 10 soccer fields, a 30,000-square-foot gymnasium with four wood-floor courts for basketball and volleyball and a 61,000-square-foot, 70-foot-high sports dome with a FIFAaccredited field for year-round events.

2. LECOM Sports Park

Hockey, Figure Skating, Broomball

LECOM Sports Park offers high-level sports training and recreational programming in one facility. Its proximity to Interstates 90 and 79, and convenient location in the heart of Erie’s shopping and entertainment district makes it an ideal venue for hosting events. The facility features two NHL-sized ice rinks, 10 locker rooms and a premier fitness and training center.

3. Bayfront Convention Center

Wrestling, Cheer, Dance, Gymnastics, Weightlifting

Located on Erie’s picturesque Bayfront, the Bayfront Convention Center offers over 120,000 square feet of space with stunning floor-to-ceiling views of Presque Isle Bay. The Great Hall covers over 28,000 square feet of columnfree space with a ceiling height of 23 feet. The venue has hosted diverse events such as boxing matches, cheerleading competitions, 8-ball tournaments and the American Cornhole League.

VALLEY FORGE YORK COUNTY

A world of adventures awaits you in Montgomery County — home to must-see historical sites and tons of family attractions, a vibrant arts scene, sports venues and more

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. The Proving Grounds

Soccer, Football, Field Hockey, Kickball and more Outdoor Sports

The Proving Grounds houses Villanova University’s premier field hockey stadium and boasts more than 80 acres of outdoor space. This multipurpose facility offers 8 oversized, lighted turf fields with bleachers, concessions, air-conditioned meeting rooms and indoor restrooms.

2. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center

Basketball, Wrestling, Weightlifting, Esports and more Indoor Sports and Events

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks has seen many national sports tournaments over the years, such as USA Weightlifting’s Junior National Championships. Known as one of the Eastern U.S.’s largest indoor sports complexes, the center boasts about 240,000 square feet of single-floor exhibition space, featuring high-ceilings, easy load in/load out and premium internet capabilities.

3. Competitive Edge Sports

Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal, Dodgeball and more Indoor Sports

Founded in 2010, Competitive Edge Sports provides topclass indoor programs and events across 55,000 square feet of space, including concessions & meeting areas. This venue hosts a multitude of basketball and volleyball tournaments annually, with four high school-regulated courts and one NBA-regulated court— all of which are Aacer floating maple hardwood.

Make your York County sports event stand out with exceptional facilities, unforgettable attractions and a convenient location that the entire family can appreciate

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. York Expo Center

Volleyball, Wrestling, Cross-country and more Indoor and Outdoor Sports and Events

With on-site indoor and outdoor facilities, the 120-acre York Expo Center offers versatile spaces that allow serving a wide range of sporting events. The venue consists of the 74,000-square-foot, 5,500-capacity UPMC Arena, the 58,000-square-foot Memorial Hall with a capacity of 4,000; and the elegant 10,000-capacity Grandstand. The Expo Center has hosted events like Tyrant Wrestling’s Columbus Day Duals and the USA Wrestling Cadet Duals, as well as major entertainment events.

2. Memorial Park Complex

Softball, Sand Volleyball, Kickball, Skateboarding

As a multi-sport venue, Memorial Park Softball Complex has hosted several events for USA Softball, the Pennsylvania State Championships and USA Softball Eastern Nationals. The 72-acre park features an eight-field softball complex, which includes Bob Hoffman Stadium—formerly the home of professional baseball in York until 1969 when the site was converted to softball. Four of the eight fields are lit. The facility also has four sand volleyball courts, batting cages and a top skate park.

3.

Graham Aquatic Center

Swimming, Diving, Water Polo and more Water Sports

This 33,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor aquatic center features a flexible floor plan and plentiful amenities, making it a great choice for a variety of aquatic sports and events. Along with Graham Aquatic Center’s Olympic-sized pool, there are also multiple springboards and a diving well.

VALLEY FORGE SPORTS SPORT YORK

PITTSBURGH

Pittsburgh is an authentic and iconic sports city, filled with world-class sports facilities and first-rate pro franchises like the NFL’s Steelers and NHL’s Penguins

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Martial Arts, Cheer, Gymnastics and more Indoor Sports and Events

The LEED Platinum Certified David L. Lawrence Convention Center features four floors with 53 meeting rooms, the Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom, an additional meeting space and the Rooftop Terrace—a breathtaking outdoor gathering spot. The convention center has over 313,000 square feet of column-free event space, and offers amenities such as 700 indoor parking spaces, catering and concessions.

2. PPG Paints Arena

Ice Hockey, Basketball, Wrestling and more Indoor Sports and Events

Home to the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, PPG Paints Arena boasts the most comfortable seating arrangement in the NHL, with seats up to 24 inches wide and an accompanying increase in leg room. As a leading entertainment venue, PPG Paints Arena is the regional epicenter for athletic events, concerts and family shows. Hosting more than 150 events per year, the arena’s stateof-the-art design has a capacity of 18,187 for ice hockey, 19,000 for basketball and just shy of 20,000 for center-stage events.

3.

Highmark Stadium

Soccer, Rugby, Lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports and Events

Highmark Stadium is a 5,000-seat, soccer-specific stadium in Pittsburgh’s Station Square and is home to Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC of the USL Championship. The stadium’s FIFA-certified synthetic turf is available for hourly and full-day rentals for sporting, entertainment and private events.

SPORTS PITTSBURGH

Sports Development Director (412) 588-3503 holly.perella@sportspittsburgh.com

HAPPY VALLEY

Regardless of whether you are a Penn State fan, Happy Valley and Central Pennsylvania enables sports planners to dream big with their excellent sports history

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Bryce Jordan Center

Basketball, Volleyball, Gymnastics and more Indoor Sports

Home to Penn State Basketball, Bryce Jordan Center encompasses a full-size practice area featuring three basketball courts, 11 varsity locker rooms, 6 meeting and event spaces and state-of-the-art athletic training and strength facilities. Built-in concession stands are available on the concourse and event levels of the facility. With seating for over 15,000, the facility has also been home to NCAA DI Gymnastics, Wrestling Championships, Big Ten Championships and more.

2. Nittany Valley Sports Centre

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer and more Indoor Sports

This brand-new, locally owned and operated indoor sports facility offers recreational and competitive sports activities including skills training, leagues and speed and agility classes. Spanning 74,00 square feet of space, the facility offers six basketball courts, which can also convert to nine volleyball courts and be utilized for other sports.

3. Pegula Ice Arena

Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Roller Derby and more Ice Sports

Experience the best of the best when it comes to hockey venues at Pegula Ice Arena, where you will find two rinks and top-notch amenities. The main rink boasts seating for 6,000 while the practice rink offers seating for 300. Event history includes NHL Exhibition Games, Big Ten Ice Hockey Finals and the Hockey Valley Invitational. More recently, roller derby has also utilized the facility for the 2024 WFTDA North American Northeast Regionals. The facility includes concessions, while also offering space for outside vendors.

Eric Engelbarts

Executive Director

(814) 231-1401 erice@happyvalley.com

Highmark Stadium Holly Perella

Bryce Jordan Center

RHODE ISLAND

The smallest U.S. state by area, Rhode Island has a huge slate of impressive facilities that makes it a perfect destination to host your next event. With beautiful facilities like the Amica Mutual Pavilion and the Rhode Island Convention Center, which can host a multitude of events from basketball to cheerleading to roller derby, Rhode Island has you covered. There’s also so much to do during your free time. From a few swings with friends to full-on parties and events, take aim at the giant outfield targets in one of the 102 climate-controlled hitting bays at Top Golf Rhode Island. Grip the wheel and cruise into R1 Indoor Karting to experience the thrill of a race to the finish and see who tops the podium! Pay a visit to over 160 animal species at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the nation’s oldest zoos. Hop aboard an 18-passenger vessel at the Providence River Boat Company and learn about the sites from a knowledgeable tour guide. Pay a visit to the Providence Career and Technical Academy, which features some of the most state-ofthe-art athletic facilities.

AMICA MUTUAL PAVILION

Basketball, Hockey, Wrestling, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Multipurpose

While Providence has no shortage of impressive sporting venues, the Amica Mutual Pavilion (AMP PVD) stands out as “the” destination for sports in Rhode Island. The AMP PVD features a 31,000-squarefoot arena floor and a 25,000-square-foot concourse and can house a whopping 13,000 spectators.

RHODE ISLAND

CONVENTION CENTER

Basketball, Cheer and Dance, Esports, Gymnastics, Pickleball, Volleyball

Inside you’ll find a 100,000-square-foot exhibition hall, a 20,000-square-foot grand ballroom, and 23 multipurpose meeting rooms. Over the years, the RICC has hosted major events in cheerleading, gymnastics, volleyball, and much more, so the sky’s the limit when planning your next event.

LONGPLEX FAMILY & SPORTS CENTER

Cornhole, Basketball, Flag Football, Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Volleyball

The Longplex Family & Sports Center is a 187,000square-foot, three-story venue that features indoor and outdoor space for volleyball, lacrosse, soccer, flag football, inline and deck hockey, and basketball. The massive multipurpose facility is one of the largest indoor sports complexes in New England.

PROVIDENCE COLLEGE

Baseball, Basketball, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis Providence College boasts some of the top athletic facilities in all of Rhode Island. Chapey Field at Anderson Stadium is a state-of-theart facility for the men’s and women’s soccer and men’s lacrosse teams. Situated adjacent to Chapey Field at Anderson Stadium is the Providence College Tennis facility.

BROWN UNIVERSITY

Basketball, Crew, Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Water Polo

Brown University boasts a variety of outstanding athletic venues that host regional and national events and allow sports planners plenty of options to meet their needs. Brown features multipurpose outdoor fields, a pool rental in the aquatics center, use of the 20,000-seat stadium, and a boathouse situated along the Seekonk River.

PROVIDENCE CAREER & TECHNICAL ACADEMY

Basketball, Cheerleading, Soccer, Track and field, Volleyball, Wrestling

This school is home to some of Providence’s most state-ofthe-art athletic facilities and offers seating for around 1,800 people in a 65,000-squarefoot fieldhouse. Inside, you will find space and amenities for sporting events such as track and field meets, basketball games/tournaments and cheerleading competitions.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The New England Regional Volleyball Association values its partnership with the Rhode Island Sports Commission. The collaboration with the CVB and Convention Center team has been exceptional. Their professionalism and expertise are unmatched, always prioritizing their clients and striving to elevate the attendee experience.”

— Dave Peixoto, Regional Commissioner

New England Regional Volleyball Association

Senior Director of Sports Sales (401) 456-0243

JWalker@GoSportsRI.com

www.GoSportsRI.com

10 Site InSpections of event-ready locations for competitions of any size

WELCOME TO NEW YORK STATE!

NEW YORK KNOWS SPORTS: Home to multiple professional teams from different leagues and levels, iconic sporting venues, and attractions like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, our tourism partners embrace the importance of sport for all ages in our communities.

Located in the heart of the American Northeast and within driving distance of more than 57 million people, New York State is easily reachable for your teams and spectators. National and international teams will appreciate our robust train and airport infrastructure, with multiple major and regional airports throughout the state.

From large cities to mid-sized hosts, New York State offers guests their choice of venue size, amenities, and surrounding activities. Naturally, we have the sites that will meet your needs: state-of-the-art arenas and convention centers, top rated multi-use field and courts, aquatic centers and running tracks, and world class mountain trails and golf courses. University and collegiate sites are abundant for year-round events, including over 100 Division 1, 2 and 3 schools. Winter sports can take advantage of the 30-plus ice rinks and over 40 ski areas across the state: athletes will relish the chance to skate on the ice or ski the mountain that hosted two winter Olympic Games. From the beaches of Long Island to the peaks of the Adirondacks and the roar of Niagara Falls, New York’s natural offerings and sporting legacy make for a unique combination and successful events.

After the game, guests are encouraged to explore all that New York has to offer. Award-winning downtowns, world-renowned entertainment venues, impactful historic sites, and iconic natural locations make New York State a must-see destination for any sports traveler. Learn more at www.ILOVENY.com.

On behalf of the state’s sports tourism destinations, I LOVE NY invites you to see how easy it is to find your next venue in New York!

Lake Placid Olympic Museum has North America’s second-largest Winter Olympic artifact collection.

Photo courtesy of Lake Placid Olympic Museum and Olympic Authority

GET ACTIVE IN BELLEAYRE MOUNTAIN

NEW YORK

The state of New York is home to an impressive array of sports facilities that support youth and amateur athletes across various disciplines. From expansive parks with baseball diamonds, soccer fields and running tracks to dedicated indoor arenas and community centers, the infrastructure promotes healthy, active lifestyles for people of all ages.

Catskills

Photos courtesy of I Love New York 1

Belleayre Mountain is nestled in the gorgeous Catskill Mountains of New York and is a popular year-round destination for outdoor sports, offering a range of activities for both winter and summer events. A premier winter sports destination with over 50 trails for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The mountain has eight lifts, including a high-speed gondola, providing excellent access for large numbers of participants during events. In the warmer months, Belleayre offers hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides, making it a multi-season location for sports events. The two lodges on-site, Discovery Lodge and Overlook Lodge, serve as central gathering points, complete with dining options, restrooms, and rental shops. belleayre.com

BETHPAGE STATE PARK

Farmingdale

Home to the 2025 Ryder Cup and 2026 U.S. Open, Long Island is where golfers belong. Play at Bethpage State Park, home to five 18-hole courses including the legendary Black Course, host of past U.S. Opens and PGA Championships. Bethpage Golf Course is one of the most popular and cherished golf courses in the nation. Golf Digest Magazine says “This has to be the best municipal course in America.” Shinnecock Golf Course will also welcome back the U.S. Open in 2026 and 2036. parks.ny.gov/golf/11/details.aspx

3

CHEEL ARENA

Potsdam

Cheel Arena is a 3,000-seat multipurpose arena located at Clarkson University in St. Lawrence County. It features one ice surface and the facility covers 181,350 square feet. It boasts two state-of-the-art fitness centers, a weight room, meeting rooms, an eatery, six locker rooms and a sports medicine suite with a hydrotherapy room. clarksonathletics.com/ sports/2003/9/26/cheel.aspx

EISENHOWER PARK

Nassau County

A 930-acre oasis of open space and recreation in the heart of Nassau County, Eisenhower Park is one of the largest public spaces in the New York metropolitan area –larger, in fact, than Central Park. The park offers a full range of athletic fields, three 18-hole golf courses, and one of the finest indoor swimming facilities in the U.S. Amenities also include 16 lighted tennis courts, 2 pickleball courts, and 8 basketball courts, picnic areas, 4 playgrounds, fitness trails, 2 18-hole mini-golf courses. A recent addition is a world-class Cricket oval, on which 9 ICC T20 World Cup matches were played in June 2024. eisenhowerparkny.org

GREENLIGHT NETWORKS GRAND SLAM PARK

Broome County

This state-of-the-art softball facility offers brand new all-turf fields, lighting, bleachers, dugouts, batting cages, parking and a concession area. This softball complex followed a $4 million renovation now featuring four turf fields, eight batting cages/bullpens, signage, a picnic area, a 500-square-foot concession area, as well as dedicated onsite parking, and adjacent overflow parking.

It has four fields with these dimensions: Field 1: LF 200’, CF 220’, RF 200’ , Field 2:LF 195’, CF 195’, RF 195’, Field 3: LF200’, CF 220’, RF 200’, Field 4: LF 195’, CF 195’, RF 195’. grandslampark.com

MVP ARENA

Capitol-Saratoga

The MVP Arena in Albany, NY, is a venue ideal for hosting sporting events. Its unique curtaining systems offers versatile seating capacities from 3,500 –17,500 making it the perfect space for any size event. Home to the Siena College Saints Division I Men’s Basketball, The Albany Firewolves of the National Lacrosse League and the Albany Firebirds of the AFL 1, MVP Arena is known for accommodating largescale sports events such as basketball, hockey, box lacrosse and arena football, it provides state-of-the-art facilities and modern amenities to support both participants and spectators. Its central location, combined with flexible seating configurations and premium hospitality options, makes it a top choice for tournaments, sporting exhibitions, and group-friendly events. mvparena.com

LAKE PLACID OLYMPIC CENTER

Lake Placid

The Olympic Center in downtown Lake Placid is known as the headquarters for the Lake Placid region’s remarkable history. Having completed a series of revitalization projects, the 257,247-squarefoot Olympic Center has entered a bold new era, breathing new life into its service as modern sport and entertainment venue. The new renovated spaces include:

• 1980 Herb Brooks Arena – full size indoor ice rink that can be sized to international or NHC standards and seats approximately 7,300. Famous for hosting the 1980 Miracle on Ice game. LED event and TV quality lighting, new HVAC system, renovated locker rooms and restrooms, new concessions, and hospitality suites.

• 1932 Jack Shea Arena – full size indoor ice rink that can be sized to international or NHC standards and seats approximately 1,250. New acoustics, concessions and dasher boards. lakeplacidolympiccenter.com 7

8 THE NORTHTOWN CENTER AT AMHERST

Amherst

This complex is Western New York’s feature multipurpose sports facility. The facility includes three NHL regulation ice pads (200” x 85’), one Olympic size ice pad (200’ x 100’), a full-service pro shop, restaurant and sports training facility. It has played host to multiple USA Hockey National Championships over the years. The center also houses a full-service restaurant, pro shop, two skyboxes multiple meeting rooms and a training facility. northtowncenteratamherst.com

NORTHWEST ARENA

Chautauqua-Allegheny

Northwest Arena, located in Jamestown, is a multi-functional facility ideal for hosting sports events, particularly ice-related activities. The arena has two full-size ice rinks suitable for hockey games, figure skating, and recreational ice skating. The main rink has a seating capacity of up to 1,800, which is great for medium-sized sporting events. The arena also hosts concerts, trade shows, and non-ice sports events when the ice is removed. This facility is a flexible venue that can accommodate a wide range of sports and community events. northwestarena.com

Photo courtesy of charliemayer.com

ONCENTER WAR MEMORIAL ARENA

Finger Lakes

The Oncenter War Memorial Arena in Syracuse, NY, is a premier location for sporting events, and large-scale gatherings. This complex is highly adaptable and suitable for hosting hockey, basketball, wrestling, and other indoor sports. It holds up to 7,000 spectators, making it ideal for large sporting events. It has a full-size ice rink that can be converted for non-ice events. The arena can be adjusted for smaller events by using curtaining systems or rearranging seating. Situated downtown, it’s close to restaurants, hotels, and cultural attractions. asmsyracuse.com

DISCOVER CENTRAL MA

Located in the heart of New England, Central Massachusetts welcomes visitors to explore historic treasures, museums, parks, botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuaries. Catch a WooSox game or a Holy Cross matchup at family friendly prices. Plan an outing with activities for the whole crew. Check the calendar for seasonal events celebrating food, music, arts, makers, and traditions.

The EcoTarium is a family-friendly science and nature museum in Worcester, offering a blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits. It features hands-on science and nature exhibits, a planetarium, live animal habitats, and scenic trails. The museum is ideal for families looking to explore interactive displays, enjoy outdoor adventure, and learn about the natural world.

The Hanover Theatre in Worcester is a premier venue for family-friendly performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and special events. The theatre also offers educational programs and workshops for children through its Conservatory, making it a cultural hub for families interested in the performing arts.

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum in Sturbridge that recreates life in rural New England during the 1830s. Families can explore more than 40 historic buildings, watch craftsmen at work, and participate in handson activities that bring history to life. The village offers seasonal events and educational programs that are engaging for all ages.

WORCESTER ICE CENTER

Ice Hockey, Figure Skating

Worcester Ice Center is known for its two NHL-sized ice rinks that cater to both professional and recreational ice sports. It is located in the Canal District of Worcester, offering easy access to restaurants, hotels, and other amenities. The center is also home to several youth and adult leagues, and its modern design includes well-maintained locker rooms and a bar/restaurant with rink views. The facility has on-site food and beverage services and provides ample parking spaces for visitors and teams.

LAKE QUINSIGAMOND

Rowing, Sailing, Kayaking

Lake Quinsigamond is a well-known location for competitive rowing, hosting events like the New England Rowing Championships and the Eastern Sprints. The lake’s straight and relatively calm waters make it ideal for regattas. The surrounding Regatta Point Park offers recreational facilities and scenic views, making it a popular spot for both athletes and spectators.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We have been hosting our annual state convention at the DCU Center in Worcester since 2000, and it has consistently proven to be the ideal venue for our event. The facility is impeccably maintained and offers the spaciousness we require.”

— Maria Melchionda, Executive Director, MAHPERD (Massachusetts Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance)

DISCOVER CENTRAL MA Charisse Martinez

cmartinez@discovercentralma.org

508-753-1550 ext. 254

www.discovercentralma.org

DCU CENTER

Basketball, Hockey, Arena Football, Concerts, and other Indoor Sports

The DCU Center is a premier indoor sports and entertainment arena in downtown Worcester. It serves as the home for the Worcester Railers and has hosted numerous major events, including NCAA tournaments, professional wrestling, and concerts. The arena’s flexible seating arrangements can accommodate over 14,000 spectators, making it one of the largest venues in Central Massachusetts.

UTICA, NEW YORK

Oneida County is a vibrant destination for sports families, with downtown Utica serving as a central hub of activity. The area features the Utica University Nexus Center and the Adirondack Bank Center , hosting tournaments and events yearround. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and hotels within walking distance, perfect for relaxing between games. For those seeking a luxurious escape, Turning Stone Resort offers PGAlevel golf, world-class spas, fine dining, and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for athletes and families alike. Whether you’re here for competition or leisure, Oneida County delivers a wellrounded experience for everyone.

UTICA UNIVERSITY

NEXUS CENTER

Indoor Multipurpose

Conveniently located off the New York State Thruway in Utica, NY, close to the heart of the downtown area, Utica University Nexus Center is a 169,440-square-foot facility featuring state-of-the-art amenities. Home to the Utica University Women’s hockey team and Junior Comets youth programs, Mastrovito Hyundai rink is the standout at the center with 1,200 seats.

ADIRONDACK BANK CENTER AT THE UTICA MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

Indoor Multipurpose

Home to the AHL’s Utica Comets and MASL’s Utica City FC, the Adirondack Bank Center features a capacity of up to 5,700 for floor events with 4,500 for basketball and 3,860 for ice hockey and indoor soccer. Being connected via a walkway to Utica University Nexus Center, provides an additional fourth playing surface.

SUNY POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE Outdoor/Indoor Multipurpose

SUNY Poly is home to several sports facilities, located just north of Downtown Utica. The onsite Wildcat Field House features a multipurpose gym, fitness center, a running track, concessions and more. Outside the Field House there are several high-quality fields for a variety of sports.

ELEVATE CNY SPORTS COMPLEX

Indoor Multipurpose, Hiking, Trail Biking

Out in Westmoreland, NY, Elevate CNY Sports Complex stands tall with a total of 60,000 square feet of space. The complex is home to six youth sports leagues, utilizing its two large fields, measuring at 190’ x 85’, and a small field at 100’ x 60’, for sports like soccer and football. Also on-site are two batting cages and two pitching mounds. a meeting room and more.

UTICA University Nexus Center

TURNING STONE

RESORT CASINO

Golf, Tennis, Racquetball, Fishing

Verona, NY’s Turning Stone Resort Casino has it all.

Along with excellent dining and events, Turning Stone features five golf courses, three of which are listed in Golf Digest’s Editor’s Choice: Top 50 Golf Courses in the U.S. The on-site Sportsplex’s 17,000 square feet of space includes a fitting center, short game and an indoor driving range.

HAMILTON COLLEGE

Multipurpose, Indoor

Multipurpose, Track, Tennis, Swimming, Golf

Located in Clinton, NY, Hamilton College is one of the best all-round locations in the region for tournaments. Goodfriend Field, Love Field and Withiam Field are excellent multipurpose fields for soccer and lacrosse. Loop Road Athletic Complex features diamonds for baseball and softball.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“It is the set-up here, the facilities, the amenities, the hotels, all of that stuff. It’s just the way the community is embracing this international event. We’ll find a way to get back here for something, for sure.”

- Pat Kelleher, USA Hockey Executive Director

Madison Cermak Madison@oneidacountytourism.com (315) 724-7221 oneidacountytourism.com

The Western area of the United States is home to ideal climates and fabulous natural attractions. It also sports excellent tournamentready fields, pools, arenas and stadiums.

Fabulous weather makes the West a perfect place to get outside and get active.

TEXAS

across the state

Texas is Transforming

its Landscape with State-of-the-Art Complexes

New facilities across the state aim to nurture athletic talent and boost sports tourism

By Jason Paha

Texas is poised to elevate its reputation as a sports powerhouse by investing in state-of-the-art sports complexes across the state. With a focus on fostering athletic talent, enhancing sports tourism and promoting health and wellness, these new facilities are designed to accommodate a wide range of sports, from traditional favorites like football and basketball to emerging activities like esports and rock climbing. This commitment to quality sports infrastructure promises to inspire the next generation of athletes while solidifying Texas's status as a leader in the sports arena. Here are some cities that are building new venues or are expanding on established complexes.

Arlington

The Arlington Independent School District is building a new $34 million athletic complex that will serve as the new home for both Martin and Seguin High Schools. The future Michael Glaspie Field Athletic Complex will upgrade the existing practice field at Martin High School.

The new stadium will feature around 10,000 seats, a spacious press box, locker rooms, restrooms and concession areas. The architects have integrated the facility into the surrounding campus, considering factors such as traffic flow—accommodating cars, school buses and pedestrians— as well as parking. To ensure a smooth transition to the

Round Rock Sports Center

neighborhood, a landscaped buffer and fencing will separate the stadium from nearby homes, and modern LED lighting will be used, offering efficient illumination with less light spillage and quick activation. Construction is set to be completed by the end of 2024.

Beaumont

The Beaumont Athletic Complex is a key venue for hosting a variety of softball tournaments at the regional, state and national levels. With 12 fields, the complex can accommodate events ranging from 10 to over 120 teams, alongside facilities for soccer, basketball and sand volleyball, catering to a wide array of recreational needs. The newest addition to this complex is the Beaumont Municipal Tennis Center.

The Tennis Center boasts 24 courts—four covered and 20 uncovered—featuring beautifully designed lighted hard courts. A 4,500-square-foot clubhouse enhances the experience for tennis players, equipped with a pro shop, lounge, locker rooms, restrooms, and a spacious covered porch. The facility is a hub for numerous tennis tournaments, including city championships and USTA Pro Future events.

College Station

Since the early 2000s, the popularity of esports has surged, especially among college students. Texas A&M University is advancing its esports initiatives by transforming a former Macy's store into a dedicated esports campus.

In 2022, the College Station City Council approved a $7.3 million contract for the property, which will cater to over 2,000 students and alumni. The 103,888-square-foot facility, located just three miles from the university, will house around 400 gaming stations, along with a retail space for food, beverages and esports gear. It aims to host not only A&M's collegiate esports team, comprised of 2,778 students, but also K-12 programs and gaming enthusiasts from across Central Texas.

Lubbock

Lubbock Parks and Recreation is set to invest $8 million in expanding the Tom Martin Sports Complex in South Lubbock. This funding will facilitate the construction of a new quadruplex, adding four larger fields, aiming to

attract more teams and tournaments to the area and generate additional revenue. Beyond this expansion, the Parks and Recreation Department has plans to enhance existing fields and improve the overall complex.

Texas Tech University also recently unveiled a new $48 million Sports Performance Center, a multi-purpose facility designed to support the university's 17 intercollegiate sports. The center includes a nutrition space, strength and conditioning areas, a sports medicine recovery center, and the Petersen Family Indoor Football Practice Facility, featuring seven large glass doors that provide ample natural light.

Roanoke

A new 122-acre youth sports complex is under construction in Fort Worth. The $75 million Play It Forward sports center is slated to open along TX-114 in Roanoke.

The complex is set to include: Five full-sized baseball fields with lighting and turf, three soccer fields that also accommodate 7-on-7 football, rugby, and lacrosse, an athletic training facility, a 150-200-key hotel with a conference space, high-end restaurants and mixed-use retail, a medical center for athletes and guests and 1,000+ parking spaces. The sports fields are expected to open in late 2025, with the mixed-use community areas following in 2026.

Round Rock

Construction is underway for an expansion at the Round Rock Sports Center, expected to be completed by early 2026. This project will add two new courts, increasing the total to eight. Opened in January 2014, the 82,800-square-foot facility has become a premier destination for sports and events, featuring six basketball courts that can be converted into 12 volleyball courts.

The new expansion will offer a separate entrance and is designed to enhance operational flexibility for event management. With the additional courts, the facility can host larger and more varied events, such as a 16-court volleyball tournament or simultaneous competitions for basketball and cheerleading.

The Sports Center has previously hosted many statewide and national events, including the USA Judo Senior National Championships and various cheer and dance competitions, benefiting local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. It also serves the community with youth basketball, volleyball, fitness camps, and other recreational activities.

The Round Rock Multipurpose Complex is a great place to host outdoor tournaments.

National Championships. Buzzer beaters and goal-line stands that live forever. Miracles. History. It’s all made here. At the Arlington Sports Commission, we take inspiration from the athletes who come here to compete. For them, success is a product of preparation and perspiration. Which is why we’re known for always giving 100 percent.

LUBBOCK, TEXAS

Lubbock, Texas is an economic, educational and health-care hub, with premier sports facilities like The Rawls Course and APEX Event Center dotted across the city from the campus of Texas Tech to the heart of the downtown area and beyond.

Enjoy Broadway shows at The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, a performing arts venue. The 220,000 SF Buddy Holly Hall is the first of its kind in Lubbock and Texas’ High Plains region. The dynamic venue features two notable theatres, an expandable lobby and a multipurpose, divisible event room, all of which can be programmed simultaneously.

Adventure Park is the most exciting adventure in Lubbock, with ziplining, go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, bumper boats, climbing towers, full restaurant, and more. Are you looking for lake activities in the Lubbock, TX area? SUPLBK has you covered. Offering lake paddleboarding and kayaking adventures on the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River.

Get outside and enjoy beautiful views, fresh air, and 55 acres of habitat home to hundreds of wildlife species. Buffalo Springs Lake Loop is a 5.7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Lubbock, Texas that features a lake and is rated as a moderate hike. At Lubbock Water Rampage, enjoy waterslides, a lazy river, a pirate ship, and more. The attractions are designed to be fun for both kids and adults.

LUBBOCK MEMORIAL CIVIC CENTER

Indoor Multipurpose

With 300,000 square feet of floor space to work with, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center is capable of hosting a multitude of sports, tradeshows and other major events. A variety of sporting events and tournaments excel here, including martial arts, cheer, wrestling, boxing and more. The Civic Center is also conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Lubbock, near dozens of restaurants, hotels and additional entertainment options, including the 900-capacity Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre.

LUBBOCK YOUTH SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball

Baseball and softball reign supreme at Lubbock Youth Sports Complex. The facility features a total of 16 fields among four quads. The green, silver and red quads are built for softball, while the fourth quad has three Little League baseball fields and one Junior League baseball field. Each quad features its own centralized concessions building with restrooms and each field its own scorekeeper building and covered bleacher seating.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We are excited to head to Lubbock for the 140th edition of our Target Nationals and U.S. Open. This event has a rich history of traditions, community camaraderie and top-tier competition. We hope to make it famously memorable in the incredible city of Lubbock .”

— Rod Menzer, USA Archery CEO

LUBBOCK SPORTS

Eric Launer (800) 692-4035

eric@visitlubbock.org sports.visitlubbock.org

BERL HUFFMAN ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Outdoor Multipurpose

North of Downtown Lubbock is the premier Berl Huffman Athletic Complex. The 86-acre facility features over 50 fields, ranging from soccer fields to top-notch baseball diamonds and more for multiple age groups. The complex’s eight championship fields feature highquality synthetic turf, LED lighting, and bleachers. A designated food truck area provides plenty of choices. The complex is near the Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport.

BEAUMONT, TEXAS

From the versatility of Doggett Ford Park Entertainment Complex to the impressive size and scope of Beaumont Municipal Athletic Complex , when it comes to sports, fan-friendly Beaumont has you covered and so do their partners. Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast , just 90 miles from Houston, Beaumont offers all the big-city comforts, but with the added coziness and accessibility of a small town and 3,700 hotel rooms within the area.

Away from the competition, there’s plenty to experience for the entire family. The Fire Museum of Texas features an extensive collection related to the history of fire departments in the Lone Star State. Housed in a historic fire station, objects on exhibit date back to the mid-1800s. Spindletop Boomtown Museum is a great site to step back in time to experience life on Spindletop Hill during the early 20th-century oil boom days.

Beaumont Children’s Museum focuses on learning through play, with exhibits carefully selected to promote S.T.E.A.M. focused learning. There are many events throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar to plan your visit.

DOGGETT FORD PARK ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Cheer

The 221-acre Doggett Ford Park Entertainment Complex is an impressive indoor and outdoor sports venue, capable of hosting just about any type of competition. Indoors, the complex’s multipurpose Arena seats over 9,500, and Exhibit Hall features 48,000 square feet of versatile space under a 51-foot ceiling. Combined they feature 83,000 sqaure feet.

BEAUMONT MUNICIPAL

ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Volleyball

Located just a little over five miles from the downtown area, Beaumont Municipal Athletic Complex features 12 baseball/ softball fields, four sand volleyball courts and 51 five-tier bleachers, along with a covered pavilion basketball court and one soccer field. Amenities include ample parking, permanent lighting, a playground and 3,700 hotel rooms within a ten-minute drive.

BEAUMONT MUNICIPAL TENNIS CENTER

Tennis, Pickleball

Beaumont Tennis Center is located on-site at Beaumont Municipal Athletic Complex, utilizing the same excellent amenities and features. The tennis center features 20 lit courts and four covered lit courts. Raised view stands provide spectators with the best seats in the house, no matter where they are located. There is also a 4,500 square-foot clubhouse available.

BEAUMONT CIVIC CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling, Cheer

Located in downtown Beaumont, this 6,500 seat arena is perfect for a variety of sports, as well as concerts, conventions, trade shows and exhibitions. There is a total of 41,300 square feet of indoor space to work with here. The on-site banquet hall capacity is capped at 2,000. Amenities include four dressing rooms, stadium-style seating and plentiful parking.

all-weather

NECHES FEDERAL CREDIT

UNION ARENA AT THE MONTAGNE CENTER Basketball, Cheer and Dance, Wrestling

Home to the Lamar Cardinals

Men’s and Women’s basketball teams, the university’s Montagne Center is a 10,746seat multipurpose arena with a variety of event spaces.

Amenities include individual offices, a presidents’ suite with over 1,400 square feet of space, seven Morgan suites, each with 16 seats, a players’ lounge and more.

CRIS QUINN SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Field Hockey, Beep Baseball, Flag Football

The impressive Cris Quinn Soccer Complex has 30 pristine multipurpose fields designed for soccer, 15 of which are for 11v11, along with several other sports. The indoor soccer field boasts a stateof-the-art artificial playing area measuring 85 x 185 feet, accommodating both youth and adult leagues The facility features a lit scoreboard and a 30 x 50-foot warm-up area.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“In Beaumont, we get more attention from the city, more media coverage from local television and radio stations, much smoother and simpler transportation for our participants. The Beaumont CVB staff always takes the initiative and are very proactive in assisting us in coordination of our events.”

— Tommy Voss, Independent Fastpitch Association (IFA)

BEAUMONT CVB

Brittany Bonin (409) 880-3160

brittany.bonin@beaumonttexas.gov MeetBeaumont.com

Doggett Ford Park Fields offer 12 fields

turf fields with covered bleachers.

ROUND ROCK, TEXAS

Located in Central Texas, Round Rock is known as the Sports Capital of Texas. The city prides itself on the number of quality facilities on its resume, covering just about every sport out there. Just scratching the surface, the Multipurpose Complex, Sports Center and Old Settlers Park are all top players in this regard, hosting tournaments year-round. From outdoor adventures to historic landmarks to professional and youth sports tournaments, there’s plenty to do between games. There’s always something happening in Round Rock, from sporting events, concerts and festivals to designer shopping and world-class food and wine. Located just 15 miles north of Austin, the City of Round Rock offers convenient access to major metropolitan areas across Texas.

ROUND ROCK MULTIPURPOSE COMPLEX

Soccer, Football, Lacrosse, Ultimate, Rugby, Quadball

The Round Rock Multipurpose Complex is an elite sports facility that has hosted several major events, including the US Quadball Cup, NIRSA National Soccer Championship and MCLA/ WCLO. It features four natural grass multipurpose fields and one natural grass championship field.

ROUND ROCK SPORTS CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling, Table Tennis

The Round Rock Sports Center has welcomed numerous sports events. Some of those events have included the USA Deaf Basketball National Tournament and National Collegiate Table Tennis Association Championships. The facility boasts 82,800 square feet of indoor space with more than 47,000 square feet of flexible, playable space.

OLD SETTLERS PARK

Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Sand Volleyball, Cross-country, Baseball, Softball

A Round Rock classic, Old Settlers Park is a well-known sports destination for local and national athletic events. The 645-acre park includes a 20-field baseball complex, a five-field softball complex, seven soccer facilities, two football fields, 12 tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts, one aquatic center and a professionally designed disc golf course.

Round Rock Multipurpose Complex

The Triple-A affiliate to the Texas Rangers —Dell Diamond is a fan favorite among athletes and spectators. The stadium is designed to give guests an amazing, up-close view of the action. Not only is it the site for minor league baseball games, but it also plays host to amateur sporting events.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Our tournament here at Round Rock is our 2024 NIRSA National Soccer Championships, we have teams all the way from California, Oregon, Florida, here in Texas. The reason why we keep coming back to the Round Rock Complex and Round Rock in general for both our soccer and our flag football event is because it’s just amazing. It’s an amazing experience for our participants that come, our staff, our officials, and all of the spectators, we love it here! Great complex, wonderful people to work with and it is just such a fun experience and that is what NIRSA is about.”

— Nicole Jackson, Director of National Sport Programs, NIRSA

DELL DIAMOND Baseball

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS

People across the country know College Station for its warm “howdy” hospitality and outstanding sports facilities, making it a premier destination for tournaments and events. Conveniently located in the heart of Central Texas, just a few hours from Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin and San Antonio, College Station offers access to both outstanding City facilities as well as Texas A&M University’s exceptional NCAA Division 1 athletic facilities, home to over 20 varsity sports. What sets College Station apart is its unique blend of academic prestige, rich traditions and a close-knit community. It’s an ideal location for families seeking both fun and educational experiences. Visitors can explore the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum, which features engaging exhibits that guide guests through the life of our 41st President. Just adjacent to Texas A&M University, Century Square offers a vibrant 30-acre development filled with fantastic shopping, dining options, a Star Cinema Grill and two full-service hotels. There’s truly something for everyone in College Station!

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Working with the Compete College Station team during the BCS Classic has been an absolute pleasure. Their professionalism, dedication, and seamless coordination contributed immensely to the success of the event. Their commitment to excellence consistently impresses us.”

VISIT COLLEGE STATION

Alexander Aguero, STS (979) 764-2614

aaguero@cstx.gov competecollegestation.com

— Charlie Lima, Boomfit / BCS Classic

VETERANS PARK & ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Football

Athletes, coaches and spectators have long considered College Station’s Veterans Park & Athletic Complex to be a premier venue for local, regional and national tournaments. The complex features 13 multipurpose fields (4 synthetic) and five natural grass softball fields. Amenities include lights on all fields, batting cages, playgrounds, wi-fi connectivity, pavilion and more.

REED ARENA Basketball, Volleyball

Reed Arena, a 12,989-seat special events center located on the campus of Texas A&M University. Reed Arena serves as the home for Texas A&M men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. Complete with the amenities of a NBA arena, Reed Arena provides A&M with one of the best basketball arenas in the southwest and provides first-class accommodations not only for Aggie basketball and volleyball but for major concerts and a variety of other events.

FORD HALL OF CHAMPIONS

Large-scale Events

The Ford Hall of Champions at Kyle Field is a massive, 30,000+-square-foot virtual sports museum that celebrates the iconic football stadium and Texas A&M Athletics.  The vast room can be configured for hosting both intimate and largescale events.  Facility features include full-service catering, outdoor guest access, built-in AV capabilities and ADA access.

FASKEN INDOOR TRACK & FIELD Track and Field

Designed with the capability of hosting conference, national and international competitions, the 130,000-square-foot stadium features a seating capacity of 4,000. The facility is World Athletics certified and is already slated to be the host of the 2025 SEC Indoor Track & Field Championships. The centerpiece is the 200-meter, six-lane track, which features a Mondo Super X 720 surface permanently banked at 12 degrees.

Texas A&M Natatorium

ODESSA, TEXAS

Welcome to Odessa, Texas, a hidden gem in West Texas, full of history, charm and adventure. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, Odessa offers something for everyone. Time to plan your ultimate West Texas adventure:

Pay a visit to the Stonehenge Replica, located on the campus of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. It is made of about 20 stone blocks, similar in size, shape, and appearance to the ancient Stonehenge.

Rimrock Raceway is perfect if you’re looking for a thrilling time with the family, as it is the premier outdoor go kart racing facility in West Texas.

Catch a show at the legendary Ector Theatre. This is a newly renovated historic theatre, where you can catch all kinds of live fun shows.

Cinergy Entertainment Group, Inc. operates luxury cinema and entertainment centers in Texas. All Cinergy centers feature recline-anddine cinemas with alcoholic beverages and a menu of chef-inspired American favorites along with bowling, arcades and other features.

DISCOVER ODESSA

Teresa Vasquez

teresa@discoverodessa.org (432) 333-7890

DiscoverOdessa.Org

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The West Texas All Star Tournament is specifically for girls who play fastpitch softball in recreational leagues in their respective towns and cities. What this event accomplished was to show the communities and surrounding areas that Odessa has the facilities, resources, support, and most important, the people to host an event of this magnitude. This certainly opens the door for hosting multiple tournaments in the years to come. Way to go Odessa!”

—

Al Worthy, President of Odessa Girls Fastpitch Softball Association

ECTOR COUNTY COLISEUM

Football, Hockey, Rodeos, Trade Shows, Motor Sports

This spacious 42-acre complex is located between Dallas and El Paso, in the heart of the Permian Basin. This complex is the number one meeting place for more than 350,000 people in the area. With the population, an 8,000seat Coliseum, approximately 145,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, and over 2,000 hotel rooms within 10 minutes, the Ector County Coliseum is the perfect fit for your event.

ODESSA MARRIOTT HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

Cheer and Dance Competitions

Play and Stay at the Odessa Marriott Hotel Conference Center. This resort-style conference space is perfect for your next event. From more than 18 room spaces to choose from, we can suit your next event perfectly. The hotel has 33,374 square feet of total event space, 2,000 capacity for the largest space and 19 breakout rooms which can hold cheer and dance competitions.

ODESSA SPORTS COMPLEX

Soccer, Softball, Baseball, Basketball

Coming soon, a new sports facility that will include a 100,000-square-foot indoor facility, a nine court gymnasium, 18 volleyball courts, 10 multpurpose outdoor fields (soccer, football, lacrosse), three Quad baseball diamonds, an outdoor ampitheater and the Amy Bell community playground within the complex.

RATLIFF STADIUM

Football, Softball, Soccer, Tennis

Historic Ratliff Stadium, which sports a 24,000 person capacity, is one of the premier high school stadiums in Texas. The stadium complex is home to the annual West Texas Relays, other area track and field events, UIL Regional and Area Marching Band contests, and Special Olympics. It features two football/soccer fields, one track & field area; pole vault and long jump and high jump and three softball fields. It also has a press box, concessions and locker rooms.

Basin Sports Complex

ARLINGTON, TEXAS

Welcome to Arlington. Located in the DFW metroplex right between Dallas and Fort Worth, we are just a short drive from DFW International Airport. Looking for fun activities nearby? Six Flags Over Texas offers teams the chance to fly like superheroes on its DC-themed roller coasters. Cool off with a splash at Hurricane Harbor , Six Flags’ adjoined water park equipped with over 40 types of exhilarating rides. A golf lover’s dream, the Texas Rangers Golf Club is the only golf course in the world officially branded with Major League Baseball. The Tierra Verde Golf Club is the first golf course in Texas, and the first municipal course in the world to be certified as an Audubon Signature Sanctuary. Additionally, budding bowlers have the chance to learn about the country’s leading participatory sport at the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame .

AT&T STADIUM Football, Boxing, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling, Multipurpose

AT&T Stadium can seat up to 100,000 spectators and this 140-acre, threemillion square-foot special events center, which cost a hefty $1.3 billion, remains one of the most expensive facilities in sports history. This climate-controlled stadium features a retractable roof panel, 300-foot steel arches, a built-in turf with 26 interchangeable surface panels.

GLOBE LIFE FIELD & CHOCTAW STADIUM Multipurpose

Globe Life Field is home to the MLB’s Texas Rangers. The stadium features a 5.5-acre retractable roof, the largest mechanized roof in North America. Across the street is Choctaw Stadium, the former home of the Texas Rangers and current home of the XFL’s Arlington Renegades.

ESPORTS STADIUM ARLINGTON Esports, Multipurpose

Located in The District, Esports Stadium Arlington is the largest venue in the country dedicated to Esports. The stadium brings live entertainment and playing facilities for up to 3,000 fans and athletes alike. In addition to the stadium itself, the venue includes a production studio, a 6,000-square-foot permanent stage with modern lighting and LED video walls.

HAROLD PATTERSON SPORTS CENTER Baseball, Football, Softball, Soccer, Multipurpose

The 135-acre Harold Patterson Sports Center is perfect for hosting tournaments and events year-round. The site features six baseball fields, six football fields, and an additional 15 multipurpose fields suitable for soccer, flag football, lacrosse, kickball and everything in between. The complex is located just a short drive from DFW International Airport.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Working with the CVB here in Arlington was a great experience for me and UTA. Not only was I on the CVB board but also was a member of the Arlington Sports Commission, and what they are doing on both the board and the commission is amazing. Arlington is growing and is becoming the place for sports and entertainment, and the CVB has a big hand in the growth of both these areas.”

— Jim Baker, Former Director of Intercollegiate

Athletics, University of Texas at Arlington

ARLINGTON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Andrew Lawrence andrew@arlington.org (817) 704-7596

www.arlington.org/sports/sportssales-team

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA

Lincoln has a reputation for hosting successful events from across the spectrum. From baseball to bowling and jogging to juggling, Lincoln is the prime location to host your next sporting event. The Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed is dedicated to honor and preserve American hot rod and racing history. This amazing museum showcases a stunning array of history-making cars, engines, parts, pedal cars, automotive toys and memorabilia. It is located in a 135,000 square foot facility. Lincoln Children’s Zoo is home to more than 400 animals as well as 40 endangered animals including the Sumatran tiger and Matschie’s tree kangaroo. Plus, feed a giraffe, watch a cheetah run, and meet fossa, ring-tailed lemurs, red pandas, meerkats & more. With 40 acres of pumpkins and over 50 different activities for children and adults, Roca Berry Farm is a must visit for all of your Fall needs.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Obviously Lincoln is a great community and I think it is a hotbed for what we do. The Bob Devaney Center is one of the top venues and that’s why we continue to come back. They have done a great job of integrating the big screen technology, the seating, and keeping it a tight environment.”

VISIT LINCOLN

Derek Bombeck

dbombeck@lincoln.org (402) 436-2354 www.lincoln.org/sports/

— Pete Isais, Director of National Events, USA Wrestling (USA Wrestling Final X)

PINNACLE BANK ARENA

Basketball, Hockey, Ice Skating, Multipurpose Indoor, Volleyball

Nicknamed “The Vault”, this multipurpose indoor arena unlocks great potential for tournament planners, offering 15,500 seats for spectator viewing. Located in Lincoln’s West Haymarket District, the arena is home to the University of Nebraska’s men’s and women’s basketball teams and is a premier destination for concerts. The arena has hosted large tournaments and events like the FIVB Volleyball Nations League.

SPEEDWAY SPORTS COMPLEX

Basketball, Football, Futsal, Soccer, Volleyball

With nine outdoor sports fields, a 100,000-square-foot indoor turf facility and a 80,000-square-foot indoor basketball and volleyballcentric facility, the Speedway Sports Complex stakes its case for the most utilitarian of its kind within the entire region. The complex additionally features a performance training gym and an interactive trampoline park, giving family something to do during long days.

BOB DEVANEY SPORTS CENTER

Gymnastics, Swimming & Diving, Track & Field, Volleyball, Wrestling

Set on campus at the University of Nebraska, this multipurpose complex includes three main buildings which house the Cornhusker gymnastics, swimming and diving, track and field, volleyball and wrestling programs. A 7,907-seat main arena is home to the volleyball team, while the Devaney Center Natatorium features 10 swimming lanes and offers seating for 1,000 spectators.

SANDHILLS GLOBAL EVENT CENTER

Equestrian, Multipurpose, Rodeo

Creating meaningful memories with top-notch events is the goal of the Sandhills Global Event Center, home to the National Quarter Horse shows and many other events throughout the year. The Sandhills Global Event Center features a pair of arenas, three pavilions and office space. The National High School Finals Rodeo was held at the event center in 2021 and will be held there again in 2026 and 2027.

SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA

As South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls is not one to overlook as a sports destination. This Midwest gem has played host to major athletic events over the years ranging from youth to professional sports events including the likes of U.S. Youth Soccer Midwest Regional, The Summit League Basketball Championships, NCAA DII Men’s Basketball Championship, Cinch Playoffs rodeo, and much more. Notable events in the next two years alone include USA Olympic Curling Trials, NCAA DI Men’s Hockey Regional, NCAA DII Men’s Wrestling Championships, American Jump Rope Federation National Championship, and National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling National Championship. With state-of-the-art venues for basketball, volleyball, hockey, softball, tennis, and soccer to name a few, Sioux Falls is equipped to put on an MVP performance that players, coaches, and fans will all appreciate.

EXPERIENCE SIOUX FALLS

Brandon Vant Hul (605) 373-2038

brandon@experiencesiouxfalls.com www.experiencesiouxfalls.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We appreciate the support we get from the community as well as everyone with Experience Sioux Falls. It goes a long way, and it makes it even better to bring events to the community knowing that we have such great supporters of our studentathletes and those from other parts of the country as well.”

- Andy Sailer, Assistant Commissioner for External Relations & Marketing, Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference

HARMODON PARK

Baseball, Softball

Harmodon Park is a 15-field facility for youth and adult baseball and softball players. Amenities include five batting cages, picnic shelters, a playground, bleachers, concessions, a pitching machine, scoreboards, locker rooms, ample free parking and restrooms. All fields are fenced in to allow multiple games to be played simultaneously.

SANFORD SPORTS COMPLEX

Basketball, Volleyball, Hockey, Tennis, Baseball, Softball, and more

Sitting on 500 acres, the Sanford Sports Complex has a multitude of facilities including the Sanford Pentagon, SCHEELS IcePlex, Huether Family Match Pointe, Sanford Diamonds, Sanford Crossing, and much more. With two hotels, a restaurant, and a golf entertainment attraction, the Sanford Sports Complex is meant to be a sports destination convenient for participants and planners alike.

MIDCO AQUATIC CENTER Swimming

The Midco Aquatic Center is the ultimate playground for swimmers and water play. Located in Spellerberg Park, Midco boasts three pools, locker and changing rooms, concessions and meeting/party rooms. Open year-round, the indoor water park and sports center offers a 50-meter Olympic size pool equipped with two bulkheads allowing multiple activities to occur at once. Enjoy a leisurely swim in the Recreational Pool or Warm Water Pool.

Sanford Sports Complex

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

No other U.S. destination is as deserving of the name Olympic City USA as Colorado Springs, which is home to approximately 60 national and international sports organizations including 25 NGBs, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. Consistently voted one of the best zoos in North America, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo allows visitors to get up close with the wildlife while enjoying stunning mountain views. Run wild with Adventures Out West; book Jeep tours, horseback rides, hot air balloon excursions and more. Flying W Ranch offers a real western experience with gorgeous scenery, fun activities, live performances and a Chuckwagon supper. Take the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain; catch breathtaking views and enjoy the world-famous high-altitude donuts.

WEIDNER FIELD

Soccer, Events

The downtown stadium in Colorado Springs is the highest elevated professional sports stadium in the U.S. with a 98,000-squarefoot playing field. The new stadium, which is home to the Switchbacks professional soccer team, offers indoor and outdoor spaces for special events ranging from 20 to 15,000 attendees.

EL POMAR YOUTH SPORTS COMPLEX Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Inline Hockey

This venue hosts soccer, lacrosse, baseball and softball tournaments in the United States, including those presented by Triple Crown Sports, US Lacrosse, Colorado Rush Soccer and Adrenaline Lacrosse. El Pomar has nine baseball/ softball fields, eight natural grass soccer and lacrosse fields.

ED ROBSON ARENA Ice Hockey, Wrestling, Volleyball

The Edward J. Robson Arena, a multi-purpose, state-of-the-art, sustainable sporting event venue featuring 3,400 permanent seats and capabilities to host ice-based events. Robson Arena offers the flexibility to accommodate a variety of indoor sports and special events and has hosted a variety of Olympic-related events, youth sports, camps and more.

THE BROADMOOR WORLD ARENA AND WORLD ARENA ICE HALL Hockey, Figure Skating, Concerts

The Broadmoor World Arena is the premier entertainment and sports venue in the Pikes Peak region. This multipurpose facility can seat 7,500 for hockey, other ice competitions and competitive sporting events.

MEMORIAL PARK

Baseball, Skating, Football, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball Memorial Park is centrally located in Downtown Colorado Springs. It offers a wide range of facilities including: three baseball/fastpitch softball fields; a stateof-the-art aquatics center, Prospect Lake, a worldclass 40,000 square foot skateboard/BMX park and 15 football/soccer fields.

CHEYENNE

MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Biking, Running, Golfing

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is an ideal natural venue for trail running and mountain bike competitions. Participants will enjoy the scenery as they navigate trails with altitudes between 6,500 and 7,500 feet. Competitors will feel one with nature while traversing on some of the best Colorado trails.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I had an excellent experience working with the Visit Colorado Springs team on our inaugural Special Olympics Colorado Unified Champion Schools Conference. Their team was highly professional, responsive and went above and beyond to meet our needs. The quality of their service exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend them to others.”

— Rick Brady Senior Director of Unified Champion Schools

VISIT COLORADO SPRINGS

Cheryl McCullough (719) 685-7642

cheryl@visitcos.com visitcos.com

Special Olympics Colorado

Downtown Colorado Springs

SALEM, OREGON

Salem, Oregon, proudly known as “The Sports Capital of Oregon,” is a top destination for athletes and sports fans alike. The city is home to premier sports venues such as the Oregon State Fairgrounds and Expo Center , perfect for large-scale indoor events; Wallace Marine Sports Complex , a hub for baseball and softball tournaments; and Pioneer Sports Park , with over 700,000 square feet of playable natural grass surface.

Beyond its sports reputation, Salem’s vibrant dining scene showcases the best of local farmto-table cuisine and award-winning wineries and breweries, offering a wide range of culinary experiences.

Visitors can also explore key attractions including the Oregon State Capitol , scenic Riverfront Park , and nearby natural wonders like Silver Falls State Park , making Salem a well-rounded destination that combines sports, dining, and outdoor adventure.

OREGON STATE FAIR AND EXPO CENTER

Multipurpose Indoor, Multipurpose Outdoor

Spread across 185 acres, the Oregon State Fair & Expo Center presents a wealth of options for tournament planners. The Jackman–Long Building offers 48,000 square feet of indoor space, ideal for hosting indoor sporting events as well as boat or RV shows. The Pavilion is a 5,000–seat arena with 30,504 square feet of floor space.

WALLACE MARINE PARK

SOFTBALL COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Running, Fishing, Kayaking, Boating

Dubbed ”Softball City, USA,” Salem’s crowning softball jewel is located within Wallace Marine Park. The softball complex features five natural surface, lit fields surrounded by shaded and grassy areas. Spectator seating for more than 7,000 includes an elevated grand stand and portable bleachers.

PIONEER SPORTS PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby, Ultimate Frisbee, Multipurpose Outdoor

Home of the Capital Futbol Club, Pioneer Sports Park comprises 8 full–size fields ideal for hosting large tournaments bolstered by a suitable climate. This complex showcases 2 of only 11 FIFA Quality PRO-rated fields in North America with 3 turf fields and hosts the Capital Cup Soccer Tournament annually in June.

PAC COMMUNITY CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Futsal, Multipurpose Indoor

The Capital Fieldhouse is the ultimate health, fitness, and indoor sports experience in the Willamette Valley. With more than 57,000 square feet of indoor space, this complex features six basketball courts, and six volleyball courts, making it one of the largest in the region.

NPJ SPORTS COMPLEX

Volleyball, Basketball, Multipurpose Indoor

This multi–sport indoor complex (25,000 sf) houses 6 volleyball courts, 2 basketball courts, as well as multiple training & meeting room space. NPJ Sports Complex holds multiple tournaments year–round and is a premier sports venue in the Pacific Northwest!

VOLCANOES STADIUM

Baseball

Home to the Salem–Keizer Volcanoes baseball team, Volcanoes Stadium is a fabulous baseball park in the Salem region. Nicknamed “Oregon’s Field of Dreams,” the Salem–Keizer Volcanoes Stadium opened in 1997 and has seating capacity for 4,254.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We’re so lucky to work with a community like Salem. Everybody from the city staff to the team at Travel Salem, to the local community – they’ve all been welcoming and eager to make this event successful. We wouldn’t have had the success we’ve had without this high level of cooperation and collaboration.”

Cundiff katie@travelsalem.com (503) 581-4325 www.travelsalem.com

Katie

— Joel Gaff, Jr. Race Director of IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon

IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon

EUGENE,

CASCADES & COAST, OREGON

Eugene’s reputation as a powerhouse sports destination on the West Coast continues to grow. Known as TrackTown USA, the Running Capital of the World and the birthplace of Nike, Eugene has a strong athletic legacy.

At Sandland Adventures, choose an exhilarating dune ride on their Sandrails with up to 10 passengers or a more relaxing tour on their Giant Dune Buggies that can fit 27 people. After your dune ride, enjoy the family fun center, splashing on the bumper boats, racing on the Grand Prix style Go-Kart track, playing miniature golf or taking a ride on the Cloverline Railroad.

Rent sandboarding equipment at the “World’s First Sandboard Park” AKA Sand Master Park, and catch some air on the coastal sand dunes! Rental inventory includes sand boards, sand sleds, skim boards, boogie boards, sand goggles and helmets. Sandboarding lessons are available. Sandboarding (think snowboarding on sand) is guaranteed fun for the entire family.

HAYWARD FIELD Track and Field

Hayward Field at the University of Oregon is a purpose-built theater for track and field. The venue has hosted the World Athletic Championships Oregon22, U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Track & Field, the NCAA Division 1 Outdoor Track & Field Championships, and the Diamond League Final. It offers permanent seating for 12,650 and is expandable to nearly 25,000.

AUTZEN STADIUM Football, Soccer

Autzen Stadium at the University of Oregon seats 54,000 spectators and is regularly ranked amongst the nation’s top-10 venues to watch a college football game. Autzen Stadium features a FieldTurf surface with polyethylene and polypropylene fibers designed to resist extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

MATTHEW KNIGHT ARENA

Basketball, Volleyball, Gymnastics

Matthew Knight Arena at the University of Oregon opened in 2011 and was one of the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified arenas in the NCAA. This 12,364-seat multi-purpose arena features a 65,000-pound center-hung scoreboard and four 20-by-12foot high definition LED monitors.

BOB KEEFER CENTER FOR SPORTS

Basketball, Tennis, Volleyball

Located in Springfield, Bob Keefer Center for Sports is a planner’s dream when it comes to utility. The center features a 97,000-square-foot venue with three regulationsized basketball courts, four indoor tennis courts, three roller derby rinks, 11 volleyball courts, eight pickleball courts, a 33-foot high climbing wall and a fitness center.

World Athletics Championships, Oregon 2022, at Hayward Field

LES SCHWAB

SPORTS PARK

Lacrosse, Football, Softball, Baseball, Ultimate

Situated within the Bob Keefer Center for Sports, Les Schwab Sports Park features four lighted multi-use outdoor synthetic turf fields, a playground, picnic area and entry plaza, Bocce ball courts and a 50-space parking lot. The entry plaza serves as a grand entrance for any sporting event.

DEXTER LAKE (AKA DEXTER RESERVOIR)

Rowing, Drag Boat Racing

With a surface area of just over 1,000 acres, plus its convenient location about 16 miles southeast of Eugene, Dexter Lake is a popular destination for water sports. The lake is home to a seven lane, 2000-meter regatta course that has hosted US Rowing Northwest Masters Regional Championships and Pac-12 Rowing Championships.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We could not ask for a better partner in delivering world-class events than the Eugene, Cascades & Coast Sports Commission. Whether we have hosted a regional, national, or international event, they have been integral to our strategic planning and the overall experience for numerous clients. When collaborating with the Sports Commission, our events enjoy tremendous success.”

— Michael Reilly, President of TrackTown USA

EUGENE, CASCADES & COAST SPORTS COMMISSION

J.B. Carney (541) 743-8757

JB@EugeneCascadesCoast.org

EugeneCascadesCoastSports.org

Four Excellent Evergreen State Destinations

Explore Yakima, Seattle Southside, Tri-Cities and Snohomish County for exciting outdoor activities, scenic trails and watersports year-round

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 will be in 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.

Pickleball, soccer, and flag football are growing sports and creating fan excitement within our communities. These three sports have gained national exposure over the last couple of years. Pickleball is the official sport for Washington State. Seattle is one of the cities hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026. Flag football is a sport in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

With our natural beauty, we are known for outdoor adventures. Outdoor adventures and sports happen across the state. For the outdoor enthusiasts, choose from watersports, triathlons, golf, mountain biking, and archery. Our communities have a array of outdoor sports based on each of our communities. These sports are becoming popular more and more each year.

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.

Sincerely,

Tammy Dunn Executive Director Snohomish County Sports Commission

to discover more of what Washington offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Lovers of outdoor activities will cherish their time spent in Washington.

By Billy Stampfl

2023 NFAA Outdoor Nationals at Darrington Archery Range

Photo courtesy of Snohomish County Sports Commission

Washington State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of natural beauty and diverse activities across its varied landscapes. From the rugged coastlines of Puget Sound to the sweeping rivers of eastern Washington, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s hiking, watersports, or exploring local parks, Washington’s unique combination of urban wonders and natural attractions makes it a mustvisit destination.

This article highlights four standout regions: Yakima, Seattle Southside, the Tri-Cities, and Snohomish County. Each area has its own array of outdoor activities and picturesque settings, perfect for travelers seeking adventure or relaxation. In Yakima, you can try skiing, fishing, and scenic drives. Seattle Southside offers botanical gardens, lakeside parks, and scenic trails. The Tri-Cities region is ideal for watersports and biking along rivers, while Snohomish County boasts beautiful lakes and trails across its charming towns.

YAKIMA

2024 Lake Tye Triathlon at Lake Tye Park

Photo courtesy of Snohomish County Sports Commission .

peaceful sound of the babbling brook.

For a family-friendly outing, head to Angle Lake Park, a beautiful lakeside area fit for swimming, playing, or simply relaxing. Kids will love the playground and spray park, while the lake itself offers designated swimming areas for cooling off on warm days. Plus, with easy access from the Link Light Rail’s Angle Lake Station, it’s a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area.

If you’re up for more activity, grab your bike, rollerblades, or running shoes and hit the Interurban Trail. This 14.7-mile trail connects multiple cities from Auburn to Tukwila, providing a scenic route through natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or a more intense workout, the trail offers fresh air and beautiful views, making it a perfect way to end your day outdoors.

TRI-CITIES

Yakima Valley is a hub for outdoor adventure, offering year-round opportunities to explore its stunning landscapes. With an impressive 300 days of sunshine annually, visitors can enjoy the region’s beauty no matter the season. One of the top winter destinations is White Pass, where skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can carve their way down slopes with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier. The pass is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned athletes.

For those who prefer scenic drives and hikes, the Chinook Pass Scenic Byway delivers. This two-lane road winds through the northeastern flank of Mount Rainier, offering dramatic views of the iconic peak and access to numerous outdoor activities. From exploring old-growth forests to hiking along rivers, this route has something for every adventurer.

In addition, Yakima Valley is blessed with three major rivers that form 109 lakes, providing ideal settings for fishing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily combine morning skiing, afternoon mountain biking, and evening golfing at the renowned Apple Tree Golf Course, a 6,900-yard course with rolling fairways and a famous island green on the 17th hole. Whether you’re into winter sports, scenic drives, or top-notch golf on the grounds of a 100-year-old apple orchard, Yakima Valley has an adventure waiting for you.

SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE

Seattle Southside offers a variety of outdoor experiences perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Start your adventure at the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, a serene escape just a few blocks from the airport. This hidden gem boasts stunning collections of roses, lilies, and fuchsias, along with a traditional Japanese garden. The garden is a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle, ideal for basking in the sun and enjoying the

The Tri-Cities region is a watersports paradise, situated where the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers converge. Offering stunning river views, this area is perfect for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other outdoor adventures. The Columbia River also hosts the famous HAPO Columbia Cup, where Unlimited Hydroplanes have raced for over 56 years on its 2.5mile course, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.

For those looking to explore on land, the Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a scenic 23-mile paved loop that runs through Pasco, Richland, and Kennewick. Starting at Sacajawea State Park, the trail loops along the Columbia River, providing interpretive areas that highlight the natural history and cultural significance of the region. This accessible trail is dedicated to Sacagawea, the Native American woman who aided Lewis and Clark, and offers a perfect way to experience the unique landscape of the Tri-Cities.

SNOHOMISH COUNTY

Snohomish County is known for its diverse blend of outdoor adventures and picturesque settings. Lake Tye Park in Monroe is a popular spot for water sports and athletic events, including the 2024 Nautique WWA Wakeboard Nationals and the U.S. Wakesurf Nationals, along with the Lake Tye Triathlon. The lake is also great for recreational paddleboarding. Lake Stevens, the largest lake in Snohomish County, regularly hosts events such as the Spring Sprint Regatta and the Lake Stevens Triathlon. It’s a perfect destination for paddleboarding, rowing, canoeing, and boating.

For those seeking land-based adventures, Lord Hill Regional Park offers excellent trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is home to events like the Lord Hill Trail Run. A fun event during the Fall is Northwest Trail Runs’ annual Corn Maze Craze at Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm.

For another unique experience, head to Darrington, which offers a Bike Skills Park and an archery range. Meanwhile, in Everett, visitors can enjoy kiteboarding at Jetty Island or sea kayaking along the waterfronts of Edmonds, Mukilteo, and Everett, with easy access to the Puget Sound waters.

YAKIMA VALLEY, WASHINGTON

The Yakima Valley is nestled in the middle of beautiful hills and mountain ranges in central Washington, making it an excellent place to pull competitors and spectators from Portland, Oregon and Seattle via I-82. The Valley has something for everyone within a stone’s throw distance from their great facilities. When your event is finished, head on over to the Cowiche Canyon trail system , which boasts over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails and has some beautiful views that range in difficulty for both novice and experienced hikers alike. For those that want to get away from the action, you will be right in the midst of Washington’s wine country . With more than 90 excellent wineries in the area, you can partake in a wide variety of selections for tasting. There are many local breweries that serve great food and drinks, starting with Bale Breaker Brewing Co. , which specializes in craft beers and has a rotating special in their food trucks each night.

YAKIMA VALLEY

SUNDOME

Basketball, Volleyball, Boxing, Esports And More

Indoor Sports And Events

Located on the grounds of State Fair Park & Event Center, the SunDome annually hosts WIAA State Championships in volleyball, basketball and dance/drill. This multipurpose indoor facility is an ideal venue for tournament planners, where 8,000 spectators can attend tournaments, events and conferences.

GATEWAY SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball

With a professional staff dedicated to taking care of your tournament needs, 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. The complex is the host site for several WIAA State Softball Championships each year.

SOZO SPORTS COMPLEX

Soccer, Futsal, Basketball, Pickleball And More Outdoor And Indoor Sports

The Sozo Sports Complex saw its eighth year of development in 2024— which will continue through 2028—when it continued to make progress on Sozo Arena, a 120,000-squarefoot indoor facility that will hold up to four futsal courts, six basketball courts or 12 volleyball courts. The complex is home to 13 multipurpose outdoor fields as well, making it a powerhouse for tourneys.

CARLON PARK COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball

This newly remodeled complex features four tournament-quality fastpitch fields with permanent 200foot fences and state-of-theart lighting systems on each field. The complex hosted the 2024 WIAA 2A State Fastpitch Championships among numerous USA Softball of Washington tourneys. The site also has two baseball diamonds and is right next to Selah High School for expanded parking.

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-level course features a variety of scenic challenges, including its signature 17th apple green. The 18-hole course hosts a pro shop and dining facilities, and is home to numerous tournaments and events annually.

YAKIMA TENNIS CLUB Tennis, Pickleball

This well-maintained and visually striking tennis club is a hotspot for tournament action, seeing competition from the high school, collegiate and adult levels on an annual basis. The facility maintains 13 outdoor courts, eight indoor courts (at a separate facility), pickleball courts, a renovated swimming pool with a children’s play area, a clubhouse with locker rooms, a catered snack bar and a pro shop.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The coordination led by Rich Austin, of hoteliers, restaurants, host facilities and the local leadership is phenomenal. From the moment a team arrives in the Yakima Valley until it departs, they are treated with great hospitality. There is no doubt the Yakima Valley Sports Commission delivers more than promised.”

— Mick Hoffman, Executive Director of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA)

YAKIMA VALLEY SPORTS COMMISSION

Rich Austin rich@yakimasports.org (509) 594-2742 www.yakimasports.org

Yakima Valley Sundome

SNOHOMISH COUNTY, WASHINGTON

Snohomish County, Washington is located 15 miles north of Seattle in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. The county has the Salish Sea to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east. Snohomish County is home to the Boeing Future of Flight Aviation Center, where the whole family can experience the innovation of aviation by taking The Boeing Everett Factory Tour, watch planes on the Sky Deck, discover and engage with multiple exhibits in the Gallery. Everett Boeing is the largest building in the world. Historic Downtown Snohomish exudes a sense of nostalgia with its classically Main Street America appearance. Funko Headquarters is located in downtown Everett. Enjoy the world of POP characters including Disney, Sports, Harry Potter, and Marvel. Create your own POP character. This attraction is a family favorite.

ANGEL OF THE WINDS ARENA

Basketball, Figure Skating, EnduroCross, Gymnastics, Hockey, Wrestling

This 10,000-seat arena features two NHL-ice sheets that can be converted into a 57,000-saquare-foot space for hosting tradeshows and special events. The Edward D. Hansen Conference Center is equipped with two 900-square-foot meeting rooms and an 11,000-squarefoot ballroom.

MEADOWDALE PLAYFIELDS

Baseball, Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Ultimate Frisbee

This complex is one of the locations for multiple Perfect Game Northwest baseball tournaments, and USA Softball of Seattle fastpitch tournaments. The complex features three lighted adult/ youth softball/baseball fields and two lighted multipurpose turf fields which are lined for soccer, lacrosse, and baseball.

WALT PRICE FITNESS CENTER AT EVERETT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Basketball, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Powerlifting, Roller Derby, Volleyball

This 49,000-square-foot fitness center offers a gym with a basketball court and retractable bleachers 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.

LAKE TYE PARK

Baseball, Lacrosse, Pickleball, Skateboard, Soccer, Softball, Triathlon, Wakeboard, Wakesurf

Located on the shores of Lake Tye in Monroe, this community park covers 64 acres and a 42-acre recreational lake. This beautiful multi-purpose space features a synthetic turf field lined for lacrosse, soccer and baseball, natural grass baseball field, tennis/pickleball courts and concessions.

Angel of the Winds Arena

LYNWOOD EVENT CENTER

Board Games, Card Games, Esports, Martial Arts

This facility provides 34,000-square-foot of total floor space on two floors. Two grand ballrooms with 11,000-square-foot and 6,000-square-foot can accommodate up to 1,200 people. There are 400 parking spaces available, in addition to wired and wireless internet connectivity, catering, and technology support options.

PHIL JOHNSON BALLFIELDS

Baseball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball

Phil Johnson Ballfields, in Everett features four lighted turf fields with 200-foot outfields for baseball and softball. The turf fields are lined for soccer and lacrosse. The complex features scoreboards, pitching warm up area, and playground area. Additional amenities include a concession stand and children’s playground area.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Snohomish County Sports Commission exceeded my expectations at every step of the way of production of the 2022 US Trail Running Conference. From the initial connection, the excellent response to our RFP that they had clearly read, connecting me with potential sponsors and partners, to the final day of the event, Tammy, Nathan, and the team have been professional, courteous, and extremely helpful. The location provided us with an amazing facility for our Conference, infrastructure to support everything we needed, and also excellent trails on which to enjoy some welldeserved forest bathing! The Commission comes highly recommended, choose them and the Pacific Northwest for your sporting event and you will not be disappointed!

—

SNOHOMISH COUNTY SPORTS COMMISSION

Tammy Dunn (425) 309-2744

tammy@snocosports.org www.snocosports.org

Terry Chiplin, Event Director US Trail Running Conference

SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE, WASHINGTON

With world-class sports facilities, tons of family-friendly parks and activities, and dozens of highly rated hotels, Seattle Southside is the ideal location for traveling youth sports teams. The region, which encompasses SEA airport and the cities of SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines, is a convenient home base from which to explore Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. But visitors need not go far to find fun ways to fill their free time in Seattle Southside, which is home to more than 100 restaurants (many of which cater to teams or families), and plenty of unique attractions. At Family Fun Center & Bullwinkle’s Restaurant, the whole team can live it up with arcade games, indoor rides, go-karts, and more. Or they can get inspired at the Museum of Flight, one of the largest air and space museums in the world, which offers hands-on activities such as flight simulators. Thrill-seekers will love iFLY Indoor Skydiving, where they can (safely) leap into a vertical wind tunnel, no matter the weather. And if fresh air calls, visitors can check out one of the area’s lush parks or beaches, where they can catch stunning views of Mt. Rainier, or walk for miles along the Puget Sound coast. Whether the team wants to wind down or turn up, they’ll find the perfect activity for the moment in Seattle Southside.

STARFIRE SPORTS

Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby 54-acre campus boasts world-class athletic fields, amenities, and staff. Features of the campus include twelve outdoor fields; a 3,500-seat stadium with press box, scoreboard, and PA system; a pre-wired pavilion for vendor tents and booths; and an 81,000 square foot athletic center containing two indoor fields, locker rooms, large meeting and banquet rooms, restaurants and retail. Home practice field to the Seattle Reign and home stadium to the Seattle Seawolves

VALLEY RIDGE PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Futsal, Basketball, Tennis

21-acre Valley Ridge Park is home to a four field multi-use synthetic turf complex with lights offering softball, baseball and soccer. The park also offers two tennis courts, full court and half-court basketball, futsal minipitch, concession stand, playground equipment, restrooms, a community center and parking.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We really like to come to the Southside area…It’s right here, so everything that you want to be able to do this right here. We can pop over to the mall, go to the Cheesecake Factory, support a small Mexican food truck; it’s just a chance to really do something that’s different than what we get back at home.”

— Graeme Sandlin, North Whidbey Soccer Club

SEATTLE SOUTHSIDE SPORTS

Cydney Marks-Nicholes (206) 743-5345

cydney@seattlesouthside.com seattlesouthsidesports.com

NORTH SEATAC PARK

Hiking, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, BMX

The 205-acre North SeaTac Park has room for everything—even a BMX track! This multi-use park is home to three grass baseball and softball diamonds and two synthetic turf soccer fields. Both soccer fields have lights, and both diamonds and fields can be rented by the hour or for tournament play. The BMX track, operated by SeaTac BMX is a USA BMX sanctioned track and hosts weekly races. The park also has paved and dirt RC car racetracks, an outdoor basketball court, and a 27- hole disc golf course.

TRI-CITIES, WASHINGTON

Centrally located within the Pacific Northwest, the Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco and Richland have a slew of great activities.

Take a wagon-ride wine tour or a quiet trail ride through vineyards on Red Mountain Trails and a enjoy a wine flight and a fire pit to roast s’mores or hotdogs.

Explore the mighty Columbia River in an exclusive and unique fashion on Water2Wine Cruises. Experience a breathtaking Tri-Cities’ sunset, Northwest wines, fine cuisine aboard a 96-foot luxury yacht.

USS Triton (SSRN 586) made history in 1960 as the first submarine to circle the earth underwater, following the path of explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Port of Benton worked with the U.S. Navy to preserve the submarine’s sail and conning tower that are on display at the USS Triton Sail Park to honor submariners.

The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is the Tri-Cities ultimate historic destination for all generations young and old. Open year round the carousel features concessions and state of the art banquet facilities.

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) seeks to open a new window on the universe using the world’s largest gravitational wave detectors. Cutting-edge science and engineering fuel the Observatory’s quest to measure the faint ripples of gravitational waves from outer space. It’s quite a trip.

COLUMBIA PLAYFIELD Softball

Located in the heart of Richland, Columbia Playfield stretches across nearly 29 acres with five top-quality softball fields. An 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, Soccer

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 Pasco Sporting Complex soccer fields, which includes 15 fullsized soccer fields on 45 acres.

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

VISIT TRI-CITIES (509) 735-8486

Sales@VisitTri-Cities.com www.VisitTri-Cities.com

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.

Oklahoma Sports Tourism Continues to Surge

Edmond, Norman, Oklahoma City and Stillwater are drawing big sports events

WELCOME TO OKLAHOMA,

a state that offers an unmatched blend of tourism and sports tourism experiences. Whether you are seeking natural beauty or thrilling athletic events, Oklahoma has it all.

One of Oklahoma’s major attractions is our diverse scenery. Oklahoma is one of only four states with more than 10 ecoregions, and has, by far, the most per mile in the United States. Explore the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Quartz Mountain State Park, Chickasaw National Recreation Area or Natural Falls State Park to witness the wonders of Mother Nature. The variety of stunning landscapes found here is truly remarkable.

In addition to the natural beauty, Oklahoma is also home to vibrant cities and universities that boast some of the best athletics in the country. The Oklahoma football and Oklahoma State wrestling programs have a rich history of excellence, and the Oklahoma City Thunder is making waves in the NBA. Riversport Rapids along the Oklahoma River draws thousands of international competitors each year, with athletes from more than 60 different countries set to travel here over the next four years alone. The state’s thriving sports tourism industry further solidifies Oklahoma as one of the top athletic states in the nation.

For sports tournament planners, Oklahoma offers a host of new and upcoming facilities. The WeStreet Ice Center in Tulsa, opening in Fall 2023, promises to be a dynamic addition to the city’s sports scene. SCORE OKC, an 80,000-square-foot indoor sports facility in Edmond, provides state-of-the-art amenities for various sporting events. Additionally, the Young Family Athletic Center in Norman, named after former Oklahoma basketball star Trae Young, is currently under construction and will be a prime location for athletic activities.

We invite you to explore Oklahoma and discover all the wonders it has to offer. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking natural beauty or a sports lover looking for thrilling competitions, our state will exceed your expectations. Come and experience the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and exceptional athletic events that make Oklahoma a truly remarkable destination.

We look forward to welcoming you to our great state!

Warm regards,

Matt Pinnell, Lt. Governor of Oklahoma

Scan to discover more of what Oklahoma offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Photo courtesy of Visit Tulsa

2023 Beep Baseball World Series in Norman

WeStreet Ice Center is an excellent new arena in Tulsa.

OKLAHOMA SPORTS

TOURISM CONTINUES TO SURGE

Edmond, Norman, Oklahoma City and Stillwater are drawing big sports events

By Jason Paha

When the University of Oklahoma football team plays on game days, the city of Norman is electric.

Photo courtesy of Alex Batchelor

ARIVERSPORT OKC is vying to host Olympic canoe/kayak competitions in 2028.

s sports tourism numbers continue to climb across the country, Oklahoma has proven to be one of the fastest growing sports destinations.

As recently as 2022, statewide tourism generated an impressive $11.8 billion for the Oklahoma economy, and with an influx of big events having come to the Sooner State, and even bigger ones on the horizon, that number is expected to grow considerably.

Here are some cities that will figure prominently in the state’s growth in ensuing years.

EDMOND

Known for its welcoming community and expansive sports complexes, Edmond is becoming a favored site for regional tournaments. With more than 25 sports facilities attracting teams from across the region, athletes will find ballfields, arenas, courts, greens, pools and parks to play every sport.

Recently, the City of Edmond broke ground on a $15 million renovation to the A.C. Caplinger Sports Sports Complex. The fields at this complex typically see 120 teams participating in spring and fall leagues with an additional 50 or 60 playing in the summer leagues. The complex also hosts packed tournaments nearly every weekend from early spring through the fall.

Edmond’s Mitch Park is also a great place for tournaments. This expansive 280-acre park has five softball diamonds and four baseball diamonds as well as five miles of paved, multi-use trails. It also sports a disc golf course.

For those who prefer ice sports, Arctic Edge Ice Arena hosts University of Central Oklahoma Hockey tournaments with one taking place in 2024 and one in 2025.

NORMAN

Norman is home to the University of Oklahoma, where college football fever ignites each fall.

OU football games are a big part of the student experience, especially on Saturdays in the fall. Massive crowds gather at the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, which is one of the largest college football stadiums in the country. Also known as the “Palace on the Prairie”, Memorial Stadium seats 80,126 and has sold out every regular season home game since 1999.

Norman also hosted the 2023 World Series of Beep Baseball. The tournament took place at the Gillis-Rother Soccer Complex and featured some of the world’s best blind and low-vision athletes. In beep baseball, the larger-than-regulation-sized ball beeps to tell low-vision and blind players where it is, and a sighted pitcher stands 20 feet out.

OKLAHOMA CITY

Oklahoma City has been in the spotlight of late, having recently hosted the 2024 Olympic Team Trials for canoe/kayak slalom at RIVERSPORT OKC in April. RIVERSPORT is a $45.2 million whitewater center that opened in May 2016 in the city’s downtown Boathouse District. RIVERSPORT’s whitewater center includes an Olympic caliber racecourse which has hosted U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Canoe Slalom (2016 and 2024) and Kayak Cross (2024) as well as numerous national competitions.

The trials set the stage for a potential partnership with the LA28 Olympics, as LA28 has publicly recommended that canoe slalom, kayak cross, and softball events be relocated to Oklahoma City. This would be an unprecedented move which now just awaits an approval vote by LA City Council which is expected by the end of 2024. RIVERSPORT is proposed to host the Olympic canoe and kayak competitions in 2028 while Olympic softball would take place in the 13,000-seat Devon Park, which hosts the annual NCAA Women’s College World Series. Oklahoma City has hosted the NCAA Women’s College World Series since 1990 (except for one year in 1996), and the event draws more than 110,000 fans annually to the “Softball Capital of the World.”

Devon Park resides on the grounds of USA Softball’s headquarters and the USA Softball Hall of Fame. From 2013 to 2015, the facility added dugouts, underground locker rooms and training rooms. Renovations to the outer entrances and press box area began in 2018, and a three-story press box was added with new interview rooms around that time. About 4,000 permanent seats were added after the 2019 World Series.

STILLWATER

Oklahoma State University in Stillwater continues to be the home of one of the most successful programs in college athletics. With 52 national team championships, countless conference titles, and some of the top individual performances in NCAA history, OSU Athletics is a vital part of the Stillwater experience. Boone Pickens Stadium, home to the Oklahoma State football team, is now a state-of-the-art facility that not only provides the Cowboys football team with a unique game-day environment, but also with unrivaled facilities for daily operations located in incredibly convenient proximities. The stadium officially opened a new south side in 2004, a new north side in 2006 and in 2009 finished the west end zone project. The result is a 55,000-seat stadium that draws boisterous crowds that make Oklahoma State football gamedays can’t miss events.

Stillwater has also hosted the NCAA Baseball Championship Stillwater Regional at O’Brate Stadium while Tulsa hosts the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at the BOK Center.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA

From its iconic Skydance Bridge , to historic hotels and nationally acclaimed restaurants, Oklahoma City is a big league city. The Modern Frontier is also a renowned sports city with dozens of premier facilities and the official home for USA Softball. Pro teams also thrive, with the NBA’s Thunder, MiLB’s Comets, and PBR’s Wildcatters. The city’s remarkable growth mirrors the expanding horizons of its sports scene, a testament to the energy and excitement of Oklahoma City.

Sports are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to activities and entertainment in OKC. Enjoy entertaining and historically-themed narrated cruises through the heart of the Bricktown Entertainment District . Just a short walk or streetcar ride from downtown, this former warehouse district is filled with restaurants, nightlife and family-friendly entertainment options. You’ll find the Bricktown Water Taxi where guides narrate the history of the area, plus a 45-piece Land Run Monument depicting the 1889 opening of the Unassigned Landes in larger-than-life sculptures. For more entertainment combined with education, Science Museum Oklahoma is home to over 390,000 square feet of hands-on science experiences, art and history where families can enjoy a planetarium, aviation gallery, gardens and more.

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Volleyball, Basketball, Cheer, Gymnastics

Completed in 2020, the Oklahoma City Convention Center offers 200,730 square feet of exhibit and event space. Divisible into a maximum of four individual halls that can operate independently, each individual hall ranges in size from 47,000 to 58,000 square feet. All halls have a ceiling height of 30 feet. The exhibit hall space offers the perfect canvas to host any event!

OG&E COLISEUM

Indoor

Multipurpose

Located on the OKC Fairgrounds campus, the OG&E Coliseum is set to be completed in mid – 2025. The OG&E Coliseum will replace the Jim Norick Arena, a cornerstone of Oklahoma City for almost 60 years. The new addition will feature seating for more than 7,000 with a variety of layouts for the multitude of events that will call the coliseum home. It also includes a lounge, suites, a full-serve restaurant along with several upscale concession areas.

Woodson Park Athletic Complex

Outdoor Multipurpose

Complex provides multipurpose outdoor fields and diamonds for tournaments of all sizes, all within close proximity to downtown OKC and located near Will Rogers World Airport. The $13-million Athletic Complex opened in 2024 and includes six lighted diamond fields, four lighted rectangle grass fields, two concession stands with restrooms, children’s play areas and spectator seating.

Located in downtown OKC’s Bricktown Entertainment District, Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark is the official home of the Oklahoma City Comets, the Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Seating for the ballpark varies on the type of event being held, with a 13,066 maximum capacity and 9,000 for Comets games. The venue has hosted highschool state championships, the Savannah Bananas, and everything in between!

Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark Baseball

South Lakes Soccer Club Soccer Complex

Outdoor Multipurpose, Extreme Sports

The South Lakes Soccer Club is a multifaceted club providing recreational, Academy and competitive soccer for youth in the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area. The club’s 158-acre soccer complex is located just south of Will Rogers World Airport and features dozens of soccer fields for all youth age groups, including up to U19.

Lower Scissortail Park Soccer, Futsal, Pickleball, Basketball

Scissortail Park is in the heart of a revitalized downtown OKC. Named after the scissor-tailed flycatcher, Oklahoma’s iconic state bird, the Lower Park section covers multiple sports with a full-sized turf soccer field and adjacent grass practice field, futsal court, pickleball court and basketball court. The Upper Park complements the sports facilities nicely with gardens, nature trails, wetlands and lakes.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Oklahoma City is a location where sports passion meets warm hospitality. Whether you’re there to cheer on your team or participate in the action, the sports-friendly market ensures a successful event for all.”

— Craig Karus, Director of Sports Experiences, Prep Network

Oklahoma City

NORMAN, OKLAHOMA

More than vast prairies and rolling farmland, Norman, Oklahoma, is a vibrant hub for sports and outdoor recreation. Lake Thunderbird State Park features two marinas, nine boat ramps, and two swim beaches, with over 200 RV sites, playgrounds, picnic tables, and an archery range. The University of Oklahoma’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art holds over 20,000 objects, including French Impressionism and Native American art. The Sam Noble Museum inspires understanding through collection-based research and education. The National Weather Center combines multiple agencies to improve atmospheric understanding and houses about 550 people. Located by Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, the Switzer Center is the operations hub for Oklahoma football. Historic downtown Norman offers quaint cafes, stylish boutiques, and a lively nightlife, making it a must-visit destination. More than vast prairies of swaying wheat and rolling farmland, Norman, Oklahoma, is a vibrant hub for sports and outdoor recreation.

NORMAN SPORTS

Trent Brown (405) 593-1991

trent@normansports.org www.visitnorman.com/norman-sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The National Beep Baseball Association holds a World Series every summer in cities across the United States. Trent Brown and his crew at Norman Sports went above and beyond to make sure everything was done to make the tournament a success. They are a wonderful organization to work with – I look forward to it happening again in the future!”

– Cassie Hopkins, 1st Vice President/Tournament Director National B

YOUNG FAMILY ATHLETIC CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Aquatics

This 122,000-square-foot sports facility on 12 acres was established in 2020 out of a need for a local and accessible recreation center. Norman native and NBA basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks, Trae Young, found a solution. The space is used for tournaments and as a local recreation space. It comprises eight basketball courts, 12 overlaying volleyball courts, and two swimming pools.

GILLIS-ROTH SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Various Sports Tournaments and Events

The Gillis-Roth Soccer Complex is an impressive expanse of 22 soccer fields, with 11 equipped with lights for evening matches. Besides soccer games and scrimmages, past events have included Beep Baseball games for the visually impaired and the exciting Oklahoma Celtic Golf Ball Drop. This versatility highlights the complex’s role as a vibrant hub for various sports and recreational activities.

WESTWOOD TENNIS CENTER Tennis

Since 1969, the premier tennis facility, Westwood Tennis Center, has been a staple of the Norman community. There are 12 outdoor championship courts, four 36-foot youth courts and even climate-controlled indoor tennis courts. The Westwood Tennis Clubhouse features a pro shop with racquets and accessories for sale. They also offer youth and adult programs, clinics and leagues for players of all levels.

LAKE THUNDERBIRD STATE PARK

Archery, Swimming, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Rafting, Fishing, Hunting, Hiking

The crown jewel of Norman is the 1,874 acres that comprise Lake Thunderbird State Park, a coveted place ripe with recreational opportunities. Amenities to the park include two marinas (Calypso Cove and Little River) and nine boat ramps. There is also a gift shop, grills and covered picnic areas.

EDMOND, OKLAHOMA

With 33 parks, 47 miles of trails, and more than 300 public art pieces, Edmond offers sports enthusiasts a vibrant destination. Create memorable experiences beyond your sports tournaments at 27 sports facilities including:

• Edmond Public Schools Aquatic Center at Mitch Park competitive 50-meter Olympic-sized pool with seating for 800

• Edmond Center Court, USTA National Facility of the Year Winner

• $22M recently renovated KickingBird Golf, now the best municipal golf course in the region

• New turf fields coming in 2025 at A.C. Caplinger Baseball Complex at Hafer Park

Edmond is also a college town! As one of the first institutions of higher education in Oklahoma, the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is a central gathering place. Find a 5,700-square-foot Esports Gaming Arena, a Jazz Lab, Melton Art Gallery, Mitchell Hall theater performances and thrilling athletics year-round. Travel Historic Route 66 in Edmond for 13.4 miles of fun activities. Camp, bike, fish, hike and swim at Arcadia Lake, take a selfie with The Blue Hippo, tour the 1889 one-room Territorial Schoolhouse, enjoy events at Festival Market Place and shop/ dine in “Hallmark-like” Downtown Edmond.

AC CAPLINGER COMPLEX Baseball, Softball

Edmond’s premier Sports Complex is located within beautiful Hafer Park. A $17.1M renovation is currently underway to replace infrastructure, rearrange field layouts, add sports lighting, increase parking, and provide synthetic turf infields. The new complex will feature 10 fields, 451 parking spaces, covered bleachers, playground, covered dugouts, concession, restrooms, umpire facilities and picnic shelters. Field sizes will accommodate ages 4-13 and will attract new tournaments from across the region. Completion date is Fall 2025.

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA Football

The renovated Chad Richison Stadium provides the perfect setting for NCAA Division II football games as well as hosting the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) High School Football State Championships. With seating for 12,000-plus, the stadium has premier artificial playing surface (FieldTurf Vertex Core). The three-level press box and premium entertainment space offers VIP guest experiences while teams enjoy a state-of-the-art endzone.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“When we recruit tennis tournaments to Edmond Center Court, players and supporters rave about the viewing areas, shade and landscaping. With 24 outdoor courts, 6 indoor courts and a 31,000 square foot clubhouse, ECC is a hotbed for players all across the United States to come and compete regardless of level.”

— David Minihan, Tournament Director

VISIT EDMOND

Jennifer Thornton (405) 216-7781

jthornton@visitedmondok.com visitedmondok.com/sports

EDMOND CENTER COURT Tennis

A partnership between the City of Edmond and Edmond Public Schools, the Edmond Center Court features 24 outdoor tennis courts, including two center championship courts, and 6 indoor courts. Edmond Center Court hosts dozens of major events each year, including 1,000 USTA League matches, OSSAA, NCAA and ITA championship events, as well as USTA national tournaments. Won recognition as the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Facility of the Year for 2022.

STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA

Stillwater is best known for its college-town appeal: home to Oklahoma State University and a number of dazzling collegiate sports teams, it is hard not to associate this Southern town with Cowboy and Cowgirl athletics. This is for good reason, since so many of the State’s exceptional facilities are OSU-affiliated. Yet there are a myriad of Stillwater attractions located just off of campus, adding to the town’s mystique and creating the ideal spot for a sports tournament in the middle of the country.

Your Oklahoma journey should begin at Lost Creek Safari, Stillwater’s only USDA-certified animal park. This magical place gives visitors the rare opportunity to experience some of the world’s most exotic animals. Take a walk on the wild side as you feed grapes to lemurs, say “Hi” to Gilbert the camel, and cuddle a baby kangaroo. Guests are also welcome to bring a picnic lunch. Next, check out Downtown Stillwater, home to delicious eats, handcrafted coffee, local brewing companies, wine bars, and one-of-a-kind retail shops. Start your downtown adventure with breakfast at Granny’s Kitchen or Hatch Early Mood Food and browse the boutique shops before or after your teams play.

Beyond meeting interesting animals and checking out the downtown area, visitors also enjoy the Cultural District, which is conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Stillwater. This spot is where the visual and performing arts inspire, history lives, and creativity and learning thrive. And speaking of inspiration and learning, Campus Corner and The Strip are located just across University Avenue where you will find the pizza Oklahomans voted the best, eclectic shops, OSU apparel, and numerous nightlife options.

BOONE PICKENS STADIUM Football

The centerpiece of Oklahoma State University’s campus is Boone Pickens Stadium, a century-old college football cathedral. Renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and striking architecture, it hosts the Oklahoma State Cowboys’ home games. The stadium’s modern amenities and large seating capacity create a special experience for fans. Beyond football, it occasionally hosts community events and concerts, adding to its vibrant role in Stillwater’s sports culture.

NEAL PATTERSON STADIUM Soccer

OSU Cowgirl soccer calls Neal Patterson Stadium home. This top-tier facility is one of the finest collegiate soccer attractions in the country, boasting a well-maintained pitch and spectator-friendly design. The stadium’s seating offers an intimate, engaging view of the action, while its amenities— bolstered by $20 million renovations in 2018—ensure a comfortable experience.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Thanks for all of your help! You both have been amazing to me the last month and I can’t say thank you enough.”

– OSU Head Women’s Tennis Coach Chris Young

VISIT STILLWATER

Nicole Horn, VP & Director of Sales

Nicole@VisitStillwater.org (405) 743-3697

VisitStillwater.org

O’BRATE BASEBALL STADIUM Baseball

O’Brate Baseball Stadium is a stateof-the-art venue designed for baseball enthusiasts. Home to Oklahoma State University’s Cowboys, it features cutting-edge facilities and a fan-friendly atmosphere. The venue’s layout includes premium seating, a high-definition scoreboard, and top-notch amenities, not to mention 3,500 permanent seats, 11 suites, and 400 premium seats in dedicated club and suite areas. Seating can be expanded to 8,000 as needed, making O’Brate Stadium one of Oklahoma’s most exceptional sports facilities.

BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA

Bakersfield is the place to be, with country western music, great cuisine and of course amazing sports facilities for all ages and skill levels. In addition to dozens of quality multi-sport complexes like Bakersfield Sports Village and Mesa Marin sprinkled throughout Bakersfield for amateur and youth sports tournaments, Mechanics Bank Arena brings professional sports and other major events to the area. Jump around at the BLVD, Temblor and Flight Adventure Park, where 17,000 square feet of wall-to-wall trampolines make for great group parties. Bakersfield’s only high ropes challenge course and outdoor rock-climbing facility can be found in the Condor Challenge at CALM. California Living Museum (CALM) was founded in 1980 and opened to the public in 1983. CALM exists to display and interpret native California animals and plants for education, conservation and research. CALM provides education to more than 20,000 Kern County students annually through onsite programs. CALM also operates the most extensive wildlife rehabilitation center in the Southern San Joaquin Valley.

VISIT BAKERSFIELD

Evangelina Medina-Scott emedinascott@visitbakersfield.com (661) 852-7235 www.visitbakersfield.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Why Bakersfield? That’s easy. It’s a perfectly-sized modern city with state-of-the-art facilities, a large inventory of clean, familyoriented hotel rooms, dozens of welcoming restaurants, and a city leadership that values our championships and supports us in every way possible. Bakersfield is a tremendous host.”

— John T., California Interscholastic Federation

MECHANICS BANK ARENA

Basketball, Football, Hockey, Multipurpose Indoor, Wrestling

As the present home of the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League, the Mechanics Bank Arena has hosted NCAA Division I basketball contests in the past and can be used to accommodate many indoor tournaments, events and concerts, including the boys and girls high school state wrestling championships. The venue seats up to 10,225 with 17,000 square feet of floor space. Mechanics Bank

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, BAKERSFIELD

Multisport

Home to Roadrunners

athletics, CSUB features topof-the-line athletic facilities including the Icardo Center, Hardt Field, Roadrunner Softball Complex, John S. Hillman Memorial Aquatic Center, Barnes Beach Volleyball Complex and the John Antonino Sports Complex. Home to the men’s and women’s basketball as well as volleyball programs, the Icardo Center is a 44,000-square-foot facility that can seat 3,495.

BAKERSFIELD SPORTS VILLAGE

Multisport

The complex boasts 16 soccer fields, 5 youth football fields, 1 multipurpose stadium championship field, a playground, concession stand, restrooms, walking trail, two ponds, and ample parking.

KERN COUNTY SOCCER PARK

Soccer

Spread across 86 acres with parking for more than 5,000 vehicles available, Kern County Soccer Park is a main fixture on any sports planner’s soccer list. The park is home to 24 regulation-sized soccer fields, with four snack bars, eight built-in restrooms and RV parking. The fields are lighted and a central headquarters building is available for use during the many tournaments this park hosts.

Mechanics Bank Arena

FRESNO AND CLOVIS, CALIFORNIA

The Fresno and Clovis area is the center of unique attractions and provides easy access to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in California. It is the perfect region to plan a sports tourney, since it combines versatile athletic facilities with top-notch attractions, ranging from outdoor adventures in Yosemite to day trips at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.

Yosemite National Park beckons with its iconic granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Whether you are hiking to the top of Half Dome, gazing up at El Capitan, or wandering through the redtinged marvel that is Mariposa Grove, Yosemite offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Nearby, Kings Canyon National Park boasts some of the deepest canyons in North America and offers stunning vistas, roaring rivers, and lush meadows. Sequoia National Park, adjacent to Kings Canyon, is home to the world’s largest trees, like the famed General Sherman. Sequoia provides tournament-goers a serene escape into ancient forests and wilderness.

Even more fun awaits at the Forestiere Underground Gardens, a subterranean marvel that was hand-carved by Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere over 40 years and features a network of rooms, passageways, and gardens, all underground.

BUCHANAN SPORTS COMPLEX Baseball/Softball, Track, Football

The Buchanan Sports Complex in Clovis boasts a tournament-ready softball complex with eight lit fields, a state-of-the-art baseball stadium, and a 10,000-seat track and football facility. The facility is equipped with lighting for night games, on-site restrooms and ample parking space.

CLOVIS WEST & COVIS NORTH AQUATIC CENTERS Swimming, Diving

At Clovis West, featured facilities include three pools, a warm-up pool, a one-meter diving board, a three-meter diving board, an eight-lane competition pool, a diving well, and an outdoor diving pool. Clovis North offers two 50-meter pools, a diving well, HVAC water heaters, high-efficiency pool pumps, and chlorination.

CHUKCHANSI PARK Baseball, Soccer

Since opening in 2002, Chukchansi Park, home to the Fresno Grizzlies, has earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful and modern minor league facilities in the nation. This 10,650-seat stadium (with more standing space in the hospitality areas) located in Downtown Fresno features sight lines from every seat. It provides dramatic views of the nearby Sierra Mountains.

Valley Children’s Stadium

SELLAND ARENA

Basketball, Wrestling, Taekwondo, Gymnastics, Ice Hockey

Known for having the best sight lines in Central California, where every seat Is close to the action, the arena also boasts the largest general admission floor in the region, expanding its capacity to 9,200.

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FRESNO

Football, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball, Wrestling, Swimming

California State University, Fresno, is home to multiple high-level athletic teams and facilities, including 40,727seat Valley Children’s Stadium, where the football team plays, the 15,596-seat Save Mart Center, which hosts basketball and volleyball competitions and Pete Beiden Field at Bob Bennett Stadium.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Fresno State Athletics has used the services of [Visit Fresno County] for years. Their staff has always worked hard to assist in providing a quality experience for our visiting teams and guests. With the help of their hospitality, we were able to secure the Mountain West Conference Track and Field Championships for the next 3 years.”

— Matt Studwell, Associate Athletics Director for Facilities & Operations, Fresno State Athletics

VISIT FRESNO COUNTY

Andrew Smith (559) 981-5503

andrew.smith@fresnocvb.org

www.visitfresnocounty.org/ sports/

WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA

Walnut Creek, just 16 miles east of Oakland and well within the bounds of the famed San Francisco Bay Area, is a Golden State delight that boasts intriguing athletic facilities and sparkling attractions. Whether you like sipping wine, taking nature walks, or immersing yourself in a bustling local sports scene, you will not be disappointed by this California town.

Shopping enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise at Broadway Plaza, an outdoor shopping center featuring over 300 unique boutiques and shops. This premier retail destination combines luxury brands with local favorites, creating a shopping experience that blends style and convenience in a beautifully-landscaped setting. Walnut Creek also shines in arts and culture, anchored by the Lesher Center for the Arts. As the leading live theatre venue in Central Contra Costa County, the center offers a rich lineup of performances, including theater, music, and dance, making it a cultural hub for residents and visitors alike.

Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will be captivated by Walnut Creek’s outdoor offerings. The Lindsay Wildlife Experience, the nation’s first wildlife hospital and educational museum, specializes in native California wildlife, offering an immersive experience for all ages. The city’s proximity to renowned wine regions like Napa, Sonoma, Livermore, and Lodi makes it a strategic base for wine lovers. Additionally, Walnut Creek is nestled at the base of Mount Diablo, providing easy access to numerous regional parks and outdoor activities, perfect for hiking, biking, and soaking in stunning views.

SHADELANDS SPORTSMALL

Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Swimming, Volleyball, Taekwondo, Yoga

Shadelands SportsMall is a stateof-the-art, 227,000-square-foot sports facility designed to accommodate a wide range of athletic activities. Ten individually-owned sports businesses combined to launch the complex, and that conglomeration has been a massive success thus far. Why? Consider all that Shadelands offers. The indoor complex features professional-grade courts for basketball, volleyball, and futsal, as well as a specialized gymnastics area.

WALNUT CREEK SOCCER FIELDS

Soccer

Walnut Creek soccer clubs do not just play their games with high intensitythey also play on some of the town’s most impressive soccer fields. There are several full-sized, meticulously maintained grass fields that cater to players of all ages and skill levels, like Arbolado Park, El Divisadero Park, and Tice Valley Park. Many fields, like the one at Northgate High School, are equipped with modern amenities, including restrooms, ample parking, and seating for spectators.

Walnut Creek offers unmatched facilities and weather. The city has great places to partner with for many sports, particularly soccer and basketball. It is an excellent location to book with plenty for parents and teams to do after games.

VISIT WALNUT CREEK

Nicole Hankton

nhankton@walnut-creek.com (925) 934-2007 www.visitwalnutcreek.org

BASEBALL FIELDS THROUGHOUT

WALNUT CREEK

Baseball

What the various SURF soccer fields provide for soccer in Walnut Creek, so, too, does an amalgamation of baseball fields provide space for America’s pastime in the area. Heather Farm Park is a standout with its well-groomed diamonds and extensive amenities, perfect for league play and tournaments. Ygnacio Valley Park offers a more intimate setting with its well-maintained field, creating a haven for youth and community games. Add on Larkey Park, these facilities foster a thriving baseball culture in Walnut Creek.

ARIZONA 2025 GUIDE

Tempe is a Thriving Hub for Sports in the Valley

Discover how Tempe’s dynamic venues and welcoming spirit make it the perfect destination for athletes and fans alike

Mesa: A Limitless City

Sports and inclusivity converge in a limitless playground in this picturesque city www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

OWelcome to ARIZONA!

n behalf of our unrivaled Arizona tourism industry, we’re excited to be in consideration to host your next sports event.

Our expertise in hosting combines with our world-famous hospitality to help make it as easy as possible to choose Arizona. After experiencing our envious year-round weather, spectacular resorts and countless restaurants, activities and attractions, we’re confident you’ll be glad you did!

From the wonders of Tribal cultural experiences to the culinary mastery of Southern Arizona to the pine trees and winter snow of Northern Arizona –and so much more in between – we can’t wait to share it all with your guests!

Best of all, extending a trip in Arizona is easy when you have access to the right tools. Below are a few suggestions, with many more at visitarizona.com.

Journey through Tribal Lands to connect to the cultural history of what is now Arizona. Visit communities, who have lived in reciprocity with canyonlands and river valleys since time immemorial and who still thrive today. Hire a Native American guide to experience these spectacular places, such as the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona.

Food is central to how we share time together, welcome travelers and even celebrate accomplishments and holidays. When it comes to Mexican food, Tucson in Southern Arizona proudly claims the title of “America’s Best.” From sizzling street food to family-owned gems hidden in colorful barrios, Tucson’s food scene is a melting pot of passion and heritage that celebrates the entire delicious spectrum of Mexican cuisine.

And yes there’s even lush pine tree forests, spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities and even fluffy snow during the colder months in Arizona, as a quick visit to the Colorado Plateau and the San Francisco Peaks that frame Flagstaff will reveal.

Wherever your events across our beautiful state may take you, we welcome you to explore Arizona and hope you’re exhilarated by what you discover. Enjoy!

Lisa Urias Visit Arizona

Mesa

A Limitless City

Sports and inclusivity converge in a limitless playground in this picturesque city

Nestled near the Tonto National Forest and surrounded by picturesque bodies of water, Mesa, Arizona, is the ideal destination for sporting events and activities. As the 37th largest city in the United States, Mesa offers an inclusive environment for people of all abilities to stay and play. The East Valley has a proud history of hosting numerous sporting events that scale from youth to professional and everything in between.

Branded as “City Limitless” and nationally recognized for their designation on becoming the first Autism Certified City, Mesa’s work towards inclusivity and accessibility provides limitless growth and limitless sports potential for residents and visitors.

For decades, Mesa City Park facilities like Gene Autry Baseball Complex, Red Mountain Soccer Complex and Hohokam Stadium (Spring Training home of the Oakland

A’s) have been household names and sought-after venues for organizations hosting various events. Mesa’s world-class family sports complex, Arizona Athletic Grounds, boasts an impressive number of courts, fields, diamonds, and indoor space (19 basketball courts, 57 volleyball courts, 24 turfed fields, 8 diamonds, 12 sand volleyball courts, 22 futsal courts, a 2,500-capacity stadium and 41 pickleball courts to be exact) putting Mesa on the radar for new major market sports clients from around the nation. Mesa refused to be a “one trick pony”.

The City of Mesa and Mesa Parks and Recreation continued to find value in building community facilities that also serve to host large scale tournaments by expanding Red Mountain Soccer Complex to be comprised of a staggering 16 flat

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesa

natural grass fields (6 fields prior to expansion), expanding Red Mountain Softball Complex to showcase 4 additional softball diamonds (now 8 total) and the brand new facility at Monterey Park adding 4 additional softball/youth diamonds and 4 pickleball courts.

Mesa’s extraordinary sport venues continue to give athletes, fans, and families more to look forward to in the world of athletics. 2023 ushered the opening of Lehi Sports Park (5 lighted flat fields, streaming capabilities, vendor hook ups, bathrooms and gated parking), Gene Autry Tennis Center’s expansion (16 lighted tennis courts, 13 pickleball courts and 4 sand volleyball courts).

Building on the momentum of a booming downtown district packed full of local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and a legit pub crawl scene, Mesa has found the perfect balance of becoming a rejuvenated trendythrowback with big league accommodations.

For your sports planning needs please reach out to Lance Fite, Vice President of Sports via email: lance@visitmesa.com

LIMITLESS FACILITIES

• Lehi Sports Park – 5 flat field multi-use sports facility (new 2023)

• Red Mountain Soccer Complex – 16 flat grass fields

• Red Mountain Baseball Complex – 3 full-size baseball diamonds, 8 youth baseball/softball fields

• Gene Autry Baseball Complex – 3 full-size baseball diamonds

• Monterrey Park – 4 full-size softball diamonds, 4 pickleball courts

• Gene Autry Tennis and Pickleball Complex- 16 lighted tennis courts, 13 lighted pickleball courts and 4 sand volleyball courts

• Riverview Baseball Fields (at Sloan Park) – 4 full-size grass baseball fields

• Eastmark Sports Complex – 4 full-size baseball fields

• Skyline Softball Complex - 4 full-size softball fields

• Quail Run Baseball Complex - 4 youth baseball fields

• Sloan Park – Spring Training home stadium for the Chicago Cubs

• Hohokam Stadium – Spring Training home stadium for the Oakland A’s

• Legacy Sports Park – 19 basketball courts- 24 turfed flat fields- 5 grass fields- 2,500-person stadium field- 41 pickleball courts- 12 sand volleyball courts- 57 volleyball courts- 22 futsal courts- 40,000 sq ft conference space, indoor golf simulators, 600-person sports bar, 85 game arcade, 15,000 sq ft strength and conditioning facility, 8 baseball/softball fields, obstacle course, gymnastics/ cheer/dance studio.

• Kino Aquatics Center – 75-meter Olympic size swimming pool with moveable bulkhead

• Skyline Aquatics Center – 75-meter Olympic size swimming pool with moveable bulkhead

• Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center – 2 fully covered arenas with nearly 3400 seats, 2 additional uncovered arenas with 250 additional seats.

• Las Sendas Golf Course, Mesa Country Club, Dobson Ranch Golf Course, Longbow Golf Club, Augusta Ranch Golf Club and many more.

Arizona Athletic Grounds has space for indoor sports.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesa

Arizona Athletic Grounds

Tempe Is a Thriving Hub for Sports in the Valley

From high-stakes competitions to vibrant community events, discover how Tempe’s dynamic venues and welcoming spirit make it the perfect destination for athletes and fans alike

TTempe is a vibrant, urban destination, located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, and just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

By hosting high-level competition — from IRONMAN to Cactus League Spring Training — our convenient location and sunny skies create a winning game plan for your next tournament. We’re geared up to select the perfect venues, work with city services and find accommodations for your next sporting event.

With breathtaking desert landscapes and an everevolving urban skyline, Tempe is on the rise as one of the hottest destinations in the country. From outdoor attractions and sightseeing ventures to excellent retail and dining opportunities, Tempe is ideal for all types of visiting athletes.

Home to a diverse portfolio of events, ranging from youth amateur competitions and professional sports to concerts and festivals, Tempe is an active community that celebrates

hosting opportunities to gather, connect and compete. Notable events and groups that have selected Tempe as their host city include, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, National Gay Flag Football, Dive into Diversity, Legends Masters Championships, and Team USA Paradragons.

The City of Tempe and Tempe Tourism’s commitment to growth and inclusivity aims to welcome all. We celebrate authenticity and uniqueness and believe in the power of providing spaces and opportunities for all communities.

Throughout the year, Tempe invites visitors to experience the spirit of the city off the court. The roster of things to do include:

OUTDOOR RECREATION:

Boat, kayak or stand up paddleboarding at Tempe Town Lake; attend an outdoor festival or event, including Oktoberfest and Innings Festival; the Sonoran Desert invites you to hike and bike the many paths and trails in and around town and pay a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden.

Photo courtesy of Tempe Tourism

Tempe is home to a variety of great sports events.

SPORTS:

Catch an ASU Sun Devils game, match or meet (football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, etc.); get up-close and personal to Major League Baseball at a Cactus League Spring Training game at Tempe Diablo Stadium; or check out the NBA G League’s Valley Suns at Mullett Arena.

EXPLORE THE ARTS:

Experience a live performance at ASU Gammage or Tempe Center for the Arts; take in various works at the Tempe Festival of the Arts (spring and fall), one of the longest-running juried arts festivals in the state. In addition, a roster of stages — from concert venues and nightclubs to comedy spots and even a piano bar will keep you entertained. This city is buzzing after sunset, making it a popular destination for team outings, reunions and entertainment for a wide variety of groups.

DINING & SHOPPING:

Tempe is known for its craft breweries and globally inspired dining scene. From award-winning brews and globally inspired fare to innovative Southwestern cuisine, the culinary landscape is as diverse as those who call this city home.

In Tempe, retail therapy includes two major shopping hubs: Tempe Marketplace, an open-air experience known for great shopping at local and internationally known retailers and live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Arizona Mills features a mile of outlets, shops and entertainment venues, including SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona and Arizona’s only 70mm IMAX screen.

To plan your next sporting event or tournament, please contact Luchie Javelosa, Senior Sports Sales Manager, at luchie@tempetourism.com.

TEMPE QUICK FACTS:

• Tempe is 42 square miles

• Population of 185,000+ and a median age of 28 years old

• Home to Arizona State University, one of the largest public universities in the United States

• 4 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and is the most walkable and bikeable city in the Valley

• 17,000+ businesses are in Tempe

• 330 days of sunshine with an average temperature of 87.3 degrees

• 100 percent score on the Human Rights Campaign Annual Municipal Equality Index since 2014

TEMPE SPORTS FACILITIES:

Tempe Sports Complex: Built in 2005, Tempe Sports Complex is a 60-acre multi-purpose facility for sports tournaments and recreational activities. The complex includes seven multi-use fields, four lighted softball fields, 8 lighted pickleball courts – including two of the first ADAaccessible courts in the state. The skate park features two bowls and multiple street style ramps, open to skaters of all experience levels.

Kiwanis Tennis Center: Home to 15 championship-level courts, each equipped with PlaySight video streaming technology.

Mullett Arena: Open since 2022, this 5,000-seat multipurpose arena is home to the NBA G League’s Valley Suns, ASU Sun Devil Hockey, ASU Women’s Volleyball and ASU Men’s Wrestling.

Sun Devil Fitness Complex: This 234,000 square-foot, multi-purpose space can host both indoor and outdoor events. With five large gymnasiums, an Olympic size swimming pool and 6.5 acres of outdoor field space, this facility is designed to be a center of recreational and intramural sports, and overall physical wellness.

Tempe Diablo Stadium: Spring Training home to the Los Angeles Angels, this facility can accommodate a variety of events across five lighted soccer fields, two lighted softball fields, two lighted baseball practice fields and one lighted stadium.

For a complete list of Tempe facilities, please check out our Tempe Sports Facility Guide.

USA Triathlon

Photo courtesy of Tempe Tourism

Photo courtesy of Visit Arizona

Enjoy the water in Tempe

SIERRA VISTA, ARIZONA

Sierra Vista, Arizona, is a hidden treasure for sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Located at the foot of the stunning Huachuca Mountains, the area offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and year-round activities and sports facilities for tournaments and events under the Arizona sun.

For an outdoors experience like no other, families can enjoy hikes, beautiful foliage in the Autumn months and a variety of plant and animal life at Ramsey Canyon Preserve. Its spring-fed stream and high canyon walls create a cool environment that gives a whole new meaning to what you can find in the desert. After spending some time in the preserve, make sure to stop by the Ramsey Canyon Inn to try an incredible slice of pie. Coronado National Memorial allows visitor to immerse themselves in the knowledge of the past with eight miles of trails through grasslands, mountains and oak forests, as well as a visit to explore Coronado Cave

The nearly 57,000-acre San Pedro Riparian Natural Conservation Area is sure to impress everyone with birding, picnicking, historic sites, fishing and more.

For more climate-controlled leisure, The Cove Aquatic Center offers an indoor aquatic facility with two enclosed tube slides, water pool with jets, sunning decks, diving pool and eight 25-yard lap lanes for competition or exercise. Amenities include locker rooms and concessions.

DOMINGO PAIZ SPORTS COMPLEX Softball, Soccer

With tournament-ready turf and highefficiency LED lights, Domingo Paiz Sports Complex is perfect for soccer and softball tournaments. The soccer fields can be set up as two fields at 100 x 60 yards or as four fields at 60 x 45 yard. The two softball fields are 301 feet each. All fields at the complex are for youth and adults alike. It is primely located next to other sports complexes in the area that are dedicated to baseball and pickleball, including Stone Sports Complex and Patrick Arbenz Field.

KEITH HAMPTON MEMORIAL FIELD Football, Track and Field

Named after Keith Hampton, who was a prominent veteran and coach of the community, this field is home to local youth football organizations and open to the public every morning. The field has everything for football games and track and field tournaments alike, including an RGB color-changing light system. Other amenities include concession stands, bathrooms and bleachers with the capacity to seat 1,600 people.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The relationship between our local leagues and the city has become extremely reciprocal with the leagues communicating their needs to hold tournaments and with the city communicating to the leagues about how they support. The city has been proactive with updating our local facilities.”

— Berlynda Shaaf, AZ Little League District 8 Treasurer and Community Volunteer

CITY OF SIERRA VISTA

John Healy (520) 515-4999

sports@sierravistaaz.gov www.sierravistaaz.gov/ourcity/departments/sports

CYR FIELD Soccer

Cyr Field is located on the west side of Sierra Vista and is solely for soccer use. The west field is an NCAA full-size field at 110 x 70 yards and the center and east fields are both 105 x 70 yards. The center and east fields can also turn into four fields at 70 x 45 yards. Amenities at this facility include bathrooms, playgrounds located on both sides of the fields, two ramadas and a variety of walking paths.

YUMA, ARIZONA

The true Southwest awaits you in Yuma, Arizona. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and heritage, and soak in blue skies and sun that shines 310 days a year—perfect for outdoor sports and excursions. With a variety of topnotch athletic facilities and a vibrant arts and culture scene, Yuma is an ideal spot to host your next event.

Explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene or hit up unique shopping and dining options in Yuma’s Historic Downtown Don’t miss Yuma’s legendary sites, such as the Colorado River State Historic Park, a former military outpost, and Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, which is a must-see for ghost adventurers and history buffs.

The Colorado River State Historic Park is located on a portion of the grounds of the old U.S. Army Quartermaster Depot (QMD) established in 1864. This site is significant in the history of the Arizona Territory. The purpose of the Park is to protect its historic structures and interpret the diverse history of the site. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park once held a variety of law violators, including the legendary stagecoach robber Pearl Hart. The Prison continued in operation for 33 years when, due to overcrowding, all inmates were moved to a new facility in Florence, Arizona.

Take time to learn about how the native peoples came together at The Crossing Yuma has multiple museums and historic sites dedicated to the Quechan and Cocopah people.

PACIFIC AVENUE ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball

Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex (PAAC) is a state-of-the-art facility that is uniquely positioned to help your tournament get in front of a tremendously viable demographic. This sprawling 50-acre, multi-sport facility is perfect for youth or adult softball and baseball leagues and tournaments. In total, PAAC offers six lighted softball fields which includes a Championship Field.

DESERT HILLS GOLF COURSE

Golf

Desert Hills Golf Course is the premier golfing facility in southwestern Arizona and southeastern California. The course is a par-72 championship course featuring 6,800 yards of challenging topography and scenic views with an interesting mix of vegetation. The course is maintained at a top-notch level and has been the site of several professional events including the Ben Hogan and Nike Tour Events. Rolling hills, palm trees, gorgeous valley views and big greens make it a favorite in the local area.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Yuma’s Desert Spirit includes a passion for sport. An early morning round at one of our picturesque golf courses, kayaking on the gentle Colorado River or competing at the Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex, Yuma is home to competitive and exciting sport.”

— Marcus Carney, Executive Director

VISIT YUMA

Leslie McClendon (928) 318-6539

leslie@visityuma.com www.visityuma.com

RAY KROC SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse and more

Outdoor Sports and Events

The City of Yuma Ray Kroc Sports Complex is a 26-acre, modern, multi-use sports and recreation center comprised of three components: Ray Kroc Sports Complex, Desert Sun Stadium and the Clubhouse Building. The complex itself has five baseball diamonds and 11 multipurpose fields. The 7,500-capacity Desert Sun Stadium has a grass field which was converted in 2015 from baseball to soccer and can host several other events like pro wrestling and concerts.

PRESCOTT, ARIZONA

Prescott, Arizona, is a captivating destination that blends outdoor adventure with cultural and recreational attractions, making it an ideal spot for visitors of all ages. Nestled among the scenic landscapes of central Arizona, the 50,000-person town offers a variety of exciting experiences, from breathtaking natural parks to family-friendly indoor activities.

One of the standout attractions is Watson Lake Park, just a 13-minute drive from downtown Prescott. Surrounded by stunning granite boulders, this shimmering blue lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, boating, and hiking on the park’s 380 acres. With amenities like campsites, picnic areas, and trails like the popular Peavine Trail, Watson Lake is the perfect retreat from the desert heat. Pets are also welcome, making it a family-friendly escape.

For wildlife lovers, Heritage Park Zoo offers a unique and educational experience. Located near Willow Lake, this ten-acre sanctuary is home to a variety of animals housed in large, naturally landscaped enclosures. The zoo also features interactive exhibits like the Tarantula Grotto, providing an upclose look at some of its most interesting residents.

Families looking for indoor fun can check out Get Air Trampoline Park, where kids and adults alike can jump into foam pits, play dodgeball, or test their skills on ninja obstacles. Meanwhile, rock climbing enthusiasts flock to Grip Stone Indoor Rock Climbing, which provides a full-body workout and fun for all skill levels.

PIONEER PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football, Roller Hockey, Pickleball

Pioneer Park is a versatile recreational hub offering facilities for baseball, softball, soccer, football, roller hockey, and pickleball. The expansive park features field rentals, a roller hockey rink, and dedicated pickleball courts, making it a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts. Beyond sports, Pioneer Park connects to Brownlow Trails, offering scenic paths for running and hiking. Family-friendly amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, and Kayla’s Hands Playground.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Prescott’s recreation services and sports staff are fantastic. The staff is very organized, and the fields are exceptionally maintained. No one makes our job easier in terms of preparation and communication.”

— Rick Seifman, Softball Tournament Organizer

EXPERIENCE

PRESCOTT

Michael Kelly (928) 777-1460 mike.kelly@presoctt-az.gov ExperiencePrescott.com

HERITAGE

PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football

One of the finest multi-use facilities in Prescott, this dynamic park provides space for baseball, softball, soccer, and football. With well-maintained fields and restrooms, it’s ideal for both casual play and organized events. A highlight is its proximity to the Heritage Park Zoo, creating an enticing blend of recreation and wildlife exploration. Children can enjoy the playground, while families can reserve fields for sports activities.

ROUGHRIDER PARK AND BILL VALLELY FIELD

Baseball, Softball

Situated next to Yavapai College, the park features spacious athletic fields, stadium seating for spectators, and convenient restroom facilities. Roughrider Park hosts both casual games and competitive events, offering a professional yet community-friendly environment. Its scenic setting, combined with top-notch amenities, makes it a popular spot for athletes and spectators alike, promoting a lively sports culture in Prescott.

WINSLOW, ARIZONA

There’s so much to see and experience in Winslow, Arizona, with natural beauty being a cornerstone of sports and leisure. When it comes to sports and staying active, McHood Park and Clear Creak Reservoir have everything from kayaking through a deep rock waterway to hiking and rock climbing. For more outdoor adventure, Homolovi State Park has guided tours, including learning about petroglyphs and the ancestral Hopi village at this spiritually living site, along with events like stargazing.

Enjoy a stay at the historic La Posada hotel, gardens, gallery and museum, where many famous individuals like Albert Einstein, Amelia Earhart and Franklin D. Roosevelt were guests. La Posada embodies the visions of both Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, the hotel’s renowned architect, and Allan Affeldt, its current owner who restored the famous protected site into its current state.

MCHOOD PARK

Rock Climbing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Outdoor Sports and Rec

Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at McHood Park. Grab your canoe, or rent one on-site, to follow the creek along Clear Creek Canyon, a magnificent deep rock waterway. This location is one of Northern Arizona’s best kept secrets that has been enjoyed by locals for over one hundred years. Along with fishing, swimming and other water sports and leisure, enjoy a hike or bike ride. On-site picnicking and camping are also available and is first-come, first-serve. When you drive into the park there is a kiosk on your right-hand side where you can purchase a camping pass.

“Stand at the corner of history and harmony in Winslow, Arizona — where every journey is a step toward discovery, and every sunset is yet, another reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us in Northeast Arizona.”

— Bob Hall CEO, Winslow Chamber of Commerce

WINSLOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Bob Hall

(928) 289-2434

bhall@winslowaz.gov www.visitwinslow.com

DAVIS COUNTY, UTAH

Davis County, Utah, is a slam-dunk destination for sports enthusiasts, offering a winning combination of top-tier venues and jaw-dropping scenery. Just 20 minutes north of Salt Lake City International Airport, Davis County is perfectly positioned between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, providing a championship backdrop for any event. Athletes can look forward to the new Western Sports Park opening in 2025, along with nine pristine golf courses, over 500 miles of scenic trails, and proximity to nine worldclass ski resorts. Outdoor adventures range from horseback riding to hiking at Antelope Island State Park, making Davis County a year-round destination for sports and recreation. Beyond the action, families will enjoy nearby attractions like Lagoon Amusement Park, Station Park’s open-air shopping, and The Rush Funplex. Davis County also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with galleries, theaters, and live performances.

WESTERN SPORTS PARK

Multi-use Indoor and Outdoor

The Western Sports Park is an extensive 55-acre campus designed to accommodate a wide range of athletic activities. It features six full-sized fields including a championship field with 2000-seat bleachers, adaptable for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and ultimate frisbee. The park boasts a multipurpose indoor facility.

ELLISON PARK

Baseball, Football, Soccer, Softball

Ellison Park, covering 44 acres, offers a wealth of recreational facilities, including a picnic pavilion, two Little League baseball fields, one AAA baseball field, two football fields, seven soccer fields, and three softball fields. The park also features eight pickleball courts and a sand volleyball court.

FARMINGTON CITY

REGIONAL PARK AND GYMNASIUM

Pickleball, Baseball, Softball, Basketball Farmington offers stunning mountain views and a top-notch facility. The park features eight outdoor pickleball courts, four baseball/softball fields, and four soccer fields. The gym spans over 32,000 square feet and includes three full-size hardwood basketball courts.

THE PICKLR

Pickleball

The Picklr in Kaysville is Utah’s premier indoor pickleball facility, offering 15 state-of-the-art courts with outdoor surfacing designed for optimal play. The facility includes a ball machine for practice, local rooms, private event space and a pro shop.

STEED PARK

Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Pickleball

Steed Park is an expansive 11.5-acre recreational haven offering a wide array of sports and leisure activities. The park boasts three softball/ baseball fields, two soccer fields, and 16 state-of-the-art lit post-tension pickleball courts, allowing for games at any hour. It also features three sand volleyball courts, a picnic pavilion and barbecue grills.

ANGEL STREET COMPLEX Soccer

Angel Street Soccer Complex is nestled in a picturesque setting, featuring five well-maintained soccer fields surrounded by 400 trees across 100 different varieties. This outdoor space is multiuse, with an outdoor pavilion adding to its versatility for any field sporting event.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Feedback was so positive. People raved about the location.” We’d love to make [Western Sports Park] our permanent spot.”

“The venue was honestly the perfect size and easy access and overall just a great experience. Thank you for your help!”

DISCOVER DAVIS

Erin Miller (614) 743-6352 erin@discoverdavis.com www.discoverdavis.com

— Nicci Dean, Rocky Mountain 7v7

— Dane Leifson, Utah Robotics State Championships

WESTERN SPORTS PARK

KENTUCKY 2025 GUIDE

BOURBON, HORSES, AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Kentucky Sports Alliance Helps Attract the State’s Top Events

With more than 150 facilities across the state, planners can find the right venue and location for any event

From the banks of the Ohio River to the towering peaks of Black Mountain, Kentucky is a group travel planner’s dream state

Welcome to the KENTUCKY SPORTS ALLIANCE!

Dear Friends and Partners,

We are thrilled to announce the evolution of TEAM Kentucky as we become the Kentucky Sports Alliance (KSA). For the past 20 years, TEAM Kentucky has been dedicated to promoting sports tourism across the Bluegrass state. As we move forward, we are excited to build on this legacy and double down on our commitment to enhancing sports tourism in Kentucky.

The KSA represents the renewed focus and commitment to a strong Commonwealth sports brand that will continue to showcase the best of what our state has to offer. With 14 destinations currently making up the KSA, we are more robust and united than ever in our mission to provide exceptional sports experiences for rightsholders, national governing bodies, athletes, fans and visitors alike. Our destinations are:

• Bowling Green

• Corbin

• Elizabethtown

• Hopkinsville

• Kentucky Department of Tourism

• Kentucky Lake

• Kentucky Venues

• Lexington

• London/Laural County

• Louisville Sports Commission

• Louisville Tourism

• Madisonville - Hopkins County

• McCracken County-Paducah

• Murray

Kentucky’s renowned brand of hospitality, Southerness and authenticity is a ‘spirit’ easily found throughout the state’s 150+ sports facilities. Yes, Kentucky’s Bourbon is a spirit that comes in a glass, but you’ll also see that same spirit define our culture, compassion, creativity and innovation. We pride ourselves in being so much more than a unique place to compete and look forward to continuing this journey together under the Kentucky Sports Alliance banner.

Our new website, kentuckysportsalliance.com, will serve as a comprehensive resource for sports tourism in Kentucky. Even though it’s still in progress, we invite you to start exploring the site and discover the exciting opportunities that await you in our great state.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you soon and encourage you to experience Kentucky’s ‘spirit’ for yourself by hosting your next event with us.

Warm regards, Brad Knapp President, Kentucky Sports Alliance

Scan to discover more of what Kentucky offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

ON THE COVER: Keeneland race track in Lexington.

Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky

KENTUCKY SPORTS ALLIANCE

Helps Attract the State’s Top Events

With more than 150 facilities across the state, planners can find the right venue and location for any event

By Jason Paha

Kentucky is a state renowned for hosting some of the world’s best sporting events.From the legendary Kentucky Derby to the PGA Championship, the Bluegrass State knows how to hold a captivating sports competition.

The newly rebranded Kentucky Sports Alliance (formerly Team Kentucky) is a big reason why Kentucky attracts such quality events.

The Alliance’s members showcase more than 150 facilities across the state, with a veteran team that can help planners find the right venue for their event.

“Team Kentucky was around for over 20 years and did a great job,” said Brad Knapp of Louisville Tourism. “(This rebrand came about because) we felt like it was time to showcase a more sports focus, especially in our name. The same people are still here, just with an updated brand.”

The Alliance is made up of these partners: Bowling Green CVB, Corbin Tourism Commission, Elizabethtown CVB, Hopkins County Tourist & Convention Commission, Kentucky Department of Tourism, Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kentucky

BOWLING GREEN CVB

Bowling Green features a diverse offering of sports facilities that can accommodate events year-round. Its newest stateof-the-art 56,000-square-foot gymnasium and indoor tennis/ multipurpose facility at Michael O. Buchanan Park can cater to any event, as the facility has interchangeable floors. Bowling Green has also earned a reputation as ‘Vette City, since it is the home of the National Corvette Museum and it hosts a variety of outdoor events, live music and yearly festivals as well as the famed Michelin NCM Bash.

CORBIN TOURISM COMMISSION

The Corbin Arena is a 100,000 square foot, multi-purpose facility. It offers full arena rental and is conveniently 87 miles south of Lexington, KY and 83 miles north of Knoxville, TN. The venue directly reaches a primary market of over 500,000

Venues, London/Laurel County CVB, Louisville Sports Commission, Louisville Tourism, McCracken County Sports Tourism, Murray CVB, Paducah CVB, Visit Hopkinsville and Visit Lexington.

Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky

people within a 50-mile radius and Corbin has a strong visitor services infrastructure in place with more than 800 hotel rooms.

ELIZABETHTOWN CVB

With a Big-League atmosphere, state-of-the-art facilities and endless family fun and entertainment in downtown Elizabethtown, the legendary Ripken Experience creates lifelong memories. Elizabethtown Sports Park consists of 12 youth turf fields with LED lighting, nine dedicated batting cages, and stadium seating to give every player a true BigLeague experience.

KENTUCKY LAKE CVB

Major League Fishing is the world’s largest tournament fishing organization and premier outdoor entertainment brand. The MLF’s Bass Pro Tour, which showcases 65 of the world’s top professional bass anglers competing for millions of dollars, will host an event at Kentucky Lake from June 5-8, 2025. Kentucky Lake is open to host all kinds of fishing tournaments as well as a variety of other sporting events. Come fish where the pros fish.

KENTUCKY VENUES

Kentucky Venues serves regional, national and international clients while promoting the progress of the Commonwealth and advancing Kentucky’s agriculture and tourism industries and economy. Two of Kentucky Venues’ top facilities are the Kentucky International Convention Center (located at the center of downtown Louisville, the Kentucky International Convention Center is a top-tier convention center with state-of-the-art design and technology) and the Kentucky Exposition Center (which offers 1.2 million square feet of contiguous meeting space to serve events large and small).

LEXINGTON

Lexington’s Keeneland Race Course has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championship, an annual series of major thoroughbred horse races. Keeneland most recently held the Breeders’ Cup in 2022, 2019 and 2015. The city is also home to the University of Kentucky, whose men’s basketball team has won eight national championships, second all-time behind only UCLA.

LONDON/LAUREL COUNTY CVB

Whether you are looking for high speed races at the London Dragway, endurance adventure races in the Daniel Boone National Forest or the perfect location for cycling, Laurel County has a variety of venues to suit your needs. Events like the Archery Shooters Association, Kayak Bass Fishing and War Hammer 100 are just a few events that call London, Kentucky home.

Kentucky.

LOUISVILLE

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most famous events in sports. The race kicks off the Triple Crown series with Churchill Downs hosting the iconic race for horses aged three. The Derby is one of the oldest ongoing sporting events in the country with the first race taking place in 1875. It is the most attended horse racing event in the United States, and it is one of the most bet on in the country, with hundreds of millions betted every year. The 2024 Derby was branded the 150th Kentucky Derby and a record $210.7 million was bet on the race.

MADISONVILLE – HOPKINS COUNTY

Madisonville and Hopkins County are home to the new Kentucky Sports Factory that boasts the largest single surface hardwood floor in the state of Kentucky. This 90,000-squarefoot state-of-the-art facility features an indoor turf soccer field, batting cages, six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts and 22 pickleball courts. The West Kentucky Archery Complex contains 56 NFAA indoor shooting lanes plus a 90-meter outdoor range.

PADUCAH CVB – MCCRACKEN COUNTY

With diverse sports facilities and successfully hosted events from the club level to collegiate and professional, PaducahMcCracken County is a perfect tournament destination. Its venues have hosted a variety of events and tournaments from the National Retriever Championships and Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail to NCAA Conference Baseball, Golf and Tennis Championships.

VISIT HOPKINSVILLE

From state-of-the-art facilities to vibrant local culture, Hopkinsville provides everything needed to create an unforgettable sporting experience. The Planters Bank-Jennie Stuart Health Sportsplex offers a premier venue with over 54,000 square feet of space, featuring multiple courts for basketball, volleyball and soccer.

Horse racing is king in the state of

Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky

NATURAL BEAUTY BOURBON, HORSES, AND

in the Bluegrass State

From the banks of the Ohio River to the towering peaks of Black Mountain, Kentucky is a group travel planner’s dream state

By Billy Stampfl

Enjoy the great outdoors in Kentucky.

Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky

The advantages to visiting Kentucky are well known: bourbon, music, horse racing, food. Some come for the Kentucky Derby, which draws thousands of guests every May; others are ready to sip bourbon and munch on a Hot Brown. Still others simply desire a serene vacation amid rolling hills and sparkling grasslands, surrounded by natural wonders as their Southern adventure awaits.

BOURBON IS A KENTUCKY STAPLE

Louisville is not just Kentucky’s largest city and one of the country’s most historically relevant towns (it is, after all, the home of Muhammad Ali and the Louisville Slugger). It also marks the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a renowned path that commences at the Frazier History Museum and winds through charming towns such as Clermont, where you will find the James B. Beam Distilling Co. American Outpost, and historic Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Here, visitors can savor award-winning spirits from nine legendary distilleries, including Willett, Preservation, and Four Roses.

MUSIC: HOME OF BLUEGRASS

Kentucky is the birthplace of bluegrass and one of the most storied music hotbeds in the world. This state’s impact on American song and dance has been profound, giving rise to famous musicians like Bill Monroe (a native of Rosine) to the Country Music Highway, an amped-up stretch of Eastern Kentucky where numerous country legends cut their teeth. This iconic route, a winding slice of U.S. 23, honors the rich legacy of country tunes. Spanning from Ashland to Paintsville, it has produced over a dozen country stars, including Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Chris Stapleton.

ARTS AND CULTURE

A stroll through the heart of Paducah’s dynamic downtown highlights this community’s commitment to creativity and culture. Designated as a Creative City by UNESCO in 2013, Paducah’s support of the arts is apparent around every corner. On the streets of Lower Town, home of the Artist Relocation Program and the beehive of activity at the Paducah School of Art & Design, creativity is in the air.

THE HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Kentucky is renowned for its deep-rooted equestrian culture, making it a premier destination for horse enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. At the heart of the state’s horse heritage is the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, a sprawling 1,200-acre facility dedicated to celebrating the state’s equestrian legacy. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits, take guided tours, and enjoy horse shows that underline Kentucky’s role as a hub for horse breeding, training, and competition.

FOOD, DRINK AND MORE BLUEGRASS FUN

Kentucky is also a must-visit destination for food lovers, offering a delectable array of Southern cuisine and local specialties. The state is famed for its iconic dishes, such as bourbon-infused dishes and the famous Hot Brown—a savory open-faced sandwich layered with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. The Hot Brown was originally created at The Brown Hotel in 1926 in Louisville. The hotel still serves this delicious dish today. In Elizabethtown, visit the famed Back Home Restaurant, which features a slew of Kentucky favorites and recipes that celebrate life south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Located in a gorgeous old home, Back Home Restaurant is a bipartite stop: it’s a full-service restaurant with an attached boutique.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

At Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, you can ride by boat into an underground labyrinth. Lost River Cave’s historic underground boat tour is a great eco-adventure for all ages. Groups can enjoy its hiking trails, activities and charming gift shop located just an hour north of Nashville in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Surrounded by Daniel Boone National Forest and residing at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Corbin is a charming city with a wealth of natural and cultural gems waiting to be discovered. Corbin’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, home to the “Niagara of the South” – Cumberland Falls. Explore hiking trails, go horseback riding or enjoy picnicking with a view that will leave you in awe.

London resides in the foothills at the edge of the majestic Appalachians, surrounded by pristine forest, lakes, and rivers. An abundance of mountain bike and hiking trails weaving through the Daniel Boone National Forest and historic city parks, along with world-class cycling roads attract cyclists from all over to Kentucky’s designated Cycling Capital.

Madisonville and Hopkins County are home to Kentucky’s largest variety of outdoor recreation activities, including scenic trails, tranquil lakes, rolling grasslands and dense forests. Groups can enjoy a trek down Falls Trail that features a stunning cascade that is nearly 70 feet tall. Kentucky features a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the heart and soul of the Bluegrass State. From the world-renowned Bourbon Trail in Louisville to the rhythmic legacy of the Country Music Highway, Kentucky is a celebration of its storied traditions and vibrant culture. The state’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its heritage is evident in every corner.

Waterfront Park in Louisville is a fabulous place to gather.

Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky

BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY

Bigger is better in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as their state-of-the-art facilities are not only impressively large, but support an endless amount of sports. Known best for their expertise in operating functional multipurpose venues, these locations are prepared to support tournaments and events of any size. Car enthusiasts will love the National Corvette Museum & Motorsports Park, an exciting and challenging environment made for anyone who’d like to become proficient behind the wheel. This park is one of the most centrally located and easily accessible in the country, making it a must when visiting Bowling Green. BG Hot Rods Minor League Baseball is a prime ballpark in the area, hosting playoff and division series games for the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Come enjoy a minor league game and support the local sports scene.

Looking to get in touch with nature? Search no further than Lost River Cave, which is a natural and man-made environment spread across 72 acres. Visitors can learn about the history of the spot as a Civil War campground or as an underground 1930s nightclub on boat tours. When hungry, patrons can swing by Chaney’s Dairy Barn where they sell homemade ice cream from Jersey cows. The milk is processed on the Chaney farm and sold directly to customers.

MICHAEL O. BUCHANON PARK

Tennis, Racquetball, Volleyball, Softball and More Outdoor Sports

Named after a Warren County Judge Executive, Michael O. Buchanon Park is stacked with a tennis and sports facility, the Buchanon gym and fields for football, soccer, baseball and softball. The spacious 90 acres gives guests plenty of room to enjoy the wonderful amenities offered, grab a bite to eat at the numerous concession stands or have a picnic near the playground. Patrons from around the country venture to Buchanon Park to partake in softball tournaments.

BASIL GRIFFIN PARK

Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Fishing and More Outdoor Sports

The sprawling 100-acres dedicated to Basil Griffin Park is a one-stop shop for all, containing multiple baseball/softball fields, football fields and multipurpose fields. Home to the Aviation Heritage Park, this location sports enough space for an outdoor hockey rink, eight pickleball courts and a lake with a boat ramp and fishing access. The abundance and quality of this location makes it the crown jewel of the county parks, constructed with families in mind.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Bowling Green has such nice facilities to host sporting events, there’s tons of places to eat. What keeps me coming back is how great the facility managers are and as a basketball tournament director to have 10 courts at one facility it makes it so much easier to run a quality event.”

- Kris Fields

BOWLING GREEN CVB

Damion Wheeler

damion@visitbgky.com

270-782-0800

www.visitbgky.com/sports/

BEECH BEND RACEWAY

Racing, Automotive Sports and Events

Renowned for its infamous drag strip, the Beech Bend Raceway has been bustling with automotive events since its installment in 1956. Bountiful beech trees envelope the facility and the Barren River wraps around the surrounding area, creating a picturesque environment for fun around the track. Drifting competitions and vendor showcases are held frequently, bringing sizable crowds filled with race car enthusiasts.

CORBIN, KENTUCKY

Corbin, Kentucky is within an hour and a half drive of both Knoxville, Tennessee and Lexington, Kentucky, and is situated within a 50-mile radius of over 500,000 people. With a large population to draw from, big events and youth sports tournaments alike thrive at facilities like Corbin Arena and Civic Center Park.

The city offers a variety of outstanding attractions and activities for families to enjoy while in town for sporting events. Harland Sanders Café and Museum is the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Colonel Sanders’ original restaurant has been carefully restored to its original 1940s appearance and is placed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Sanders Park is also a must, where you can see the garden that contains those 11 secret herbs and spices, along with a butterfly garden, statue of the colonel and more.

For outdoor adventure and fun, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is called “Niagara of the South” for a reason with a 125-foot curtain of water that falls 68 feet. Also, located amid the pristine beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, the 5,600-acre Laurel River Lake is a favorite destination that features quiet coves, clifflined shores and plenty of activities.

CORBIN ARENA

Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports

Corbin Arena is the perfect venue for a variety of sporting events and tournaments with 100,000 square feet of space. The arena features an NCAA regulation-size portable basketball floor with 4,800 seats with a capacity of 6,000 and several configurations available that include additional floor seating. Amenities include a 19,261-square-foot concourse, top-notch sound system and two scoreboards, concessions, a box office and more.

CIVIC CENTER PARK

Soccer, Football, Flag Football and More Outdoor Sports

Civic Center Park features eight soccer fields for youth tournaments between U8 and U16, along with two football fields—one of which is a practice field at 100 yards by 50 yards. On-site concessions are available and there is a paved parking lot for 450 vehicles. The park is also close to the downtown area and even closer to the beautiful Laurel River Lake for scenic views and additional activities.

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, in Southeastern Kentucky, the City of Corbin is a sports lover’s dream. Conveniently located at exit 25 on I-75. Corbin boasts a variety of outstanding sporting venues providing a small city atmosphere while offering big experiences.

CORBIN TOURISM COMMISSION

Nancy Conley

nancy@corbinkytourism.com (606) 528-8860 corbinkytourism.com

MILLER PARK

Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Disc Golf

Just a short drive down the road from Civic Center Park is Miller Park, which features three Little League baseball fields, two of which are softball regulation size, three outdoor pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets, a batting cage complex with four cages total and a par 27, 9-hole disc golf course. There is one concession stand located at Miller Park, along with a picnic shelter.

ELIZABETHTOWN, KENTUCKY

Elizabethtown, Kentucky is renowned as a premier sports destination with state-of-the-art Elizabethtown Sports Park leading the charge. This expansive facility is a hub for sports tournaments big and small, featuring top-tier diamonds and fields that cater to a wide range of sports.

Beyond sports, Elizabethtown offers a diverse array of activities and entertainment. Social on Main combines relaxation with recreation, featuring a food hall with a curated selection of fine eats, a dynamic tap wall that has over 40 well-appointed self-pour taps and even eight duckpin bowling lanes. To keep the entertainment going, enjoy a leisurely round at Heartland Mini Golf.

ELIZABETHTOWN SPORTS PARK

Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Kentucky Youth Soccer has held our state tournaments at Elizabethtown Sports Park for 12 years, and it’s been a fantastic experience every time. The ample space makes it easy to manage large events, and the fields and facilities are always in top shape, creating a great environment for athletes and spectators alike.”

– Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer

Renowned for being one of the top sports facilities in the United States, Elizabethtown Sports Park is a perfect spot to host any type of outdoor sporting event. The park features Cecilian Bank Miracle Field for championship games and three quads for a total of 13 baseball/softball fields, all of which are lighted and have synthetic turf diamonds. In addition, there are 10 multipurpose natural turf fields and two championship fields with synthetic turf. Amenities at the park include stadium lawn seating, three large pavilions, locker rooms, playgrounds, and nearby hotels.

ELIZABETHTOWN

SPORTS PARK

Brandt Bawpley (270) 765-6132

bpawley@sportsfacilities.com

www.etownsports.com

MADISONVILLE - HOPKINS COUNTY, KENTUCKY

Hopkins County, Kentucky hosts some of the best sporting venues in the country, perfect for any event or tournament. The county also has many facilities to choose from, along with many family activities, parks and trails to discover.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of Mahr Park Arboretum as you stroll through the winding trails or kayak on Pee Wee Lake and take in the wildlife. This 265-acre park in Madisonville features a natural environment looming with wildlife, native trees, and plants.

You can also journey to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park for mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, swimming, golf, tennis, camping and much more. These wooded landscapes offer the perfect place to relax and go on an adventure off the beaten path.

For those interested in the arts more than the outdoors, Hopkins County is home to Glema Mahr Center for the Arts. The center organizes diverse musical acts, award-winning plays and top-name entertainers year-round at affordable prices.

MADISONVILLE HOPKINS COUNTY

SPORTSPLEX

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Soccer And More Indoor Sports

Madisonville Hopkins County Sportsplex is an all-new multi-purpose facility, boasting the impressive feat of having the largest hardwood floor surface in the state of Kentucky. It can accommodate a wide variety of sporting events with six indoor basketball courts, 12 indoor volleyball courts, 22 indoor pickleball courts, an indoor regulation turf soccer field (60 yards by 30 yards), an indoor walking path, meeting rooms, batting cages and 475 parking spaces.

WEST KY ARCHERY COMPLEX Archery

Few archery facilities are as state-ofthe-art and accommodating as West KY Archery Complex. This multi-use venue offers an outdoor range with up to a 90-meter shooting distance. The 18,000-square-foot indoor area makes it the largest archery range in the state and can easily hold up to 56 NFAA shooting lanes. With concessions, 400 bleacher seats and over 225 parking spaces, it undoubtedly is one of the best places to host archery events in the country.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“As the Head Coach for the USA Archery South East Regional Elite Development (RED) Team I am tasked with finding training facilities for our team. The facility must also provide targets and target buttresses which meet the exacting competition standards of World Archery.”

- Laval D. Falks, USA Archery Level 5 Coach, Head Coach, Regional Elite Development (RED) Team South East HOPKINS COUNTY TOURIST & CONVENTION COMMISSION

Tricia Noel tnoel@visitmadisonvilleky.com (270) 821-4271 visitmadisonvilleky.com

Disc Golf

Home to the Kentucky State Disc Golf Championship, this beautiful outdoor area boasts an 18-hole championship course and 9-hole recreational course with concreate tees and DISCatcher Pro Targets. Located in a 265-acre arboretum, the park is cart and dog friendly, with drinking water and restrooms available. The area also features multiple pavilions and event venues to meet all your needs.

MAHR PARK CHAMPIONSHIP DISC GOLF COURSE

KENTUCKY LAKE (MARSHALL COUNTY),

KENTUCKY

Featuring over 2,300 miles of shoreline and over 160,000 acres of water. Kentucky Lake is a majestic lake, and it has plenty of room for you to go fishing, enjoying watersports or exploring in your boat.

Kentucky Lake in Marshall County provides multiple sporting opportunities, covering everything from water sports and competitive fishing at the largest manmade body of water east of the Mississippi River to traditional sports at top facilities like Mike Miller Park. Fishing is particularly popular at the South’s Great Lake, with record-breaking catches for crappie, catfish, large and small mouth bass.

Along with its sporting opportunities, leisure activities and adventure await families and athletes.

Full-day boat rentals are available at Kentucky Lake at one of our many full service marinas, and nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore the wildlife and hiking opportunities in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. The variety of lodging accommodations also makes Kentucky Lake unique from affordable, locally owned resorts, to hotels, two state resort parks, and over 150 private home rental options.

Nearby, enjoy miniature golf at Maggie’s Jungle Golf, featuring live animals in protective areas, or Forgotten Past with rides and other fun activities. Go karting and more are available at Kentucky Shores Family Fun Center. For a movie night, enjoy a classic from-your-vehicle experience at the legendary Calvert Drive-In Theater. Let’s not forget, the chance to play 18 holes at topranked courses in our region, Kentucky Dam Village Golf Course or Calvert City Country Club!

KENTUCKY LAKE

Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Triathlons And More Watersports

Stretching over 160,000 acres, Kentucky Lake is an impressive spot for sports and recreation. Fishing is a major part of the lake’s culture, with large and mouth bass, crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish available in abundance during specific times of the year. With its immense size, the lake is also a hotspot for boating, offering several marinas and launching ramps along its shorelines. Camping grounds, cabin rentals and more are also available throughout the year.

MIKE MILLER PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Flag Football, Disc Golf, Outdoor Sports

Located in Benton, Kentucky, Mike Miller Park offers dozens of multisport options for your next tournament or event. The park features five multipurpose fields, two auxiliary fields, three lighted youth baseball fields, lighted adult baseball and softball fields, a spectacular 18-hole disc golf course and more. Multiple pavilions, a playground, a concession building and press box are among the many amenities included.

Kentucky Lake in Marshall County is a great option for your next sporting event. This small town boasts big fun and a chance to disconnect from the business of competition and travel sports. In between games, spend your time on a boat or along the shoreline of beautiful Kentucky Lake fishing, soaking up the sun, or hiking in Land Between the Lakes! This community may be small, but sometimes that’s just what the family needs to reconect!

KENTUCKY LAKE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Elena Blevins eblevins@kentuckylake.org (270) 527-3128 www.visitkylake.com

CALVERT CITY MEMORIAL PARK

Soccer, Baseball, Disc Golf, Mountain Biking and More Outdoor Sports and Events

Calvert City Memorial Park is a serene spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring multipurpose fields, pickleball courts, youth baseball/softball fields, a disc golf course, golf course and more. The park’s picturesque location provides a great environment for marathons and endurance racing events. Mountain biking is also available at Memorial Park, with trails that appeal to all skill levels.

KENTUCKY VENUES

No matter what type of sporting event you’re planning, Kentucky Venues is here to welcome you. With two stateof-the-art facilities less than 7 miles from one another, we can host any type of event no matter how large –from boxing matches to basketball tournaments!

Working with Kentucky Venues, you will have:

• Access to cutting-edge data to better inform your event decisions.

• Proximity to the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and the UPS Worldport.

• Sworn peace officers and state-of-the-art security systems that create a sense of comfort for everyone on the property.

• Proximity to attractions, hotels, and restaurants that represent the best culinary experiences in Kentucky.

KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER

• 1.2 Million Sq. Ft. of Contiguous Meeting Space

• 56 Meeting Rooms and Two Arenas

• 350+ Acres of Outdoor Exhibit and Demo Space

• Can accommodate 80 basketball courts throughout the facility

At Kentucky Venues, we’re dedicated to curating exceptional experiences and fostering success for every event. Our facilities offer expansive, transformative, and flexible space proving that no event is too small or too large for us to handle. We know events, because we produce events.

KENTUCKY VENUES

Linda Edwards

Executive Director of Sales and Food & Beverage sales@kyvenues.com (502) 367-5000 www.kyvenues.com

KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER

• 200k Sq. Ft. of Contiguous Class A Exhibit Space

• 40k Sq. Ft. Column-Free Ballroom

• 52 Meeting Rooms, including a Tiered Conference Theater

• Combined with the Kentucky Exposition Center, can hold 130 volleyball courts

LONDON-LAUREL COUNTY, KENTUCKY

The vibrant city of London, Kentucky has family-friendly attractions for all ages to enjoy. For a historical and archaeological visit, Camp Wildcat Civil War Battleground is the site of the first meeting of regular troops in Kentucky throughout the U.S. Civil War.

For thrill-seekers, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park boasts both campgrounds and an aerial adventure park, Tree-Top Adventure, where visitors can zipline through the trees and climb through rope bridges. The invigorating Air Raid Trampoline Park contains countless attractions for all ages, including trapeze, battle beam, foam pits and monkey bars.

WILDCAT OFF-ROAD PARK

Off-Roading, Campgrounds

A family-friendly, 2,000 acre off-road park that will accommodate all off-road enthusiasts. Wildcat has over 100 miles of trails with the greatest sites in the Southeastern United States. Wildcat Offroad is conveniently located 2 miles from I-75 off Exit #49 and has trails for the novice rider all the way up to the most experienced rider.

London-Laurel County offers a variety of experiences to entertain and captivate any audience. As the “Cycling Capital of Kentucky” we offer numerous cycling experiences such as our annual Red Bed Ride in April. Add to that countless trails for hiking, our amazing canoe and kayaking opportunities, a variety of local and unique restaurants, RV parks and hotels and you get the perfect destination for individuals, families, or events.

LONDON-LAUREL COUNTY TOURIST COMMISSION

Travis Shortt Director of Public Relations and Events (606) 687-8843 travis@lltc.net www.visitlondonky.com

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

Bourbon often takes center stage in Louisville, Kentucky, but those in the know also pick this southern gem for sports tournaments and events. From premium exposition spaces at facilities like Kentucky Exposition Center, to collegiate sports, concerts and other events at KFC Yum! Arena, Louisville has you covered.

Louisville has more than 120 attractions so there’s always something for everyone, but three iconic sports certainly stand out. Churchill Downs has been the “Home of the Kentucky Derby” since opening its gates in 1875, which is now the longest continually running sporting event in the U.S. and “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”

For baseball fans, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory spotlight the global baseball icon where visitors can learn about the brand’s past, present and future, and even create a custom bat. Originally from Louisville, boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s legacy of creating change, pursing justice and inspiring greatness is celebrated at the Muhammad Ali Center.

The Urban Bourbon Experience is comprised of more than ten distilleries located downtown, that are open for public tours and tastings. The Urban Bourbon Trail boasts over 35 bars and restaurants with more than 60 bourbons and bourbon-inspired culinary delights – so download the passport, collect your stamps and enjoy a special prize at the end.

KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Archery and More Indoor Sports

Louisville’s 1,300,000-square-foot

Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) is the sixth largest of its type in the nation, perfect for a variety of sports meetings, conferences or tournaments. Freedom Hall is one of the two arenas at KEC, offering a capacity of 18,865, along with the 6,600-seat Broadbent Arena, both arenas host everything from equestrian events to concerts and more.

KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER

Cheerleading, Martial Arts, Gymnastics and More Indoors Sports

With 300,000 square feet of space, Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) can host any size indoor sports tournament. KICC features a 200,000 square foot exhibit hall, 40,000 square foot ballroom, and over 50 meeting rooms. KICC’s downtown location is within walking distance to over 7,000 hotels rooms, 50 restaurants, and Museum Row.

CLIENT PERSPECTIVE

“If you are looking for the ideal location to host an event, look no farther than Louisville! It is one of the best cities for your attendees to enjoy their overall experience and most importantly, you will have a first-class partner in the Louisville Tourism team.”

- Carol Bruggeman, Executive Director, National Fastpitch Coaches Association

LOUISVILLE TOURISM AND LOUISVILLE SPORTS COMMISSION

Gen Howard

ghoward@gotolouisville.com 502-560-1497 www.gotolouisville.com

Dave Patrone, STS dpatrone@louisvillesports.org 502-736-3498 www.louisvillesports.org

KFC YUM! CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Indoor Football and More Indoor Sports

KFC Yum! Center is Louisville’s most recent indoor sports space and is home to the Louisville Cardinals men’s and women’s basketball teams. The arena’s capacity differs depending on the sport, with up to 22,090 for basketball and other events at its max. It will be the host of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship December 19-22. Its located in the heart of downtown on the Ohio River.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY, KENTUCKY

There’s something for everyone in McCracken County, Kentucky, with one of the country’s best upcoming sports facilities on the horizon for a 2025 grand opening that will be in the City of Paducah.

Families will enjoy plenty of art displays, starting with Paducah’s Wall-to-Wall Floodwall Murals, depicting the city’s history on its protective floodwall through over 60 larger-than-life art pieces. The National Quilt Museum displays quilts from around the world highlighting artistry in the fiber arts.

Paducah’s Historic Downtown Shopping District is full of locally owned shops and boutiques for every taste and unique nearby restaurants round out a day of exploring. Hotel Metropolitan is a hotelturned-museum, showcasing Paducah’s African American heritage.

PADUCAH SPORTS PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse and More Outdoor Sports McCracken County Sports Tourism Commission is building a 105-acre sports recreation complex in Paducah, Kentucky. Set to open in 2025, Paducah Sports Park is expected to feature five meticulously crafted high school baseball diamonds, 20 versatile youth/fast-pitch diamonds and 10 multipurpose fields, all of which will cater to players and teams of all ages and skill levels. The facility will be located on the site of the former Bluegrass Downs and Stuart Nelson Park along Greenway Trail.

The Paducah Sports Park will be a Gem of a venue in Kentucky. The design and layout of the facility will be nothing short of first-class. From the moment you walk into the venue, the history of Bluegrass Downs and Stuart Nelson Park will resonate throughout the park. We’re excited to honor the rich history of Paducah and McCracken County inside a place that will create even more memoires for the community.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY SPORTS TOURISM COMMISSION

Chastity Heeren, General Manager CHeeren@paducahsportspark.com (815) 590-6373 www.paducahsportspark.com

MURRAY, KENTUCKY

Nestled in the heart of southwestern Kentucky, Murray offers a blend of rich history and culture, art and natural beauty, along with its top sports facilities like CFSB Center and Roy Stewart Stadium, making it an ideal destination for everyone, no matter the sport.

Immerse yourself in the cute charm of Murray’s historic downtown, where you’ll find many small shops and local businesses. As you explore, be sure to admire the vibrant downtown murals that bring the city’s history and culture to life. A visit to the Farmers Market is a local favorite where you can find fresh produce and homemade goods.

For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area provides endless opportunities for adventure, like hiking, fishing and wildlife watching. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the beauty of the Doran Arboretum, a perfect spot for a peaceful walk through a variety of native plants and trees.

CFSB CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Track and More

Indoor Sports

A versatile facility with a seating capacity of 8,600 and able to host multiple sports. It features a split-level concourse system, with the lower level including VIP sections, concessions, locker rooms and the Murray Room (banquet style meeting space) . The upper level includes four concession areas and a rubber track. CFSB Center also has a sports medicine room, a weight room and officials’ locker rooms that double as production offices for events.

REAGAN FIELD Baseball

Reagan Field, with symmetrical dimensions of 330 feet to the foul poles and 400 feet to center field, is an ideal venue for baseball events. The field has a seating capacity of 800 with an electronic scoreboard, natural grass surface and a press box. Upgrades in 2014 included the addition of lights and a permanent grandstand, followed by a more spacious press box in 2015. The outfield fence is 10 feet high in most areas, but gets up to 16 feet in center field.

THE MKY OFFERS A SMALLTOWN FEEL WITH NCAA DIVISION I UNIVERSITY FACILITIES. QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS ARE LOCATED A VERY SHORT DISTANCE FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS. MSU ATHLETICS AND THE MURRAY CVB CAN PROVIDE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVENTS.

MURRAY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Erin Carrico erincarrico@tourmurray.com (270) 759-2199 www.tourmurray.com

ROY STEWART STADIUM

Football, Soccer, Track and Field and More Outdoor Sports

A seating capacity of 16,800, and home to the Murray State football team, this beautiful stadium offers modern, wellkept facilities perfect for large events. The training room spans 4,675 square feet and includes treatment tables, whirlpools and a physician’s exam room, all equipped with advanced rehabilitative technology. Combined with Pat Spurgin Rifle Range making the Roy Stewart Stadium a key asset for MSU.

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY

Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Paducah is a picturesque gem that has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for over 10 years. Finding a city that ignites inspiration at every corner is rare, yet Paducah delivers on all fronts with that famous Southern hospitality anchoring it all.

But Paducah isn’t just a leisure destination — the incredible atmosphere you’ll discover in the heart of America’s Inland Waterways is practically begging to transform your next tournament into a memorable affair you will talk about for years. Having successfully hosted numerous club, collegiate and professional events, Paducah is equipped and ready to welcome your next game, match, meet or competition! From college baseball games at historic Brooks Stadium to water skiing at Twin Oaks Lake, Paducah offers a variety of spaces that can accommodate tournaments, 5Ks, marathons and more. With spacious and versatile venues and plenty of comfortable lodging options, you’ll be amazed at how Paducah can impact and inspire.

THE PADUCAH/MCCRACKEN COUNTY CONVENTION AND EXPO CENTER Basketball, Volleyball, Cheerleading and More Indoor Sports

The perfect space for large-scale sporting events. With 40,000 square feet of space, it can fit eight volleyball or four college-sized basketball courts, along with tasty concessions and more than enough parking. In addition to the court space, there is another 30,000 square feet of meeting space for teams to game plan and strategize. Some other events held at the Expo Center include cheerleading competitions and even dog shows.

BROOKS STADIUM PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football

Brooks Stadium Park is a 75-acre facility featuring John Sheppard Field and Brooks Stadium/Doc Hedig Field. John Sheppard Field is made up of a high school softball field with lights and bleacher seating, a soccer field and football field. Brooks Stadium/Doc Hedig Field has a 3,000-person capacity, which includes television-ready lights, a press box with wireless connectivity and broadcast equipment, a redone parking lot, restroom facilities, a concession stand and free Wi-Fi.

Five Reasons to Play in Paducah

1) Plenty of indoor and outdoor venues to support whatever your team does best

2) Over 2,000 rooms, including familiar brand favorites and historic boutique hotels

3) Just a half-day’s drive from four major cities

4) Top-notch amenities without the big-city price tag

5) Creative dining and shopping for all the moments between plays

PADUCAH CVB

Lynda Peters-Jones

lynda@paducah.travel (270) 443-8783 www.paducah.travel

PADUCAH SPORTS PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer and More Outdoor Sports

Expected to open in 2026, Paducah Sports Park will provide Kentucky with a state-of-the-art facility for outdoor community recreation and tournament play. The park will feature five welldesigned baseball diamonds and two softball diamonds, catering to players and teams of all ages and abilities. The park will include ten rectangular multipurpose fields, perfect for soccer, lacrosse and other field sports.

HOPKINSVILLE-CHRISTIAN COUNTY, KENTUCKY

Hopkinsville’s nickname is the “Batter Capital of the World.” While that nickname originates from globally recognizable batter mixes like Ghirardelli’s brownies and Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay biscuits, the city is also renowned for its award-winning baseball and softball complex, Tie Breaker Athletic Park

Along with top-notch sports facilities, both outdoors and indoors, there’s plenty to see and do in Hopkinsville. For family fun, Bluegrass Splash water park offers relaxing experiences like the lazy rippling river, as well as excitement at Hurricane Alley and Riptide Express. For a countryside getaway and farming experience, including a unique farm-themed mini golf course, Christian Way Farm has all ages covered.

For those wanting a deeper dive into the water, Pennyroyal Scuba Center offers unusually clear waters for divers along with warm southern hospitality. History buffs will enjoy Hopkinsville’s historic museums, containing the rich and sometimes bizarre history of southwestern Kentucky, such as tales of the Black Patch Tobacco Wars and the vigilante Night Riders.

PLANTERS BANK-JENNIE STUART HEALTH

SPORTSPLEX HOPKINSVILLE

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Football and More Indoor Sports

This 54,000-square-foot sportsplex offers multiple courts, making up 24,000 square feet of the total space, along with the synthetic turf BryMak Field. The crumb-rubber turf field is surrounded and enclosed by a BAP 3.0 Kick Series Dasher System with manually retractable soccer goal closure systems. BryMak Field may be lined for soccer, but it can be utilized for multiple sports as the facility also has 12 batting cages and can be transformed into an indoor golf driving range.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I had the BEST time here! The visiting center has lots of information and great displays of the towns local companies and history. If you forgot to get something from the local distilleries or just want a cute Hopkinsville souvenir this is the place to go! Another great

- Ericka Sims-Hall, Google Review

HOPKINSVILLECHRISTIAN COUNTY CVB

Amy Rogers

arogers@visithopkinsville com (270) 887-2300 www.visithopkinsville.com

TIEBREAKER ATHLETIC PARK Baseball, Softball

Tie Breaker Athletic Park is an award-winning baseball and softball complex that features five lighted fields with stateof-the-art playing surfaces. Permanent field distances are 310 feet, with temporary fencing available at 200 feet. The facility also includes covered spectator seating and concessions. Tie Breaker hosts local recreational events on weekdays and a full schedule of youth and adult baseball and softball travel team tournaments from April through early October.

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

Whether you are organizing a major regional tournament or just planning to catch a game, Lexington, Kentucky, or Lex for short, has everything you need for an exceptional sports experience.

For baseball fans, Lexington Legends games offer a great way to pass time at the ballpark, while soccer enthusiasts can cheer on the Boys or Gals in Green from Lexington Sporting Club at Toyota Stadium, which is located just outside of the city in nearby Georgetown.

Lexington also offers a lot of leisurely options to entertain the entire family. Visit the renowned Kentucky Horse Park and the International Museum of the Horse to learn more about equestrian history. Enjoy the unique blend of culture and tradition with Horse Farm and Bourbon Distillery Tours, or experience the excitement of live races at Keeneland Race Course

RUPP ARENA AT THE CENTRAL BANK CONVENTION CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports and Events

There has been a long-standing, winning tradition at Rupp Arena. Not only is it home to Kentucky’s very own University of Kentucky men’s basketball team, but it also hosts all sorts of additional sports tournaments and entertainment events. WIthin walking distance of five different hotels and a plethora of unique, award-winning restaurants, Rupp Arena is conveniently in the heart of Lexington.

LEXINGTON SPORTING CLUB SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Field Hockey, Lacrosse and More Outdoor Sports

Beyond being the home of Lexington Sporting Club (LSC), the USL League

One side’s home sports complex is also the perfect location to host a variety of other sporting events. With seven multipurpose turf fields, the complex can host a variety of sports. In September 2024, LSC completed their state-of-the art new stadium with seating for 7,500 fans.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“If you are looking to bring an event to a city that will meet the needs of your event and cater to the experience of your participants, Lexington is a nobrainer. Incredible event and sports facilities combined with top-tier dining and entertainment options will ensure that every group has a oncein-a-lifetime experience.”

-Byron Hicks, USA Ultimate VISITLEX

John Pohl

jpohl@visitlex.com (859) 244-7716 www.visitlex.com

ALLTECH ARENA AT KENTUCKY HORSE PARK

Equestrian, Rodeos, Indoor Football and More Sports and Events

Experience world-class facilities and immerse yourself in equestrian history, all in one great location. Originally built for the FEI World Equestrian Games, the 5,500-seat Alltech Arena at Kentucky Horse Park offers versatile space for a variety of events outside of equestrian superiority, being able to host all sorts of indoor sports and events.

By the Numbers

Virginia’s economic impact study highlights rapid growth in sports tourism industry

Virginia’s National Parks

From natural beauty to historic battlefields, there’s plenty to explore

Welcome to Virginia!

The Ultimate Destination for Your Sporting Event

Our world-class Sports Virginia partners are thrilled to welcome you, your athletes and their families to discover all that our state has to offer. Whether this is your first visit, or you’ve held events here before, there’s always something new and exciting to explore in the Commonwealth.

Sports Virginia: A Team of Experts Committed to Excellence

Sports Virginia is a statewide network of professionals, ranging from local convention and visitor bureaus to sports commissions, parks and recreation offices and top-notch facilities. With decades of experience in hosting successful sporting events, Virginia is dedicated to offering exceptional service and ensuring your event is a success.

Virginia: Where Sports and Adventure Come Together

Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and diverse culture, Virginia offers more than just world-class sports venues. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling theme parks or prefer the tranquility of over 60 state and national parks, Virginia is an adventure lover’s dream. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the birthplace of the nation, where every corner seems to echo stories of the past. From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to serene beaches, and from bustling cities to quaint small towns, Virginia has it all.

No matter where you go in Virginia, you’ll be met with the warm, welcoming charm of southern hospitality. With year-round attractions and a variety of activities, Virginia is the perfect place for athletes, families and spectators alike.

Plan Your Visit Today

For more information, visit SportsVirginia.org or contact Danish Saadat, National Sales & Marketing Manager at dsaadat@virginia.org. Come see why Virginia is for Sports Lovers!

Danish Saadat

National Sales & Marketing Manager

Virginia Tourism/Sports Virginia 804-545-5543 • dsaadat@virginia.org

Scan to discover more of what Virginia offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

NWBA Adult & Junior Wheelchair Basketball Courtesy of Sports Virginia

ON THE COVER: Jackalope is a 3 day vibrant festival renowned for its unique atmosphere.

Photo courtesy of Sports Virginia

HAPPINESS IS MAKING ROOM FOR

This coastal hotspot charms athletes, planners, and fans alike. With over 35 multi-purpose fields and exceptional indoor facilities, events can be planned year-round (such as the East Coast Surfing Championships).

Top venues include the Virginia Beach Sports Center with expansive volleyball and basketball courts plus a 200-meter hydraulic banked track.

The LEED Gold Virginia Beach Convention Center offers a 150,000 sq. ft. column free exhibit hall. For outdoor sports, the Princess Anne Athletic Complex boasts impressive facilities, hosting everything from lacrosse championships to cornhole tournaments and more. Get ready to catch the wave in this unbeatable sporting paradise!

By the Numbers: VIRGINIA’S SPORTS TOURISM RISE

Virginia’s economic impact study highlights rapid growth in sports tourism industry

By Christopher D. Silbernagel

Virginia has some of the best golf courses in the country.

VVirginia’s successful economic impact in the sports tourism industry is no secret. The 2023 State of the Industry Report by the Sports Events and Tourism Association (Sports ETA) revealed the Commonwealth of Virginia is among the top 10 states in the U.S. for most economic impact. These annual reports by Sports ETA are all encompassing, which means that they provide data on a national scale without great depth for specific states.

Virginia set out to change that with its own in-depth report at the state level. While it is not an annual report, the Economic Impact of Sports Tourism in Virginia has set new standards for states across the country, helping to better understand why the industry is critically important to statewide growth by example of Virginia’s continued success by the numbers.

The Core Numbers

Released in 2023 by Virginia Tourism Corporation, in collaboration with Oxford-based Tourism Economics, the Economic Impact of Sports Tourism in Virginia provides data from 2019 through 2022. Splitting the state into four regions—Central & Southern, Northern, Coastal and Western—the report takes into account adult and youth amateur events and collegiate tournaments, not collegiate regular season games or professional sports.

There have been arguments that sports facilities themselves do not bring in enough revenue to account for the cost of being built, but Virginia’s study highlights why they are important on a greater scale. While tournament operations in the state accounted for $289.3 million, sports traveler visitor spending accounted for $2.4 billion across all communities, bringing the direct spending impact to $2.7 billion—up 12 percent from the previous year. That $2.4 billion came from visitor spending at restaurants, hotels, retailers and other local businesses.

“Understanding the economic impact of sports tourism is crucial for driving local support and maximizing the benefits for our communities,” said Megan Hazzard, manager of business development and event operations at Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority. “[The report provides] insights into job creation, revenue growth and tax revenues from sports events and facilities throughout the Commonwealth and helps identify which bring the most benefits.”

The Greater Economic Impact on Virginia

It’s critical to understand where these economic impact numbers come from and ultimately the wider scale of sports tourism’s importance. According to the report, 12.1-million sports travelers attended a sports tournament, race or other event in 2022, with approximately 45 percent staying overnight and the remaining 55 percent visiting for a day. From lodging to transportation, all four regions of the state reported higher direct spending in almost every sector, even when compared to 2019’s pre-pandemic numbers.

“The 2023 U.S. Youth Soccer Eastern Regional generated over 7,000 room nights and $8 million in economic impact for Northern Virginia, which added to the post-pandemic recovery,” said Torye Hurst, national sports sales manager

at Visit Loudoun, who also commented on the importance of having plentiful and up-to-date facilities. “We are only as good as our sports venues and several have been added in recent years such as Hal & Bernie Hanson Regional Park, Ion International Training Center, Segra Field and the future looks especially bright with the addition of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Campus in Fall 2026.”

Sports travelers in 2022 generated a total fiscal tax impact of $645.2 million, of which $165.9 million was collected by the state government and $177.9 million by local governments. As growth continued post-pandemic, this also directly impacted the state’s workforce with the industry supporting 28,138 full-time and part-time jobs.

“Sports tourism represents 73 percent of the Richmond Region’s overall group bookings,” said Jerrine Lee, vice president of sales at Richmond Region Tourism. “Our small businesses see the impact of tournaments and events as teams, families and fans visit restaurants and stores before and after games. The report allows us to keep the business community informed and engaged on sports tourism’s economic impact.”

Discover the Full Depth of Virginia’s Work

Overall, the sports tourism economic impact accounts for eight percent of the tourism economy in Virginia. This may not have seemed like much at first glance, but breaking down the industry’s numbers first and understanding exactly what that percentage represents, it highlights for destinations across the state the reason to keep building new facilities or repurposing existing infrastructure, improving existing ones and spending more money and effort into this rapidly growing industry.

For more information, please visit the official Virginia Tourism Corporation website. vatc.org/research/sportstourism-impact

Sports have made a big economic impact on Virginia.

VIRGINIA’S NATIONAL PARKS

Possess Both Captivating Scenery and History

From natural beauty to historic battlefields, there’s plenty to explore and take in at Virginia’s parks

By Kristen Cerney

Virginia’s parks offer a unique tapestry brimming with a storied past.

WWith Virginia’s enchanting natural beauty and colorful history, visiting the state’s national and state parks creates unforgettable experiences.

From the jagged cliffs at Shenandoah National Park to the beautiful grasslands at Petersburg National Battlefield, Virginia’s parks offer a unique tapestry brimming with a storied past.

Shenandoah National Park

Nestled at the summit of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park spans over 200,000 acres of natural splendor, including over 100 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail. Amid the trees and ever-changing topography, 500 miles of hiking trails wind throughout the entire park, from mountain peaks to hollow woodlands.

The unbridled beauty of this park is also a refuge to over 50 mammal species and 20-plus reptile and amphibian species. Both resident and transient birds find safety within the oak-hickory forests. The 570-million-year-old sheer, jagged cliffs of Stony Man are classified as greenstones, which make up the highest peak at the park.

Great Falls Park

The Potomac River collects drainage from a vast 15,000 square miles of land causing rapid currents throughout Great Falls National Park. The breadth of the Falls’ rivers ranges between 60 to 100 feet, slimming as it feeds into Mather Gorge. The topography’s formation makes this environment perfect for flooding, as the surging current of the Potomac River must funnel through the restricted chokepoint. Flooding is frequent, promoting healthy plantlife, such as sticky goldenrod, as water provides efficient means of transport for sediment and seeds.

The three overlooks offer splendid views of Rapid Falls, with Overlook Three allowing visitors the most head-on perspective of the Great Falls.

Historic Jamestown

The Jamestown Rediscovery project commenced in 1994 under the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA)—now Preservation Virginia—with the goal to locate the original James Fort, ca 1607–1624. The search has been successful in finding the region of the fort and principal buildings, and unearthed more than three millionartifacts. Researchers have been able to understand details about the early settlers’ life and their relationship with Native Americans.

The history is one riddled with disease, famine and violence. The Virginia Company settlers arrived on Jamestown Island on May 14, 1607 with intentions to make an English colony. Within days, the Powhatan people attacked, beginning what would be a tumultuous relationship between the two groups. Eventually the settlers were able to create the first permanent colony in North America.

Fort Monroe

Encircled by Chesapeke Bay at Old Point Comfort, this former military installation’s history is absorbed with the lives of the Powhatan People, early English colonization and military

Virginia is home to an array of beautiful natural attractions.

occupation. The surrounding area has a touch of natural beauty, historical significance and everything in between.

The Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center welcomes visitors to Fort Monroe, which puts on exquisite exhibits and works to commemorate the historical feats of this location. The center highlights the intersection of three cultures throughout 400 years of documented history: Native American, African and European.

The Casemate Museum is housed within the Fort, focusing on the seacoast fortifications at Old Point Comfort. Visitors will learn about the history of Indigenous Americans, the first English colonists, seacoast fortifications and casemates, refuge for Contraband and much more.

Manassas National Battlefield

On the fields overlooking Bull Run, a brutal battle between Union and Confederate armies occurred on July 21, 1861, becoming the first of many land battles among the two parties. Over a year later in August 1862, they clashed again in the plains of Manassas in a catastrophic battle, with double the amount of soldiers and quintuple the amount of casualties.

In an effort to humanize the soldiers from these battles, the museum at Manassas displays authentic uniforms worn by real soldiers and artillery used in the war. These fields in Manassas are one of the last native grasslands in the nation, so not only is history being preserved and protected, but so is the environment.

Petersburg National Battlefield

Throughout the beginning of the Civil War, Petersburg had the most freed slaves of any Southern city, making up nearly 35-percent of the entire African-American population at the time. Both freedmen and enslaved men were used as manual labor, making a ten-mile defensive line of trenches around the city.

The Siege of Petersburg took place over nine and a half months, ending with 70,000 casualties and the defeat of Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. The Union’s Gen. Ulysses S. Grant stopped all supply trails, leading to Richmond’s capture on April 3, 1865.

STAFFORD, VIRGINIA

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. Explore the running grounds for a young George Washington at George Washington Ferry Farm. The site offers visitors a chance to tour the grounds where Washington and his family, including his mother Mary lived, guided or individually for a fair price. Travelers of all ages will be able to find something to do along Stafford’s Kegs and Corks Trail and the variety of breweries, in which visitors can get a free pass to have access to rewards as they visit them. Some venues include 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company in which one can order a variety of foods like subs burgers and kid offerings, along with their popular beer selection for adults.

EMBREY MILL PARK

Soccer, Football, Field Hockey, Lacrosse

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.

JEFF ROUSE SWIM AND SPORTS CENTER

Swimming, Diving, Water Polo, Water Sports

This 76,000 square-foot 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 wellness pool. Additionally, the Rouse Center features a full-size basketball court, a group exercise studio, a fitness floor and restrooms.

POTOMAC RIVER Kayak Bass Fishing, Bass Fishing, Water Sports

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.

DISC GOLF Disc Golf

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.

CHICHESTER PARK

Baseball and Softball

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.

GOLF COURSES

Golf

The Gauntlet Golf Club and Augustine Golf Club are premier golf courses with turn-key services, on-site restaurant and bar, and beautiful atmosphere for any tournament.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“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

STAFFORD TOURISM

Lisa Logan

Tourism Program Director 540-658-4580

Tourism@staffordcountyva.gov www.tourstaffordva.com/sports/

The Gauntlet Golf Club and Augustine Golf Club are premier golf courses.

HAMPTON, VIRGINIA

Hampton, Virginia is a city with an old soul and a youthful enthusiasm. This Coastal Virginia vacation destination is a convention city that welcomes visitors with charming hospitality, multifaceted attractions and activities and an atmosphere of discovery. The Sea to the Stars ticket is a combination ticket of five destinations including museums, a harbor tour and ride on a historic carousel. Purchase this ticket good for one-time admission to the Virginia Air & Space Center, IMAX Theater, Miss Hampton II Harbor Cruise, Hampton History Museum and the Hampton Carousel at the low price of $39 for adults, $25 youth ages 4-11. This ticket can be purchased at the Hampton Visitor Center (inside Hampton History Museum) and the Virginia Air & Space Center. Call 757/727-1102 or 757/727-8311 for details. Virginia Air & Space Science Center, located in downtown Hampton, offers spacious galleries. The new Space Explorer Gallery opened in December 2020 and showcases artifacts in innovative and exciting ways.

HAMPTON VIRGINIA AQUAPLEX & SPLASHDOWN PARK

Swimming, Diving, Water Polo

The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex, Virginia’s largest competitive aquatic facility, made its debut fall of 2022. The Aquaplex was designed for Mid-Atlantic and national competitive swimming, diving, water polo, and other aquatic sport events – or for fun in the outdoor splash park.

HAMPTON ROADS CONVENTION CENTER

Indoor Athletic Events

Boasting 35 flexible event spaces with the capacity for up to 14,000 delegates, as well as a 102,600-square-foot exhibit hall (divisible by three), the Hampton Roads Convention Center, is the perfect venue for any indoor athletic event. Over 2,700 hotel rooms in close proximity, including an awardwinning Embassy Suites hotel, support the center.

LANGLEY SPEEDWAY

Racing

Home to the only weekly racing series in Hampton Roads, races at Langley Speedway feature Grand Stocks, Modifieds, Legends, Super Trucks, UCARS, Super Street and NASCAR Weekly Racing Series Late Models.

BOO WILLIAMS SPORTSPLEX

Aerobics, Basketball, Bodybuilding, Boxing, Cheerleading, Fencing, Field Hockey, Gymnastics

The 135,000 square-foot sportsplex is specifically designed for amateur sporting competition. The Sportsplex can host a variety of athletic events including, aerobics, basketball, bodybuilding, boxing, cheerleading, fencing, field hockey, gymnastics, indoor track, martial arts, table tennis and more.

Hampton Coliseum

HAMPTON COLISEUM

Basketball, Wrestling

One of the most recognizable architectural jewels in all of Hampton Roads, Hampton Coliseum is set on 75 acres adjacent to the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The venue opened in 1970 – the first large multipurpose arena in the Hampton Roads region and the state of Virginia. With a 120’x240’ arena floor, 84,000sqft of exhibit space, NCAA spec sports lights with pre-set focus.

BUCKROE BEACH

Swimming, Walking, Biking

Lapped by the gentle waters of the Chesapeake Bay, Buckroe Beach is one of Hampton’s most scenic spots. This three-quarter mile beach is the perfect outdoor playground for sports enthusiasts and recreational beachgoers alike. Buckroe Beach offers eight acres of family-friendly sandy beach, a playground for children, a great walking and bike path, and spacious car park areas.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“USA Artistic Swimming partnered with Hampton CVB to host our largest event of the seasons, Junior Olympic Championship. Hampton CVB provided incredible support leading up to our event, attending all planning and operation meetings and were onsite daily to make sure the event ran smoothly. We could not have hosted this event without their support. Many members of their team assisted in set up, volunteer roles and pack out. USAAS looks forward to hosting again with Hampton CVB.”

— Baylee Robinson, events and membership director, USA Artistic Swimming

HAMPTON CVB

Jay Richardson (757) 728-5313

James.richardson@hamptoncvb.com visithampton.com

HENRICO COUNTY, VIRGINIA

The Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority is responsible for Henrico County, Virginia’s sports tourism program which brings in over $70 million in economic impact annually as well as the management of Henrico’s public/private investments. This includes the indoor athletic and events center at Virginia Center Commons and the future build of the 17,000-seat arena at the GreenCity site. Looking for fun activities nearby? Renowned as one of the nation’s top gardens, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden was honored by the Travel Channel as one of the best botanical gardens in the U.S. Also located in Richmond, Virginia, Short Pump Town Center is a premier open-air shopping mall renowned for its exceptional shopping and dining experiences. Embark on unforgettable adventures at Kings Dominion, offering some of the best attractions near Richmond. Featuring over 60 rides, shows, attractions, a dedicated kids’ area, and a waterpark, Kings Dominion promises fun for all ages. Experience the joy of America’s favorite pastime at a Richmond Flying Squirrels game, the region’s minor league baseball team.

RF&P PARK

Baseball, Softball

This facility 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.

HENRICO SPORTS & EVENTS CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal

Henrico’s new $50 million indoor sports and event center is 185,000 square feet in total and located just off I-95 in the northern part of the county. The venue features 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-plus seat arena with stadium seating.

DOREY PARK

Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Soccer, Football

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. The park is home to a five-acre lake with the entire shoreline accessible, six multipurpose fields, four tournament fields, convertible for softball or youth baseball.

Sports and Events Center

GLOVER PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Quadball, Volleyball

Glover Park features four synthetic turf multipurpose fields with lights, eight sand volleyball courts, restrooms, and a parking lot. Future construction will add six artificial turf baseball fields, a running trail, a playground, and other features. This tournament-quality complex is consistently used for local schools, recreation leagues, and tournament play.

POUNCEY TRACT PARK Pickleball

This park features 12 pickleball courts with lights, softball and multi-purpose athletic fields, picnic facilities, and an accessible and inclusive playground. 12 additional courts, including two championship-caliber courts, are currently under construction. The park has hosted the World Pickleball Tour Tournament.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“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

HENRICO SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT AUTHORITY

Michael McCormack (804) 501-4142 michael@henricosea.com www.henricosea.com

Megan Hazzard (804) 501-5221 megan@henricosea.com www.henricosea.com

Henrico

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA

Fredericksburg, Virginia is the place where everything comes together. It is a city defined by its authenticity, offering a wide range of experiences from art galleries and historical sites to chef-owned restaurants and craft breweries. A visit to Fredericksburg is unforgettable.

Restored to house the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, this 18th-century building is now a museum of medicine, pharmacy, and military and political affairs. Dr. Hugh Mercer cared for the citizens of Fredericksburg for fifteen years with contemporary medicines and treatments, including leeches, lancets, snakeroot, and crab claws.

Fun Land of Fredericksburg features a slew of great attractions including Thunder Speedway, go-karts, batting cages, Rocky River golf and mini bowling. The arcade is one of the largest game rooms in Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Maryland.

Downtown Fredericksburg is where history meets modern in the heart of a vibrant community nestled along the Rappahannock River. The downtown is a hub of local flavor, locally owned boutiques, mouthwatering eateries and cool craft breweries. Whether you’re into vintage finds, farm-to-table dining, or sampling the latest brews, you’ll find it all here within the Fredericksburg Main Street district

But Downtown Fredericksburg isn’t just about shopping and dining—it’s a cultural hotspot too. Explore art galleries showcasing the works of local creatives or enjoy live music venues for a taste of our eclectic scene. And when you’re ready to embrace the outdoors, the riverfront and green spaces offer the perfect backdrop for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

FREDERICKSBURG CONVENTION CENTER

Volleyball, Basketball, Wrestling, Boxing

Fredericksburg Convention Center is a 110,000-square-foot facility capable of hosting a variety of sports events including fencing, gymnastics, drone competitions, volleyball, basketball, wrestling and much more for 3,400 attendees. Exhibit Hall A & B combined are 80,000 square feet with 60-foot-wide distances between columns. The ceiling is 30′ high at the center and slopes down to 26′ on the sides.

VIRGINIA CREDIT UNION STADIUM Baseball, Any Sport Requiring One Field

A brand new, state of the art stadium, Virginia Credit Union Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium that sports 5,000 seats, a 200-seat club facility, and 13 suites. It is home to the Fredericksburg Nationals, a minor league baseball team of the Carolina League and an affiliate of the Washington Nationals, since 2021.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Working with the team at the Economic Development and Tourism at the city of Fredericksburg is a delight. True professionals with a “can do attitude” and creative thinking make event planning in Fredericksburg easy. The city, the people and its history are a treasure that can embrace any event idea and make it grow and be successful.” – Angela Anderson, Deputy Director, Marine Corps Marathon Organization

FREDERICKSBURG ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM

Victoria Matthews vamatthews@ fredericksburgva.gov (540) 372-1216 www.fxbg.com

DIXON PARK

Ultimate Frisbee, Bike Races, Lacrosse

This outdoor facility is 46 acres and features athletic fields, including a free play field for community use, an outdoor swimming pool, playground equipment, 1.5 miles of trails, restrooms, an outdoor roller hockey rink, bike rack, and nature preserve areas. There are 10 fields that can be oriented to different sizes and directions. They vary in size from 30 yd. x 50 yd. to the largest at 110 yd. x 140 yd. Great for soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, and Kickball.

LYH WELCOMES YOU

Home of the Virginia 10 Miler, the Virginia Commonwealth Games and the 2024 Professional Disc Golf Association Pro World Championships, LYH is a small city with a big heart, ready to welcome sports fans and athletes of all ages.

LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA

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. Team friendly lodging, dining and entertainment, coupled with city-owned facilities and state-of-the-art athletic venues, make Lynchburg an ideal location for team sporting events and family recreation. Peaks View Park has three lighted tennis courts, seven multi-purpose fields (soccer, football, softball, baseball,) volleyball courts, a basketball court, mountain bike trails, a pump track, and a disc golf course. Disc golf is a popular pastime for visitors; the course can be accessed at all three entrances. The park also has a popular playground. James River Adventures is located in Amherst County across from historic downtown Lynchburg where you can enjoy cruising the city’s riverfront.

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.

LIBERTY INDOOR TRACK & FIELD COMPLEX

Track, Field, Judo, Jujutsu, Ninja Challenge, Tae Kwon Do, Wrestling, Aquathon

Liberty University added a stateof-the-art 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.

LYNCHBURG CITY STADIUM AND BANK OF THE JAMES STADIUM

Football, Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer

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.

LIBERTY NATATORIUM

Swimming and Diving

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 ninelane, 50-meter pool with a moveable bulkhead.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“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

https://www.lynchburgvirginia.org/

Lynchburg

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA

Richmond is aptly named, rich in American history as the site of significant events, including Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech. Unforgettable adventures await at Kings Dominion, featuring over 60 rides, shows, attractions, a kids’ area, and the waterpark Soak City, which offers thrilling water slides, splash pads, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Located just 30 minutes from Richmond, the Keystone Antique Truck and Tractor Museum showcases a century of agricultural heritage, featuring fully restored antique farm tractors, classic cars, and vintage memorabilia. Pocahontas State Park, 20 miles from downtown, offers boating, picnicking, camping, and hiking, with rentals available at Swift Creek Lake. The park boasts over 58 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. While there, visitors can also explore the unique Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. Additionally, Taylor Farm Park is Varina’s first new large community park since 1982, spanning over 99 acres and providing recreational opportunities for everyone.

VISIT RICHMOND

Gerald Taylor (804) 720-6208

gtaylor@visitrichmondva.com www.visitrichmondva.com/sports/

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We’ve hosted events in Richmond since 2019 and have had wonderful experiences every time. The venues are great, the staff is even greater. We look forward to events in Richmond because we always feel so accommodated and taken care of.”

– Joelle Nguyen Spikeball Roundnet Association

GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER

Multisport

The 700,000-square-foot facility has enough room to fit four football fields. The largest interior accommodations include 178,159 square feet of contiguous exhibit space accessible by an adjacent loading dock. The 30,550-square-foot The GRCC consists of 36 meeting rooms, including a 258 fixed-seat amphitheater with built-in hardwood stage and AV equipment.

SWIMRVA

Swimming

SwimRVA is a state-ofthe-art, 54,000 square-foot facility features the 50-meter competition pool used in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials where World records were set. The 50-meter, 8-lane Myrtha competition pool has movable bulkheads that convert to 22-short course lanes. In addition to the competition pool, the facility is home to a 25-yard, 6-lane multipurpose pool that allows for warm-up/ cool-down to run concurrently. Unobstructed grandstand seating for 700.

GLOVER PARK

Baseball, Volleyball, Soccer

Undergoing an expension that will be complete in 2025, Glover Park will feature 6 multipurpose turf fields with lights, 8 sand volleyball courts, and 6 full-size turf baseball fields built to NCAA regulations. Additionally, it will include a 1.75-acre turf dog park, a 5K trail, two playgrounds, a restroom complex, shade shelters, and plenty of parking, along with various recreational amenities for your teams to enjoy off the field.

POLE GREEN PARK

Cross Country, Softball, Soccer, Football

This is a 232-acre park that include multiple cross country course designs that are some of the most iconic crosscountry courses in Virgina. This cross-country facility has hosted many USATF National Championships and College Conference Championships. The site also has softball fields, soccer fields/football fields, a skate park, concession building with restrooms,and community center.

James River

VIRGINIA’S BLUE RIDGE

Virginia’s Blue Ridge has developed a national reputation for hosting world class sporting events. Our combination of awardwinning sports facilities, convenient location in the Mid-Atlantic, and exceptional service, will provide your players, coaches, and fans with an outstanding time in the heart of the Roanoke Region.

There are indoor and outdoor venues to accommodate all types of sports throughout the year, and the team at Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge will work with you to find lodging, dining, and recreation opportunities that offer an all-around experience. The City of Salem, known as “Virginia’s Championship City,” has hosted over 100 NCAA Championships including football, softball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse and volleyball. Virginia’s Blue Ridge is home to an impressive resume of nationally recognized events, including the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl, Carilion Clinic IRONMAN 70.3 Virginia’s Blue Ridge, USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championships, Virginia’s Blue Ridge GO Cross Cyclocross Race, etc.

Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a family-friendly destination that offers visitors a first-class metro mountain sports experience. With over 1,000 miles of trails, a buzzing culinary scene, and several family friendly attractions, you’ll have plenty to experience during your visit. It’s always championship season in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. To learn more, check out visitvbr.com/sports

JAMES I. MOYER SPORTS COMPLEX – NEWLY RENOVATED

Softball, Baseball, Pickleball

The newly renovated James I. Moyer Sports Complex has hosted thousands of softball teams ranging from youth, adult, and high school events to collegiate and national level events. This facility reopened in July 2024 after undergoing renovations featuring major player, coach and fan enhancements. The complex now also boasts 13 pickleball courts.

BERGLUND CENTER

Basketball, Hockey, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Wrestling, Boxing, Cornhole, Cheerleading

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 COLLEGE CREGGER CENTER/DONALD J. KERR STADIUM

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 eightlane, 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 and features seating for 1,400 fans.

2022 NCAA DIII Women’s Lacrosse Championship

TALIAFERRO

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX

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 Carilion Clinic Field at Salem Memorial Ballpark, all located approximately one mile southeast of downtown Salem.

BOTETOURT SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Cross Country, Disc Golf

The Botetourt Sports Complex is located within the 125-acre Greenfield Recreation Park which features a crosscountry 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.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“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 and beautiful climbs.”

— Nicola Cranmer, General Manager, VBR TWENTY24 Pro Cycling Team

VISIT VIRGINIA’S BLUE RIDGE John Oney, STS joney@visitvbr.com 540-342-6025, 115 www.visitvbr.com/sports

LOUDOUN, VIRGINIA

Located less than an hour from Washington, D.C., Loudoun County is home to Dulles International Airport. Far enough north for winter sports, yet far enough south for outdoor tournaments, Loudoun is an ideal location for any type of sports tournament. Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the shores of the Potomac River , it guarantees you will not only get a great venue, but one with some spectacular views as well for the outdoor enthusiast. Loudoun is a mature sports destination with a vibrant and supportive sports community. It has a proven track record of hosting successful events. This area is rich in culinary and historical attractions, recreation opportunities, and other things to do that will engage outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs alike.

Topgolf D.C. Loudoun is the premier entertainment destination in Ashburn, VA. Enjoy year-round comfort in hitting bays with cooling fans in the summer and heated bays in the winter, all with HDTVs in every bay and throughout our sports bar and restaurant.

BRAMBLETON SPORTSPLEX

Baseball, Softball

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.

HANSON PARK

Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Cricket

A 257-acre regional park featuring 11 multi-purpose fields including two turf championship fields with stadium seating and press boxes, four baseball/softball fields, batting cages, a cricket pitch, four pickleball/tennis courts, disc golf course and a skate plaza. Additional amenities include picnic pavilions, two dog parks, splash pad and a playground with rubberized surface.

ION INTERNATIONAL TRAINING CENTER

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 fullservice 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.

POTOMACK LAKES SPORTSPLEX

Soccer, Softball

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 200foot temporary fences as well as six large, irrigated, adjacent soccer fields.

SEGRA FIELD Soccer

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. Segra Field has a seating capacity of 5,000 and includes eight, 24-person suites, which are available for groups.

VA REVOLUTION SPORTSPLEX

Multipurpose Outdoor, Soccer

The nearly 44-acre facility features four fully lit, oversized 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.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“2024 was the eighth year USSSA has held our Eastern National Championship in Loudoun County. Their fields and

facilities

are second to none. Add in exceptional

and endless

entertainment

lodging

for the whole family, and it is no wonder our first choice is Loudoun County. They are a home run!”

—

Torye Hurst hurst@visitloudoun.org (703) 669-2005 visitloudoun.org/sports

Andy Wisk, Program Operations, USSSA East

Bears Den Overlook

CHESTERFIELD,

VIRGINIA

With nearly 60 public parks and 4,000 acres of green space, Chesterfield County, Virginia offers unlimited opportunities for visitors and residents to enjoy outdoor recreation and leisure. The county is home to numerous athletic complexes, making it a perfect place to host major sporting and athletic events. From the field to the fun, your time in Chesterfield is what drives us. Come for the sport, and stay for the experience.

Chesterfield is also home to excellent attractions including the Metro Richmond Zoo, where you can find more than 2,000 animals representing 190 species from around the world. Experience the zoo through rides, ziplining, animal encounters, and more! Indulge in fine dining and premier shopping at Westchester Commons Shopping Center, a destination shopping complex located in Midlothian. Enjoy unique exhibits and hands-on learning for children of all ages at the Children’s Museum of Richmond – Chesterfield location. Or, visit Henricus Historical Park, our living history destination park visited by thousands each year. Here, you can participate in daily interpretation, programs, and special events.

Make the most of your time in Chesterfield, Virginia and explore all the area has to offer. From family-friendly attractions to outdoor recreation opportunities and everything in between, Chesterfield’s variety of fun and adventure is unmatched.

RIVER CITY SPORTSPLEX

Soccer, Football, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, Spikeball, Quadball

Looking for a state-of-the-art facility?

You’ve found it. With 115 acres and 16 synthetic turf fields and conveniently located within a day’s drive of half the United States population, River City Sportsplex in Chesterfield County, Virginia is the Mid-Atlantic’s premier tournament destination and the perfect location for your next event.

THE DIAMONDS AT IRON BRIDGE Baseball/Softball

Located on Route 10 across from the Chesterfield County Airport, the Diamonds at Iron Bridge is the county’s newest 6-field baseball/softball destination complex. The facility is located within Harry G. Daniel Park, which is the county’s largest with 187 acres that features 14 total baseball/ softball fields, soccer and football fields, basketball, tennis, pickleball, trails, picnic shelters, playground, the First Tee Chesterfield golf course, and more.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Sports Tourism in Chesterfield County is top notch. As a college coach, I have been able to attend many well-run events very close to home and recruit kids who want to play at the next level. The staff out there is always super friendly. I have never told them who I am, they are just a good group of people who work hard and make people feel welcome.”

- Josh Laux, Head Men’s Soccer Coach, Randolph Macon College

PLAY CHESTERFIELD

Matt Mullen

mullens@chesterfield.gov (804) 748-1078

playchesterfield.com

Katie Hardell

hardellk@chesterfield.gov (804) 748-1096

playchesterfield.com

SWIMRVA Swimming

SwimRVA is a state-of-the-art, 54,000 square-foot facility that features a 50-meter competition pool used in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials. The 8-lane Myrtha competition pool has movable bulkheads that convert to 22 shortcourse lanes. In addition, the facility is home to a 25-yard, 6-lane multipurpose pool that allows for warm-up/cool-down to run concurrently. There is grandstand seating for 700 spectators with unobstructed views making this a very spectator-friendly facility.

VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA

Perfectly situated where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay is the vibrant coastal community of Virginia Beach. With warm, moderate weather, this year-round destination features beautiful beaches, an abundance of outdoor activities and water sports, a thriving arts scene, fresh dining options and a choice of affordable accommodations.

Visitors can explore seven unique beaches and districts including the popular Oceanfront , which features the lively Virginia Beach Boardwalk , a 3-mile-long stretch brimming with bars and restaurants, parks, museums and entertainment.

Other local attractions include something for all interests. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is the fourth-oldest lighthouse in the country and offers unparalleled views from the 360-degree lantern room, while 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. First Landing State Park , the mostvisited park in Virginia, is a nature-lover’s dream, and the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is perfect for marine enthusiasts. From hiking and biking trails to world-class entertainment, Virginia Beach is where athletes come for sports events and also enjoy a premium vacation destination.

VIRGINIA BEACH SPORTS CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Indoor Track

And Field, Indoor Field Hockey

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 and a 200-meter, hydraulically banked track.

PRINCESS ANNE ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Lacrosse, Football, Soccer, Softball

This complex features 16 Muscolit, multi-purpose 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.

VIRGINIA BEACH CONVENTION CENTER

Wrestling, Badminton, Fencing, Gymnastics, Cheer/Dance

Host your next sporting event in the beautiful, eco-friendly Virginia Beach Convention Center. The LEED® Goldcertified center features more than 500,00 square feet of state-of-the-art event space, including 150,000 square feet of column-free exhibit hall space, 26 meeting rooms, portable walls and a staging area.

Jackalope Festival 2024

VIRGINIA BEACH OCEANFRONT

Fat Tire Biking, Roller Skating, Running, Soccer, Surfing, Ultimate Frisbee, Beach Volleyball

This pristine waterfront is home to a 28-foot-wide 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.

HAMPTON ROADS SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Camps, Clinics

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 7,000 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).

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The accessibility of Virginia Beach really does allow us to attract the national audience.”

— Bob Ferraro, Executive Director, NHSC

VISIT VIRGINIA BEACH

Dani Timm

dtimm@VisitVirginiaBeach.com (757) 385-6648

visitvirginiabeach.com/sports

WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA

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. Williamsburg is home to some of the best museums in the country, a variety of outdoor activities and has an abundance of excellent food and drink options. From history buffs and foodie tours to family time and girlfriend getaways, discover the ideal escape and the perfect perks that will add even more value to priceless time together.

VISIT WILLIAMSBURG

Morgan Cordle (757) 920-6294

morgan.cordle@visitwilliamsburg.com visitwilliamsburg.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Great organization to work with. Very involved in the whole planning process and execution. Made our National Softball Association World Series a success.”

— Mark Cooke, President and Owner, Firecracker Sports

Come to Battle. Stay to Play.

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.

KIWANIS PARK

Baseball, Softball, Tennis

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.

WARHILL SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer

This 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 fullsize soccer fields, six synthetic turf multi-use fields, and a concession building.

MCREYNOLDS ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse

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 PARK AND REC. CENTER

Softball, Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Dance, Aerobics

Quarterpath can hold outdoor or indoor league play, and showcase events. This 23-acre 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.

College of William & Mary

2025 GUIDE

FLORIDA

Florida Helps its Athletes Realize Their Olympic Dreams

The Sunshine State fuels future champions in all sports

Florida is Home to Many Great Sporting Destinations

We spotlight cities across the state that will host your event

People love sports.

Whether they’re athletes or fans, they crave the excitement and energy that sports culture brings. Elevate your amateur or professional sporting event by choosing a destination overflowing with opportunity and unforgettable experiences for both athletes and fans.

Florida’s got what you need—and the people to make it happen. We know how crucial it is for events to run smoothly when athletes are competing, and fans are cheering. With 37 partner organizations across the state, Florida is armed with the resources and behind-the-scenes support to ensure your event is a success. Our state boasts thousands of world-class indoor and outdoor sporting venues. Pair that with ideal weather year-round makes the Sunshine State the perfect setting for any competition.

There are plenty of reasons why Florida is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Travelling to Florida is a breeze, as our hotels and restaurants are experts in delivering world-class service. After the game, athletes and fans can enjoy our serene beaches that line both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. For those who love the great outdoors, our state and national parks offer stunning settings for hiking, canoeing, fishing, and more. History buffs can explore artifacts from our nation’s past, including the oldest city in America. And for those seeking family fun, Florida’s amusement parks are said to be - magical.

When choosing the next destination for your event, remember: Florida’s got what you need to succeed. We look forward to hosting you in the Sunshine State!

Sincerely,

The Florida Sports Foundation

Scan to discover more of what Florida offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Florida hosts a slew of great college athletes.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Sports Foundation

World Master Athletics ßIndoor Championships

Photo courtesy of the Gainesville Sports Commission ON THE COVER: Skyway Bridge

Photo courtesy of the St. Pete-Clearwater Sports Commission

Florida helps many athletes achieve their dream of competing in the Olympics.

FLORIDA HELPS ITS ATHLETES

REALIZE THEIR OLYMPIC DREAMS

The Sunshine State fuels future champions in all sports

By Jason Paha

From its inception, Florida has been renowned as a state where great athletes hone their skills. The 2024 Paris Olympics were another example of that as the Sunshine State sports the second-most Olympians of any state with 47.

Among the luminaries who represented Florida in Paris were swimmer and eight-time gold medalist Caeleb Dressel (the third largest gold medal tally in Olympics history); Perry Baker, who set a men’s rugby sevens Olympic record after scoring four tries in a victory over

Florida historically has sent a multitude of legends to the Olympics over the years.

Uruguay; Coco Gauff, who is a women’s tennis superstar and was named a flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony; Ashleigh Johnson, a Princeton University alum and the first Black athlete to make the U.S. Olympic team in water polo; and Sha’Carri Richardson, who captured the silver medal in the women’s 100 meters.

Olympic excellence is nothing new for Florida, as the state has historically sent a multitude of legends to the Olympics over the years including swimmer and 12-time medalist Dara Torres; swimmer and 11-time medalist Ryan Lochte; famed diver Greg Louganis and five-time Olympic medalist Justin Gatlin, who qualified in the 100 and 200 meters at 34 years of age.

Florida Is No. 1

The state of Florida is a standard bearer in numerous categories. It is ranked No. 1 in domestic travel; has the longest coastline (1,197 statute miles) in the contiguous United States, with 825 miles of accessible beaches to enjoy; is the boating and fishing capital of the world; and ranks highest for sports tourism economic impact.

Florida is also the theme park epicenter of the world. Many family entertainment titans reside in Florida, including Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND and Busch Gardens. Florida is also home to 15 Major League Baseball teams in the month of March for Spring Training, where more than 35 million fans have attended games in Florida since 2000. The state saw more than 1.4 million fans in south Florida ballparks in March 2024 alone.

And with a host of incredible destinations including Jacksonville, Panama City Beach, Miami, the Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Naples and the Palm Beaches, to name a few, it’s no surprise Florida was again voted the No. 1 domestic tourist destination in the United States.

Olympic License Plate Helps Propel Athletes

The state has also proven to be a trailblazer in the way it helps its younger athletes prosper.

The Florida Sports Foundation features a license plate program in which state residents can select from a variety of personalized license plates ranging from their favorite Florida professional sports teams to plates sporting Olympic rings. By purchasing a sports license plate,

residents support youth and amateur athletes and help aspiring Olympians achieve their dreams of competing in the Olympic games.

The Florida Sports Foundation, an organization that has promoted the state’s sports industry since 1992, supports the state’s nine professional sports teams. Through the sale of pro sports license plates, fans can back their favorite team and Florida’s $57.4 billion sports industry.

Fifty percent of sales is distributed directly to the U.S. Olympic Committee to help support the U.S. Olympic Movement and Florida’s Olympic athletes. Fifty percent of the proceeds are used by the Florida Sports Foundation to promote amateur sports in Florida, including the Florida Senior Games State Championships and Florida’s Sunshine State Games. The FSF also promotes sports tourism through sports development grants.

In addition, a portion of the sports license tag fees goes toward supporting major sports events such as the Super Bowl, NFL Pro Bowl, and NHL Hockey.

With the 2024 Paris Olympics having passed, the sporting world has set its sights on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With many top-notch facilities across the state, Florida has positioned itself as the premier training destination leading into the 2028 Olympics.

‘Come Train In Florida’

Florida has always been a hub for Olympic hopefuls, starting with the Sunshine State Games run by the Florida Sports Foundation. The state also sports a variety of talented collegiate athletes in Florida’s university system that have trained, competed and won at the Olympics, to the elite level training facilities throughout the state (Pure Athletics Track Club in Clermont Fl, where many of Team USA gold medal winning T&F athletes trained for Paris).

To help these athletes continue to fulfill their Olympic dreams, Florida will be creating a program called “Come Train In Florida” that will promote Florida as the premier training center for the LA28 games, to all international and domestic Olympic hopefuls.

The Florida Sports Foundation will engage its 36 destination partners to highlight the unique, elite-level training facilities they possess as well as their community’s willingness to support these athletes in their pursuit of Olympic gold.

Florida’s climate and environment enhance the enjoyment of the state’s amazing year-round mix of professional, amateur and recreational sporting activities that make Florida the leader in sports destinations worldwide. National and international sporting events abound in Florida and the expertise in hosting such events lies within the state’s 37 regional sports commissions. Take a tour of Florida – the world’s premier sports destination and get to know each of Florida’s sports regions where all the action really happens. Florida is home to a variety of excellent facilities.

Here are some of the finest facilities in the state, where a mul titude of sports can be played.

Golf, Swimming, Volleyball

Matthew Dunn (904) 277-4369 matt@raconteurs.us www.ameliaisland.com

Soccer, Lacrosse, Gymnastics

Kirsten Lovett (941) 729-9177

kirsten.lovett@bacvb.com www.bradentonareasports.com

Soccer, Multipurpose, Baseball

Kimberly Morgan (904) 278-3734 kimberly.morgan@claycountygov.com www.ExploreClay.com

Baseball, Softball, Aquatics

Clint Pittman

386-719-7545

Clint_pittman@columbiacountyfla.com southsidesportscomplex.com

Beach Volleyball, Baseball, Soccer

CONTACT

Ronald Shumard (850) 609-5389 rshumard@myokaloosa.com www.emeraldcoastfl.com

Football, Golf, Cheer/Dance

CONTACT

Steve Hogan 407-423-2476 shogan@fcsports.com floridacitrussports.com

TOP 3 SPORTS:

CONTACT INFO: Fastpitch Softball/Baseball, Indoor Track & Field, Basketball

Joleen Cacciatore Miller (352) 338-9300

jcacciatore@gainesvillesportscommission.com www.gainesvillesportscommission.com

Baseball, Football, Soccer

CONTACT INFO:

Auvis Cole (352) 794-5506 auvis@visitcitrus.com www.citrusbocc.com

Pickleball, Cheer/Dance, Football

CONTACT INFO:

Brandon Little (386) 255-0415, ext. 138 BLittle@DaytonaBeach.com www.daytonabeach.com

Volleyball, Hockey, Cheer

Consuelo Sanchez 727-847-8129 cbsanchez@flsportscoast.com www.FLsportscoast.com

TOP 3 SPORTS: TOP 3 SPORTS:

CONTACT INFO: CONTACT INFO: Soccer, Football, Volleyball Golf, Baseball, Soccer

Mathew Ratner 305-539-2973 mratner@gmcvb.com www.miamiandbeaches.com

Jason Siegel (407) 648-0033 jsiegel@greaterorlandosports.com www.greaterorlandosports.com

Football, Baseball, Fishing

CONTACT INFO:

Sydney Lindblad (904) 421-9164 slindblad@visitjacksonville.com www.visitjacksonville.com

Baseball, Football, Soccer

Marissa Baker (239) 252-2402 marissa.baker@colliercountyfl.gov www.sportsinparadise.com

Baseball, Football, Gymnastics

George Linley (561) 233-3180 glinley@palmbeachsports.com www.palmbeachsports.com

Soccer, Baseball, Basketball

CONTACT

Laura McCullers (850) 454-7387 lmccullers@pensacolasports.org www.pensacolasports.org

TOP 3 SPORTS:

CONTACT INFO: Soccer, Lacrosse, Cheer, Dance

Tyler Weyant 407-279-9808

TWeyant@experiencekissimmee.com www.Kissimmeesports.com

Equestrian, Aquatics, Baseball

CONTACT INFO:

Corry Locke (352) 438-2839 corry.locke@marionfl.org www.ocalamarion.com/sports-events

Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball

CONTACT INFO:

Amy Lukasik (386) 313-4226 alukasik@visitflagler.com www.visitflagler.com

Baseball, Softball, Basketball

CONTACT INFO:

Jeff Mielke (239) 533-LCSD (5273) JMielke@LeeGov.com www.leecountysports.org

Baseball, Softball, Soccer

CONTACT INFO:

Danny Trosset 407-919-8923 dtrosset@seminolecountyfl.gov www.playorlandonorth.com

Baseball, Softball, Soccer

CONTACT INFO:

Chris O’Brien (850) 233-5070 cobrien@visitpanamacitybeach.com www.playpanamacitybeach.com

Baseball, Pickleball, Softball

Sean Walter (941) 764-4939

sean.walter@pureflorida.com www.PureFloridaSports.com

Softball, Football, Volleyball

Dana Jones (386)-328-1503 dana@chamberpc.com www.putnamcountychamber.com/ visit-putnam

TOP 3 SPORTS:

Equestrian, Soccer, Tennis Golf, Baseball, Softball

CONTACT INFO: CONTACT INFO:

Julie Morgan (850) 981-8900 julie@santarosa.fl.gov www.santarosa.fl.gov

CONTACT INFO: Soccer, Golf, Baseball/Softball

Terry Parks (321) 349-2997

Terrence.Parks@visitspacecoast.com www.VisitSpaceCoast.com

Soccer, Golf, Baseball/Softball

Caleb Peterson (321) 349-2997 caleb@visitspacecoast.com www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/thingsto-do/sports

Baseball/Softball, Swimming & Golf

Football, Baseball, Basketball

Taylor Wheaton (850) 606-2305 twheaton@VisitTallahassee.com www.VisitTallahassee.com

John Tharpe (904) 209-4429 jtharpe@floridashistoriccoast.com www.floridashistoriccoast.com/ sports-recreation/

Football, Baseball, Hockey

CONTACT INFO:

Jason Aughey (813) 342-4076 jaughey@TampaBaySports.org www.tampabaysports.org

Baseball, Softball, Soccer

Golf, Pickleball, Aquatics

CONTACT INFO: CONTACT INFO:

Rick Hatcher, STS 772-871-5458

rhatcher@playtreasurecoastflorida.com PlayTreasureCoastFlorida.com

TOP 3 SPORTS:

CONTACT INFO: Volleyball, Tennis, Basketball

Glen Allen

954-767-2470 gallen@broward.org www.visitlauderdale.com

CONTACT INFO:

Neal Duncan 863-551-4714 neal@vcfsports.com visitcentralfloridasports.com

Ryan Ritchie (352)-742-3919

ryan.ritchie@lakecountyfl.gov www.visitlakefl.com

Basketball, Golf, Football Fishing, Cycling, Basketball

Joseph Kempa (407) 363-5850

Joseph.kempa@VisitOrlando.com www.visitorlando.com

Rowing, Swimming, Baseball/Softball

Pete Harvey (941) 685-2047

pharvey@visitsarasota.org www.visitsarasota.com/ sarasota-county-sports-commission

Casey Wohl Hartt (863) 402-6909

Casey@VisitSebring.com visitsebring.com

LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Sports tourism in Lake County, Florida, has become a significant contributor to the local economy, driven by the area’s natural beauty and world-class facilities. Clermont, known as the “Choice of Champions,” is a major destination for athletes, offering venues like the National Training Center and Clermont Boathouse , which attract competitors for triathlons, rowing, and endurance sports. Lake County hosts several prestigious events thanks to partnerships with organizations like USA Triathlon, NCAA, B.A.S.S., FHSAA and the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. The county’s diverse landscape allows for a variety of sports, including water activities, off-road biking, and golf tournaments at Mission Inn Resort & Club . These events bring visitors from across the nation, boosting local businesses and positioning Lake County as a top-tier sports destination. With its commitment to athlete hospitality and topnotch infrastructure, Lake County continues to thrive in the sports tourism industry.

THE BIG HOUSE

Volleyball, Basketball

The Big House is a community center and sports training facility located in Tavares, Florida, which is 20 miles north of Orlando. The Big House was built to consolidate venues and provide state-of-theart facilities as rentals for organizations to host events. The result is centralized tournaments boasting 16 volleyball courts or nine fullsized basketball courts.

MISSION RESORT + CLUB Golf

Spectacular vistas, sparkling water hazards and a stunning course layout separate tournament play at the Mission Inn Resort & Club, which has a particular expertise when it comes to hosting golf tournaments. The club boasts two championship-caliber golf courses in El Campeón and Las Colinas courses, which blend in with the surrounding Florida landscape.

HARRIS CHAIN OF LAKES

Fishing, Water Sports

The Harris Chain of Lakes in Lake County, FL, is a premier destination for sports tourism, attracting anglers, rowers, and water sports enthusiasts. Known for its world-class bass fishing and expansive waterways, the chain offers excellent venues for competitive events and outdoor recreation amid scenic natural beauty.

THE NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER

Triathlon, Track and Field

The National Training Center (NTC) in Clermont is nationally recognized as a USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center thanks to the available services in running, swimming, cycling, wellness and nutrition that maximizes sports performance through great coaching. Professional and amateur athletes compete and train at the NTC.

LEGENDS WAY BALL FIELDS

Baseball, Softball

The Spring Games is a nonprofit organization based out of Clermont, Florida. Their home base is Legends Way Ball Fields, founded by two-time Olympian, Dr. Dot Richardson, which is located at the National Training Center. The facility includes five regulation softball fields and one stadium, along with 13 bullpens, five batting cages, concessions and more.

HICKORY POINT

RECREATION COMPLEX

Volleyball, Soccer, Boating

Opening its doors in February 1992, this 68-acre multi-use facility presents a unique recreational waterfront park experience. The facility is located on SR 19 adjacent to Little Lake Harris. Popular activities for park guests of all ages include a nature boardwalk & trail, outdoor picnic areas with barbecue grills, a playground, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball court, swimming beach, and open-field play areas

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

Just a short drive to the west from all the major Orlando attractions, Lake County is truly Florida’s Lakeside Escape with multiple waterfront downtowns and rich history to discover. Whether you are hosting a championship event or a team training session, Lake County’s natural resources and topnotch facilities welcome a variety of sports including basketball, softball, beach volleyball, fishing, golf, triathlons, a variety of water sports and more.

VISIT LAKE

Andrew Grant andrew.grant@lakecountyfl.gov (352) 742-3904 https://discoverlakefl.com/

Clermont Draft Legal Triathlon

VICTORY BEGINS HERE.

Just 30 minutes west of Orlando, Lake County is Central Florida’s premier destination for championship events and Olympic athletes. From world-class venues to scenic lakeside training grounds, it’s no wonder why so many choose “Florida’s Lakeside Escape” to elevate their game. Discover what makes Lake County the ultimate hub for elite competition - contact us today and be part of the action.

To make an appointment or book an event, contact Andrew Grant, Sports Tourism Manager andrew.grant@lakecountyfl.gov

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER – OCALA

World Equestrian Center is central Florida’s premier multipurpose event center. Located in Ocala, Florida in the heart of America’s Horse Capital®, this Florida resort destination offers luxurious on-site accommodations with two hotels, diverse restaurants and over 30 retailers. Spend an off day lounging poolside, recovering at the full-service spa or spectating world-class equestrian sport.

There’s no shortage of things to do in the Ocala area, from visiting art museums to exploring state parks. The popular Silver Springs State Park allows visitors to hike through lush trails, paddle along serene waterways, and embark on mesmerizing glass-bottom boat tours. Nearby, Santos Trailhead and its 80-plus miles of diverse, single-track trails is a mecca for mountain biking. Don’t miss Historic Downtown Ocala, where farm-to-table dining meets craft beer, live music, and a bevy of shopping and culture.

EXPOSITION CENTER 1 & 2

Volleyball, Indoor Soccer, Cheerleading, Dance, Martial Arts, Trade Shows

Sports fanatics rejoice: these two stateof-the-art exposition centers, along with the Grand Outdoor Arena, boast over 130,000 square feet of space, providing the ideal venues for national, regional, and local competitions. Each building has soaring ceilings (ranging from 18-feet to 50-feet tall) and offers premium turf for a high-caliber indoor field experience.

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER STADIUM

Horse Shows, Sand Volleyball, Flag Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Marching Band

This top-notch stadium is a 150,000-plus-square-foot gem that specializes in horse shows and other special events. Those building itineraries or planning events in Ocala should not miss the World Equestrian Center Stadium.

GRAND OUTDOOR ARENA

Horse Shows, Sand Volleyball, Flag Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Marching Band

It is not quite as large as the main stadium, but the Grand Outdoor Arena covers 128,000 square feet and sits conveniently adjacent to The Equestrian Hotel. Moreover, it has remarkable amenities: two 30-foot-by-60-foot LED walls, a covered grandstand, alfresco dining, and all-weather footing.

World Equestrian Center

NDOOR ARENAS 1-4, 6

Horse Shows, Sand Volleyball, Flag Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Marching Band

WEC offers six expansive indoor arenas. The newest addition, Indoor Arena 6 opened in 2024. All indoor arenas offer a climate-controlled setting for multipurpose events, capable of accommodating spectators with built-in seating and mezzanine rooms. Each one boasts three LED Jumbotron screens and high-speed Wi-Fi.

INDOOR ARENA 5

Horse Shows, Sand Volleyball, Flag Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Marching Band

This multifaceted complex offers 3,400 seats and a four-sided LED wall. There is sand-and-clay footing that can be covered when flag football, lacrosse, and soccer tourneys come to town, plus builtin concessions stands that simplify event hosting and make weekends in central Florida even more enticing.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“World Equestrian Center facilities, grounds, and staff surpass all of our expectations each time we hold one of our junior volleyball tournaments in their Expo Centers. The event staff make every effort to enhance our events and provide a high quality experience for our teams and their families both on and off the court.”

— AJ Joseph, JVC Tournaments, President

ST. PETE-CLEARWATER, FLORIDA

A sparkling gem on Florida’s Gulf coast, St. PeteClearwater has the perfect ingredients for your best vacation yet: beautiful beaches, vibrant arts, family fun and a superb food and drink scene. Home to America’s Best Beaches, St. Pete-Clearwater has 35 miles of sugary white-sand beaches along warm emerald Gulf waters. You can explore over 30 museums along the Arts Coast, including the Dalí Museum, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, the Chihuly Collection and the Imagine Museum

Enjoy award-winning brews along the Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail, made up of 35 locally owned breweries across the span of the county. Walk along the St. Pete Pier, where you’ll find 26 beautiful acres of outdoor dining, playgrounds, an open-air market and more, right in the heart of downtown St. Pete. Take your adventure to the Gulf with water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and snorkeling.

EDDIE C. MOORE

COMPLEX, CLEARWATER

Softball, Baseball

Serving as Clearwater’s go-to softball facility, the expansive Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex is the city’s state and national awardwinning softball complex. Across three locations you will find nine natural-grass fields, all of which are linked by the East-West Trail. Available for tournaments are five 300-foot fields, two 250-foot fields and two 200-foot fields.

THE NORTH SHORE

AQUATIC COMPLEX

Swimming, Water Polo, Water Sports

Located on the St. Pete waterfront, this St. Pete premier pool spotlights a number of facilities that will enhance your swimmers’ taxing days of practices and meets. The complex features a 50-meter competition pool, 25-meter training pool, a play pool equipped with a giant flume slide and zero depth entry, splash pad.

LONG CENTER AQUATIC COMPLEX

Swimming

This impressive complex features an indoor Olympicsized 50-meter swimming pool and a 25-yard training and therapeutic pool with a year-round water temperature of 90 degrees. The complex is located in Clearwater, just a short drive to America’s Best Beaches.

INNISBROOK GOLF RESORT

Golf

This beautiful resort has hosted the nationally televised PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship and is a bucket-list golf destination. Home to three outstanding courses, including the toprated Copperhead Course, Island and South courses, this resort is a favorite among some of the world’s finest golf professionals. It also features a full-service resort.

Clearwater Offshore Nationals

VINOY GOLF COURSE, SNELL ISLE

Golf

Redesigned by renowned course architect, Ron Garl, and put back into play in 1992, this course features ideal year-round conditions with cool Gulf breezes in the summer and a warm escape for the winter. Snell Isle is located in the heart of downtown St. Pete, surrounded by the glistening blue waters of Tampa Bay.

ST. PETERSBURG

SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB, ST. PETE

Shuffleboard

Featuring 32 lighted courts (65 total) plus an amazing old grandstand, this is the ideal spot to play shuffleboard in Florida.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Visit St. Pete-Clearwater’s support and level of commitment to USA Softball year after year is beyond exceptional. Every event we have in Clearwater has been a smooth process from beginning to end. VisitSPC has one of the best staff to work with, and we will continue to have our events there.”

Caleb Peterson (727) 464-7257, Caleb@VisitSPC.com SportsSPC.com

– Craig Cress, USA Softball

ALACHUA COUNTY, FLORIDA

Alachua County, Florida is centrally located in the state and is home to a variety of great attractions including the Florida Museum of Natural History and Butterfly Rainforest, which is one of the nation’s top five natural history museums with a rotating exhibit every few months and a living exhibit of hundreds of butterflies. The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is an interactive science museum with a new exhibit every eight weeks, named for Dr. James Robert Cade, a professor at the University of Florida and the lead inventor of the sports drink Gatorade. The Lubee Bat Conservancy is the world’s largest bat house and tours are available for all those interested in these fascinating creatures. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a Florida treasure, featuring eight trails consisting of over 30 miles showcasing Alachua County’s wildlife. Nowhere else in Florida can visitors experience wild-roaming bison and horses. Nearly 300 species of birds also frequent the park along with alligators, deer and many other animals. Poe Springs Park is the largest Spring in Alachua County for tubing, kayaks, paddleboards and canoes. It also has a 202-acre public park and underwater cave exploration. Take a dip and explore.

STEPHEN C. O’CONNELL CENTER

Multipurpose

This popular venue is home to University of Florida sports as well as the USA Artistic Swimming Junior Olympics, and the Florida High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheerleading State Championship. This 292,000-square-foot facility with 20,000 feet of open space houses a main arena that seats a maximum of 10,500 guests and an eight-lane indoor pool.

LEGACY PARK

Baseball, Basketball, Football, Gymnastics, Karate, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball

Legacy Park is a major hub for tournaments, including the USA Gymnastics Men’s Florida State Championship and US Amateur Boys Basketball Championship. The 100-acre facility was awarded the Florida Sports Foundation Mid-Market Venue of the Year Award in 2019.

CHAMPIONS PARK

Baseball, Fast-pitch Softball

If you’re looking for a premier baseball or softball facility to host your next tournament, Champions Park is tough to beat. Located in nearby Newberry, this park features 16 fields which can accommodate youth baseball and any level of fast pitch softball. All fields are lighted along with scoreboards, covered and enclosed dugouts and have state-ofthe-art A-Turf infields.

Alachua County Sports and Events Center

EASTON NEWBERRY SPORTS COMPLEX

Archery, Basketball, Volleyball, Baseball/Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football

This complex features 100 acres of multi- recreational use and archeryspecific property along with 20,000 square feet of indoor space. It also has one regulation basketball/volleyball court (two cross courts), a 5,000-square-foot archery range, two youth baseball/softball fields with lights and 220 feet outfield fences.

ALACHUA COUNTY SPORTS AND EVENTS CENTER AT CELEBRATION POINTE

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Baseball, Cheerleading, Track

Opened in June 2023, this 130,000-square-foot facility has 90,000 square feet of open space that includes 18 volleyball courts, 21 pickleball courts, 10 high school regulation basketball courts with six cross courts, 6,500-square-foot cheer studio with two floors.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“It is our mission to continue to build leaders through teamwork, sportsmanship and citizenship, and there is no doubt in our mind that our partnership with the GSC gives us the ability to follow through with that objective. One of our biggest goals is to find quality venues for our state championship events. We believe that when our student-athletes enter the venues the GSC has to offer, including the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, they immediately think they are on the world’s biggest stage.”

— Kellie Doucette, Director of Athletics, Florida High School Athletic Association

GAINESVILLE SPORTS COMMISSION

Joleen Cacciatore Miller (352) 338-9300

jcacciatore@ gainesvillesportscommission.com

gainesvillesportscommission.com

ORANGE COUNTY, FLORIDA

Offering the best-in-class service, location and venue, many sporting events return to The Center of Hospitality year-afteryear, solidifying the Orange County Convention Center’s ability to satisfy and exceed expectations. See your favorite characters, fantasy landscapes and thrilling rides at Universal Orlando Resort , which is home to Universal Studios , Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay . At Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll discover a premier meeting destination with exceptional surroundings and immersive environments that will bring your meeting to life. SeaWorld® Orlando provides Events that Matter. Along with unmatched thrills and flexibility to do events your way, support for their parks contributes to animal rescue efforts around the world. At Walt Disney World® you have access to world class, immersive venues where best-in-class planners, industry-leading technology, world-class culinary experts and unforgettable entertainment will collaborate with you to transform your event into something incredible only found at Disney.

WEST BUILDING

Volleyball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Wrestling, Futsal, Indoor Sports

Boasting more than 1 million square feet in exhibit space, the OCCC’s West Building has welcomed a wide variety of highprofile sporting events, including USA Volleyball Florida Region, American Open Cheer, Olympia Fitness Weekend and the NBA G League Fall/Winter Tournament. Designed with flexibility and functionality in mind, the modern West Building offers state-ofthe-art amenities for attendees, including newly renovated food courts and refreshment areas.

NORTH-SOUTH BUILDING

Volleyball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Taekwondo, Wrestling, Futsal, Indoor Sports

With more than 950,000 square feet of exhibition space, the North-South Building offers exceptional flexibility for diverse sporting events. The venue is hosts events such as the ASH Dance competition, All Out Grand Nationals and is home to the world’s largest volleyball competition, the AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships, that continues to increase in size year-after-year – welcoming approximately 300,000 attendees in 2024.

COMPETING SAFELY AT THE OCCC

As a Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star accredited venue, the OCCC has taken every precaution to ensure a safe and seamless experience for sporting events at The Center of Hospitality. This includes enhanced cleaning in line with GBAC STAR standards, collaborating with Orlando Health to offer the first-of-its-kind medical concierge service for attendees, and working closely with groups to identify safe solutions that tailor to their event needs.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Orange County Convention Center, with its ample space and hospitality, is a perfect home for AAU events. Hosting such a large event successfully would not be possible without the dedication, commitment, and tireless efforts of the Orange County Convention Center team.”

— Jo Mirza, President/CEO, Amateur Athletic Union (AAU)

ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

Keri Burns keri.burns@occc.net (407) 685-9833 www.occc.net/SPG

Orange County Convention Center Volleyball

OCALA/MARION, FLORIDA

Ocala/Marion County may be the hidden gem of the Sunshine State. The vibrant destination is located in Northcentral Florida, a stunning and charming region surrounded by nature. Ocala/Marion County welcomes more than a million visitors every year, for many reasons like the pleasant weather, premier sportsplexes and unique natural amenities.

Did you know that Ocala is dubbed the Horse Capital of the World® ? Equestrians unite here not only for elite facilities but also for the many horseback riding opportunities. Saddle up for a group tour of Florida’s beautiful wilderness with a unique vantage point. Ride through oak-lined trails and catch glimpses of native wildlife, expansive farmland and vast waterways.

Another unparalleled perspective can be found on a 30 or 90-minute glass-bottom boat tour at Silver Springs State Park . The park, a crown jewel of Ocala/Marion County, offers a crystalline oasis where see-through boat floors reveal the secrets of an underwater world yearround. Adrenaline junkies to take the plunge at Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park . Exhilarating treetop journeys take groups soaring through brilliant limestone cliffs and above lush palm tree landscapes.

WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER (WEC)

Equestrian events and competitions, Indoor MultiSports, Martial Arts, Cheer/Dance

The largest equestrian complex in the U.S. is the World Equestrian Center (WEC), comprising over 400 acres. WEC boasts six climate-controlled indoor arenas, 16 outdoor rings, two state-of-the-art expo centers with 132,300 square feet of contiguous column-free space each.

FLORIDA AQUATICS

SWIMMING & TRAINING

Swimming, Dryland Fitness/ Training, Water Polo, Diving, Artistic Swimming

A premier swimming and training facility, Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training (FAST) is a popular sports competition and training venue. The center features a 10-lane 50m/25yd competition pool located indoors. Outside, you’ll find the 7-lane 50m/25yrd/25m competition pool.

ROTARY SPORTSPLEX

Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby, Flag Football

Rotary Sportsplex is an 80-acre complex only six miles from Downtown Ocala. Rotary features 11 lighted fields that host baseball, soccer and softball games and scrimmages. The sportsplex provides dynamic opportunities with eight youth baseball fields, three high school baseball fields, six softball fields and 12 batting cages.

SHOCKER PARK

Women’s

Fast-Pitch Softball

Primarily, women’s fastpitch softball events are held at Shocker Park. However, the venue can also host softball games and practices. The facility provides teams with six 200-foot softball fields equipped with lights. Covered batting cages, concessions, restrooms and a playground also add to the park amenities.

Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training

SOUTHEASTERN

LIVESTOCK PAVILION (SELP)

Agritourism Events and Competitions, Rodeo, Barrel Racing

Commonly referred to as SELP, Horse shows, rodeos and other ag-related celebrations have been held in the 36,000-square-foot arena for decades. Another area boasts 37,500 square feet of open arena space, while the auditorium makes up 11,000 square feet. Also on site are 226 iron-gated stalls.

OCALA REGIONAL SPORTSPLEX

Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, Football

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The German Shepherd Dog Club of America is truly grateful and appreciative of all of your support for the past 2 years in making our 2022 Nationals something special and truly memorable. I would recommend coming back to Ocala and will tell everyone I can that it is the place to be! I hope our paths cross again in the near future.”

–Erin Nellis, German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA)

This 80-acre facility is located on the west side of Ocala and offers numerous fields for baseball, softball, volleyball and football games. The sports park provides four sand volleyball pits complete with lights, two lighted basketball courts and five 300-foot lighted softball fields. It also has picnic areas with tables and lit sidewalks. OCALA/MARION

Corry Locke sales@marionfl.org (352) 438-2800 www.ocalamarion.com

Bryan Day sales@marionfl.org (352) 438-2800 www.ocalamarion.com

BRADENTON, FLORIDA

The Bradenton Area has emerged as a perennial all-star on the Florida sports scene – complete with dozens of first-rate sports facilities spread throughout the destination. All you have to do is choose where to compete. The Bradenton Area has been a perennial favorite for athletes, teams and their coaches for many years. For a variety of sports, the area offers the finest facilities for training and sporting events in the nation. Along with superb weather and a welcoming attitude, these all combine to make the Bradenton Area a top sports destination.

Play in Bradenton and stay a little longer! The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, the largest on Florida’s Gulf Coast, features local artifacts, a manatee rehabilitation aquarium, and an all-digital planetarium. Nature lovers can explore over a dozen unique preserves, each showcasing Florida’s untouched beauty.

After a big win, satisfy any big appetite. The rooftop deck at Oak & Stone dishes pizza and panoramic views above the Manatee River. For adventure, visit TreeUmph! to enjoy climbing and zip-lining up to 60 feet high. To enhance your beach day, park in downtown Bradenton and take the Gulf Islands Ferry for a scenic ride to Anna Maria Island and the Bradenton Riverwalk, with stops at key locations for easy exploration. Experience all that Bradenton has to offer!

PREMIER SPORTS CAMPUS

Ultimate Frisbee, Football, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer

Hosting regional and national tournaments year-round, attracting athletes and teams from across the country. The campus features 23 contiguous FIFA-approved Celebration Bermuda grass fields, eight of which are lighted for nighttime play. A spacious 3,000+ seat stadium enhances the facility’s offerings. All fields are equipped with advanced irrigation systems, ensuring optimal playing conditions. This state-of-the-art complex is a premier destination for sports events.

IMG ACADEMY

Baseball, Basketball, Football, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Track And Field

IMG Academy is the most prestigious sports performance complex in the world. This megacomplex features over 60 tennis courts, over 20 multi-sport fields and an 18-hole golf course. The Academy also has eight convertible basketball courts, weight rooms totaling more than 10,000 square feet of space and a 5,000-seat outdoor stadium. IMG Academy annually attracts nearly 200,000 athletes, coaches and spectators from 100 countries.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Partnering with Bradenton Area Sports has been an incredible opportunity for both Elite Tournaments and our clients. Their unwavering commitment to promoting sports and supporting events in the region has allowed us to elevate our tournaments to new heights. The team’s expertise in logistics and marketing has made our events not only successful but also truly memorable for all participants. We deeply value this partnership and look forward to continuing our collaboration to deliver exceptional sports experiences in the Bradenton Area!”

— Caitlin Schmelz, Elite

Tournaments

BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU (941) 729-9177 sports@bacvb.com

BradentonAreaSports.com

LECOM PARK

Baseball

For more than 90 years, LECOM Park has been a beloved source of fun and excitement in Bradenton. This impressive 8,500+ person, state-ofthe-art stadium is ideal for baseball training and tournaments, making it a key venue in the region. A stunning 19,000 square-foot boardwalk spans the outfield, providing an exceptional experience for both athletes and fans. With breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere, LECOM Park is a cherished local landmark showcasing the spirit of baseball in Florida.

In the water ski capital of the world, athletic pursuits of all kinds find their own home in Central Florida. And in this area, located just minutes from Orlando’s famous attractions and theme parks, the Lake Myrtle Sports Park stands out as a fabulous option for athletes and fans alike. Across its 250+ acres, a variety of fields, facilities and spaces stand waiting to host your next event.

There are nine collegiate-sized baseball fields, a championship soccer stadium with room for 3,500 and 10 other multi-purpose fields ready to be transformed as needed. There’s also the new Championship Lake, fully equipped to host a wide variety of water ski disciplines and other water sports. Experience the magic of this cutting-edge complex and book your event at VisitCentralFloridaSports.com .

LAKE MYRTLE SPORTS PARK :: AUBURNDALE, FL

POLK COUNTY, FLORIDA

Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine State, Central Florida is home to an array of attractions that cater to travelers of all ages. This vibrant region offers experiences that are both unique and memorable for families, foodies, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in a delightful trip.

For families with little ones, a visit to Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven is a must. Built on the historic grounds of Cypress Gardens , Legoland not only preserves the beautiful botanical gardens but also infuses them with the creativity and fun of Lego.

Just steps away is the world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park inviting little piggies to jump into the playful world of Peppa and her friends. Designed for the youngest adventurers, this new attraction features multiple rides, interactive attractions, themed playscapes, and water play areas complete with “muddy puddles.”

ADVENTHEALTH FIELDHOUSE

Basketball, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Cheerleading Opened in 2020, the AdventHealth Fieldhouse and Conference Center provides 58,400 square feet of multi-use space, ideal for basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and cheerleading competitions. With an upper-level observation area, smaller meeting rooms, and on-site catering, it’s perfect for both tournaments and conferences.

CHAIN OF LAKES PARK Baseball

Previous home of the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox Spring Training, this newly renovated facility will now boast four artificial turf collegiate baseball fields, with beautiful amenities for tournaments, visitors, and locals alike. The facility hosts RussMatt Collegiate Invitational and several other top-level events each year.

LAKE MYRTLE SPORTS PARK Baseball, Multipurpose, Watersports

Lake Myrtle Sports Park is comprised of 11 soccer fields, nine baseball fields, and hosts top-tier sports events. The complex includes two stadium fields—one for soccer with 1,500 seats and one for baseball with 500 seats—along with the freshwater Championship Lake that hosted the 27th USA Water Ski National Championships, making it a premier venue for regional tournaments and events.

RP FUNDING CENTER

Basketball, Arena Soccer, Cheerleading, Gymnastics

A multi-use complex in Lakeland, the RP Funding Center includes a convention center, arena, and theater. It was home to the Lakeland Magic and Florida Tropics SC and now hosts events like the Central Florida Comic Con. With ample space for concerts, sports, and conventions, it remains a bustling entertainment hub.

Lake Myrtle Sports Park

BARTOW SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Football, Racing

Following its 2024 renovation, the Bartow Sports Complex now offers upgraded lighted baseball, softball, and football fields. Amenities include picnic areas, pavilions, restrooms, and a playground, plus a water feature and RC car track. The complex is a popular venue for tournaments and a vibrant space for family outings.

PUBLIX FIELD AT JOKER

MARCHANT STADIUM Baseball

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium seats 8,500 and serves as the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers and regular-season venue for the Lakeland Flying Tigers. Opened in 1966 and renovated in 2017, this historic stadium offers fans a close-up, intimate baseball experience with top-notch facilities.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Polk

County, FL, the home of Visit Central Florida Sports, offers exceptional facilities, a welcoming community, and year-round sunshine, making it the perfect destination for sporting events. With its central location and exceptional local activities, it ensures a memorable experience for teams and families alike.”

— Rob Sitz,

DS Sports

FLORIDA’S SPORTS COAST

The pristine playing surfaces, iconic sports complexes, and dedicated event support are just the beginning. With our one-of-a-kind adventures and stunning natural beauty, your athletes will discover the perfect place to train, compete, and embrace adventure, just 30 minutes from Tampa in Pasco County, Florida. Discover Tampa Premium Outlets, where you can venture out to shop over 110 designer and brand-name stores. Explore Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio, FL—the nation’s largest at 15 acres—for an even grander paradise with expansive waters and top-notch amenities. Get your next adventure off the ground at TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park! Located in Dade City, this exciting aerial park is perfect for experienced climbers and novices alike. With 8 different courses and over 100 unique elements, enjoy a challenging day of navigating cable walkways, wood obstacles, and adrenalinecharged zip lines.

WIREGRASS RANCH

SPORTS CAMPUS

Adaptive Sports, Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer

Located in Wesley Chapel, the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus is a premier 98,000 square-foot indoor sports facility. It features 2 arenas, each offering approximately 37,000 square feet of hardwood space. The facility also boasts two outdoor multipurpose grass fields, with five additional MLS-grade grass fields set to open in 2025.

St. Leo University

ADVENTHEALTH CENTER ICE

Ice Hockey, Ice Skating, Figure Skating, Curling, Roller Hockey

AdventHealth Center Ice is the largest ice complex in the Southeast, offering an impressive state-of-theart facility with five rinks under one roof. The complex includes three North American Standard NHL ice rinks (200’ x 85’), one Olympic/International standard rink (200’ x 100’), and one junior rink (80’ x 40’).

SADDLEBROOK RESORT

Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Team building

Saddlebrook Resort’s 480 acres offer an exceptional sports and vacation experience with exciting updates and features. The resort is in the midst of renovating its golf course to feature 27 holes with three rotating 9-hole layouts and an enhanced driving range. Tennis enthusiasts will enjoy 43 tennis courts, along with new pickleball courts.

SUNWEST PARK

Beach Volleyball, Beach Soccer, Cable Wakeboarding, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding

A unique recreational waterfront facility developed around a former limestone mine, boasts numerous beach volleyball and soccer courts. The park features a 70-acre spring-fed lake with a relaxing beach area, perfect for unwinding. It also offers a cable wakeboarding and adventure park, where visitors can practice board tricks.

SARAH VENDE BERG

TENNIS CENTER

Pickleball, Tennis, Padel, Beach Tennis, Beach Volleyball

The Sarah Vande Berg Tennis and Wellness Center, a USTA-sanctioned facility, features 11 tennis courts, including 8 pickleball courts and 4 padel courts. The center also offers 4 beach tennis or volleyball courts, a comprehensive fitness center, and specialized wellness amenities such as cryotherapy and a salt room.

WESLEY CHAPEL DISTRICT PARK

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Badminton, Wrestling, Fencing, Cornhole

This district park consists of 12 lighted multipurpose grass fields (10 grass and 2 turf), 2 lighted multipurpose turf fields, 5 Baseball Fields (1– 300’, 3-200’, 1–100’), 2 Fastpitch Softball Fields (200’). Visitors can also utilize the expansive walking trail and outdoor exercise equipment surrounding the park.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus is a superb, top-notch facility that provided a great backdrop for the event and a high level of service for our athletes and officials. This together with the excellent location of the hotel facilities, shopping and restaurants nearby added to the overall excitement for the competition and allowed athletes to relax, enjoy and focus on their game –and be their best.”

FLORIDA’S SPORTS COAST

Kayla Glazebrook (727) 847-8129

kgetz@FLSportsCoast.com flsportscoast.com/sports-tourism/ Matt Bogdanoff (727) 847-8129

mbogdanoff@FLSportsCoast.com flsportscoast.com/sports-tourism/

— Mike DeLancey, CEO Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA

The Florida Panhandle resort town of Panama City Beach is home to sugar-white sandy beaches, gorgeous turquoise-glow waters with one of the highest concentrations of bottlenose dolphins, and of course state-of-the-art sports venues like Publix Sports Park and Frank Brown Park. Location is key for long-distance travelers looking to get the most out of their time.

Panama City Beach has a variety of amusement parks for your kids and the kid in you. At Cobra Adventure Park, you can be the ultimate driver and race go-karts on a four-story track. If your kids are not old enough to drive yet, double-riding is available for a fun and safe experience.

Lose yourself at the Gran Maze at Coconut Creek Family Fun Park . This football-field sized labyrinth is famous for being the first in America.

Think you can score a hole in one? Get the fam over to Goofy Golf, Panama City Beach’s premier mini-golf course since 1959.

PANAMA CITY BEACH PUBLIX SPORTS PARK

Baseball, Outdoor Multipurpose

Panama City Beach Publix Sports Park is the premier destination for travel sports tourism in the Florida panhandle and beyond. This complex boasts 160 acres of premium, flexible space. Whether your sport is played on a rectangle field, a diamond field or somewhere in between, this flexible and configurable complex has what you need to provide you with the best hosting facility in the county.

It features 13 tournament quality fields, nine Astroturf with Z-Cap cooling technology fields, 10,220-foot softball fields/ youth baseball fields, four natural grass fields, five collegiatesize baseball fields, two Championship fields with seating for up to 1,500 spectators, seven batting cages, LED-lighted fields, scoreboards on each field, an umpire/referee locker room and lounge, a warm-up area and dedicated tournament facilities.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Is there anything better than playing soccer at a beautiful facility with a beautiful beach less than a mile away? It is always great to host a soccer tournament at Publix Sports Park. Not many sports complexes compare to it! We look forward to hosting so many great teams at the 4th annual Panama City Beach Classic. The atmosphere at Publix Sports Park is simply electric!

– Parker McIntosh, Tournament Director of Snap Soccer PANAMA CITY BEACH

Chris O’Brien

cobrie@visitpanamacitybeach.com (850) 481-7529 www.playpanamacitybeach.com

FRANK BROWN PARK

Outdoor Multipurpose, Swimming, Water Polo, Diving

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Panama CIty Beach, and sandwiched between the Grand Lagoon and Gulf of Mexico, 200-acre Frank Brown Parks is a sight to behold for tournament planners, athletes and families with its size, amenities and surrounding natural beauty. Along with nine full-sized baseball and softball diamonds, the park also has two t-ball fields, six multipurpose fields for soccer, lacrosse and more, a basketball court, four tennis courts and a 1.25-mile jogging track, all of which are lighted. The on-site aquatic center features a 50-meter Olympic pool, springboard and a diving well, along with a splash park, kid’s pool and nearby playground for younger guests.

NORTH CAROLINA

Grants and funds targeting big sporting events and youth and amateur sports to elevate North Carolina’s position within the industry

Carolina Grants and Funds Fuel the Future of Sports Tourism The Perfect Summer Weekend

Itinerary in North Carolina

Discover the best North Carolina has to offer and experience the state’s rich history, sporting events, and music scene

FLEXIBLE SPACE

This 35,000+ sqft space can function as four basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, twelve pickleball courts, or an ideal space for cheerleading, gymnastics, wrestling, and more. The space offers 30-foot high ceilings and an adaptable floor plan.

CONVENIENT LOCATION

The Hickory Metro Convention Center is located conveniently along Interstate 40 and under an hour from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. This complex offers ample on-site parking and is surrounded by six hotel properties within walking distance. The Convention Center campus is continuing to grow with two additional hotel properties.

SportsNC and its winning team of partners invite you to choose North Carolina for your future sporting event. Anchored by Visit North Carolina, North Carolina Amateur Sports, and the North Carolina Sports Association, SportsNC channels the expertise of local sports commissions and authorities, chambers of commerce, and convention and visitors bureaus into helping you create tailored experiences and ensuring that every tournament, game and trip is a success.

With world-class indoor and outdoor venues, top professional and collegiate teams, and exciting vacation destinations, North Carolina builds the action from your arrival to beyond the final whistle. As your dedicated partner, we will work with you to create unforgettable events and experiences that drive attendance, interest and success for athletes, families and fans.

From amateur events to international championships, North Carolina can provide the perfect location for any sports activity. Situated in the center of the Eastern seaboard, North Carolina is an easy drive for the nearly 39 million potential event participants who live within 300 miles of our mountains, Atlantic coastline and Piedmont landscapes. With international and regional airports, extensive rail service and well-maintained highways, travel to, from and around North Carolina is fast and convenient.

For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities and award-winning venues in North Carolina, please contact info@sportsnc.com.

We look forward to seeing you here soon.

Yours in Sports, The SportsNC Team www.sportsnc.com

Photo courtesy of Visit

Scan

Frisbee golf at Hyco Lake

Photo courtesy of Visit NC

Photo courtesy of Visit North Carolina

FLIP OUT.

Fortnite Champion Series Invitational at the Raleigh Convention Center

North Carolina Grants and Funds Fuel the Future of Sports Tourism

Grants and funds targeting big sporting events and youth and amateur sports to elevate North Carolina’s position within the industry

By Christopher D. Silbernagel

North Carolina is emerging as a go-to state for sporting events and tournaments, with pro and semi-pro teams to take in and top facilities for amateur and youth competitions. To bolster this push in the sports tourism market, the state has carefully put together several grants and funds that not only aim to bring in larger tournaments to boost economic impact, but also to benefit their communities with places to play and be active.

Youth and Amateur Sports Grants

North Carolina has put together multiple opportunities for the industry’s growth. By taking a percentage of sports wagering tax revenues, which were introduced at the beginning of 2024, the State of North Carolina and North Carolina Amateur Sports established an annual youth sports grant fund to be used on sports equipment, facility upgrades and more. All 100 counties in the state receive $20,000 for the fiscal year, and then

$10,000 annually thereafter.

In addition to funding for equipment and facilities, the state is looking to assist with the number of financial difficulties that can exist for traveling teams. Out-of-state teams attending tournaments and events in North Carolina can apply for the Youth Sports Grant fund, which offers up to $5,000 for travel costs. Established by the North Carolina General Assembly and the N.C. Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission, the fund also offers up to

Photo courtesy of Greater Raleigh CVB

$25,000 to attract new sporting events and tournaments at the national, regional and state levels.

Major Events, Games and Attractions Fund

Also fueled by sports wagering, the Major Events, Games and Attractions Fund allows the N.C. Department of Revenue to collect an 18-percent tax, including 1 percent of the total wagers placed on horse race betting. North Carolina estimates that the fund will have $16.2 million collected by fiscal year 2027–28.

The idea behind this fund is not only to draw in major national and international sporting events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, World Cup and other championships, which will provide the state a big boost in its tourism appeal, but amateur and youth sports and non-sporting events as well.

“We strive to be in the top five states across the United States that are identified as a true sports state, whether it’s our professional teams or amateur and youth in the sports tourism industry,” said Bonny Bernat, senior sports development manager at Visit Winston-Salem. “Wilkesboro is a great example of having done a great job bringing the NASCAR All-Star race to the home of motorsports. Accessibility to the fund will [further] help bring in more marquee events like that and establish the state at a higher level.”

The collection has been initiated, and once the application process has opened, the distribution will be an additional notch for the state’s ability to boost its travel and tourism industry. It is a creative approach to add additional means of bringing in visitors and athletes alike, one that only Pennsylvania also has in its repertoire but is sure to gain traction as success is calculated.

Esports Grants to Help the Esports Industry Move Up

With its state-of-the-art arenas and convention centers, powered by its strong fanbase, North Carolina has become a powerful hub for esports

events. To further boost esports and the state’s tourism industry as well, North Carolina offers producers financial rebates on production expenses up to 25 percent with a minimum of $150,000 spent to qualify. Officially called the N.C. Esports Industry Grant, a designated amount of $5 million is made available annually.

SportsNC, part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, manages the esports grant and works as a liaison to public and private groups across the state. Event planners interested in hosting an esports event or tournament would then also have SportsNC’s direct connections with destinations and their sports commissions to find the best facility or multiple ones to host. This will not only help event planners get

the financial boost they’re hoping for but also eliminate part of the venue selection process.

“We’ve started to invest in becoming an esports educational hub for both the game publisher and production industry and an advocate for destinations,” said Loren Gold, executive vice president of Greater Raleigh CVB, speaking on Raleigh’s particular position and success within the esports industry. “We strive to host two or three major national or international events, two to four regional events and four to eight local events and programs per year [regarding esports].”

With esports grants on the table, destinations like Raleigh can further boost their position, while others in the state will be able to look at the City of Oaks’ success story and utilize funding to elevate their own game.

Photo courtesy of Raleigh Convention Center

Esports have taken off in North Carolina.

North Carolina The Perfect Summer Weekend Itinerary in

Discover the best North Carolina has to offer and experience the state’s rich history, sporting events, and music scene

By Michael Caravette

These itineraries cover a three-day weekend trip in North Carolina. While you won’t be able to see everything in the Tar Heel State, you can certainly experience some of the

best. You’ll be sent on a road trip to explore the history of pre-Civil War America, experience the thrills of being a NASCAR driver, listen to the local music while dining on delicious food and more.

Charlotte Motor Speedway

NORTH CAROLINA

SPORTS & HISTORY

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1

Arrive in Hickory early to late afternoon. Explore the picturesque Downtown Hickory, stopping for a bite to eat in one of the local restaurants. After getting your fill, take a short drive over to the historic Henry River Mill Village. This small village, built in 1905, preserves past generations and may be recognized by film buffs as District 12 from The Hunger Games. Admission is $18 and reservations are recommended.

After a brief break, drive over to L. P. Frans Stadium and watch the Hickory Crawdads play some good oldfashioned baseball to relax.

DAY 2

The next day pack up early for Concord in Cabarrus County. This is one location you won’t want to miss out on. Live out your motorsports dreams by driving real race cars at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time. The venue also hosts many racing events and tours, perfect to fit any schedule.

After testing just how fast you can handle a car, take it easy and take a short trip over to Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum. The three-story museum explores the rich history of the surrounding area, with some antiques dating back to the Civil War.

Finally, take a step into the past and test your luck at Reed Gold Mine. North Carolina was once the leader of gold production back in the 1800s. While there, you can pan for gold and learn about the history of the site where gold was first discovered in the United States.

For the baseball fan, it’s well worth trekking northwest of Concord to enjoy a game at the beautiful Atrium Health Ballpark, home of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers.

DAY 3

On the final day, pack your bags and hit the road for the Pinehurst-Southern Pines area, the home of American golf. A late morning tee time at one of the nearly 40 courses will allow you to settle in without feeling rushed. Plan ahead in case your chosen course comes with a lodging requirement, as is the case with Pinehurst Resort's No. 2 course. Beyond the action on the greens, a visit to the USGA's Golf House Pinehurst and the World Golf Hall of Fame adds to the destination experience.

Afterwards, visit the Weymouth Center for The Arts & Humanities which has conserved 100 years of art, literature and music.

NORTH CAROLINA

SPORTS & MUSIC

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1

Arrive for the start of your trip in Greenville, The Emerald City, early to late afternoon. Explore the beautiful town, visiting sites like the contemporary Greenville Mall or River Park North for a luscious stroll through nature.

As the day slowly turns to night, head over to Guy Smith Stadium to watch the Greenville Yard Gnomes baseball team of the Coastal Plain League. The stadium was renovated in 2024 for the collegiate summer team, featuring new seats, concessions and more.

After an exciting game, make your way to Native Fine Diner for beautifully crafted dishes and great drinks, with a menu that has something for everyone’s unique tastes.

DAY 2

Before leaving Greenville, support some local businesses such as Alley Cat Records or Uptown Brewing Company. There’s always something exciting and new to discover. Afterwards, start making your way to Raleigh, NC, but along the way be sure to pass through Rocky Mount for some food and live music at The Prime Smokehouse.

As you continue into Raleigh stop by The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop for a classic record shop experience. They also host live music at night from regional and touring artists. But the main event is at WakeMed Soccer Park where you can watch North Carolina FC battle it out on the field. This stadium is a must visit, especially for anyone who has never attended a soccer game before.

DAY 3

For the final day, pull into Greensboro in the late afternoon and arrive at First National Bank Field. Settle down for a tailgate or get some delicious food inside before watching the famous Greensboro Grasshoppers play America’s pastime.

Afterwards, take a short trip over to Winston-Salem for some live music at one of the many theaters, bars, and restaurants. May we suggest The Ramkat, an iconic venue that brings a mix of a classic art scene with contemporary style. With cocktails available on the second floor and live music on the first, it’s the best way to end the evening.

Prior to leaving the next day, take some time to explore the city, such as visiting the legendary Bowman Gray Stadium for some NASCAR history.

HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA

Hickory, NC is conveniently located off Interstate 40, which connects Knoxville to the west with Raleigh to the east. Immerse yourself in the interactive opportunities presented at the SALT Block , which encompasses an entire city block filled with Science, Arts & Literature Together. Experience City Walk that connects shops, restaurants, and Lenoir-Rhyne University and runs through Downtown Hickory . Downtown Hickory is walkable and sits right along the newly added City Walk, which includes over 10 miles of pedestrian-friendly trail that traverses Hickory from Lenoir-Rhyne University to Lake Hickory and the River Walk. Bakers Mountain Trails features 189 acres of mature Chestnut Oak forest and nearly six miles of trails. The Hickory Crawdads are a Minor League Baseball team that has called Hickory home since 1993. The ‘Dads are the Texas Rangers’ High A affiliate and play their home games at L. P. Frans Stadium . Known as the furniture capital of the world, more than 500,000 visitors travel to Hickory Furniture Mart each year to find out why. Hickory Furniture Mart offers the highest quality of furniture designed by some of the most respected craftsmen in the industry.

HICKORY METRO CONVENTION CENTER

Multipurpose Indoor

The Hickory Metro Convention Center is newly renovated and expanded (adding over 46,000 square feet). The new space includes 35,000 feet of space for cheer, dance, eight volleyball courts, four basketball courts, or 12 pickleball courts. With over 136,000 square feet, this multisport complex can also host martial arts, fencing, wrestling, and more.

HENRY FORK REGIONAL RECREATION PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football

With 12 fields (some turf and some grass), an 8,000-square-foot picnic shelter, picnic tables and grills, an alpine tower ropes course, two playgrounds, a concession stand, walking trail, canoe launch and horseshoe pits, this multiuse park is ideal for soccer, lacrosse, rugby and other sports.

ROCK BARN COUNTRY CLUB & SPA Golf, Tennis

With a foundation tracing back to the early 19th century, this gorgeous country club has a storied history, one which grew to include golf in 1966 when it added The Rock Barn Club of Golf to its grounds. Today the club features two championship 18-hole golf courses which have yielded praise from Golf Digest and were designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Photo courtesy of Chad Austin, Inc.

HIGHLAND

RECREATION CENTER & STANFORD PARK

Fitness, Softball

Highland Recreation Center offers recreational opportunities for all ages and interests. The facility features a Gymnasium with 2 full basketball or volleyball courts or 4 pickleball courts, Fitness Center, Aerobics Studio, Community Room and Game Room. Just outside in Stanford Park, there are 2 playgrounds, a picnic shelter and 3 Softball fields.

LENOIR-RHYNE UNIVERSITY

SPORTS COMPLEX

Football, Soccer, Baseball, Softball

Home to the Lenoir-Rhyne Bears of the SAC, Lenoir-Rhyne is dedicated to providing the best student-athlete experience in all of NCAA Division II and that experience starts with state-of-theart facilities. Lenoir-Rhyne announced the opening of the Moretz Sports Athletic Campus and is one of the few Division II schools to designate and name an athletic campus.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Everybody loves it here, it’s beautiful. It (Lake Hickory) is the perfect size for a competition such as this one. It offers a variety of fishing experiences depending on how the anglers prefer to fish.”

— Secret York, Co-founder of

VISIT HICKORY

Sarah Jones sarah@hickorymetro.com (828) 322-1335 www.visithickorync.com

LBAA

Downtown Hickory

GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA

You’re Welcome in Tournament Town – Greensboro, North Carolina – where sports legends are born. Greensboro’s state-of-the-art venues transform every event into an unforgettable experience. Experience the International Civil Rights Center & Museum at the site of the former F.W. Woolworth’s store, where on February 1, 1960, four students from NC A&T State University staged a lunch counter sit-in, igniting the modern-day Civil Rights Movement. Part museum, part zoo, and part aquarium, the Greensboro Science Center is the perfect place to spend the day with your family. The site also includes the SKYWILD Treetop Adventure ropes course, a zip line, and the Rotary Club of Greensboro Carousel. The Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum offers more than 20 indoor and outdoor hands-on exhibits, including the Edible Schoolyard teaching garden and two 30-foot-tall Neptune XXL Climbers. Children can explore, pretend and create.

GREENSBORO

COLISEUM COMPLEX

Basketball, Gymnastics, Figure Skating, Wrestling Volleyball, Roller Derby, Football

The Greensboro Coliseum Complex is comprised of nine venues that can host nearly any sporting event. The main staple, the Greensboro Coliseum, can seat anywhere from 4,500 – 22,000 people and has hosted NCAA and ACC Men’s and Women’s basketball tournaments.

Aquatic Center

GREENSBORO AQUATIC

CENTER

Swimming, Synchronized Swimming, Diving, and Water Polo

The Greensboro Aquatic Center is the largest indoor facility of its kind in the United States. The 105,323-square-foot facility houses four pools and seven diving spring boards and platforms. Its versatility offers Greensboro the opportunity to host high school and collegiate events and USA Swimming meets.

TRUIST STADIUM AT NC

A&T STATE UNIVERSITY Track and Field, Javelin, Shot Put, Discus Throwing Areas

An IAAF-certified track, the Marcus T. Johnson Track at Truist Stadium at NC A&T State University is one of the country’s premier track and field facilities. Home to the NC A&T State University Aggies, the stadium can seat 23,000 spectators. It is a Mondo Super X Performance track with eight lanes as well as javelin and discus throwing areas.

BRYAN PARK TRUIST SOCCER COMPLEX Soccer

The Bryan Park Truist Soccer Complex includes 21 soccer fields, 20 full-sized and one designated 9v9. Of those fields, 19 are Bermuda grass and two have artificial turf. 11 fields have lights. Home of the NC Fusion – East, MacPherson Stadium is the crown jewel of the complex with a Europeanstyle roof, seating for 3,000, a press box, concessions, and parking for more than 1,900.

Greensboro

GREENSBORO SPORTSPLEX

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Hockey

The Greensboro Sportsplex is a 106,000-square-foot multi-sports facility featuring suspended hardwood floors on eight basketball and volleyball courts, four state-of-the-art indoor soccer fields, an inline roller hockey rink, a concession stand, and locker rooms.

J. SPENCER LOVE

TENNIS CENTER Tennis

The Spencer Love Tennis Center consists of 18 courts and five 10 & under tennis courts. A public/ private partnership will add an additional 12 courts, a new multipurpose athletic field, new parking, and a shelter with additional restrooms.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“As an officer with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and a longtime event host, I absolutely endorse Greensboro, North Carolina and Visit Greensboro, your choice for event operations and support. I have been hosting events in Greensboro for over a decade, and I found the facilities, the people, and the passion to be world class. My partners at Visit Greensboro have gone out of their way to ensure all of our events have been successful.

Over the years, AAU events have brought to the Greensboro area well in excess of $100 million in economic impact in the past decade. This would not have been possible without the insight, creativity, and vision of the hard-working teammates at Visit Greensboro.”

— Sean Kilmartin, Treasurer, Amateur Athletic Union

GREENSBORO CVB

Dennis Edwards (336) 274-2282

dedwards@visitgreensboronc.com visitgreensboronc.com

WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA

From National Beach Wrestling and USA Weightlifting to soccer and cheer competitions, Wilmington and its island beaches have hosted many diverse events filled with good times and record-breaking participation. Our welcoming year-round weather, breathtaking beaches and bustling riverfront are fan favorites. There’s something for every athlete and outdoor enthusiast here to turn ordinary sporting events into memorable, transformative experiences. Our distinctive venues and facilities are suited for sporting events of all kinds – especially youth and amateur events.

ALTHEA GIBSON

TENNIS COMPLEX AT EMPIRE PARK Tennis

The Althea Gibson Tennis Center has 24 lighted hard courts, a clubhouse and restrooms. The clubhouse has a concession stand and takes reservations for a nominal fee. The City of Wilmington offers recreational programs throughout the year and the venue hosts tournaments and league play year-round.

NCINO SPORTS PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Running

Offering 11 full-size soccer fields for challenge and classic soccer leagues, adult leagues and other soccer tournaments, the newly renovated nCino Sports Park is home to the Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC. This complex also offers the opportunity for other events such as lacrosse and other sporting events.

LEGION SPORTS COMPLEX

Football, Soccer, Baseball, Tennis

With more than four acres of paved parking, this great complex includes Legion Stadium/Jurgenson-Gabriel Field (which hosts football and soccer matches on artificial turf), the Legion Back Field, Buck Hardee Field (baseball), four lit tennis court and the Robert Shipp Pool.

WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

Cheerleading, Dance, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Badminton, Volleyball, Wrestling

The Wilmington Convention Center, the only convention center on the North Carolina coast, offers an ideal sportscentric atmosphere for sporting events up to 2,200 attendees. The convention center has 107,000 square feet of adaptable space, in addition to concessions and an attached parking garage.

OLSEN PARK

Baseball, Softball

This city park has five lighted baseball/softball fields, along with concession stands, a picnic shelter and a volleyball court. It is used to host regional and state athletic tournaments.

OGDEN PARK

Baseball, Football, Soccer, Tennis, Skateboarding

This park features nine tennis courts, three baseball fields, one softball field, a full-size basketball court, three soccer/football fields and a youth football stadium, all equipped with lights. In addition, enjoy the stateof-the-art 10,000 sq. foot concrete skate park equipped with a skate bowl, rails and steps and street features.

Wilmington and its island beaches have become a sought-after destination for sports planners thanks to a variety of venues and plenty to see and do before and after the event.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Wilmington, NC and Island Beaches is growing, and so is the attraction to attend events on the Atlantic Ocean, in Historic Downtown Wilmington on the Cape Fear River and at the nearby beaches.”

WILMINGTON AND BEACHES

Joel Smith

(800) 650-9064

jsmith@wilmingtonandbeaches.com WilmingtonNCSports.com

CVB

-Tom Clifford, Without Limits CEO (Wilmington NC Marathon; Battleship Half Marathon, 10K & 5K)

Only one sports destination offers the quintessential Carolina Coastal Experience. Waterside marathon runs. Largest tennis facility in coastal North Carolina. Diverse venues and events held in our historic riverfront town and island beaches, plus good weather year-round. Authentic, refreshing, energizing and rewarding – everything you need to host a memorable sports event all in one place.

Discover fresh possibilities on the best of the Carolina coast SportsWilmington.com | 800.650.9064 Come for

Finding the latest news and updates on sports tourism online can often feel disconnected Our social media network makes connecting THE DOTS easier

WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA

If exceptional venues were a competition, WinstonSalem would take the gold. Pristine college facilities, North Carolina’s only fully-dedicated indoor track & field facility, a 150,000-square-foot downtown convention center, and the region’s largest multi-sport complex are all part of the winning team in the Greater Winston-Salem area. Athletes and sports planners can count on top-tier venues perfectly suited for year-round sporting events, from youth and amateur to professional tournaments and competitions. Visit Winston-Salem offers expert planning support, including venue selection, team lodging, group dining, and more. Centrally located in North Carolina, the mild climate makes it a year-round destination for sports of every season.

JDL FAST TRACK

Indoor

Track

& Field

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 multiple national championships since opening in 2012. Teams also have access to a 100-meter training track and an athletic trainer room. Hospitality suites are ideal for game day officials and coaches.

RISE INDOOR SPORTS

Basketball, Volleyball, Training, Soccer, Cheer, Gymnastics

Newly opened in 2021, RISE Indoor Sports is home to more than 123,000 square feet of flexible, programmable space including eight high school regulation basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, 28,000 square feet of sports indoor turf, performance and fitness training center, 6,000 square feet of fitness and cardio space.

TRUIST STADIUM Baseball

Truist Stadium is host to the Winston-Salem Dash, a Class-A advanced minor league affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. This downtown ballpark features 5,500 stadium-style seats, 16 luxurious suites on the Club Level, three concession stations, and a 200-foot LED outfield wall scoreboard with video and animation capabilities.

TRUIST SPORTS PARK

Lacrosse, Soccer, Field Hockey

Truist Sports Park boasts 15 full-sized fields (14 lighted), including four artificial turf (450,000 total square feet) and 11 with Bermuda grass. The field house provides concessions, office facilities and a multi-purpose meeting room with multi-media, audiovisual and seating for 120. Spectators enjoy elevated viewing areas, including the 1,400-seat stadium field.

WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY

TENNIS COMPLEX

Tennis, Pickleball

Built as the home to the Wake Forest men’s and women’s tennis teams along with the ATP’s WinstonSalem Open, the Wake Forest Tennis Center opened in the summer of 2011 as one of the finest facilities in all of college tennis. The state-of-the-art complex features 13 DecoTurf II courts, the same court surface that is used at the US Open.

WINSTON-SALEM

FAIRGROUNDS ARENA AND EVENT CENTER

Hockey, Wrestling, Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Archery

This complex encompass a roughly 70-acre property minutes from downtown. This multi-purpose complex features over 55,000 square feet of programmable event space, including a 4,000-seat arena at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Arena and Event Center, home to the Carolina Thunderbirds.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“USTA North Carolina has been blessed to work with Bonny Bernat and the Visit Winston-Salem team. The organization brings forth so many opportunities for us to bring events to Winston-Salem. Bonny is a leader in her field and does a wonderful job for the client allowing us to run the best event possible.”

Bonny Bernat, Senior Sports Development Manager

336-728-4215

bonny@visitwinstonsalem.com

www.visitwinstonsalem.com/sports

— Kelly Gaines, Executive Director. USTA North Carolina and NC Tennis Foundation

Bailey South, Winston-Salem

GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

Greenville is widely recognized as the thriving cultural, educational, economic, and medical hub of Eastern North Carolina. Enjoy world-class events and East Carolina University and the Greenville Convention Center. Experience its vibrant art, live music, and culinary scene in the Downtown Greenville and Dickinson Avenue Districts Wildwood Park, a 364-acre park located minutes from Downtown Greenville, is one of the best places to enjoy the outdoors in Pitt County. There are a variety of things to do, from kayaking in the lake and on the Tar River, exploring the trails, or taking a lap around the BMX pump track or mountain bike trails. Sawyer’s Fun Park is the place for kids in Greenville! Kids of all ages can enjoy their trampoline park, laser tag arena, and arcade. Spend your day trying your hand at trampoline dodgeball and basketball.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We are proud to host the Little League Softball® World Series in Greenville, North Carolina. We bring people from all over the world to celebrate the beautiful game of softball and this allows all those participants and their families to enjoy what Greenville truly has to offer.”

— Ashlea Miller, Director of Softball Development, Little League International

PLAY GREENVILLE, NC

SPORTS

Ce’Nedra Dillard, STS Director of Sports Development

CDillard@GreenvilleNC.gov (252) 329-4200 ext. 4232

VisitGreenvilleNC.com/Sports

ECU’S NORTH RECREATIONAL COMPLEX

Cross-Country, Disc Golf, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee

Just 10 minutes from the East Carolina University 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 multipurpose fields including one championship field, along with walking and jogging trails. This is the perfect setting for cross-country.

ECU ATHLETICS

Baseball, Basketball, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball

East Carolina University’s facilities are state-of-theart 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. Check out the 50,000-seat, fully lit Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home to the Pirates’ football team.

GREENVILLE CONVENTION CENTER

Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Dance, Cheer, Cornhole

Situated on 32 sprawling acres, the Greenville Convention Center Campus features over 91,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including a 57,000-squarefoot convention center with 28-foot-high ceilings. Three on-site premiere hotels offer over 400 rooms, two restaurants and bars, indoor and outdoor pools, ample parking, on-site catering, and much more.

STALLINGS STADIUM

Baseball,

Softball

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 played host to the Little League Softball® World Series in 2021 for the first time and looks forward to being its new home through at least 2027! The stadium is also the permanent home to the Greenville Little League’s City Championship Series, and could be the site of your next big event!

Greenville, North Carolina

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

Greater Raleigh is your ultimate sports destination, offering premier venues and a dynamic atmosphere. From hosting top-tier tournaments to welcoming passionate fans, this destination is built for champions. Explore Raleigh’s world-class venues, vibrant sports culture and unbeatable energy that make it the perfect place for athletes and spectators alike. Whether you’re here to compete or cheer, Raleigh guarantees a winning experience every time.

GREATER RALEIGH SPORTS ALLIANCE

Jocelyn O’Sullivan

josullivan@raleighsports.org (919) 645-2687 raleighsports.org

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I cannot adequately express how welcomed, supported and appreciated we feel by you and your entire organization. The GRSA is a model sports-directed civic support organization. Your love of our wonderful city and commitment to its success and future development is evident in all that you do. Both the City of Oaks Challenge and MAPL Raleigh were tremendously successful.”

– Sherry Fadool, Executive Director, Triangle Volleyball Club

TRIANGLE AQUATIC CENTER

Swimming, Fitness

The TAC is a state-of-the-art facility in Cary, N.C. The TAC is a premier aquatics facility that provides a wide range of aquatic programs and services. The facility boasts a 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool, which can be configured for various events and swim meets. It also features a warm-water instructional pool and a therapy pool. These pools cater to a diverse range of activities, including swim lessons and competitive swimming.

WRAL SOCCER PARK Soccer and Lacrosse

Home to 22 soccer fields, including 14 grass fields, eight full-sized turf fields, three restroom shelters, a clubhouse and an indoor fitness center, this 122-acre soccer park is one of the best soccer facilities in the South. The park, located in Raleigh, N.C., serves as a hub for soccer enthusiasts and hosts a variety of soccer events, tournaments and games throughout the year. The average field dimensions are 110 x 65 yards, and the fields are lined for soccer and lacrosse.

WAKEMED SOCCER PARK Soccer

WakeMed Soccer Park is a premier sports facility in Cary, N.C. It is one of the largest soccer-specific stadiums in the Southeast and serves as the home stadium for North Carolina Football Club. The park features a main stadium with a seating capacity of approx. 10,000 and boasts a natural grass playing surface and excellent amenities, including concession stands, restrooms and ample parking.

RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER

Sporting Events and Esports Events

The Raleigh Convention Center is a versatile event venue located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, N.C. Spanning over 500,000 square feet, the center offers ample space for a wide range of events, including conferences, conventions, trade shows, exhibitions and meetings. The center features a variety of flexible meeting rooms and exhibit halls that can accommodate gatherings of all sizes.

2023 NHL Stadium Series, Carter–Finley Stadium

PINEHURST, NORTH CAROLINA

Most visitors’ first stop in this sparkling region in North Carolina is the World Golf Hall of Fame, which has returned to its original home in Pinehurst. It is a hotbed for golf history—including artifacts, biographies, and endless information about the beautiful game—and presents the perfect option for golf fans to learn and enjoy. Another top attraction is Tufts Archives, located within the Given Library across from the Holly Inn. The Tufts collection houses original maps of Donald Ross’s course designs, photos of Pinehurst Village in its earliest days, and so much more. One display includes James W. Tufts’ marble and silver 19th century soda fountain, alongside more than 125,000 historic photographs of the area. Old-school gamers will appreciate Rec Room Arcade, which boasts arcade games like PacMan, Galaga, and Donkey Kong.

PINEHURST CVB

Phil Werz (910) 692-3330

pwerz@homeofgolf.com www.HomeofGolf.com/sports-tourism

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Pinehurst area of North Carolina has hosted the U.S. Kids World Championship for nearly 20 years and it is the perfect destination to for this event that welcomes more than 2,000 of the best junior players in the world from every state and more than four dozen countries.”

– Dan Van Horn, President/ Founder, U.S. Kids Golf

We host the world for the U.S. Open and U.S. Kids Golf World Championships. But we are more than just golf. Learn more about planning your sports event in the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area of North Carolina. HomeofGolf.com/sports-tourism • 800.346.5362 • info@homeofgolf.com

MOORE COUNTY SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Volleyball, Basketball

Located in Carthage, the Moore County Sports Complex is a Tar Heel State treasure and one of the premier athletic facilities in the South, offering a versatile environment for athletes and sports enthusiasts. The complex features four baseball and softball fields, which are well-maintained and designed to accommodate tournaments and local leagues.

ABERDEEN RANSDELL SPORTSPLEX

Soccer,

Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Flag Football

The Aberdeen Ransdell Sportsplex is a premier sports facility that offers state-of-theart amenities in a welcoming environment. The complex boasts spacious indoor courts, ideal for basketball, volleyball, and other court sports, as well as an expansive outdoor field for soccer and other field sports. With its modern design, top-notch facilities, and 250 parking spaces, the Sportsplex caters to athletes of all ages and skill levels.

NATIONAL ATHLETIC VILLAGE

Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Adventure Sports

This Southern Pines attraction is a unique sports destination that blends traditional and adventure sports. Spanning over 70 acres, it is a popular facility that offers a wide range of activities, including soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey on professional-grade fields. What sets it apart is the inclusion of obstacle courses, trails, and a fitness area designed for outdoor enthusiasts.

MORGANTON ROAD

SPORTS COMPLEX

Soccer, Baseball

The pride of Southern Pines’ Parks and Recreation Department, the Morganton Road Sports Complex is made up of the Armory softball/ baseball field, the Optimist baseball field, and four soccer fields. Amenities include restrooms, concession stands, and plenty of spectator seating and parking. The playground and fields and are open dawn to dusk, while fields with lights are open until midnight.

Photo caption

GREATER FAYETTEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

Conveniently located in the Sandhills in the western part of the Coastal Plain region, Fayetteville is a vibrant town known for incredible attractions and opportunities for outdoor adventure. From historic sites like the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum to high-flying journeys at ZipQuest, this Tar Heel State gem offers plenty of options for fun —and its state-of-the-art sports complexes make it the perfect destination for hosting events. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, adventure seeker, or lover of military history, Fayetteville has something for you. A visit to Segra Stadium to watch the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, the Houston Astros’ Low-A affiliate, is a necessity for baseball fans. This modern stadium provides an intimate, familyfriendly atmosphere where fans can enjoy thrilling games and experience the excitement of Minor League Baseball. Beyond sports, Fayetteville is home to the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum, where visitors can explore the rich history and heroism of some of the U.S. military’s most courageous forces through interactive exhibits and immersive displays. Those seeking an adrenaline rush should head over to ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure, which features one of the most exceptional zipline experiences in the United States, with eight exhilarating zips that take you soaring over lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls. Nature lovers will likewise appreciate the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, a 77-acre oasis with scenic walking trails.

CROWN COMPLEX

Indoor Football, Basketball, Soccer, Hockey, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Wrestling

This top-of-the-line arena is versatile and wildly popular, catering annually to a variety of sports and entertainment events. It is a five-venue complex with 105,000 square feet of multi-purpose space, including a 10,000-seat coliseum, a renovated 4,500-seat vintage arena, a 2,400-seat intimate theatre, a 60,000-square-foot adaptable expo center, and a 9,000-square-foot ballroom. The logical question: What can’t be done in this sprawling event space?

DISTINCTLY FAYETTEVILLE

Pernell Edwards, Sports Sales Manager pedwards@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com (910) 912-8920 www.distinctlyfayettevillenc.com

JORDAN SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football

Need field space? This facility has 1.5 acres of it and also has plenty of space for spectators to watch the games. Need a flexible venue that soccer, flag football, and lacrosse fans will appreciate? The Jordan Soccer Complex is your best option, with its eight fields and reputation as one of the finest facilities in the South. Coaches and athletes love Jordan, which is adjacent to Methodist University, features highquality grass fields, and has all the necessary elements for a successful sports tournament.

FREEDOM COURTS SPORTSPLEX

Basketball, Gymnastics, Soccer, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Baseball, Softball

Freedom Courts Sportsplex is a premier attraction in Fayetteville designed primarily for basketball, volleyball, and other court sports. Featuring multiple full-size courts, the sportsplex is ideal for hosting tournaments, leagues, and practices. It is equipped with high-quality flooring, 34-foot ceilings, showers, and ample seating, ensuring a top-notch experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Segra Stadium

CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

Just minutes northeast of Charlotte, Cabarrus County is home to many experienced hosts and venues for traditional and non-traditional sporting events. The area offers top-of-the-line indoor and outdoor venues for competitions of all kinds including several turf fields, state-of-the-art MONDO track and field facility, 5,000-seat arena, downtown baseball stadium and more.

Accommodations with a wide range of amenities and price points are available within minutes of the area’s outstanding venues. Choose from over 3,000 rooms at 30 hotels, including Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park resort, where hospitality experts work to ensure a seamless experience for all.

Before or after events, groups can explore everything from thrilling adventures to relaxed local shopping and dining in charming downtowns with attractions such as Charlotte Motor Speedway, NC Music Hall of Fame, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and the state’s largest outlet and value retail shopping center, Concord Mills

The Cabarrus County CVB provides a dedicated services team that works to connect community partners and planners to successfully service events. Home to Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (USA), the destination is situated along I-85 with easy access to Charlotte Airport (CLT).

JAY M. ROBINSON MONDO TRACK & FIELD FACILITY

Track & Field

Featuring a turf field, as well as a MONDO Super X 720 Track and Field surface, the recommended surface of the World Athletics and Paralympics. The facility has a 400-meter equal quadrant design. It can host eight 42” lanes with 6’ of surface outside, and is able to run 100m, 200m and 4 x 100m in both directions. Permanent restrooms, concession stands, a field house and Wi-Fi.

CABARRUS ARENA & EVENTS CENTER

Consumer Shows, Sporting Events Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord is one of the best places to host events in the county. This huge arena can host weddings, banquets, business meetings, the Cabarrus county fair, and plenty of shows and exhibitions. The facility has more than 150,000 square feet, 2.500 parking spots and hosts more than 150 events on nearly 300 event days each year.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“This is Mid-South Pop Warner 4th year working with Cabarrus County Visitors’ Bureau and the service has been nothing less than spectacular! The customer service and facilities are outstanding, This team has been a complete joy to work with!”

EXPLORE CABARRUS COUNTY NC

Paul Sheehan

paulsheehan@ explorecabarrus.com (704) 575-3738

ExploreCabarrus.com/Sports

WEST CABARRUS TURF COMPLEX

Brand New and Game-Day Ready Home to three new turf fields including one stadium and two practice fields. Ready for competition, all fields feature T°Cool® evaporative cooling technology and are equipped with lights. These versatile fields are lined for soccer, football, and tic-marked for lacrosse. With three additional stadium fields, Cabarrus County offers a total of six turf fields. All include the same features and are located near each other as well as top attractions and hotels.

- Jeff Bolden, Sr., Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc., Mid-South Region Director

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

Centrally located in the Southeast, Huntsville offers a blend of small-town hospitality and big-city amenities, making it ideal for hosting sporting events. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) is home to Space Camp, Aviation Challenge Camp, and more, featuring the world’s most comprehensive manned spaceflight hardware museum. Its extensive collection includes everything from a model of America’s first satellite, Explorer I, to next-generation vehicles like Sierra Nevada’s Dream Chaser. The MidCity District is set to provide a balanced mix of uses connected by urban plazas and walkable streets, adjacent to a 40-acre public park with a functional lake, an 8,500-seat outdoor amphitheater, multi-purpose lawns, and an outdoor climbing area.

Visitors love Huntsville’s Bridge Street Town Centre, an outdoor shopping complex with old-world charm, featuring upscale brands like Michael Kors and Pandora alongside specialty stores.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The team in Huntsville gets sports – from an event standpoint, as a participant, and as a fan to create a first class experience. They exceeded our expectations and we look for to working with them for many years to come.”

— Colleen Craig, CEO of Rally Volleyball”

VISIT HUNTSVILLE

Joel Lamp (256) 551-2334

jlamp@huntsville.org www.huntsville.org

HUNTSVILLE AQUATICS CENTER

Swimming, Diving

The Huntsville Aquatics Center opened in 2017 and has made a splash on the national stage, most recently as being named the host site for the AHSAA state championships. Two 50-meter indoor competition pools are housed under one roof, the larger with spectator seating for more than 1,400, as well as deck space seating for more than 400 competitors.

JOE DAVIS STADIUM Football, Soccer

Joe Davis Stadium is a beloved landmark for minorleague baseball, earning the nickname “The Crown Jewel of the Southern League.” The stadium has been completely reimagined into a state-ofthe-art facility and home to Huntsville City FC! Featuring a 360-degree concourse, state-ofthe-art audio and video, its very own NASA rocket engine, and so many more amenities, the 6,000+ venue hosts a variety of public and private events.

ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT HAMPTON COVE Golf

Part of the the famed Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, offering a variety of challenges for golfers, as well as all the amenities needed to host successful tournaments, including the 2026 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Regionals. The Highlands Course meanders across hilly terrain while the River Course offers no sand but plenty of water hazards.

HUNTSVILLE TENNIS CENTER AND ATHLETIC CLUB ALABAMA Tennis

The sites for the annual USTA Girls 16s Clay Court National Championship, the facilities are less than a halfmile apart and near the John Hunt Park complex. Huntsville Tennis Center is a city-owned facility with 24 lighted clay courts and six lighted hard courts. Athletic Club Alabama, a private facility, has six indoor courts and 15 outdoor courts, as well as a restaurant and meeting space.

DECATUR, ALABAMA

Decatur is one of the South’s finest destinations for indoor and outdoor activities. Located on the Tennessee River, it boasts a beautiful harbor, pavilion, and the expansive Jack Allen Recreational Complex. Visitors can enjoy clean facilities, a wildlife refuge, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, Point Mallard Water Park, and a natural science museum. Decatur is easily accessible via I-65, I-565, and US-72. With attractions ranging from a world-famous hot air balloon festival to Mardi Gras celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening. Point Mallard features a wave pool, lazy river, speed slides, and a sandy beach, providing fun for all ages. Nearby, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 35,000 acres and attracts thousands of wintering waterfowl, housing twelve federally listed endangered or threatened species. The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a popular community attraction, hosting educational events for K-12 students, making Decatur a vibrant place for learning, recreation and your next tournament.

VISIT DECATUR

Don Dukemineer (256) 350-2028

Ddukemineer@visitdecatural.org www.visitdecatural.org/Sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I have worked with the staff at Decatur Morgan County Tourism on many events over several years. Without exception, they have always been great partners. President Danielle Gibson and Director of Sports Development Don Dukemineer are always extremely helpful in making our events as enjoyable and productive for our organization as they are for the community.

-Bobby Eads, Senior Vice President, Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail

JACK ALLEN RECREATION COMPLEX

Soccer, Disc Golf

One of the best multi-use facilities in the South, the Jack Allen Recreation Complex features 10 beautifully maintained international size soccer fields, lighting, locker and shower rooms, disc golf course, full-service concessions and an easily accessible walking trail. Situated on 77 acres of manicured turf, the complex has hosted numerous soccer events including Alabama State Cup and NAIA Women’s Championships.

INGALLS HARBOR PAVILION

Fishing Tournaments

Ingalls Harbor has gained national attention as a frequent host of FLW and Bassmaster tournaments that come to Decatur. Its 10-boat simultaneous launch capability and ample parking, plus its location on the Tennessee River by Wheeler Lake, attract anglers and recreational boaters from all over the world. In addition, a multi-purpose pavilion hosts festivals, art exhibits, concerts and other events.

WILSON MORGAN SOFTBALL COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball

Featuring six 300-foot lighted softball fields with bleacher seating, electronic scoreboards, press boxes, covered dugouts, a telephone system from the press box to the dugouts and more. Wilson Morgan Softball Complex has hosted slow-pitch softball tournaments, fastpitch softball tournaments, baseball tournaments and other fun/competitive events. This massive complex can accommodate nearly any event.

SPIRIT OF AMERICA FIELD

Soccer

The Spirit of America fields are located within Point Mallard Park. The facility is named for President Ronald Reagan who spoke at the Spirit of America Festival in 1984. The 10-acre facility boasts laser-graded, sodded, and lighted fields with a permanent outdoor stage at the east end. The Spirit of America Stage is the home of the Spirit of America Festival.

Wilson Morgan Softball Complex

PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE

At Pigeon Forge, a moment can last a lifetime. For generations, visitors have returned to explore the mountain town in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains . As a year-round familyfriendly vacation destination, Pigeon Forge is filled with fun activities. From thrilling attractions and award-winning shows to countless options for dining, shopping and places to stay, it’s easy to see why so many consider Pigeon Forge their home away from home.

Spanning 160 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood theme park offers more than 50 world-class rides, high-energy entertainment, award-winning dining and the friendliest theme park atmosphere in the world!

PIGEON FORGE

Jennifer Smith jsmith@mypigeonforge.com (865) 429-7432 www.mypigeonforge.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Hosting our annual Make It Count gymnastics invitational at the LeConte Center is the best move we ever made! The LeConte venue is unsurpassed in its beauty and spaciousness and the staff at the LeConte Center set you up for success every time! The staff have that unique ability to balance professionalism with friendliness!”

— Tracy Counts, Gymnastics Counts

SPORTS VENUES HIKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS SHOWS

RIDES MUSEUMS SHOPPING

LECONTE CENTER AT PIGEON FORGE

Basketball, Wrestling, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Cheer

Named for the scenic views of Mount LeConte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this facility sits right in the heart of Pigeon Forge and exudes a mountain lodge ambiance. The center spans 232,000 square feet and prides itself in its flexibility to host competitive events of all types. Plus, as a certified Tennessee Green Hospitality venue, the LeConte Center is committed to environmentally sustainable practices that continue to protect and enhance the natural beauty and health of the Pigeon Forge community. The LeConte Center has thrived as a popular spot for sports tournaments since its opening. Hosting indoor sporting events of all types, the facility features seating for up to 12,000 spectators, free Wi-Fi, eight bay registration areas, a private office for event management.

THE RIPKEN EXPERIENCE PIGEON FORGE Baseball

The Ripken Experience might be the best experience possible for an eager youth baseball player or an experienced coach. Hosting a baseball tourney in Pigeon Forge is worthwhile, as the Ripken Experience offers an incredible backdrop of the Smoky Mountains and features replicas of six professional ballparks, with four newly renovated fields at Wear Farm City Park. Reserved for the 7U-12U age groups, there is no better place for kids to chase their major league ambitions while learning a little about the history of American baseball stadiums. The complex enjoyed its inaugural season in 2016, when it welcomed over 600teams to the area. It consists of six youth turf fields with lights, batting cages and bullpens at each field as well as a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a vibrant city brimming with rich culture, historic significance, and a lively arts scene. As the hub of Louisiana’s political and cultural life, Baton Rouge offers a unique blend of Southern charm and cosmopolitan flair. The Capital City is also an ideal destination for year-round sporting events. Baton Rouge hosts national, regional, and local athletic organizations – offering an exciting array of facilities to support competition at any scale. When the games wrap up for the day, evenings in Baton Rouge are the perfect backdrop for visitors. From family-friendly activities to exciting nightlife options and a food scene unlike anywhere else in the world, there’s plenty to do and see that make Baton Rouge the complete destination for any sporting event.

RAISING CANE’S RIVER CENTER Hockey, Entertainment, Ballet

Raising Cane’s River Center is Baton Rouge’s premier multipurpose venue, offering 200,000 square feet of flexible event and meeting space. This expansive facility hosts a wide range of events, from concerts and conventions to sporting events and theatrical performances. Its jack-of-all-trades design includes a 10,000-seat arena, exhibit halls, and meeting rooms.

TRACTION SPORTS Baseball, Softball

This premier destination for baseball and softball enthusiasts features 11 lighted fields with turf infields. The facility caters to players of all skill levels, offering a variety of field sizes to accommodate different ages and competition levels, while the advanced turf infields ensure optimal playing conditions and reduce weather-related interruptions.

OAK VILLA SPORTS PARK Baseball, Softball

Oak Villa Sports Park is dedicated to youth baseball and softball, boasting eight fields with turf infields and lighting for evening games. This facility is designed to support the development of young athletes, providing high-quality playing surfaces and a safe environment for practice and competition. The park’s lighting guarantees that games can continue into the nighttime.

Raising Cane’s River Center

BURBANK SOCCER PARK Soccer, Fishing

Burbank Soccer Park offers an impressive 26 natural turf soccer fields, 13 of which are equipped with lighting to extend playtime into the evening. The park is designed to support a wide range of soccer activities, from youth leagues to adult tournaments, with multiple pavilions and restroom facilities providing comfort for players and spectators. It also features ample parking.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Partnering with Visit Baton Rouge was so valuable this year as we once again hosted the Perfect Game Invitational Tournaments. Connecting the dots and putting our resources together for our events proved to be the right ingredients for perfection. Our team is grateful for Visit Baton Rouge’s assistance and looks forward to working with them again in the future.”

— Brent Boyd

Perfect Game Director Louisiana Director of Baseball at Traction Sports

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI

Starkville might be Mississippi’s most famous college town—it is home to Mississippi State University —but it packs a punch beyond Bulldogs athletics. This 24,000-person city also contains some of the finest athletic facilities in the South and a bevy of cultural attractions that visitors will not want to miss.

One of the highlights of a trip to Starkville is the Cotton District Arts Festival & Taste of Starkville , a lively celebration of local art, food, and music that draws visitors from all over the region. This event, set in the charming Cotton District, offers an immersive experience into the town’s creative spirit. Another can’t-miss to-do is Downtown at Sundown , where jubilant people gather in Starkville’s picturesque downtown for live music, food vendors, and a relaxed, community atmosphere. For those with an appreciation for history and culture, the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library contains 15,000 linear feet of correspondence, research notes, published monographs, artifacts, photographs, scrapbooks, and memorabilia, by and about the United States’ 18th president.

CORNERSTONE SPORTS COMPLEX Baseball, Softball

Cornerstone Sports Complex, opened in October 2023, is Starkville’s premier destination for baseball and softball enthusiasts. Spanning 124 acres, the facility boasts 12 baseball/ softball diamonds, including two 225-foot fields, two 250-foot fields, two T-Ball fields, and on-site batting cages. There are also 668 parking spaces, Musco LED lighting throughout the park, a playground, walking trails, and ample warm-up areas and community lawn space. The result of all of these features? A stateof-the-art tourney venue that attracts a large variety of regional tournaments and serves as a vibrant hub for sports and recreation.

TRAVIS OUTLAW CENTER Basketball, Running

This dazzling facility is named after the NBA player and local hero, Travis Outlaw—and it lives up to the former Portland Trailblazers star’s prominence. The Outlaw Center offers an indoor basketball court, an indoor walking track, a racquetball court, and a 1.3-mile walking track. It also has meeting rooms and a fitness center, helping it cater to a wide range of athletic and community events, not to mention basketball leagues and adult fitness programs. With modern amenities and a decided focus on fostering youth development, the Travis Outlaw Center stands as a testament to Starkville’s commitment to athletics.

PICKLEBALL COURTS

Pickleball

Pickleball has taken off in and around Starkville, and the town’s numerous pickleball courts provide a vibrant and welcoming environment for players of all skill levels. Situated within the city’s extensive park system, these courts showcase well-maintained spaces for both casual games and competitive play. The centerpiece facility is McKee Park, which includes 12 courts with durable surfaces, good lighting, and convenient access to amenities like seating and parking. Those interested in hosting pickleball tourneys should contact the Starkville Parks and Recreational Department.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Partnership, specifically our Division of Tourism, tremendously enhances the hotel and hospitality industry by bringing new people and groups to our area through the promotions of conventions, special events, economic development and various meetings which encourage and promote overnight stays in Starkville, MS. We are thankful for the leadership of Paige Hunt and everyone at the Partnership.”

Paige Hunt phunt@starkville.org (662) 323-3322 starkville.org

— Amy Tuck, La Quinta Inn & Suites

Cool Papa Bell statue at Cornerstone Sports Complex

SOUTH CAROLINA

Uncovering South Carolina’s Hidden Sports Gems

This southern state isn’t afraid to try something new

South Carolina: Beacon of Golfing Excellence

The Palmetto State provides the courses, culture and infrastructure for designing and executing a top-notch golf tournament

City Walk

Scan to discover more of what South Carolina offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

South Carolina is the ideal destination for your championship event, no matter the sport or level!

From the Upstate to the Midlands and the coast, the state offers a wide range of venues to host your next competition. With a proven track record of success, South Carolina is “Just Right for Champions.”

The Palmetto State takes pride in hosting a variety of local, regional, national, and international championships. In the past year alone, prestigious events such as the UCI World BMX Championships, World’s Strongest Man, SEC Women’s Basketball Championship, NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships, RBC Heritage PGA Championship, and Bassmasters High School Championships have all taken place here. Whether your event is large or small, South Carolina offers the perfect setting, with the South Carolina Sports Alliance providing local expertise and support to ensure a record-breaking, unforgettable experience.

South Carolina’s golf tourism industry is booming, drawing golfers from across the globe to its renowned courses and scenic landscapes. With over 350 golf courses, including iconic venues like Harbour Town Golf Links and Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course, the state is a premier destination for players of all skill levels. The mild climate allows for year-round play, while coastal views, rolling hills, and luxury resorts elevate the experience. Signature events like the RBC Heritage and the Myrtle Beach Classic further enhance South Carolina’s reputation as a golf paradise, attracting both professionals and casual golfers alike.

Whether you’re exploring charming small towns, vibrant coastal cities, or scenic inland areas, South Carolina offers unique settings for both indoor and outdoor sports. With award-winning dining, affordable accommodations, and a wealth of exciting attractions, the state guarantees a memorable experience for athletes, families, and spectators alike. Plus, with unmatched Southern hospitality, you may find yourself planning your next vacation in South Carolina!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Paris President, South Carolina Sports Alliance

ON THE COVER: A weightlifter shows off his strength.

Photo courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach

South Carolina is an incredible golfing state.

CAROLINA

Photo

SOUTH CAROLINA:

BEACON OF GOLFING EXCELLENCE

The Palmetto State provides the courses, culture and infrastructure necessary for design ing and executing a top-notch golf tournament

By Billy Stampfl

Myrtle Beach Classic

Photo courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach

South Carolina has carved out a distinguished reputation as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and tournament planners alike. With its picturesque landscapes, world-class courses, and strategic partnerships with prestigious organizations like the PGA, the state offers an unparalleled experience for hosting golf tournaments and attracting players and fans from around the globe.

THE PGA PARTNERSHIP

South Carolina recently cemented its status as a top golfing destination by inking a landmark five-year marketing agreement with the PGA Tour. This collaboration aims to elevate the state’s visibility as a golf mecca, showcasing its exceptional courses and facilities to a worldwide audience. But beyond the partnership’s worthy objectives, more important is that it underscores South Carolina’s golf history and commitment to promoting golf tourism. The state has over 350 courses; golf is a vital driver of its $29 billion tourism industry, with an estimated $3.3 billion economic impact in 2021 and a contribution of 38,000 jobs.

RECOGNITION AND ACCOLADES

South Carolina’s commitment to golf excellence has garnered global recognition. The state is consistently praised as one of the top golf destinations worldwide, with major publications and other entities celebrating its contributions to the game. Links Magazine recently hailed three of South Carolina’s islands as part of the 10 best “golf islands” on the planet.

The Palmetto State selections include Hilton Head Island, which has 30 top golf courses, including the spectacular Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, on and around the resort destination; Kiawah Island, home to the Ocean Course, site of the 1991 Ryder Cup and 2012 PGA Championship and considered one of the world’s most difficult courses; and Pawleys Island, located on the south end of Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand. The accolades don’t end there. In 2023, the International Association of Golf Travel Operators named South Carolina among the top five golf destinations in the world. It is the only U.S. state to make the global Golf Destination of the Year list.

MYRTLE BEACH: GOLF PARADISE

At the heart of South Carolina’s golfing allure lies Myrtle Beach, the “Golf Capital of the World.” With over 90 championship courses sprawled along its sensational coastline and inland landscapes, Myrtle Beach offers a diverse range of golfing experiences suited for players of all ages and skill levels. The city’s dedication to golf is exemplified by the addition of the Myrtle Beach Classic, a new PGA event that has quickly become a highlight of the golfing calendar. This tourney not only attracts top players; it also draws enthusiastic spectators eager to witness worldclass golf against a backdrop of coastal beauty. The stakes are high, too: the champion this past May took home $3.9 million in winnings. Beyond its splashy new PGA event, Myrtle Beach represents summer golfing at its finest.

A FANTASTIC GOLF DESTINATION

Charleston is one of the best golfing destinations in South Carolina, and the world. Each year, the Charleston area is the host site of some 30 golf tournaments including major tournaments held by the USGA, LPGA, the Ryder Cup and the PGA Tour. In 2012 and 2021, Charleston hosted the prestigious PGA Championship at The Ocean Course, Kiawah Island Golf Resort. This resort was again chosen to host the event in 2031, another major feather in the city’s cap. Charleston is also expanding its golf resume as two new courses are being built, at Kiawah Island Club and Berkeley County.

SPARTANBURG HOSTS QUALITY EVENTS

BMW Charity Pro-Am

The BMW Charity Pro-Am golf tournament has become a summertime tradition in the Upstate, and it’s the only event on the Korn Ferry Tour where amateurs and celebrities are grouped with Tour pros in a three-day better-ball competition over two courses: the Carolina Country Club in Spartanburg and the Thornblade Club in Greer.

Bobby Chapman Junior Invitational

In 2023, Spartanburg played host to the top amateur golfers from across the country for the Bobby Chapman Junior Invitational. The tournament, established in 1995, is one of the top-rated junior golf events in the country.

LPGA Amateur Golf Association Atlantic Regional Qualifier

In August 2024, The Carolina Country Club served as host to the LPGA Amateur Golf Association’s Atlantic Region Qualifier. The LPGA Amateur Golf Association is a passionate, inclusive group of women made up of over 15,500+ members of all golf abilities throughout 130+ global chapters.

MAJOR TOURNAMENTS AND EVENTS

The Myrtle Beach Classic is South Carolina’s newest PGA Tour event, but the state hosts numerous other official tournaments and charity pro-ams. One example is the BMW Charity Pro-Am, held annually in Greenville. Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, this bustling city is famous for the Greenville County Museum of Art–but also for its renowned golf scene. The BMW Pro-Am combines professional golf with philanthropy, attracting top-tier players and enthusiastic crowds to its scenic courses and vibrant downtown area.

Bobby Chapman Junior Invitational

Photo courtesy of One Spartanburg Inc.

The World’s Strongest Man competition was held in Myrtle Beach.

Photo courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach

UNCOVERING SOUTH CAROLINA’S

HIDDEN SPORTS GEMS

This southern state isn’t afraid to try something new

By Tinder Kiely

South Carolina continues to be a thriving economy for all things sports. College football and basketball reign supreme, with Clemson and the University of South Carolina having some of the most competitive teams in the country. But the Palmetto state has much more to offer than just the big two. Strongman competitions? They’ve got them. Rubik’s Cube tournaments? Yep. The fourth largest 10k road race in America? Come watch it in South Carolina.

CHARLESTON

The Cooper River Bridge Run isn’t just any race: it’s a worldclass competition in a unique setting with gorgeous views of the Cooper River and an elite exposition of athleticism. The 10k hosts 40,000 annual racers, including some of the top long-distance runners in the world, all competing for their best time. Ranked as the 4th largest 10k in the U.S., the race has had a tremendous impact on the community by generating $33 million in just one weekend, with a mission to promote health and wellness and support their charity and grant connections.

The Charleston Scottish Games and Highland Gathering has been held for 53 consecutive years and is the second oldest event of its kind in the Southeast. The games draw over 10,000 people to watch traditional Scottish strength competitions like Putting of the Stone, Weight Throws, Sheaf Toss, Caber Toss and more. There are also Highland Dancing competitions, Border Collie demonstrations, and the crowdfavorite bagpipe performances.

COLUMBIA

Although South Carolina does not have a Major League Baseball team of its own, there is plenty of good baseball to be had. Columbia’s minor league team, the Fireflies, is one to look out for. Aptly named after the amazing, synchronized fireflies that light up nearby Congaree Swamp, this team has been on fire this summer.

South Carolina is renowned for its fishing, but it’s more than just salt water and deep-sea experiences. Lake Murray holds the impressive rank of No. 4 in the country for bass fishing, and Bassmaster named it as the “Top Lake in the Southeast.” Annually, top-tier fishing tournaments such as the Bassmaster Elite Series and Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour are hosted here. The lake was also the first location in the United States to host the Black Bass World Championship.

MYRTLE BEACH

The 47th World’s Strongest Man competition was held just this past May in Myrtle Beach, after the city proved itself in 2023 as a top pick for this tournament. Myrtle Beach saw fans from all around the U.S. and the world cheering on the strongmen at this exciting four-day event.

Myrtle Beach hosts the American Cornhole League Collegiate Championships each year at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center. This isn’t some backyard BBQ cornhole tournament—this event has over 1,000 total participants competing for the trophy and thousands of dollars’ worth of scholarships. The tournament is proud of its open format which allows teams from any college, large or small, to participate in the games.

FLORENCE

Esports have gained popularity and momentum in the last half-decade, and Florence County Parks and Recreation has staked its claim in this growing field of sports. The Peach Belt Conference is NCAA recognized and includes several esports titles such as Rocket League, Overwatch, Valorant, and League of Legends. The Peach Belt Championships for Valorant and Rocket League are hosted at the Florence Center, where competitors vie for prize money and bragging rights.

SPARTANBURG

In a colorful display of speed, skill and strategy, over 400 Rubik’s Cube competitors converged on Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in June 2024 for CubingUSA’s Southeast Championship. This three-day event drew cubers from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Participants competed across 17 different speed cubing events. Dylan Miller clinched the top spot in the main event, solving the 3x3x3 Cube with an average time of 5.72 seconds.

Myrtle Beach

Photo courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

Columbia is the home of the University of South Carolina’s immensely popular Gamecocks sports programs. The capital of the Palmetto State is more than just a storied college sports town though, bolstering its vibrant sports tourism industry with premier facilities and venues available for all ages, skill levels and interests. The 77,500 capacity Williams-Brice Stadium is a football fan’s dream venue. Colonial Life Arena holds 18,000 and hosts a large number of events from basketball to pro wrestling and more.  Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia is a great place for all ages to explore. The 170-acre site has over 3,000 animals, ranging from 400 different global species. From koalas to sharks, the zoo offers interactive Outback encounters, a safari to explore African animals, and coral conservation labs. Additionally, showcasing more than 5,700 species of native and exotic plants, the Riverbanks Botanical Garden is a great place to see the beautiful, dramatic, and themed gardens. The South Carolina State Museum provides art collections, exhibitions, planetarium shows, an observatory, a telescope collection, and 4D theater shows.

Opened in 1934 and renovated most recently in 2022, Williams-Brice Stadium is the home of the University of South Carolina football team. The storied stadium holds more than 77,500 people and has hosted some of the most thrilling games in college football history. It was also the host site for a different kind of football in August 2024 as Manchester United and Liverpool faced off.

Colonial Life is an 18,000-seat venue that plays host to both sports and music events. It is best known as the home court of the South Carolina Gamecocks’ men’s and women’s basketball teams, both of which have been highly successful in recent NCAA tournaments. It hosted first- and second-round NCAA men’s basketball tournament games in March of 2019.

Segra Park is the home of the Columbia Fireflies, the city’s Minor League Baseball team. The stadium, with the capacity to seat more than 9,000, opened in 2016 for the Fireflies’ first game. Baseball fans can catch exciting minor league games here, though Segra Park is much more than just a ballpark. It is also a great choice for weddings and business meetings.

WILLIAMS-BRICE STADIUM Football

COLONIAL LIFE ARENA Basketball

SEGRA PARK Baseball

CAYCE TENNIS AND FITNESS CENTER Tennis

Cayce Tennis and Fitness center is a wonderful 30 court tennis facility located right outside the heart of downtown Columbia. As longtime area tennis players know, this facility offers one of the best playing experiences in the capital city. The 30 lighted world-class courts include USTA QuickStart Courts for children eight and under, and a champion-sized stadium court with a viewing capacity for 500.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We were a problem child that came out of nowhere. Scott provided me with opportunities and options that I never would have considered., He has been a steady hand from the day I met him. He and Anna never let us down when we made a request. Our games started in Florence over 40 years ago. I don’t think they ever had the quality of assistance that Scott and Anna provided us.”

— Jim Testor, S.C. Senior Sports Classic

EXPERIENCE

COLUMBIA SC SPORTS

Anna Gasperecz

(803) 545-0016

agasperecz@experiencecolumbiasc.com www.columbiascsports.com

FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA

Florence is the perfect place to explore. Florence offers a wide range of dining, with spectacular local cuisine served up with a side of southern hospitality. And to make your culinary experience even more interesting, the origins of the SC Pecan Trail start here. The trail highlights local restaurants and businesses that display pecans in food, crafts, and more. Following the trail through Florence County will be the tastiest trek you’ve ever made. From downtown Florence to the heart of Lake City, the SC Pecan Trail offers a little something for everyone. Collect stamps while checking off stops along the trail to receive Pecan Trail swag! The SC Revolutionary Rivers Trail® follows the Lynches Scenic River from Lynches River County Park to the cypress and tupelo-laden stomping grounds of Revolutionary War hero General Francis Marion. The fact Marion and his band of militia could simply disappear into the cypress swamplands earned him the name Swamp Fox. Designated as a National Water Trail in 2022, the 66-mile trail offers paddlers a captivating experience of floating through swampland that was once traversed by Patriots engaged in guerrilla warfare against the Loyalists.

FLORENCE CENTER

Multi-use

The award-winning Florence Center is the largest convention, meeting, and events center in northeast South Carolina with over 79,000 square feet of multi-purpose space, including a 10,000-seat arena. The Center is able to host a wide variety of events from volley, cheerleading, gymnastics, to basketball, and horseshoe pitching tournaments.

FLORENCE SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football

The expansive 80-acre complex features 14 soccer fields with two championship style with MUSCO lighting. Two bathroom complexes conveniently located on either side of the complex, and a 6,000 square foot pavilion that houses concessions, athletic training room, official’s room, offices, a conference room with kitchenette.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Conference Carolinas has worked with the Florence Area Sports Council for numerous Championships and they have gone above and beyond in every way possible. The attention to detail provided before, during and after each of our Championships in the Florence area has been top-notch.”

— Chris Colvin, Conference Carolinas Commissioner

FLORENCE AREA

SPORTS COUNCIL

Jade Perkins (843) 664-0330

jade.perkins@visitflo.com visitflo.com/sports

FLORENCE SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Track and Field

The Carolina Bank Field opened for play in May of 2022 as home of the Florence Flamingos baseball team, and stars as the centerpiece of the Florence Sports Complex. The complex has officials’ room, locker rooms, two concession stands with facilities, five little league baseball fields, one high school field, and MUSCO lighting. The complex also features a collegiate level outdoor track with eight lanes of synthetic track, four long jump/triple jump pits, two high jump pits and all other field event venues house within the track.

SPARTANBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA

At the intersection of two bustling highways—I-85 and I-26—Spartanburg is within driving distance of major Southern cities like Birmingham, Jacksonville, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Richmond. But beyond a premier geographical location, this town offers so much more, from its various extracurricular attractions to incredible athletic facilities. Your Spartanburg adventure begins at the BMW Performance Driving School, where visitors can enhance their driving skills and have fun in the process. The setting: a versatile driving course equipped with a skid pad, slalom course, and water walls. Great times await under the expert guidance of professional driving instructors, behind the wheel of a fleet of new BMWs. You can also head over to Croft State Park, which offers over 20 miles of biking and hiking trails, a playground, and picnicking and camping areas.

TYGER RIVER PARK

Baseball, Softball, Disc golf

A top baseball and softball tournament complex in the South, Tyger River Park features 12 youth fields in four-field clusters, a championship stadium with 600 seats, and a range of amenities including a clubhouse, concession areas, umpire rooms, lounge, VIP suite, wireless internet, and covered seating. It also boasts two playgrounds and flatscreen TVs at each field.

NORTH SPARTANBURG PARK

Baseball, Softball, BMX

As a sports complex, North Spartanburg Park is a picture of versatility: it has five baseball/ softball fields, a BMX track, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic shelters, a playground, restrooms, and a half-mile walking trail. Little compares to a sunny afternoon at this facility, taking in a youth sports tournament, eating lunch by the picnic area, then going for a leisurely stroll.

VA-DU-MAR MCMILLAN

PARK

Soccer, Football, Rugby, Pickleball, Tennis, Disc golf

With some facilities, it is best to start with the basic facts. Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park is one of those: it offers full-sized, natural grass multipurpose fields, eight pickle ball courts, five tennis courts, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Excited yet? Get ready for a soccer tournament or a rugby game, a tennis match or disc golf.

THE CAROLINA COUNTRY CLUB

Golf

Designed by Tom Jackson, the 18-hole championship course at the Carolina Country Club is renowned as one of the best in Upstate South Carolina. It features a stunning natural setting, incorporating a stream and signature lake on several holes. The course can extend up to 7,000 yards from the Championship tees and as short as 4,700 yards from the Red tees.

Tyger River Park

MILLIKEN ARBORETUM Cross Country

This storied arboretum is not just a nature enthusiast’s dream, but also a top crosscountry venue, hosting youth, high school, and collegiate events like NCAA D-I and D-II National Regionals. In 2025, it will be the site of the NCAA D-III National Championship. The arboretum also hosts the Eye Opener, one of America’s premier high school cross country meets, attracting over 3,200 runners annually.

THE STAR CENTER

Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Football,

Lacrosse

The Star Center boasts a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports center with outdoor multipurpose fields (four grass, two turf), four basketball courts, and eight volleyball courts. No matter the sport or event, whether it is a youth volleyball camp, a basketball travel tournament, or an adult soccer league, the Star Center uses sports as an outlet to get athletes to the next level.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Spartanburg has been home to one of our annual flagship events for nearly a decade. The growth and success of this tournament wouldn’t be possible without the support of OneSpartanburg, Inc. We look forward to calling Spartanburg home for many years to come!”

— Blake Thompson,

jmfreeze@onespartanburginc.com www.visitspartanburg.com/ spartanburg-sports

Teammate Basketball

IRMO CHAPIN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Located just northwest of Columbia, South Carolina, the Irmo-Chapin area boasts rich nature and outstanding athletic facilities operated by the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission for high-level tournament play. One of America’s best zoos, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, is home to over 2,000 animals and an inspiring botanical garden. Lake Murray, the Jewel of South Carolina, offers world-class fishing, and boating, and golf, along with fun activities for the entire family. The South Carolina State Museum is the largest in the state, featuring four floors of permanent and changing exhibits, a digital dome planetarium, and an observatory. In the Main Street district, the Columbia Museum of Art attracts over 150,000 visitors annually with its renowned collection and innovative educational programs.

IRMO CHAPIN

RECREATION COMMISSION

Ashley Smith (803) 772-1228 asmith@icrc.net www.icrc.net/sports-tourism

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“As you know, we run over 40 different events around the country – so we work with a lot of different facilities. Ashley and his staff are THE BEST that we work with. They go above and beyond what we could ever ask for. Ashley is with us every step of the way. You can tell he is just as invested in the success of the event as we are. “

– Ryan Long, Former Event Director, Boys Events NXTsports Inc. // Make it Matter

THE FIELDS AT SALUDA SHOALS PARK

Soccer, Lacrosse, Tennis, Races and Runs

With six soccer, lacrosse, and multi-use fields, plus six clay and four hard surface tennis courts, The Fields is sought after for tournaments and events. The complex features natural turf fields, state-ofthe-art lighting, and onsite amenities, with exceptional field visibility, and plenty of parking. Located within Saluda Shoals Park, this 480-acre riverfront park, offers paved and unpaved trails, kayaking, tubing, a splash pad, and Leo’s Landing Inclusive Playground.

MELVIN PARK

Baseball, Tennis, Pickleball

Located in Chapin, SC, this park features four regulationsized baseball diamonds, two youth baseball diamonds, two multi-use fields, and an impressive sixteen-court tennis and Pickleball complex. During non play, explore and relax in the sprawling 71-acre park, which includes a refreshing splash pad and take advantage of picnic areas, walking trails, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for your tournament.

CROOKED CREEK PARK

Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse

Crooked Creek is a thriving park in the heart of Lake Murray country in Chapin, offering a vibrant community space for recreation and family activities. The park features three youth and three intermediate baseball diamonds, along with three multi-use fields designed for soccer, lacrosse, and other sports. Well-maintained facilities, walking trails, and picnic areas, make it an ideal destination for your next event.

SEVEN OAKS PARK

Baseball, Pickleball, Basketball, Volleyball

Seven Oaks is one of the Midlands’ premier baseball venues. The park’s six natural-turf baseball diamonds include four youth, one intermediate and one regulation-sized in addition to three multi-use fields. The park also has three onsite gyms where pickleball, basketball and volleyball shine, along with trails and playgrounds.

Saluda Shoals

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA

When it comes to hosting local, regional, and national sporting events, Greenville, South Carolina brings its “A” game. We’ve become one of the Southeast’s hottest destinations for all things sports, offering a friendly, 4-season climate that’s ideal for athletes, spectators, families, and friends alike. Events for every athlete are possible with our 280,000 Sq. Ft. Convention Center, 15,000+ seat arena, and countless other indoor and outdoor facilities.

Discover the beauty of Greenville, SC, along the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail Network—a stunning 28-mile greenway perfect for walking and biking. This scenic trail meanders alongside the Reedy River, guiding your guests through charming city parks and hidden gems that truly capture the essence of our vibrant community.

Don’t miss Falls Park on the Reedy, recognized as one of the best parks in the U.S. Guests can take in breathtaking views of the city from the Liberty Bridge, the only single-sided suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere, and check out the picturesque Reedy River Falls below.

BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA

Basketball, Volleyball, Hockey, Wrestling, Ice Skating/Ice Hockey, Mat Sports, Indoor Sports

This state-of-the-art multipurpose complex is ideal for sporting events, live entertainment, family shows, concerts and so much more. The 15,000-seat arena, located in Downtown Greenville, is the home ice for the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team. The floor can be transformed for courtside sporting events, and is frequently used for collegiate tournaments. There are also 30 luxury suites, restrooms, parking, and lodging options nearby.

GREENVILLE CONVENTION CENTER

Mat Sports, Cheerleading/Dance, E-Sports, Indoor Sports

As one of the Southeast’s largest venues, boasting 280,000 sq. ft. of impressive event space in one of the most sought-after cities, the Greenville Convention Center is committed to providing you with the resources you need to turn your event into an experience that brings your plans to life. The facility also offers an additional 60,000 sq. ft. of meeting and conference space, and a ballroom with 30,000 sq. ft. of column-free space, allowing flexibility for a variety of sporting events.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“There is nothing like an elite game in the NCAA tournament in Greenville, SC. We want to thank everyone, all the organizers, for putting on a great NCAA tournament. I hope we can host this every year right here in Greenville.”

– Coach Dawn Staley, 2023 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball ChampionshipRegional Round VISITGREENVILLESC

Kayla Adams

kadams@visitgreenvillesc.com (864) 696-2522 www.visitgreenvillesc.com

CONESTEE PARK

Baseball, Softball, Kickball

Home of the Greenville Little League, Greenville Dirt Series, and many community events, this “Central Park”of the Upstate features five baseball/ softball diamonds with combined seating for over 8,000 spectators, a playground, walking trail, large shelter, and dog park.

Powerful Content

MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA

Widely known as one of South Carolina’s top destinations, Myrtle Beach shines with ocean breezes, sunny beaches and top-notch sports. As a major center for sports tourism, the city brings in over 20 million visitors each year thanks to 60 miles of beaches, 80+ golf courses, multi-sport indoor and outdoor facilities and more. Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice for your upcoming event with easy access to many of its venues and attractions within the downtown area, which also includes over 2,000 restaurants, great hotels and theme parks. No matter the interest or age, Myrtle Beach Sports shines with Southern hospitality, being there for event planners and guests every step of the way from start to finish.

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH PARK AND SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Flag Football, Ultimate Frisbee, Lacrosse

This 163-acre park includes two first class sports complexes. The baseball/ softball complex consists of 6 total fields with dirt infields and natural grass outfields. The soccer/lacrosse complex consists of 8 natural grass fields (4 with lights). Both areas include concession stands, restrooms and play structures.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

MYRTLE BEACH CONVENTION CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Archery, Cheer, Gymnastics, Wrestling

Covering 250,000-squarefeet, the Myrtle Beach Convention Center provides easily convertible space for sports and trade shows. Located in the Myrtle Beach Convention and Entertainment District, the center houses a 30,000-square-foot outdoor dance and cheer complex. national meetings. The venue is within walking distance of Broadway at the Beach.

JOHN T. RHODES MYRTLE

BEACH SPORTS CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Archery, Cheer, Gymnastics, Wrestling

Indoor sports thrive at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center, a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports facility that helped expand sports tourism. The facility, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, includes eight basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, a café and retail area and a large multiscreen video wall. The center has 2,000 seats that can be reconfigured for various sports.

DOUG SHAW MEMORIAL STADIUM

Football, Soccer, Track and Field

The Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium is a testament to the support and resources Myrtle Beach puts into its sporting facilities. In 2017, it went through a $6 million renovation, which expanded seating to 6,500 and added a press box and support buildings. It features an NCAA-certified lighted track with a rubberized surface, a FieldTurf ® field and Daktronics video board.

NED DONKLE COMPLEX Baseball, Softball

The Ned Donkle Complex features seven diamond fields with natural grass playing surfaces. The facility has two adult and five youth fields, as well as batting cages, restrooms, concessions and press boxes. The Ned Donkle Complex is located adjacent to Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium, Ashley Booth Field and the Pepper Geddings Recreation Center in Myrtle Beach.

STYERS ATHLETIC COMPLEX AT GRAND PARK

Baseball, Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball

Located at the beautiful Market Common, the Styers Athletic Complex at Grand Park is Myrtle Beach’s premier outdoor multi-purpose facility. The complex includes nine lighted multipurpose Field Turf fields and two natural youth fields, six-lane batting tunnel and complimentary live streaming for those who can’t make the trip.

“Myrtle Beach is such an easy sell to my travel teams that play in our events. The city sells itself! With miles of sandy beaches, tons of attractions and plenty of hotels for every budget, teams simply love coming to play in our tournaments.”

— John Whitley, National Travel Basketball Association

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

YOU CAN’T BEAT A SPORTS PLANNING Triple Threat

MISSISSIPPI

Sports Attractions

in the Magnolia State

Mississippi packs a punch with its unique assortment of state-of-the-art facilities and sprawling sports complexes

Balance your sport travels with visits to cultural, historical and natural wonders

Mississippi

is a haven for sports enthusiasts,

offering a diverse array of activities that cater to everyone, from avid fans to active participants. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of college football or the beauty of outdoor recreation, our state has it all. This guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the best sporting events, venues, and experiences Mississippi has to offer.

Outdoor recreation in Mississippi is not only a key driver of our economy but also a source of joy and inspiration for all who visit our beautiful state. We are proud to be a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from hiking and fishing to birdwatching and simply enjoying the stunning beauty of nature. Our state parks and national forests provide endless opportunities for exploration, allowing you to connect with the great outdoors in a way that’s uniquely Mississippi.

Beyond the games and outdoor adventures, you’ll find a rich tapestry of Southern culture waiting to be explored. Enjoy delicious cuisine at our local eateries, visit unique shops, or immerse yourself in our vibrant music and arts scene. After a day filled with sports or outdoor activities, unwind at our charming accommodations or indulge in a relaxing spa day. Mississippi is dedicated to ensuring your visit is both thrilling and rejuvenating.

As you browse through these pages, I encourage you to plan your next adventure in Mississippi. Our passionate communities and beautiful landscapes are ready to welcome you with unmatched hospitality. We’re excited to help you create unforgettable memories, whether you’re attending a major sporting event or exploring our natural wonders.

to discover more of what Mississippi offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

So lace up your sneakers, grab your gear, and get ready for an incredible experience in Mississippi. We can’t wait to see you here!

Sincerely,

Rochelle Hicks Director, Visit Mississippi

Enjoy the great outdoors in Mississippi like the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi

Outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans will love Mississippi. ON THE COVER: Little league baseball in Starkville

Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi

Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi

Scan

Sports Attractions

AND OTHER MARVELS IN THE MAGNOLIA STATE

Mississippi packs a punch with its unique assortment of state-of-the-art facilities and sprawling sports complexes

MBy Billy Stampfl

ississippi is a popular sports destination, an elite locale for those who love competition and pageantry. It also offers attractions for inbetween games or after thrilling matches, like the Delta Blues Museum, Vicksburg National Military Park, and the Gulf Islands National Seashore. These places

give visitors lots to do over weekends in Mississippi, where sports fans enjoy learning about culture and history as they take in the wonders of the South.

But beyond exciting attractions and top-notch destinations, Mississippi is special because it hosts diverse sporting events and boasts some of the most exceptional facilities the South has to offer.

Cyclocross in Ridgeland

Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi

STARKVILLE

Our tour through Mississippi’s sports scene starts with a pair of college campuses, the first being Mississippi State. Many choose to visit in the fall, when Davis Wade Stadium lights up on Saturdays for MSU Bulldogs football. Davis Wade is the fourth-oldest college football venue in the country and seats more than 61,000 screaming fans. Yet this college town is more than just SEC football— locals and guests alike also enjoy the legendary Dudy-Noble Field at Polk-Dement Stadium, home to the MSU Bulldogs baseball team. This legendary ballpark draws huge weekend crowds and is famous for its nationally known Left Field Lounge, which has been named the No. 1 thing to experience in college baseball.

OXFORD

GRENADA

Grenada’s most impressive athletic venue is the Kirk Auto Group Sports Complex, a ballplayer’s dream location. This facility has multiple well-maintained diamonds and amenities that make hosting baseball tourneys simple and enjoyable.

TUPELO

Baseball fans should rejoice some more, because the BankPlus Sportsplex in Tupelo has 12 top-of-the-line baseball fields, plus two T-ball fields. Whether you want to host a travel ball tournament or just visit the park and enjoy a sunny day on the diamond, you cannot go wrong when you make a stop in Tupelo.

COASTAL MISSISSIPPI

Ninety miles north of Starkville sits the campus of MSU’s rival: the Ole Miss Rebels. The facilities in Oxford are worth discussing—more on those shortly—but at its core, this city is known for its quintessential Southern charm. It is often touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” as evidenced by multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs, unique shopping, and a vivacious atmosphere that can only be found in what some consider America’s most incredible college town. The centerpiece of Oxford is Vaught–Hemingway Stadium, where the Rebels compete against SEC football foes. It is the largest stadium in Mississippi and has hosted some of the most electric sporting events in the state’s history, from Ole Miss’s 2015 win over No. 2 Alabama to the team’s famous 2016 blowout of the rival Georgia Bulldogs. Before the game, visit the famous Grove, which is the envy of the nation.

RIDGELAND

You might think Mississippi is all college sports, all the time, but the Magnolia State is also versatile, offering some of the finest sports facilities in America. For instance, Ridgeland, just 10 miles north of downtown Jackson, has three state-of-the-art complexes for baseball, softball, soccer, and tennis, plus the state’s only BMX track. Speaking of BMX, Ridgeland will host the 2024 Mississippi Cyclocross Cup Series, bringing biking enthusiasts to town for a topnotch annual event.

HATTIESBURG

Football and baseball reign supreme in this Southern gem. M.M. Roberts Stadium, "The Rock," boasts fantastic views and an electric atmosphere. Originally built in 1932, and most recently renovated in 2008, this 36,000-capacity stadium draws thousands of college football fans to Hattiesburg for Southern Miss football games every fall.

One of Coastal Mississippi’s finest features is the Gulfport Sportsplex, a multi-purpose recreational complex with an array of athletic opportunities and activities. This dazzling facility covers 250 acres and has nine ballfields with hybrid sand-based turf, crimson stone infields, scoring towers, four international-sized soccer fields, and a control center with concessions and restrooms. Ready to play? The Gulfport Sportsplex hosts some of the largest local, state, regional, and national tournaments in the Southeast.

FLOWOOD

Not far outside of Jackson, Flowood is a conveniently situated town that contains Liberty Park, a 40-acre premier sports complex with four Olympic-sized grass soccer fields and eight baseball/softball fields with turf infield and grass outfields. On-site amenities include two state-of-the-art concessions, restrooms, 317 parking spaces, scoreboards, and press boxes.

GREENWOOD

In Greenwood, sports enthusiasts will find the definition of versatility, like the renowned Stribling Park. This facility offers parking for over 600 cars in a seven-acre lot, 10 baseball/softball fields, and 17 irrigated soccer fields. It is the perfect place to host a sports tournament, no matter the skill level or ages of participants.

DESOTO COUNTY

DeSoto County might be best known for hosting the Memphis Hustle, the NBA G League affiliate of the Memphis Grizzlies. The Hustle are a fun team to watch, and they play their games at the 8,400-seat Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi. The Landers Center isn’t just basketball, though: it is a multipurpose venue that puts on concerts and has a 17,000-square-foot convention center.

Dudy Noble Field in Starkville

Discover Mississippi: BEYOND THE TOURNAMENT

Balance your sports tournament travels with visits to Mississippi’s cultural, historical and natural wonders

By Isabella Wilkes

Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi Mississippi is home to

Red Bluff near Morgantown.

When you’re not cheering on your team at your next big sports tournament in Mississippi, take advantage of all the state has to offer in its cities, both big and small.

RIDGELAND: YOUR OUTDOOR GETAWAY IN THE HEART OF MISSISSIPPI

Ridgeland is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, located near Barnett Reservoir with 33,000 acres of water for boating, fishing, and paddling. On land, enjoy 15 miles of paved cycling and walking paths along the Natchez Trace Parkway. The city boasts state-of-the-art facilities for baseball, softball, soccer, and tennis, and is home to Mississippi’s only BMX track. It also features the new Infinity Volleyball Academy, a state-of-the-art facility featuring eight courts.

FAMILY FUN IN HATTIESBURG

Hattiesburg, a city on the rise in the Gulf South, is perfect for sports travel. The Hattiesburg Zoo, home to over 100 animals, offers a day of adventure for families. The city’s Public Art Trail, featuring over 100 pieces, is a must-see for all visitors. With easy-to-follow maps and signage, it’s an ideal activity for families, teams, and solo travelers.

VISIT THE BIRTHPLACE OF ELVIS PRESLEY: TUPELO

Tupelo, in northeastern Mississippi, honors its status as Elvis Presley’s birthplace with a museum at his childhood home. You can also explore the town through the Elvis Tupelo Driving Tour or a self-guided Bicycle Tour, visiting sites like the Assembly of God church that inspired his music. Beyond Elvis, Tupelo is known for the Natchez Trace Parkway, one of the most visited national parks, where you can explore over 10,000 years of history at the visitor center.

GRENADA: A SERENE, SMALL-TOWN ESCAPE

After a high-energy, actionpacked weekend of sporting, the small town of Grenada in north-central Mississippi might just be exactly what you need to decompress. Grenada Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the state, and the infrastructure for fishing, camping, water sports, and lodging is hard to beat.

EXPLORE THE ‘CULTURAL MECCA OF THE SOUTH’ IN OXFORD

Oxford, with its Southern charm, award-winning chefs, and vibrant atmosphere, is known as the cultural center of Mississippi. As the home of the University of Mississippi, a walk through the

historic campus is essential. Visit Rowan Oak, the home of American author William Faulkner, open for guided tours.

T HE HISTORIC RIVER CITY OF VICKSBURG

It’s hard to believe that the quaint, charming town of Vicksburg was home to one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Visitors to this city can take a step back into a much different time at the Vicksburg National Military Park and the U.S.S. Cairo Museum to see preserved Civil War artifacts and learn about the infamous Siege of Vicksburg. For fans of Southern antebellum architecture, there are 12 historic homes available for tours, all showcasing VictorianAmerican design.

STAY AND PLAY ON THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST

Coastal Mississippi is perfect for outdoor adventure and family-friendly fun. With mild weather year-round, enjoy activities like sailing, fishing, hiking, and kayaking along the picturesque beaches. On rainy days, visit the Infinity Science Center, the official visitor center for NASA Stennis Space Center, or the Mississippi Aquarium, home to 5.8 acres of salt and freshwater habitats.

STARKVILLE: MISSISSIPPI’S COLLEGE TOWN

Home to Mississippi State University, Starkville embodies the energy of a classic college town. Start your visit at the university’s Welcome Center, featuring a display of over 400 clocks and watches dating back to the 1700s. While on campus, explore the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library and the Mitchell Memorial Library, which houses the Charles H. Templeton Sr. Music Museum and the John Grisham Room.

BLENDING NATURAL BEAUTY WITH MODERN LEISURE IN FLOWOOD

It's easy to find yourself charmed by Flowood. At the heart of this serene destination is The Refuge Golf Course, a 200-acre 18-hole course that meanders through picturesque landscapes, offering golfers a peaceful yet challenging experience while conveniently located five minutes away from the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport.

GREENWOOD: THE HEART OF THE DELTA REGION

Situated in Mississippi’s delta region, Greenwood is rich in history, natural beauty, and entertainment. Visit the ruins of Bryant’s Grocery, where Emmett Till’s tragic story began, igniting the Civil Rights Movement.

Get out onto the Barnett Reservoir in Mississippi.

RIDGELAND, MISSISSIPPI

Ridgeland, Mississippi has everything event planners and sport enthusiasts need to host a successful sporting event, including a multitude of fun activities for the entire family and highly rated facilities like Freedom Ridge Park and Ridgeland Tennis Center. Ridgeland will also be the first destination in the state to feature a Top Golf facility.

Enjoy shopping experiences at one of six shopping districts, including The Township at Colony Park, Railroad District and more for a variety of stores, restaurants and live events. For more indoor fun, Sky Zone Trampoline Park offers an active way to spend time together as a family with freestyle jumping, dodgeball and other activities.

Enjoy a day of outdoor fun at The Barnett Reservoir with activities like boating, fishing, or picnicking. There are several parks around the reservoir with playgrounds, walking trails, and scenic views that are perfect for family outings.

For outdoor adventure, enjoy the superbly maintained Ridgeland MultiUse Trail for biking, walking or running, which winds through scenic areas of Ridgeland. Additionally, the Barnett Reservoir, colloquially referred to as The Rez, allows for boating, fishing or picnicking with playgrounds, walking trails and scenic views.

Coming soon, Ridgeland will have the first Topgolf in Mississippi, Topgolf Ridgeland, the premier entertainment destination in Ridgeland. Enjoy year-round comfort in hitting bays with cooling fans in the summer and heated bays in the winter, all with HDTVs in every bay and throughout the sports bar and restaurant.

FREEDOM RIDGE PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer and More

Outdoor Sports

Th 50-acre Freedom Ridge Park stands out for its high-quality sports facilities, family-friendly amenities and well-maintained, safe environment. Its accessible location and communitycentered design make it a top destination for both residents and visitors. The park features four 300-foot turf baseball/ softball fields and four 120 x 75-yard multipurpose fields, all of which are lighted. Amenities include a lighted trail and two playgrounds.

RIDGELAND TENNIS CENTER

Tennis, Pickleball

Ridgeland Tennis Center (RTC) has strong community involvement, hosts numerous tournaments and events each year and has a welcoming environment for players of all skills and ages. The center features 15 lighted tennis courts, six of which have been newly resurfaced, along with two courts that have been converted into four pickleball courts. RTC is a full-service public facility operated by tennis pros with amenities including locker rooms, 2,000-square-foot viewing porch.

Come and

EXPLORE

RIDGELAND because we offer a blend of outdoor adventure, culinary experiences, and rich culture. With scenic trails along the Natchez Trace Parkway, the serene Barnett Reservoir, and a variety of locally owned shops and eateries, Ridgeland provides an ideal destination for both relaxation and recreation.

EXPLORE RIDGELAND

Crystal Pham (601) 605-5259

crystal@exploreridgeland.com www.exploreridgeland.com

HITE WOLCOTT PARK

Baseball

The 40-acre facility features seven lighted baseball/softball fields, ranging from a field as short as 125 feet to as long as 275 feet. Amenities include 18 battings cages, two bullpens, two concession buildings and a playground. The pond provides scenic views before, during and after games.

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Home to blues, jazz and gospel, southern hospitality and soul, the beauty and spirit of Jackson, Mississippi will liven up any occasion, always leaving visitors wanting to come back. When it comes to sports, baseball wouldn’t be the same in Jackson without the historic Hank Aaron Sports Academy. Along with the impressive Jackson Convention Complex and Mississippi Fairground Complex providing vibrant venues for a variety of sports, there’s plenty on offer to blend old-world charm with new-age innovation.

Jackson covers its bases on all fronts as it offers a wealth of activities for children and families to enjoy as well. Named the Top Ten “Most Amazing Baseball Museums in America,” the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame strives to commemorate the incredible athletes of the past through their interactive exhibits. The Lefleur’s Bluff Education and Tourism Complex contains a 30,000-squarefoot playground that sports 80 play activities for children and families to enjoy.

The Mississippi Children’s Museum boasts exhibits and programs surrounding literacy, cultural arts and STEM subjects, seamlessly blending entertainment and education. Those inclined to observe wild animals will enjoy the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, where guests can gaze at the 200 native fish species in the aquarium, stroll through the two and a half mile long nature trail or venture into the exhibit, “The Swamp.”

HANK AARON SPORTS ACADEMY Baseball, Football, Soccer and More Outdoor Sports

Formerly known as Smith-Wills Stadium, this baseball stadium is the first to host professional baseball in the entire state of Mississippi. Seating 5,200, Hank Aaron Sports Academy is home to multiple high school and college teams, while also hosting Youth Travel Baseball tournaments and the GCAC Conference Championship. Equipped with artificial turf, the neighboring fields can be utilized for football or soccer events.

JACKSON CONVENTION COMPLEX

Volleyball, Basketball and More

Indoor Sports And Events

The crystalline folding glass façade encasing Jackson Convention Complex exudes a sleek, modern elegance. Large events are supported by the exceptional 330,000 square feet that make up this state-of-the-art facility, including an exhibit hall, a carpeted ballroom and ten meeting rooms.

A 10,000-square-foot kitchen with catering and two concession areas are available, as well as 980 parking spaces outside the venue.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Mississippi State Fairgrounds is a vibrant hub of activity and tradition, bringing together the best of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit. With its rich history and diverse events, the fairgrounds offer an unparalleled experience for visitors of all ages.”

- Michael Lasseter, Mississippi State Fairgrounds, Director

VISIT JACKSON

Floyd Williams, Jr (601) 345-2535

fwilliamsjr@visitjackson.com visitjackson.com

MISSISSIPPI FAIRGROUND COMPLEX

Equestrian, Volleyball, Basketball and More Indoor Sports And Events

Bound to deliver exciting events across the board, Mississippi Fairground Complex has ample space to support an endless amount of sporting events. The Fairgrounds bolster over 700 events per year, making itself a shining star in downtown Jackson. With an indoor arena seating 6,500, an equine arena seating 2,500 and over 110,000 square feet dedicated to trade show space, any event can be planned and executed.

HATTIESBURG, MISSISSIPPI

Hattiesburg is a premier sports destination in the Gulf South, featuring top-tier fields and arenas, thousands of hotel rooms, and nearly 200 locally owned restaurants. The city’s geographic location and amenities make it ideal for hosting a variety of sports, including baseball, softball, soccer, football, pickleball, tennis, volleyball, running events (5Ks, 10Ks, half-marathons), biking races, disc golf tournaments, golf championships, and more.

Home to more than 100 animals including wallabies, golden eagles, porcupines, hyenas and a family of two-toed sloths, the Hattiesburg Zoo offers a day-long adventure of fun. Attractions within the Zoo include an electric train, splash pad, High Ropes Adventure Course, rock mining, petting zoo, and more.

An Instagram-worthy spot in downtown Hattiesburg, The Hattiesburg Pocket Alley contains the Pocket Museum, Pocket Gallery, Pocket Watch, Pocket Lock-it, multiple public art installations and rotating exhibits of miniature marvels and tiny treasures hidden throughout. Be inspired by Hattiesburg’s public art scene, where creativity abounds. The HBURG Public Art Trail is an ideal activity for families, friends, and solo travelers to explore. A brochure, map, and easily-identifiable signage make planning your trip simple! Discover over 100 pieces of free, public art including largescale sculptures and murals along with dozens of painted utility boxes. The Longleaf Trace is South Mississippi’s premier running, biking, hiking and equestrian trail. It is a beautiful linear park, 44 miles long and fairly flat, extending from Downtown Hattiesburg through Sumrall, Bassfield and Carson to Prentiss.

TATUM

PARK SPORTS COMPLEX Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Disc Golf

Tatum Park Sports Complex is Hattiesburg’s largest sports complex, offering a variety of facilities in one, convenient location. The Southeast’s highest number of soccer fields in one place can be found here, with 18 flat fields, including two brand-new championship level fields. There are also nine youth baseball diamonds onsite with recessed dugouts, lighting, and permanent covered seating, along with four softball fields, 12 tennis courts, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

JAYCEE PARK Baseball

Jaycee Park was completely remodeled in 2023 and features 2 diamonds complete with turf infield and sand base outfields with an underdrain system for quick play in the instance of a rain event. An attractive entrance, permanent concession stands, modern restrooms, on-site parking, and all amenities needed to host a tournament make it one of Mississippi’s most desirable new complexes.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Working with Visit Hattiesburg enables us to enhance the experience for attendees and participants at the events we host in HBURG! It’s easy to travel to Hattiesburg and the people are always friendly; plus, there’s no shortage of good food to eat, nice places to stay, and fun activities to enjoy”

- Adam Jonson, General Manager, MHSAA

VISIT HATTIESBURG

Kristen Brock (601) 296-7475

kbrock@visithburg.org

www.visithburg.org/sports

THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI

Basketball, Football, Baseball

The University of Southern Mississippi offers world-class collegiate facilities conventionally located within driving distance to much of the Gulf South. M.M. Roberts stadium has a capacity of 36,000 and recently underwent extensive renovations to provide a topnotch football experience. Reed Green Coliseum features a full basketball hardwood court or two regulation volleyball courts that seats 8,095 fans. Pete Taylor Park has hosted baseball tournaments of all sizes.

GRENADA, MISSISSIPPI

Welcome to Grenada, Mississippi, a charming destination where natural beauty and Southern hospitality await. Grenada offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and unique attractions for visitors, as well as the expanding Kirk Auto Group Sports Complex with multiple fields for outdoor sports competitions.

Nature enthusiasts will love Grenada Lake, for camping, fishing and relaxing cabin rentals. The Chakchiuma Swamp is a wild journey through a swamp formed by the Yalobusha River, surrounded by a forest that is suitable for hikers. Bull Bottom Farms provides seasonal fun with activities and attractions that bring joy to all ages during spring and fall.

Golfers will find a great course at The Dogwoods Golf Course, nationally ranked and equipped with all the necessities. Meanwhile, for some family fun visit Balloon Quest, which is an escape-room-style museum that simulates a hot-air balloon journey for an interactive adventure.

Baseball, Softball

The Kirk Auto Group Sports Complex in Grenada, Mississippi, has six allweather turf fields for baseball and softball, with additional fields coming soon for larger tournaments and events. The complex features a concession stand and occasional vendors, batting cages and a lot of on-site parking, with more spaces to be added soon during the field expansion project. There are also plenty of nearby hotels to accommodate tournaments of any size.

The City of Grenada is a great place for tournaments. Hotels and restaurants are easily accessible and the fields are top notch. We can do

any age of softball and baseball through 12U.

CITY OF GRENADA

Matt Hopkins (601) 709-9989

mpactsportsconsulting@outlook.com

KIRK AUTO GROUP SPORTS COMPLEX

TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI

Tupelo boasts stunning sports facilities, all of which are ready to host competitions year round thanks to the warmer southern climate. From Sportsplex at Ballard Park, which supports everything from lacrosse to fencing, to Tupelo Aquatic Center, tackling indoor swimming to perfection, Tupelo is capable of hosting just about any sport.

During downtime, visit the fascinating historical sites that make up this beautiful city. Whether visiting Elvis Presley’s home or walking ancient trails at Natchez Trace Parkway, an inquisitive experience awaits in this fabulous city.

Tupelo is also home to the Oren Dunn City Museum which displays captivating exhibits about Tupelo’s history from 150 years ago to present day.

Those inclined to a relaxing visit will enjoy Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo, which houses more than 260 animals in the 210 acres that make up the park. The boutiques in the Barnes Crossing District, the Downtown District or the Midtown District give visitors a diverse range of shopping experiences that will appeal to anyone. Enjoy national brands and a regional mall in the Barnes Crossing District. Shop boutique finds and a 119-year old department store in the Downtown District and explore gift shops and interiors in the Midtown District.

BANKPLUS SPORTSPLEX AT BALLARD PARK

Soccer, Baseball, Lacrosse, Rugby and More Outdoor Sports

BankPlus Sportsplex at Ballard Park boasts 16 lighted fields, all ranging in size for ages 4 to adult. This premier site is no stranger to hosting large sporting events, as it once held up to 130 teams competing at the same event. While the complex holds Mississippi Soccer Association local and state tournaments, it can also support events for lacrosse, rugby, high school football, fencing and ultimate frisbee tournaments.

TUPELO AQUATIC CENTER

Swimming, Aquatics

Tupelo Aquatic Center makes for an impressive facility that provides Tupelo’s community with a place to enjoy competitive and recreational swimming. With a Myrtha competition pool, a 20-lane/25-yard pool, an 8-lane/50-meter pool and a 3,000-square-foot warmup pool, this aquatic center makes for a great spot for all types of competitions. The building has a capacity for 971 spectators and 600 seats for competitors.

Large, small, and specialty venues make it easy for Tupelo, MS to accommodate local, statewide, regional, and national events for a number of different sports. Ranging from softball, baseball, disc golf, swimming, cross country, and multisport fields such as soccer, lacrosse, ultimate, and rugby, to a 10,000-seat arena that can be configured to host basketball, rodeos, concerts, and conventions, Tupelo can meet your needs when it comes to sports.

TUPELO CVB

Mitch Lowe (662) 871-3810

mlowe@tupelo.net www.tupelo.net

ROB LEAKE CITY PARK TENNIS Tennis

This spacious park offers sixteen lighted tennis courts, four of which are indoor to use throughout the winter. The 34-acre facility has supported many Mississippi Tennis Association state tournaments, Region 23 Junior College College Tournaments and the Charlie Close Invitational. Any gear needed can be bought at the pro shop, as well as any racket repairs.

VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI

Host your next sporting event in Vicksburg, Mississippi, a beautiful historic city with modern sports facilities designed to accommodate a variety of athletics needs that promise seamless, successful and memorable competition for all athletes and attendees. While Vicksburg National Military Park and the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum offer unique historical and cultural experiences, their sports complexes provide top-notch venues for elite competition.

Away from the game, enjoy Vicksburg’s rich cultural background and modern attractions, which make it an ideal location for events. Steeped in Civil War history, it is home to its own National Military Park. This expansive park showcases historical battlegrounds, monuments and the USS Cairo Museum, offering an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and a unique distinction on your visit.

In addition to its historical significance, the city also offers the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, which delves into the origins and evolution of the iconic beverage brand. Furthermore, take a trip to downtown Vicksburg where you can find charming, quaint shops and restaurants surrounded by historic architecture. This picturesque area adds a delightful touch, offering opportunities to explore, indulge and capture long-lasting memories.

KEY CITY PARK

Baseball, Softball, Soccer and More

Outdoor Sports

In Mississippi and throughout the South, Key City Park is a standout, stateof-the-art facility boasting 10 baseball/ softball fields and six soccer fields, all featuring professional-grade synthetic turf. Visitors can expect to enjoy highquality concessions, retail stores and on-site entertainment options, including a playground, mini golf and a zip line, creating a well-rounded experience for athletes and families alike.

CITY OF VICKSBURG TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL FACILITIES

Tennis, Pickleball

Regardless of skill level, this expansive facility is designed to cater to each player’s individual needs and help improve your game. It offers 14 outdoor tennis courts and eight pickleball courts, all of which are lighted to allow for extended play. A convenient on-site clubhouse provides additional amenities for a comfortable competition and experiences. Additionally, their Parks and Recreation Departments offer various programs.

Vicksburg is a hidden gem for sports enthusiasts and event planners. With its rich history, scenic riverfront, and diverse outdoor activities, it offers a unique blend of culture and recreation. Our dedicated team at Visit Vicksburg supports seamless event execution, making it the perfect destination for unforgettable sporting experiences and memorable gatherings.

VISIT VICKSBURG

James Dixon (601) 801-5353

james@visitvicksburg.com www.visitvicksburg.com

VICKSBURG CITY POOL

Swimming, Diving and More Water Sports

Make a splash at this Olympic-size competition pool, which is ideal for hosting swimming and diving events, providing ample space for athletes to compete at their best. A separate baby pool offers a fun space for younger swimmers to cool off and enjoy the water, with certified water safety instructors providing Learn to Swim programs throughout the year to make this facility a valuable resource for youths in the community.

COASTAL MISSISSIPPI

Located along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Coastal Mississippi is a tri-county region that offers premium sports facilities for tournaments and events. Known for its mild climate year-round, the Coast is perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy playing baseball or softball at the Gulfport Sportsplex or teeing off at Bridges Golf Club , the Coast’s diverse range of attractions is sure to offer top entertainment for the entire family!

For science enthusiasts, the INFINITY Science Center is the official visitor center for NASA’s Stennis Space Center. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about space exploration, and even experience simulated space missions. The underwater world at Mississippi Aquarium allows visitors to encounter various marine creatures up close, while Ocean Adventures Marine Park provides dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, sharks, and various bird species. Ocean Adventures also has an interactive museum and Discovery Room to explore. Self-guided tours are available daily, rain or shine.

Thrill-seekers, on the other hand, will experience their excitement at Paradise Pier Fun Park, with thrilling rides and games, hand-crafted refreshments, and stunning views of the Mississippi Sound. Train enthusiasts can embark on a miniature adventure at TrainTastic, with 50,000 square feet of model trains and railroads that wind through captivating landscapes.

GULFPORT SPORTSPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer And More

Outdoor Sports

A haven for multi-sport events, this expansive sportsplex boasts an impressive 15 baseball and softball fields, perfect for hosting regional competitions. The offerings don’t just stop there, with six full-sized soccer fields and additional synthetic turf fields to accommodate a variety of sports. Plus, four batting cages and two new multipurpose fields offer options for training sessions and warmup areas. On-site concessions stands are also available.

PASCAGOULA SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Tee-Ball

Pascagoula Sports Complex is a modern baseball and softball facility perfect for tournaments. Four wellmaintained baseball fields and three dedicated softball fields are accompanied by a synthetic turf field to expand your options for additional games or practice space. Whether your event caters to young players with two tee-ball fields or seasoned athletes with its batting cages, this sports complex welcomes players of all skill levels. Also, easy access to parking and concessions ensures a smooth experience.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Southern Pickleball thrives on the energy of Coastal Mississippi! Our tournaments here buzz with excitement, backed by incredible local support and endless fun for both our staff and players!”

- Lara Schu, Southern Pickleball Association

COASTAL MISSISSIPPI

Chad Cutchall (228) 280-3136

chad@coastalmississippi.com coastalmississippi.com

BRIDGES GOLF CLUB

Golf

Indulge in a truly unique golfing experience at this prestigious course designed by legendary American professional golfer Arnold Palmer. The course at Bridges offers 18 challenging holes over a sprawling 600-acre landscape. True to its name, the club has 21 meticulously crafted bridges that integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating both a picturesque and engaging environment for competitive golf. There is also a wellstocked, on-site bar and grill.

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI

The city of Starkville, Mississippi is the ideal location for any sports game or competition. The warm and sunny climate along with state-of-theart sporting facilities makes for a great experience for everyone. The remarkable Cornerstone Sports Complex boasts a dozen baseball/softball diamonds while the Travis Outlaw Center and the Starkville Sportsplex specialize in top-tier multipurpose indoor and outdoor selections.

The main hub of activity is rooted in Mississippi State University’s (MSU) campus, beginning with MSU’s Welcome Center, which displays more than 400 clocks and watches with origins from the 1700s. Next, visit the three free on-campus museums: Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library and Charles H. Templeton Sr. Music Museum, as well as the Josh Grisham Room, housed within the Mitchell Memorial Library.

For die-hard baseball fans, MSU contains Dudy-Noble Field at PolkDement Stadium, home to the 2021 National Champion Diamond Dogs. Those more inclined to enjoy football are encouraged to visit the second oldest football stadium in the nation at Davis-Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Meanwhile, historic Downtown Starkville offers visitors a chance to enjoy its endearing boutiques and public art.

CORNERSTONE SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Tee-Ball

Cornerstone Sports Complex is raising the bar for athletic facilities in the South. The ample 125 acres of this complex hold 12 baseball/softball diamonds and two tee-ball fields. Athletes will love the ten 225-foot fields that Cornerstone proudly provides. There is even space dedicated to warm-up areas, batting cages and walking trails, bestowing patrons with a diversified experience. The entire facility is furnished with Musco LED lighting to ensure that every picture-worthy moment can be captured beautifully.

TRAVIS OUTLAW CENTER

Basketball, Racquetball and More

Indoor Sports

Join Starkville’s community at its heart at Travis Outlaw Center, where recreational sports blend seamlessly with heartwarming local events. The center utilizes an indoor basketball court, an indoor walking track, a racquetball court and a 1.3-mile walking track throughout the compound. With everything from a fully equipped gymnasium and fitness center, this facility not only benefits recreational activities, but also local sports leagues.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Partnership, specifically our Division of Tourism, tremendously enhances the hotel and hospitality industry by bringing new people and groups to our area through the promotions of conventions, special events, economic development and various meetings which encourage and promote overnight stays in Starkville, MS. We are thankful for the leadership of Paige Hunt and everyone at the Partnership.”

- Amy Tuck, La Quinta Inn & Suites

VISIT STARKVILLE

Paige Hunt (662) 323-3322

phunt@starkville.org starkville.org

STARKVILLE SPORTSPLEX

Football, Soccer, Rugby and More

Outdoor Sports

Located near the Travis Outlaw Center, the Starkville Sportsplex provides convenient access to anyone who would like to access their seven multipurpose fields and eight baseball/softball diamonds. These turf fields can be used to play football and soccer. This facility also offers sufficient parking for visitors, a pavilion for spectators, a playground and restrooms.

OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI

Oxford, Mississippi, with its quintessential southern charm, is home to the University of Mississippi and has been touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South.” This distinction is evidenced by multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs, unique shopping and a vivacious atmosphere that can only be found in “America’s Best College Town.”

Oxford is a vibrant sports town, boasting top-notch athletic facilities that cater to a wide range of sports. Whether you’re catching a thrilling game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, experiencing the electric atmosphere of Swayze Field, or cheering on the Rebels at The Pavilion, Oxford offers something for every sports enthusiast.

Embrace the area’s literary heritage with a visit to Rowan Oak, the historic home of award-winning author William Faulkner, or spend an afternoon enjoying the nationally recognized and locally owned bookstore, Square Books. Peruse unique boutiques and stores surrounding the town square, such as Neilson’s, the oldest department store in the South.

As a hub for culture and literature, there’s much to explore in this fabled Mississippi city.

MTRADE PARK

Soccer, Baseball, Indoor Sports

Since opening its gates in 2009, mTrade Park has become a premier destination for youth sports. The facility spans 75 acres of meticulously maintained grounds, featuring five regulation-size soccer fields and 14 baseball/fast-pitch fields. Among these, 12 fields boast synthetic turf, and ten are equipped with Musco LED lighting. The park also includes four concession stands and a 7,500-square-foot indoor practice facility.

FNC TENNIS CENTER

Tennis, Pickleball, Gymnastics and More Indoor Sports

FNC Tennis Center-John Leslie Courts features 20 illuminated hard tennis courts and an on-site pro shop, Courtside Oxford, which sells tennis and pickleball gear as well as snacks. This facility holds the distinction of being the largest public hard tennis court facility in Mississippi. Additionally, the Ulysses “Coach” Howell Activity Center offers a gymnastics area, two indoor basketball courts, two volleyball courts and six pickleball courts.

Oxford offers the perfect blend of top-notch sports facilities, Southern hospitality and a vibrant, culturally rich community. Not only do athletes have access to exceptional venues, but Oxford offers an unforgettable experience for families and fans. Whether it’s a youth tournament or a collegiate championship, Oxford ensures a seamless event and lasting memories for everyone involved.

VISIT OXFORD

Laine Mitchell (662) 232-2477

laine@visitoxfordms.com www.VisitOxfordMS.com

THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

Multipurpose Indoor and Outdoor Sports

The University of Mississippi is home to an impressive array of athletic facilities, supporting a multitude of indoor and outdoor sports. From the roaring excitement of VaughtHemingway Stadium to the state-ofthe-art track and field complex, Ole Miss offers athletes and fans a top-notch sports experience. These facilities not only serve the university’s teams but also host various events and programs throughout the year.

FLOWOOD, MISSISSIPPI

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi, Flowood is a hidden gem for sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With its exceptional facilities, beautiful parks, and vibrant community, it’s the perfect place to host your next event or enjoy a weekend getaway.

Flowood is easy to find and easy to love! Located near major highways and the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport, Flowood is easy to reach and navigate for travelers. Flowood boasts a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays, all conveniently located near sports facilities.

Enhance your stay by choosing the luxurious Sheraton Flowood The Refuge Hotel & Conference Center, honored as Mississippi’s 2023 Venue of the Year. Take a dip in the lazy river, or enjoy the view from the Missy Sippi Rooftop Lounge, home to the Mississippi Art Collection curated by Pacesetter Gallery

Flowood stands out as a refuge where passion for sports and the great outdoors can flourish, all within a peaceful, community-oriented atmosphere. Outdoor lovers can explore miles of scenic trails, bike-riding, fishing, and kayaking on Crystal Lake

There is plenty to do with the downtime between games in Flowood’s thriving restaurant and retail community - full of businesses catering to family activities and fun!

Whether you’re hosting a major tournament or seeking a fun-filled family outing, Flowood, Mississippi has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Come for the sports, stay for the adventure!

FLOWOOD LIBERTY PARK

Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Outdoor Sports Complex

This sprawling 40-acre complex is designed for athletes and sports enthusiasts of all ages, perfect for hosting major tournaments or league games. The park features four regulation-sized grass soccer fields, ideal for 11v11, 3v3, or 7v7 tournaments. The complex also includes eight well-maintained baseball/softball fields with durable turf infields and lush grass outfields. All fields are lighted and have scoreboards and press boxes. The latest addition to the park includes 18 new regulation pickleball courts.

THE REFUGE GOLF COURSE

Golf, Conference Center, Spa, Rooftop Lounge, Fine & Casual Dining Options

The Refuge Golf Course is a picturesque haven for golf enthusiasts. This 18-hole championship course features rolling greens, shimmering lakes, and stunning landscapes that create a serene backdrop for a memorable round. With challenging fairways and strategically placed hazards, it offers both beginners and seasoned players a rewarding experience. The warm, welcoming atmosphere combined with exceptional amenities make the Refuge a perfect retreat for relaxation and camaraderie.

Flowood offers a vibrant community, top-notch facilities, and beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal location for sports and recreation events. With convenient access to amenities, experience the warm hospitality of Flowood’s residents and businesses who are passionate about supporting sports and recreation. Your event will thrive here, ensuring participants and spectators alike have an unforgettable experience.

CITY OF FLOWOOD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Daniel Lang (601) 420-3326

info@visitflowood.com visitflowoodms.com

WINNER’S CIRCLE PARK

Tennis Courts, Playground, Trails

The award-winning Winner’s Circle Park is a 5-acre park, beautifully designed with an accessible playground, tennis courts, pavilions with grills and picnic tables, an outdoor amphitheater, and half-mile walking track. Familes of all ages can enjoy the activites and amenities. Located adjacent to Winner’s Circle is the Flowood Nature Park. The trail at this 40 acre park is paved and distance-marked through a wooded area with markers for native trees and plant species - a great space for all to learn about Mississippi trees, plants, and wildlife.

GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI

The charming city of Greenwood, Mississippi is the ideal spot for youth sports and family activities. The incredible Stribling Park is equipped to host events ranging from baseball, tee-ball, softball and soccer. Whittington Park offers baseball, tennis and basketball, along with a spacious, grassland with plenty of trees for shade and coverage. For those who would prefer a game of pickleball, Wagner Park boasts four pickleball courts, making it a perfect place to get your game on.

Walk through the history of the Mississippi Delta area at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. The compelling exhibits, including Military History and The Delta: Yesterday & Tomorrow, provide an educational experience to all who visit. Scenic hiking trails can be found at Yazoo River Trail and Arboretum, where 45 acres span across batture forest habitat and meadows.

Motivated to spread awareness about the positive impact of creating art, ArtPlace hosts an array of educational programs for children and adults in Leflore County.

For urban explorers, the streets in Downtown Greenwood are filled with endless shopping opportunities for everyone, with fashionable boutiques, unique furniture stores and more.

STRIBLING PARK

Baseball, Softball, Tee-Ball, Soccer

Youth sports thrive at Stribling Park in Greenwood, MS, which supports recreational and competitive sports, including Dixie Youth Baseball and Mississippi Youth Soccer. The spacious land holds two baseball/softball fiveplexes, with eight 200-foot fields and two 300-foot fields. Stribling Park also has one lite field that is painted to hold U10 or U12 soccer games. In addition to the fields, there are warm-up/backstop areas, as well as batting cages. Spectators can sit on the bleachers and access the concessions.

WHITTINGTON PARK

Baseball, Tennis, Basketball

Just south of the Yalobusha River, Whittington Park is nestled between the community public schools and suburban neighborhood for both locals and traveling teams to enjoy. This picturesque park offers four baseball fields, four tennis courts, a basketball court and a high school with public fields. There is plenty of space in the park to sit, set up tents, enjoy picnics and much more.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Our sons have been playing soccer in Greenwood for about three years. The improvements on the soccer fields are amazing, especially the lights on the fields. They love playing soccer under the lights.”

– Brooke Foster (Grenada,

MS)

GREENWOOD CVB

Ashley Farmer (662) 453-9197

ashley@visitgreenwood.com visitgreenwood.com

WAGNER PARK

Pickleball

Named in honor of Captain Ernest Wagner, the quiet neighborhoods of Wagner and Monroe are home to a friendly community that likes to partake in barbeques, live music and local sporting events. For those in need of a perfect spot to play pickleball, the park offers six courts, which have been holding the Dinkin’ for the Clubs Pickleball Tournament since 2023.

MERIDIAN, MISSISSIPPI

Located in eastern Central Mississippi, Meridian lives up to its name as being in the middle of it all, being between major cities yet having everything visitors need right at their fingertips. From baseball at Sykes to pickleball at Sammie Davidson Spots Complex, no matter the sport, Meridian has the facilities to cover it.

For learning experiences, Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian has hands-on, engaging exhibits and programs focusing on literacy, STEAM, health and nutrition. Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience honors the state’s legends in arts and entertainment with exhibitions, performances, classes and events. Meanwhile, the historic Soulé Steam Museum preserves and educates about the Soulé company’s industrial legacy with original furnishings and equipment from the early 1900s.

Enjoy the great outdoors at the 3,300-acre Bonita Lakes Park, which offers equestrian trails, mountain biking and leisurely options like fishing and picnicking. The 65-foot Dunn’s Falls was once used as a power source for the historic Carroll-Richardson Gristmill, which is open for tours.

For family-friendly ventures, Lazy Acres Farm Fun provides countryside entertainment ranging from exploring a corn maze to pig races. If an urban experience is more your thing, Event Zona offers bowling, an arcade and more.

NORTHEAST PARK SPORTS COMPLEX

Soccer, Softball, Tennis and More

Outdoor Sports

The 85-acre Northeast Park Sports Complex features seven soccer fields, three of which are lighted, four lighted softball fields and 10 newly resurfaced, lighted tennis courts. Amenities include two multipurpose storage and concessions buildings, sectional parking for each area, an asphalt walking and running track, picnic pavilion.

Q.V. SYKES BASEBALL COMPLEX Baseball

Q.V. Sykes Baseball Complex is a top spot for tournaments, being home to the Meridian Wildcats, Babe Ruth Baseball League and Dixie Pre Majors baseball league. It is the only facility in the region that can host three high school or college baseball games simultaneously. The complex features three full-size high school baseball fields, all of which are equipped with advanced lighting, double bullpens, two batting cages and restrooms.

Plan your next event in Meridian, Mississippi. Our facilities can host hundreds of guests across a variety of different sports and activities. We will work closely with you and your organization to help provide the ultimate sports and recreation experience.

VISIT MERIDDIAN

Laura Carmichael (601) 482-8001

lcarmichael@lauderdalecounty.org VisitMeridian.com

SAMMIE DAVIDSON SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, Tennis, Pickleball

This multi-sport complex features four fenced and lighted softball fields on a quad, six fenced and lighted courts for tennis (two) and pickleball (four) and a half-mile track. Amenities at Sammie Davidson Sports Complex include a playground, locker rooms, parking to accommodate 500, a central multipurpose building and more.

DESOTO COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI

At the northwestern tip of Mississippi, you’ll find DeSoto County, part of the Memphis metropolitan area, with natural beauty, unique attractions and top sports facilities to pull you in. The county is renowned for its golf courses, as well as tournament-ready venues like Snowden Grove Park and The Gatorade Fieldhouse. Athletes and families can learn more about the area at DeSoto County Museum, which highlights historical sites and moments in time through artifacts and photography. Additionally, Hernando’s Historic Courthouse Square is a landmark that was built in 1942 after the anchor of the previous French Castle courthouse burned down, and legendary musician Jerry Lee Lewis’ estate has been recently restored and opened for public tours.

For charm, shopping, great places to eat and more, Silo Square in Southaven has everything in one centralized location. For awardwinning family fun, Cedar Hill Farm offers 120 acres to experience a wide range of activities from summer berry picking to pony rides, and even includes an on-site restaurant.

LANDERS CENTER

Basketball, Gymnastics, Figure Skating and More Indoor Sports and Events

Located in Southaven, Mississippi, Landers Center is an arena and convention facility with a capacity of up to 10,045. The arena is home to NBA G League team the Memphis Hustle. Although basketball calls the arena home, there are plenty of other major sporting events that can be hosted here, including ice hockey and gymnastics. There are plenty of on-site concessions available along with 3,000 parking spaces and nearby hotels.

SNOWDEN GROVE PARK

Baseball, Softball, Tennis and More Outdoor Sports

Southaven’s 200-acre Snowden Grove Park is one of the largest youth sports complexes in the South with 17 baseball fields, eight lighted tennis courts and seven full-size soccer fields. The baseball complex is home to the Dizzy Dean World Series and Perfect Game’s Invitational National Championship. The tennis complex hosts the USTA Pro Circuit Southaven Open. Snowden Grove Park is complemented by Greenbrook Park’s eight softball fields, which hosts many travel tournaments.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“What has been developed not only at Snowden Grove but in the surrounding area is just amazing. The experience you get at the facilities, from management and umpires, as well as the community is a blessing for teams. We’re lucky to have the type of service and facilities Southaven and Snowden Grove provide.”

- Joseph House, Elite Baseball

DESOTO COUNTY TOURISM

Jon Frost (662) 280-9120

jfrost@visitdesotocounty.com www.visitdesotocounty.com

THE GATORADE FIELDHOUSE

Basketball, Volleyball, Baseball and More Indoor and Outdoor Sports

The City of Hernando’s 60,000-squarefoot indoor sports mecca is the largest of its kind in North Mississippi and a premier destination for clubs, tournaments and competitions. Currently, there are four NCAAregulation courts used for basketball and volleyball. Outdoor and indoor climate-controlled turf fields for baseball and softball are also available, along with a 4,500-square-foot strength and condition area, orthopedics center and a pro shop.

ARKANSAS SPORTS GUIDE

Adventure in Arkansas

All Year Long

From water sports to mountain trails, Arkansas offers adventures for every season

WELCOME TO ARKANSAS

Graced with temperate weather all year round, Arkansas is stunningly beautiful. Our terrain is one of the great unsung natural treasures of the nation, threaded with lakes and rivers and host to the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.

Our thriving cities offer a wealth of family-friendly activities, a variety of restaurants and comfortable, convenient lodging. But even in our largest cities, Arkansas is still a budget-friendly sporting event destination thanks to our low cost of living. With two major airports and several interstate highways connecting to surrounding states, Arkansas is close to everywhere and affordable for everyone! All Welcome Centers offer complimentary coffee and multiple restroom stalls. Open 9-5 everyday.

FORT SMITH RUSSELLVILLE

PINE BLUFF

ROGERS

JONESBORO

TEXARKANA

Come experience our warm hospitality and give your athletes and competitors a taste of The Natural State.

If you said to everyone in the United States, “We’re going to pick a spot right in the middle of where you all live, and we’re going to hold our sporting event there,” you would be talking about a place very close to

ARKANSAS

CLOSE TO EVERYWHERE

Scan to discover more of what Arkansas offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

WELCOME TO THE NATURAL STATE, THE IDEAL LOCATION FOR YOUR NEXT SPORTING EVENT!

Arkansas offers a central location in the mid-South, making it a convenient and affordable destination for events of all kinds. With great interstate connections, we’re just a short drive from most southern and midwestern cities. We’re also home to two major airports — Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Bentonville — providing easy access from virtually anywhere. Once you’re here, you’ll discover that Arkansas offers a perfect mix of fast-paced excitement and laid-back charm, with stunning landscapes, a moderate climate and warm Southern hospitality.

If you need assistance planning your event, the Arkansas Sports Team is here to help! Representing 14 destinations across the state, our experienced team offers a wide range of facilities and expertise. Whether you’re hosting a triathlon or a tennis tournament, a mountain biking race or a martial arts showcase, Arkansas has the venue and resources to make it a success. We’re confident that Arkansas is the natural choice for your next sporting event. Learn more in the guide!

Sincerely, Dalaney and the Arkansas Sports Team

DALANEY THOMAS , Tourism Director

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism 1 Capitol Mall, STE 3B-201 Little Rock, AR 72201 P: 501-682-7777 Arkansas.com

ON THE COVER: Arkansas is famed for its biking races.

Photo courtesy of Chase in Color and Life Time

The sights of Arkansas are unmatched.

Photo courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

ADVENTURE in Arkansas All Year Long

From water sports to mountain trails, Arkansas offers adventures for every season

By Abriana Guerra

Arkansas is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Whether it’s a biking adventure along Northwest Arkansas’ Razorback Regional Greenway or beholding the breathtaking views on a hike through Dardanelle’s Mount Nebo State Park, this picturesque state offers something for everyone. Join us as we explore Arkansas’ best destinations, where every season brings a new way to enjoy diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

Northwest Arkansas

Discover the beauty of Devil’s Den State Park, where you can hike rugged trails and enjoy spectacular views of natural rock formations. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing and picnicking. After your outdoor activities, relax at a local brewery in Fayetteville, sampling Arkansas-made craft beers while soaking in the gorgeous surroundings.

Less than a 30-minute drive north of Fayetteville, Springdale is a perfect destination to dive into adventure and local culture. Start on the Ozark Highlands Trail, where you can hike or mountain bike through stunning landscapes. Afterward, explore the Springdale Historic District to discover charming buildings and learn about the city’s heritage.

The Razorback Greenway, which spans across Northwest Arkansas, provides exhilarating bike rides along its trails, which is also perfect for hiking enthusiasts. After a day outdoors, immerse yourself in culture at Bentonville’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, known for its impressive

collection of artwork and iconic architecture set within 120 acres of native Ozark forest.

Nearby Rogers is a charming city, particularly for biking enthusiasts. No matter your level of experience, Railyard Bike Park is a great spot to test your skills. Follow the paved path down to Lake Atalanta Park or adventure off-road on the Pleasant Ridge multi-use trail. Learn about the city’s heritage at Rogers Historical Museum, then stroll through the quaint downtown area to discover unique boutiques, art galleries and inviting dining options.

Central Arkansas

Immerse yourself in American history in Little Rock by visiting William J. Clinton Presidential Library or Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, a significant landmark of the Civil Rights Movement. Outdoors, explore the Arkansas River Trail, an impressive route that runs from

Mount Nebo State Park is perfect for hiking and biking.

the state capital to North Little Rock, ideal for walking, jogging or cycling with views of the city skyline.

Across the Arkansas River, North Little Rock blends outdoor recreation with local culture. Hike, bike, or fish at Burns Park, one of the largest city parks in the nation. Be sure to explore The Old Mill, renowned for its iconic water wheel and beautiful landscaping, which featured in the opening scenes of the classic film Gone with the Wind

The City of Pine Bluff’s Delta Rivers Nature Center features interactive exhibits on the region’s ecosystems and conservation efforts. For local culture, check out Pine Bluff Arts and Science Center, which showcases rotating art exhibits and live performances, along with educational programming that focuses on S.T.E.A.M. - the intersection of S.T.E.M. and Art.

For big-time tournaments and events, Game Time at The Grounds is set to expand sporting event opportunities across Arkansas and neighboring states. Situated within a

sprawling 230-acre park in Cabot, the facility features over 128,000 square feet of indoor space with courts and non-infill turf fields. Their campus plan is to include outdoor spaces including a skatepark, biking and walking trails, a fishing pond, playgrounds and more.

Arkansas River Valley

Mount Nebo State Park makes Dardanelle a must-visit destination, offering a network of hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley below. Whether you choose the challenging climb to the summit or a more leisurely path, the natural splendor and diverse wildlife make every hike memorable. The park also features picnic areas and campgrounds for those looking to spend more time immersed in nature.

Rich in history and natural beauty, Fort Smith offers diverse outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Start at Riverfront

Game Time at The Grounds complex in Cabot

The Old Mill in North Little Rock

Park, where trails along the Arkansas River are perfect for walking, jogging or biking and offer stunning natural scenery. After your outdoor adventure, explore the rich history and legacy of the U.S. Marshals Service through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts and engaging stories at the U.S. Marshals Museum. Be sure to admire the city’s famous murals and public art, like the ASKEW Cherokee Mural and the adorable Rainbow Embassy.

Southwest Arkansas

Enjoy a cold-weather hike along scenic trails in Hot Springs National Park and explore the Ouachita Mountains to discover diverse wildlife. After your hike, unwind at one of the historic bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. Experience soothing thermal waters, a treatment cherished for centuries in the Hot Springs area.

Aptly named for its location along the border of Arkansas and Texas, start your visit to Texarkana at Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council, where

you can explore engaging art exhibits and local events that showcase the region’s talent. Afterward, relax at Spring Lake Park, a scenic area with walking trails, picnic spots and a serene lake ideal for fishing or paddle boating.

Northeast Arkansas

AGFC Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center in Jonesboro is a gem for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Set within the unique Crowley’s Ridge ecosystem, the center features intriguing exhibits about the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Outdoor trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities for hiking and birdwatching in peaceful surroundings.

Located on the Arkansas State University campus, Bradbury Art Museum is a dynamic space for contemporary art. With rotating exhibitions across various disciplines and an active outreach program, the museum encourages the community to connect with and explore impactful artistic experiences.

U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith

BENTONVILLE CABOT

KNOWN AS THE MOUNTAIN BIKE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD, BENTONVILLE IS A TOWN WHERE PROGRESS MEETS HISTORY AND SPORTS AND ARTS MEET INNOVATION.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Slaughter Pen Trails Bike events

The Slaughter Pen trails in Bentonville provide a unique urban mountain biking experience. The 40- plus miles of single-track flow alongside the paved Razorback Regional Greenway and by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where the path is dotted with public art. The Slaughter Pen system includes trails ranging in difficulty from beginners to expert, with connector trails taking riders between the various hubs of the system.

2. Memorial Park Baseball, softball, tennis, biking, skateboarding

Memorial Park is home to several sporting facilities, including a tennis complex with 12 lighted courts, five lighted baseball fields, six lighted softball fields and four T-ball fields. The soccer complex has seven lighted soccer fields and two multi-purpose fields. It has two basketball courts, four lighted sand volleyball courts, one multiuse skate and bike park, and an aquatic center featuring an Olympic size pool and a separate diving pool with a water slide.

3. Bentonville Tiger and West Athletic

Complexes Baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, track

Both complexes have numerous facilities, college-like stadiums, and indoor practice facilities. Events can seat over 6,000 people with over 232,000 square feet. Both feature courts, arenas, auxiliary gyms, and hardwood surfaces. There are also track/soccer stadiums; championship softball fields and Phillips Park, a 40-acre home to Bentonville High School and American Legion baseball teams.

KNOWN AS THE YOUTH SPORTS CAPITAL OF THE MID-SOUTH, CABOT IS EVER EVOLVING. IT’S ALL HERE.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. The Grounds Basketball, volleyball, pickleball, soccer, baseball

This 128,000 sq. ft. venue is perfect for hosting tournaments and events of all sizes. It features 9 full-sized basketball courts, which easily transform into 17 volleyball or 27 pickleball courts, plus a large indoor turf field ideal for soccer, football, baseball, and more. With a year-round calendar of leagues, camps, and community events, it’s a top choice for athletes of all ages. Visitors will also enjoy the lounge area, indoor café, and the versatility of the facility for various sports and tournaments.

2. Cabot Sportsplex Baseball, football

The 50-acre Cabot Sportsplex is a must-visit for sports tourism. Opened in 2016, it features eight lighted turf baseball fields, one full-size baseball field, two full-size football fields, and a 0.90-mile walking track. For some splashy fun, head to the on-site Cabot Aquatic Park, where three pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a kids’ splash zone provide endless entertainment. Rentable pavilions and full-service concessions make this complex perfect for hosting tournaments and events.

3. Allman-Bevis Sports Park Soccer, softball

For top-tier soccer and softball facilities, Allman-Bevis Sports Park delivers! This 42-acre park features four turf softball fields and the First Arkansas Bank Soccer Complex, with well-lit fields for all ages. Whether it’s daytime or evening play, this park has everything needed for tournaments, plus playgrounds, pavilions, and concessions to keep families entertained between games.

Tiger Athletic Complex

CONWAY

WITH MORE THAN 1,200 HOTEL ROOMS, CONWAY HAS PLENTY OF SPACES FOR YOU TO REST YOUR HEAD AFTER ENJOYING A LONG DAY AT A TOURNAMENT.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Conway Station Park Baseball

A top park in the state, Conway Station Park is home to eight fields with a 225-foot fence, while the final field features a 350-foot fence, giving sluggers an impressive challenge to aim for. This massive park is also equipped with its own concession stand, heated/cooled bathrooms, maintenance shed, and a beautiful pond.

2. City of Colleges Park Softball

The gorgeous layout of this lovely award-winning park in Conway allows enough room for five entire softball fields. After being completed in 2009, City of Colleges Park has become known as one of the top softball parks in the area. It also features a playground for children to enjoy. This park is also home to Central Baptist College, St. Joseph High School, and Homeschool softball.

3. Conway Tennis Center Tennis

This beautiful tennis center has eight courts where lessons, leagues, events and reservations are available for players to hone their tennis skills. If a reservation is made, the Conway Tennis Center even rents out ball machines for a small fee. The center is made up of eight courts surrounding two smaller buildings with bathrooms and lounging areas.

FAYETTEVILLE

FAYETTEVILLE IS MORE THAN A CITY. IT’S AN EXPERIENCE. WHERE AERIEL ADVENTURES, GRAVEL ROADS, AND WATERWAYS MERGE. COME EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Kessler Regional Park

Soccer, baseball, kickball, mountain-biking, hiking & running

This regional park is home to 6 lighted soccer, - 8 - lighted baseball fields, and - 3-restroom/concession buildings. On its 620 acres, the park is also home to historic Kessler Mountain. The park operates as a regional sports park with popular areas for mountain-bikers, hikers & runners, with more than 10 miles of natural-surface trails that tie back into the amazing Razorback Greenway trail system.

2. Centennial Park

Cycling, running, RC racing & more

Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain is a cycling-activated park with state-of-the-art cyclo-cross and mountain biking facilities. On top of this mountain there are 12 miles of soft surface trails, a pavilion with restrooms and parking for up to 90 with 2.5 additional acres for flex space as need for events. The mountain’s world-class cyclo-cross, mountain bike, and running courses include trails with multiple surfaces and features that build users’ skills.

3.

AAO P. Whitaker Sports Center

Basketball, volleyball, pickle-ball, boccia ball, corn-hole, table tennis

This sports facility is host to 11 standard courts that can be used for multiple sports. AAO has a total of 43,000 sq ft of space with bleacher seating on every court. There is an additional 1,800 sq ft training center on-site for use and a multi-purpose room with 1,800 sq ft of space.

Tina Archer-Cope Vice President of Sales

Conway Station Park

Kessler Regional Park

Centennial Park

FORT SMITH

FORT SMITH IS EASY TO REACH BY ROAD—OR BY SKY— AND OFFERS AN IDEAL MIX OF GROUP-FRIENDLY DINING, SHOPPING, AND ENTERTAINMENT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Fort Smith Convention Center Volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, cheer, tennis, pickleball, dance, eSports, martial arts, cornhole, wrestling

The infinitely flexible Fort Smith Convention Center offers 116,800 sq. ft. of usable event space and a state-of-the-art performing arts center just steps from downtown dining, shopping, and entertainment. The column-free, 40,000 sq. ft. Exhibition Hall (divisible into 5 sections) features 34’ ceilings and accommodates up to eight (8) volleyball courts; eight (8) Tennis Courts; sixteen (16) pickleball courts; four (4) basketball courts.

2. Ben Geren Regional Park Soccer, softball, tennis, disc golf, golf, mountain biking

The expansive Ben Geren Regional Park offers a 12-field Soccer Complex; 10-field Softball Complex; 6-court Tennis Center; 27-hole Golf Course; three (3) 18-hole Disc Golf Courses; three (3) Sand Volleyball Courts; a premier Arkansas Mountain Biking Trail System (21+ miles). It is also home to Parrot Island Waterpark and a miniature golf course.

3. FS Baseball & Softball / Boys & Girls Club Baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, basketball

Evans Club includes three (3) Baseball/Softball Fields; two (2) Indoor Basketball Courts; two (2) Outdoor Basketball Courts; one (1) Soccer Field. Goldtrap Club includes four (4) Baseball/ Softball Fields; one (1) Indoor Basketball Court; one (1) Soccer Field. Jeffrey Club includes three (3) Soccer Fields. Stephens Club includes three (3) Soccer Fields; one (1) Indoor Basketball Court; one (1) Outdoor Basketball Court.

Jones Director of Sales

HOT SPRINGS

AND ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Bank OZK Arena Basketball, cheer, volleyball, pickleball, concerts

Bank OZK Arena seats 6,300 and is connected to the Hot Springs Convention Center, Hotel Hot Springs and Embassy Suites. Bank OZK Arena has hosted the Sunbelt College Basketball Championships, FLW Bass Fishing Tournament, Arkansas High School Basketball Championships, and more.

2. Oaklawn Hot Springs Horse Racing, track and field, concerts

Oaklawn is known for its 100 + year tradition of professional horse racing which is highlighted each season by The Arkansas Derby. The track’s infield has also proven to be a great setting for the Arkansas High School Cross Country Championships.

3. Majestic Park Baseball, softball

The Majestic Park Baseball Complex was specifically designed for youth baseball & softball tournaments and features five fields. Three of the fields are 225 feet to center field, lighted, and fenced with artificial turf infields and outfields, as well as, stationary mounds.

4. Northwoods Trails Hiking, biking

The Northwoods Trails are located 5 minutes from Downtown Hot Springs. There are 32.5 miles of mountain bike trails that are also open to trail running and hiking. Four trailheads provide ample parking and facilities. The Northwoods has hosted the Gudrun Mountain Bike Festival and NICA Mountain Bike races.

ENJOY A RELAXING SPA VACATION GETAWAY IN HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, WHERE YOU CAN HIKE, SHOP

Fort Smith Convention Center

JONESBORO

FILLED WITH GIFT SHOPS, RESTAURANTS, ART GALLERIES AND A DAY SPA, JONESBORO HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AFTER A LONG DAY AT A TOURNAMENT.

Craighead Forest Park

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Craighead Forest Park Basketball, hiking, disc golf, softball, volleyball, fishing

This 770-acre park opened in 1937 and in the last 20 years, the park has gone through numerous renovations improving the playgrounds (4) and RV campgrounds (41 spaces).Craighead features many popular outdoor activities such as basketball, hiking, disc golf, softball, volleyball, mountain biking, camping and fishing.

2. Joe Mack Campbell Sports Complex Baseball, soccer

The Joe Mack Campbell Sports Complex is home to 14-stunning baseball fields as well as 19 soccer fields. Right off Interstate 555, this complex has baseball fields that accommodate athletes from 7U to 14U leagues. Ten of the 14 fields have turf infields and manicured grass outfields. The complex also has its own batting cages. Soccer has 6 micro fields for 6U all the way up to high-school sized fields. Spectators can enjoy watching all the games in designated picnic areas around the complex with 4 full-function concession stands.

3. Southside Softball Complex Softball

The Southside Softball Complex hosts the Mountain Dew Grand Slam Classic, the oldest youth tournament in the state of Arkansas. The complex has six batting cages and 10 softball fields, split between four pavilions. The softball complex also has two large and fully equipped concession stands for athletes and spectators to enjoy food at the ballpark. The fields are available day or night with updated lighting system installed in 2018.

Danny Kapales, Director 870-933-4604

LITTLE ROCK

THE NATURAL STATE’S CAPITAL CITY, LITTLE ROCK IS HOME TO FABULOUS SHOPPING, IMPRESSIVE ART GALLERIES AND SOME OF THE FINEST DINING IN ARKANSAS.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Rebsamen Tennis Center Tennis

The Rebsamen Tennis Center is a tennis player’s utopia. Open year round, the tennis center offers 17 lighted courts, three lighted backboards and is a past recipient of the USTA‘s National Public Facility of the Year Award. Rebsamen hosts Adult and Junior Arkansas tournaments, and the tennis center has hosted USTA Southern Region tournaments and an annual USTA Men’s Pro Circuit Tournament.

2. Jack Stephens Center Basketball, wrestling

The $25-million Jack Stephens Center is a state-of-the-art 5,600-seat, multi-purpose arena at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The Stephens Center hosts the school’s men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, the Boy’s and Girl’s State High School Wrestling Tournament, regional dance and cheer competitions, and the U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships.

3. Statehouse Convention Center

Volleyball, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Wrestling, Cheer and Dance

With 220,000 square feet of flexible meeting space located in the heart of Little Rock’s downtown convention and River Market district, the Statehouse Convention Center is just steps away from a free streetcar ride to a wide variety of restaurants, performing arts venues, world-class attractions and outdoor activities. The ultimate in versatility for conventions, exhibitions, special events and trade shows that are truly unique and memorable.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

THE

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Burns Park

Soccer, lacrosse, flag football, tennis, baseball, softball, disc golf, pickleball, golf, cricket, BMX track, cross country

With nearly 2,000 acres of multi-sport facilities and trails, Burns Park is the premier complex of the South. Home to 17 multipurpose irrigated flat fields split into four quadrants, each featuring permanent restrooms, pavilions and concessions. Tournament lighting on one quadrant with 2 cricket pitches, 2,500 bleacher seating, and 1,500 parking spaces available. Burns Park Tennis Center has 30 outdoor courts (18 lit), including a championship court and 6 junior courts, and indoor facility with 6 courts equipped with locker rooms, showers, restrooms, lounge, observation area, concessions, secured storage space and over 300 parking spaces.

2. North Little Rock Riverfront Park

Bicycling, running, festivals, flex space

Located along the Arkansas River, Riverfront Park offers 3.3 acres of flexible event space backdropped with the beautiful Arkansas River. There are two rentable sections with a paved stage pad, permanent restrooms, electricity and water on-site. Adventure races, festivals, cycling and running marathons are welcome with access to the paved Arkansas River Trail spanning 88 miles.

3. Stone Links Park

Disc golf, cross country, cricket, festivals, flex space

Stone Links Park is a new disc golf complex that has four basic tracks ranging from 5,500 – 9,000 feet with multiple tee pads and basket placement. There are two flat fields available equipped with cricket pitches. This complex is cut from prairie grass making it ideal for all events that require a flexible open outdoor space.

PINE BLUFF

THIS ARKANSAS DELTA CITY IS EXPERIENCED IN HOSTING A VARIETY OF SPORTING EVENTS. BE SURE TO ENJOY THE MANY MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS PINE BLUFF HAS TO OFFER.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Pine Bluff Aquatics Center Swimming

Located in the heart of Pine Bluff, the $11 million 36,000-square-foot center offers first class facilities including an eight-lane, 25-yard short course competition pool with water maintained at 82 degrees, state-of-the-art timing scoreboard, a therapy pool, water sports area, and can accommodate up to 1,600 people.

2. Taylor Field Baseball Stadium Baseball

Taylor Field Baseball Stadium is a regulation-size baseball field featuring a U-shaped grandstand that holds 1,800 seats behind home plate. The stadium was constructed in 1939 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It seats 2,400 and reaches 315 feet to the right and left field foul poles, 360 feet in left centerfield, and 390 feet to the deep corner in centerfield.

3. Pine Bluff Convention Center

Basketball, gymnastics, wrestling, boxing

Home of the world-renowned King Cotton Holiday Classic basketball tournament, this impressive center features a 23,000-square-foot arena with tiered seating for up to 7,600. Recent upgrades include the latest in audio visual technology such as overhead communications module with live video feed, replay, and broadcast, 12-foot videoboards, 18-foot digital scorer’s table, NCAA-approved lighting, renovated restrooms and dressing rooms, and adjoining concourses with flatscreen monitors and concession stands.

Burns Park

ROGERS

THIS VIBRANT OUTDOOR COMMUNITY FEATURES GLISTENING LAKES, MUSEUMS OVERFLOWING WITH ARTWORK, AND A VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS FOR ALL TASTES.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Matrix Racquet Club

Tennis, padel, pickleball

Located right across the Rogers city line in Lowell, Matrix Racquet Club offers high-quality tennis facilities for camps, tournaments and events. With both indoor and outdoor courts, the facility is perfect for year-round events. The facility features 12 tennis courts, the ability to have 56 pickleball courts simultaneously, three padel courts, a café, and a health club.

2. Rogers Regional Sports Park/Veterans Memorial Park

Softball, baseball, kickball, football, soccer, lacrosse

Rogers Regional Sports Park features six baseball/softball fields, a water fountain in every dugout and a designated warm-up area for each team along with a central concession stand. Veterans Memorial Park features two baseball fields, two softball fields, five grass multi-purpose fields, and one turf multi-purpose field.

3. Beaver Lake

Fishing, boating, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking

Beaver Lake, a 28,370-acre freshwater lake, is located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains and is a popular place to boat, camp, fish, scuba dive, canoe, wake board, kayak, stand up paddle board, and swim.

4. Arkansas Athletes Outreach

Basketball, volleyball, cheer, dance, wrestling, table tennis, flag football, lacrosse

Arkansas Athletes Outreach is a newly built indoor/outdoor facility that features four indoor multi-purpose courts and two outdoor 100-yard grass fields.

Clark

RUSSELLVILLE

SITUATED NEAR THE ARKANSAS RIVER, THIS CITY OFFERS 23 PARKS, SOCCER, SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL COMPLEXES AND PLENTY OF OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Russellville Soccer Complex Soccer, hiking

Russellville Soccer Complex has multiple soccer fields for tournament play and plenty of open space for outdoor activities. The park has a 1.1-mile trail that can be used for running and walking. The path is also paved so it’s ADA accessible. The soccer complex has 3 lighted fields.

2. Lake Dardanelle State Park Fishing, hiking, camping

This park is located in two areas on Lake Dardanelle, a 34,300 acre reservoir on the Arkansas River. It features a fishing pier, boardwalk trail and visitor center with five aquariums and the Lakeview Room meeting facility. There are 57 campsites in the Russellville area of the park. The park is also a National Park Service-certified site on the Trail of Tears water route.

3. Pleasant View Park, Shiloh Park, M. J. Hickey Park Baseball, softball, swimming

Pleasant View Park and Shiloh Park have 6 softball fields with covered pavilions, restrooms and a dog park. The 7-field M.J. Hickey Park baseball complex has 3-lighted pavilions, restrooms, picnic tables and a 50-meter municipal swimming pool. The baseball and softball fields all feature benches, barbeque grills and picnic tables so fans can eat heartily while enjoying the action

Lake Dardanelle State Park

Matrix Racquet Club

SPRINGDALE

SPRINGDALE IS FOR EXPLORING. WORLD-CLASS CYCLING TRAILS, PRO BASEBALL AT ARVEST BALLPARK, ART, AND HISTORY COLLIDE FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY AROUND EVERY CORNER.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. C.L. “Charlie” and Willie George Park

Baseball, softball, football, soccer, tennis, walking

This park features several amenities including one lighted football field, three lighted tennis courts, four artificial turf baseball fields with concessions, six soccer fields, a dog park, a paved walking trail, two pavilions, play structures and a splash pad open daily.

2. The Jones Center Skating, swimming, fitness

This state-of-the-art 220,000-square-foot recreation, community and event center is located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas. This massive facility houses a year-round ice arena, junior-Olympic-sized lap pool, activity pool with a slide, world-class bike park, basketball court, fitness center, indoor track, conference center and chapel/auditorium. Also located in the center is a cafe with a menu designed in collaboration with local partners.

3. Springdale Recreation Center Basketball, volleyball, soccer, group fitness, weight training

This newly remodeled facility boasts six indoor hardwood courts for basketball and volleyball, two indoor soccer fields, group fitness areas, and weight training equipment. The center is home to area youth sports and is an ideal location to host a tournament or camp at any age level. Ample parking, spectator seating, and full-service concessions are available to accommodate guests. The Springdale Recreation Center offers yearly memberships and facility reservations to meet any number of needs.

Jared Sullivan Director of Communications & Marketing

TEXARKANA

UNIQUE

IN THAT IT

STRADDLES

TWO STATES, TEXAS AND ARKANSAS, THIS CITY HAS A WIDE ARRAY OF RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING AND A BUSTLING NIGHTLIFE.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Ed Worrell Memorial Baseball Park Baseball

Ed Worrell Park in Texarkana has 115 acres of recreational land area with amenities including seven lighted baseball fields, running/jogging trails, parking, restrooms and two concession stands. It features concessions, off-street parking and is located near the Texarkana Regional Airport.

2. Ermer Dansby Pondexter Sports Complex Baseball, softball

The Ermer Dansby Pondexter Sports Complex is home to five fields, a walking trail, playground, a huge pavilion, concession stand, air-conditioned bathrooms, plenty of shade for a picnic, and lots of parking. Guests appreciate the digital scoreboards courtesy of Youth Scoreboards of Arkansas as well as the convenience of using debit/credit cards at the concession stand. Players and coaches enjoy the playing surface, new lights and 200-foot tournament fences.

3. Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center Conventions

Nestled in southwest Arkansas, just one mile from the Texas border in Texarkana, the Arkansas Convention Center is the premier location for events in its area. Its 10,000-square foot state-of-the-art facility was newly constructed in 2014, and is conveniently located on Interstate 30, just miles from I-49 south. The ballroom can be divided into four breakout rooms and it features a brightly lit gallery space that connects the four rooms.

CITY OF TEXARKANA ARKANSAS

Ed Worrell Memorial Baseball Park

The Jones Center

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

It’s no secret that Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is the home base to some of the nation’s greatest competitors. With multiple professional sports teams, internationally renowned superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers call the Cream City home. In addition to championship-caliber teams and players, Milwaukee boasts a winning lineup of dedicated athletes, unrivaled amenities, one-of-a-kind attractions and state-of-the-art venues, including American Family Field , Fiserv Forum and the newly expanded Baird Center that nearly doubled in size to over 1.3 million square feet.

Known as an all-season, all-sport city, Milwaukee shines as an elite regional sports destination. With 191 distinctly diverse neighborhoods to explore, Milwaukee offers access to worldclass lodging and restaurants equipped to host groups of all sizes. Deer District is chief among the city’s attractions—a 365-day hotspot for entertainment, events, food and drinks. The 3rd Street Market Hall features some of the city’s best food and fun with a Topgolf Swing Suite and much more. Plus, one of the city’s most popular volleyball destinations is Bradford Beach , which is also the most accessible beach in the country. And don’t forget about the Milwaukee Mile at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds that plays host to the IndyCar, NASCAR, concerts and more.

BAIRD CENTER

Multiuse

The newly expanded Baird Center doubled to over 1.3 million square feet and features 300,000 square feet of contiguous exhibition and sports events space, 24 new state-of-the-art breakout rooms, the stunning Baird Ballroom and Sky View Terrace with city views, and more. Baird Center garnered nationwide attention when the Republican National Committee (RNC) chose this innovative space as the 2024 convention venue.

AMERICAN FAMILY FIELD

Multiuse

Home to Major League

Baseball’s Milwaukee Brewers, American Family Field is considered one of the best ballparks in the MLB. This retractable roof ballpark opened in 2001, and in 2024 plans were put into place for a large-scale renovation, including full winterization for year-round use.

FISERV FORUM

Multiuse

Fiserv Forum is more than just the home for the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks and the Marquette Golden Eagles men’s basketball team. It features 34 suites, three clubs, enhanced acoustics for both concerts and sporting events, state-of-the-art performer dressing rooms, more than 9,000 LED fixtures and 34 large public restrooms.

UIHLEIN SOCCER PARK

Multiuse

This park provides soccer players with an incredible experience both on and off the pitch. Built in 1994, the 4,000-seat stadium is Milwaukee’s premier indoor and outdoor soccer complex. Enjoy soccer, field hockey and ultimate frisbee games on 13 outdoor fields, or watch an indoor soccer match take place on one of three indoor turf fields.

THE ROCK SPORTS COMPLEX

Multiuse

The Rock is a sports and entertainment facility that attracts over 600,000 visitors a year. This complex features attractions for all seasons, including six major league baseball replica fields, where no detail has been left behind, with a miniature Green Monster on site, Snowpark and the Umbrella Bar.

OAW INDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX Multiuse

The OAW is a state-of-theart facility that is designed to bring the best out of its competitors. The indoor facility boasts over 150,000 square feet of indoor floor space that can be used for almost any sport that doesn’t have water. The facility has three turf fields, four basketball courts, six volleyball courts and 12 pickleball courts.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The impact and support that Visit Milwaukee has had on USA Triathlon has been second-to-none. With countless moving parts that must align to effectively produce an event of this magnitude is no small feat but is one that has been tackled with energy, passion, and a sense of impact.”

— Brian D’Amico, Director

SPORTS MILWAUKEE

Marissa Werner (414) 287-6232 mwerner@milwaukee.org sportsmilwaukee.org

of Events, USA Triathlon

2024 IndyCar at Milwaukee Mile

ILLINOIS

Illinois is Home to Tranquil Gardens and Thrilling Adventures

With hundreds of acres of parks and forests and miles of trails, Illinois is an outdoor haven

Sports Tournaments Are Flocking to Illinois

New incentive grant program is helping the state attract more events than ever before

Welcome to Illinois!

On behalf of the Illinois Office of Tourism, I look forward to welcoming you to the Land of Lincoln for your next sporting event. Sports tourism is going from strength to strength, and our state truly understands the importance of creating exceptional experiences for visiting participants and fans. We see it as an incredible growth opportunity and are committed to supporting the industry however we can.

In 2023, sports tourism spending of $47.5 billion generated a total economic impact of $128.0 billion in the US, which supported 757,600 full-time and part-time jobs (Tourism Economics, 2023). This impact on our communities cannot be understated. In fact, Illinois was ranked 5th in the nation for economic impact from sports tourism in 2023. But we are still in growth mode and eager for more.

In my role as tourism director, I am reminded every day that Illinois truly is the Middle of Everything. And that means we are also in the middle of all things sports and athletics. Whether you are returning for a tournament or are a first-time visitor, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Illinois.

With more than 1,200 sporting venues and state-ofthe-art facilities, Illinois hosts everything from PGA tournaments and Olympic trials to college and high school sporting tournaments. Sporting events are a vital part of our tourism industry in our state, and we continue to strive to be top-of-mind for sports associations and organizations planning their next event.

To find a sporting facility and to learn more about holding your next event in Illinois, please visit Sportsillinois.com. You can also plan an unforgettable trip to Illinois by visiting EnjoyIllinois.com.

Yours in tourism partnership,

Scan to discover more of what Illinois offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Daniel Thomas Deputy Director Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism

Dozer Park in Peoria is home to the Peoria Chiefs baseball team.

SPORTS TOURNAMENTS ARE FLOCKING TO ILLINOIS

The new incentive grant program is helping the state attract more events than ever before

By Jason Paha

Photos courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

Wrigley Field is considered perhaps the best baseball park in Major League Baseball.

Sports have always been a big deal in Illinois

From its unbridled love of professional sports to the hundreds of amateur tournaments, regionals, qualifiers and championships it hosts, the Land of Lincoln has been a force in the sports tourism market for years.

In recent years, Illinois has seen tremendous growth in tourism. According to data from Tourism Economics, Illinois welcomed 112 million visitors in 2023, a million more than the number of visitors in 2022. Those 112 million visitors spent $47 billion on Illinois businesses, up $3 billion compared to the year before. Overall, tourist spending in the state had a total economic impact of $83 billion in 2023, a 6.4% increase from 2022. Visitor spending in 2023 surpassed 2019 levels for the first time, reaching 4% above its pre-pandemic benchmark.

Much of that stems from sports tourism, and Sports Illinois, the official event planner resource for hosting a sporting event in the state, is the catalyst behind attracting these competitions. Sports Illinois’ goal is to attract, recruit or retain state, regional and national events that increase travel and overnight stays in Illinois. The organization does this as it creates innovative, strategically driven direct sales, and marketing and promotional campaigns.

And it’s been working.

A recent Sports ETA State of the Industry Report identified the Top 10 list of states in terms of the economic impact generated by sports tourism. In 2023, Illinois was ranked No. 5 in the country in economic impact behind only Florida, Texas, California and Pennsylvania.

Tourism Incentive Grant Program

As impressive as Illinois’ sports tourism numbers were before, it has stepped up its game considerably thanks to a new $15 million Tourism Incentive Grant Program. This program was established to bolster tourism across the state by supporting the development and improvement of events, conferences, and trade shows, specifically designed to attract events that have not yet been held in Illinois.

“Illinois is exceptionally proud to be ranked as the 5th leading sports tourism state in the country per the latest State of the Industry report,” said Terry Truman, sales manager, Visit Springfield. “The new $15 million incentive grant program is the best grant program we’ve had to help us actively seek events since I started over 12 years ago.

The state’s grant program has already paid dividends as an $800,000 grant provided to

Rockford Area CVB helped the city land the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon beginning in 2025 and running through 2027. The grant funds will be used to support race day operations.

“I’m thrilled to welcome the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon to Illinois,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “My administration’s Tourism Incentive Grant Program attracted this major event to Rockford, and we look forward to showcasing Illinois’ natural beauty and world-class hospitality to the thousands of athletes and spectators who will join us over the next three years.”

IRONMAN is considered one of the most recognizable and respected global sports brands and this is the first time it will be held in Illinois. The event is expected to draw nearly 3,000 athletes and 15,000 visitors during each race. The race is also expected to fill an estimated 7,000 to 12,000 hotel room nights and figures to generate upwards of $45 million in economic impact over three years.

While it is still early in the process, others are utilizing the grant money as well. Discover DuPage, Enjoy Aurora and Visit Springfield Illinois combined forces and will host the 2026 National Beep Baseball Association World Series. The event is the organization’s 50th anniversary. Also, Springfield is utilizing the funds to host the 2025 USA Trampoline and Tumbling Region 4 Championships.

“The new Tourism Incentive Program is enabling Illinois to attract new high-profile events that generate millions in economic impact,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Attracting IRONMAN is a testament to all Illinois has to offer and increases our opportunity to show visitors from across the globe why Illinois is the best place to live, work and do business.”

LEFT: Chicago Wolves hockey RIGHT: Guaranteed Rate Field is home of the Chicago White Sox

Illinois

to Tranquil Gardens and Thrilling Adventures is Home

With hundreds of acres of parks and forests and miles of trails, Illinois is an outdoor haven

By Jason Paha

Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford

IIIllinois, often celebrated for its expansive prairies, is home to far more than meets the eye. Beyond the iconic flatlands, the state reveals a treasure trove of natural splendor and diverse outdoor adventures. With 64 state parks, six state forests and a national forest, Illinois offers an array of destinations that cater to every type of explorer. From the serene beauty of Anderson Japanese Gardens to the majestic canyons of Starved Rock State Park, and the vast woodlands of Shawnee National Forest, each spot presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature and engage in exhilarating activities.

Anderson Japanese Gardens

Inspired by the famous Portland Japanese Garden, Anderson Japanese Gardens was established in 1978 by John R. Anderson on the site of Anderson’s home in Rockford, 88 miles northwest of Chicago. This 12-acre attraction exists as a not-for-profit entity and features several waterfalls and ponds, streams, rock formations, winding paths and a tea house and guest house.

Cahokia Mounds Historic Site

Pay a visit to the famous Cahokia Mounds Historic Site in Collinsville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers more than 2,000 acres of archaeological remains and 70 burial mounds. Cahokia Mounds preserves the central section of the largest prehistoric Native American city north of Mexico. Occupied from 700 to 1400, the city grew to cover 4,000 acres, with a population of between 10,000 and 20,000 at its peak around 1100. The site is dominated by the hundred-foot-tall Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen mound in the Americas.

Chicago Botanic Garden

With 27 stunning gardens residing on 385 acres, this botanic garden 24 miles from downtown Chicago has matured into one of the world’s great living museums and conservation science centers. Groups can explore the wonders of the garden by walking or taking a tram tour that includes a panoramic overview of the gardens of the main island. Among the many gardens in this museum include the Aquatic Garden; the English Walled Garden and the Waterfall Garden. The garden also has excellent seasonal events including Night of 1000 Jack-o-Lanterns.

Great River Road

The Great River Road is home to a myriad of unique roadside attractions and charming towns. Additionally, it’s also the only location in America where two of our nation’s legendary roadways merge alongside the confluence of three great rivers: Great River Road and Route 66. Take the road to Galena where your

group can visit Chestnut Mountain Resort, which is home to fabulous skiing during the winter and features an alpine slide and zipline, which can be enjoyed during the spring, summer and fall seasons. On a guided tour at the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, travelers can follow the trail taken by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. For a spectacular view of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers and the surrounding village of Hartford, visitors can ascend the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower. It stands 180 feet tall and has three viewing platforms at 50, 100 and 150 feet offering dramatic scenery.

Horseback Riding In Grafton

Allow seasoned guides from Pere Marquette Stables to accompany you on a 45-minute journey through two and a half miles of picturesque river and hilly landscapes, with the chance to see typical Midwest wildlife such as whitetailed deer, turkeys, red-tailed hawks, songbirds and more. 35-minute hayrides are also available. Pere Marquette State Park offers nearly 20 miles of equestrian trails and groups can enjoy a 45–50-minute horseback ride through beautiful Pere Marquette State Park.

Lincoln Memorial Garden

This 100-acre woodland and prairie garden in Springfield, 200 miles southwest of Chicago, features six miles of interconnected trails that wind through its restored prairies, woodlands and wetlands. Architect Jens Jensen designed the garden as a living memorial to Abraham Lincoln, and it is home to 12 footbridges, a pond and eight stone council rings, most of which contain views of a lake.

Morton Arboretum

Located in Lisle, just 25 miles west of Chicago, this renowned public garden boasts one of North America’s most extensive collections of woody plants. As an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to tree planting and conservation, it spans 1,700 acres and features more than 222,000 live plants from nearly 4,300 species worldwide. Established in 1922, the arboretum showcases its diverse collections in stunning landscape settings designed for both enjoyment and education.

Shawnee National Forest

Situated in the Ozark and Shawnee Hills of Southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest covers approximately 280,000 acres of diverse terrain. This expansive forest offers a rich variety of landscapes, including barrens, prairies, streams, lakes, ponds, waterfalls, and rocky outcrops, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

LEFT: Chicago Botanic Garden

CHASING THE RUSH: SOUTHERN ILLINOIS SPORTS ADVENTURES

Southern Illinois delivers nonstop sports excitement! Swing for the fences, rally on the courts, or race through motocross trails—all in one action-packed destination. Whether you’re chasing a thrill or mastering your game, Southern IL is your ultimate playground for unforgettable adventures.

FROM HOME RUNS TO HEART-POUNDING FUN

Located in the heart of Southern Illinois near I-57 and I-24, Williamson County offers unbeatable access to lodging, dining, and entertainment. Perfect for any event!

Call VisitSI today and let us help you plan your next memorable event experience.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, ILLINOIS

Sports events are more than just competitions, they are opportunities to create lasting memories. Conveniently located off Interstate 57, the vibrant and fast-growing community of Marion has blossomed into a prime destination for visitors seeking a venue that offers both top-tier sports facilities and unforgettable experiences. Marion is a city on the rise, with new developments that provide everything your athletes, teams, and fans need to enjoy their time here. With comfortable accommodations and a variety of local eateries, visitors will feel right at home while exploring all that Williamson County has to offer. Beyond the sports scene, teams and their families can explore the regions’ natural beauty. Take a break from the action to enjoy the serene landscapes at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, where scenic trails and peaceful lakes provide a welcome escape. It’s the perfect way to balance the excitement of competition with moments of relaxation and connection. With every event, game, and celebration, Williamson County offers a chance to create memories that will last long after the final whistle blows.

MTN DEW PARK

Youth and Collegiate

Baseball and Softball

Home of Prospect League’s Thrillville Thrillbillies, this state-of-the-art multiuse stadium features a championship diamond, 3,400 armchair seats, lawn seating for over 2,000, and an enclosed banquet area. Events hosted include the Pony League’s Pinto 8U, Colt League World Series, NCAA Great Lakes Valley and Ohio Valley Conferences.

HUB RECREATION CENTER

Named one of America’s best places to play by Golf Week Magazine, this course features a full-service pro shop, professional golf instruction, club rental and repair, GPS golf carts with Bluetooth and radio capabilities, an 8-acre practice facility with heated bays, new golf simulator, several course updates, renovated clubhouse, and Live music at the Turn.

Get your club fitted the Teaching and Fitting Center which features two hitting bays and provides up-to-date software for instruction in all weather. The driving range features a practice bunker with short game target flags and the practice green accommodates both chipping and putting at close range. This course plays dramatically different depending on which 5 tees are chosen.

Fitness

This center features cutting edge workout equipment, sports programs, on-site childcare, indoor track, scoreboards, locker rooms, youth center, 3-story waterslide, kiddie pool, lazy river, hot tub, water aerobics, and scuba diving instruction. It has hosted such events as the Tri-The-HUB 5K, HUB Winter Paddle Battle and the HUB Holiday Fun Run.

KOKOPELLI GOLF CLUB Golf

CRAB ORCHARD GOLF CLUB Golf

Kokopelli Golf Club

BLACK DIAMOND PICKLEBALL COMPLEX

Pickleball

This complex features six well-lit courts, the first of its kind in Southern Illinois. It is located next to Goofy Golf at Ray Fosse Park which features 8 baseball/softball fields with lights and scoreboards, a seasonal Aquatics Center, inclusive playground and a 4-court Bags Complex. It has hosted the Spring Slam and Halloween Havoc Pickleball Tournaments.

PHARAOH’S WAY DISC GOLF Disc Golf

Located in Pyramid Park, this 18-hole disc golf course winds throughout the park, around baseball fields, and through the woods for an enjoyable, scenic challenge for people of all ages. It has hosted the Pharaoh’s Curse Disc Golf Tournament.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“As Vice President of the North Zone for PONY Baseball and Softball, I have been extremely pleased with the work and the cooperation of the staff at visitSI. They are thorough, dedicated, and knowledgeable in what makes events work here in Southern Illinois. I could not ask for a better fit for our organization than the relationship we have built with them. We highly recommend their services.”

—

Yepsen tyepsen@visitSI.com (618) 997-3690 visitSI.com

-Steve Miller, Vice President, North Zone, PONY Baseball and Softball

GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES, ILLINOIS

Journey to the only place in America where the Mother Road of Route 66 Meets the Great River Road. Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois is home to classic powerboat river racing, 100-pound plus catfish and one of the largest cycling tournaments in the Midwest.

Discover this scenic six county outdoor mecca nestled between the nation’s three great rivers – the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri –alongside four scenic byways. The region is staking its claim as a premier outdoor recreation and nature based adventure location and for good reason. With stunning kayak adventures on the Mighty Mississippi River to nationally-recognized catfish and bass river fishing tournaments to NASCAR races and F1 Powerboat racing, the options for sporting and leisure adventures is unlimited.

GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES

TOURISM BUREAU

Owen Delesky

odelesky@riversandroutes.com (618) 465-6676 www.riversandroutes.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The City of Alton, the Alton River Dragons and Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau have made the NCBA feel right at home since 2022. It was a no brainer to continue this relationship heading into 2024. Between the support, the field amenities, and the City of Alton’s and River Dragons staff, it’s been absolute pleasure to have them host.”

– Jimmy Henderson, Director of DI Baseball Operatio;/;ns

PLUMMER FAMILY PARK (EDWARDSVILLE)

Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Football

This 83-acre, tournamentquality facility features four lighted, full synthetic turf baseball/softball fields, 12 pickleball courts with lights and sun shades, and six multisport fields. Opening in the spring of 2025 will be a new expansion to the park which includes 4 large additional baseball/softball fields with lights, 2 of which will have 60/90’ dimensions from the mound, along with 13 additional pickleball courts with lights.

GORDON MOORE PARK (ALTON)

Tennis, Golf, Softball, Football, Baseball, Softball

There is something for everyone at this 704-acre park, which is home to eight tennis courts, 10 ball diamonds, a 27-hole golf course, six picnic areas, six play areas, 19 soccer/football fields, and a kids’ interactive fountain. Lloyd Hopkins Field is home to the Prospect League baseball franchise, the Alton River Dragons.

GATEWAY CONVENTION CENTER

(COLLINSVILLE)

Meetings, Dance, Cheer, Esports, Wrestling

Conveniently located within 10 minutes of Downtown St. Louis and adjacent to major interstates, this highly accessible and versatile facility is perfect for gatherings both large and small with 23 meeting rooms. Featuring 105,000 gross total square feet, this multipurpose convention center boasts outstanding services.

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY

EDWARDSVILLE

Tennis, Cross-Country, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus is home to an array of venues, including synthetic turf and grass playing fields, a six-court outdoor tennis facility, the SIUE Cross County Course which can host 5K-10K races, Cougar Field (softball), Simmons Baseball Complex and Morris University Center (conferences, banquets).

Plummer Family Park Lacrosse

SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

Springfield is home to a variety of impressive athletic facilities and attractions. Knight’s Action Park & Route 66 Drive-in Movie Theatre features a 50-tee driving range and two 18-hole miniature golf courses for some wacky fun. With an arcade, Big Wheel, batting cages, go-karts and more there is family-friendly action for everyone. The Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience is an educational exhibit open 365 days a year inside Gate 2 on the corner of Route 66 & Sangamon Avenue. The Experience, a self-guided tour, highlights businesses in 92 communities along Route 66 in Illinois beginning in Chicago and ending at the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Madison, Illinois. Vintage billboards, a drive-in movie theatre, Legends Neon Sign Park and tribute to muffler men along Illinois Route 66 make up a large part of the Experience. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum was carefully designed with exacting historical detail. Amazingly wellpreserved artifacts tell the entire life story of our nation’s 16th President. Dedicated to the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, the Presidential Museum, unlike any other in the U.S., features hi-tech exhibits, interactive displays, and multimedia programs, as well as a reproduction of the White House as it looked in 1861.

BANK OF SPRINGFIELD CENTER

Cheer, Wrestling, Gymnastics, Horseshoe Pitching, Tumbling

The Bank of Springfield Center is a world-class, multi-use facility with 44,000 square feet of column-free space, 21,000 square feet of meeting space and seating to accommodate 7,700 spectators. the Main Floor of the facility houses major events, including concerts, trade shows, graduations, wrestling and basketball tournaments.

NELSON CENTER Hockey, Figure Skating

The Nelson Center is home to two indoor ice rinks open year-round, eight locker rooms and two concession areas, as well as the Nelson Center pool, a seasonal outdoor aquatic facility. Because the Nelson Center contains the only two indoor sheets of ice within a 60-mile radius, the complex hosts a wide range of ice-related programs, events and activities.

ILLINOIS STATE FAIRGROUNDS

Motorsports, Archery, Equestrian Host to the Springfield Mile and to the ARCA Menard Series stock car racing, this one-mile-long clay oval racetrack is located on the historic IL State Fairground. Additionally, the grounds offer a newly renovated Coliseum for equestrian sports and the recently reopened multi-purpose arena, an open air, 261,000 square foot space with capacity to seat 10,000+ spectators.

SPARTAN PARK

Baseball, Softball

Located in neighboring Chatham, Spartan Park is a spacious facility perfect for any baseball, softball or volleyball event. The facility includes four 315foot down the line fields, one 180-foot field, one 225-foot field and three sand volleyball courts. Diamonds 5 & 6 are perfect for 7U-10U baseball and all softball play.

SCHEELS SPORTS PARK AT LEGACY POINTE

Indoor, Floor Sports, Outdoor Field Sports Coming Spring 2025, SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe will feature a 170,000 square foot indoor sports dome, multi-use diamonds with corner infields, a hitting center, food trucks, a pavilion and much more!

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Thanks to everyone who helped make the 8th Annual SCHEELS Capital City Pickleball tournament successful. Most people don’t realize the number of people it takes to host a major tournament. Thanks to the Springfield Park District staff who made it easier for us to undertake this project.”

SPRINGFIELD IL CVB

Terry Truman (217) 789-2360 x5525

terry.truman@springfield.il.us www.visitspringfieldillinois.com

— Jack Handy, Capital City Pickleball

Lincoln Tomb in Springfield

EFFINGHAM, ILLINOIS

Discover what makes this vibrant, Midwestern community so irresistible. With 16 hotels to unwind at and more than 65 restaurants to indulge in, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave. Grab a menu at Effingham’s famous farm-to-table restaurant, Firefly Grill. Catch a once-in-a-lifetime show at the Effingham Performance Center or relax with your favorite IPA at Gopher’s Grill in Downtown Effingham

Soaring nearly 200 feet into the Midwestern sky, the Cross at the Crossroads is a landmark for millions of travelers who pass through Effingham on I-57 and I-70 each year. Enjoy a concrete walking path, featuring life-size statues of various times in Jesus’ life, bench seating and a Welcome Center, featuring a chapel, reception area, restrooms, refreshment center and media room.

VISIT EFFINGHAM

Jodi Thoele

jthoele@effinghamil.com (217) 342-5310 www.visiteffinghamil.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I would say that the advantage for choosing Effingham, besides being so centrally located, is the community really gets behind and supports the events. We have such a variety of restaurants and hotels for people to choose from, and our shopping choices continue to expand. I feel fortunate to be able to host the event for its businesses and community.”

— Jeff Schafer, Effingham High School Girls Basketball, (Southern Illinois Basketball Circuit Director (SIBC)

RICHARD E. WORKMAN SPORTS AND WELLNESS COMPLEX

All Indoor Sports

The Richard E. Workman Sports and Wellness Complex was completed in early 2016. The complex offers a 25-meter, eight-lane swimming pool and indoor 15,500-squarefoot, multi-sport courts. This recreational center offers other amenities too, ranging from rentable party rooms to physical therapy services. The complex will not only offer visiting teams great places to play, but a stellar spot for helping them relax.

EVERGREEN HOLLOW PARK

Softball, Baseball, Tennis, Soccer, Swimming

Evergreen Hollow Park spans 42 acres and comprises of two lighted softball diamonds, one lighted baseball diamond, four lighted tennis courts and soccer fields. On the west side of the park sits Kluthe Memorial Pool, an outdoor swimming pool with a lap pool, water slide and children’s pool area.

COMMUNITY PARK

Baseball, Softball, Disc-golf, Tennis, Basketball

Community Park is a 35-acre park that features a disc-golf course, four lighted ball diamonds, four lighted tennis courts, large playground areas, three outdoor basketball courts and pavilions/ picnic areas.

HENDELMEYER PARK

Baseball, Softball, Tennis

If you’re looking for outdoor sports, look no further than Hendelmeyer Park. This spot is a charming local park with expansive outdoor fields. At a respectable 20 acres, the park holds two lighted, slow-pitch diamonds and one lighted, fast-pitch diamond—all with natural grass—plus four lighted tennis courts. The park is rounded out with playground areas, a gazebo, concession stand and skate park.

Paul Smith Field at Community Park

PEORIA, ILLINOIS

In the Greater Peoria Area, we are crazy for sports, from little league tournaments to our MLB-affiliated ball club. The Peoria region has established itself as a Midwest tournament hub across a wide range of sports. With state-of-the-art facilities, great restaurants and a variety of accommodation options, Peoria is the perfect setting for your next sporting event. Peoria offers the full package with the ability to handle an influx of families visiting to compete. Away from the action, you can enjoy unique amenities, charming local shopping, the historic Warehouse and Riverfront districts, amazing farm-totable cuisine, historic tours and museums, live music, and festival fun. From ball diamonds to ice rinks, there’s no better place to hold your next competition than Greater Peoria. Let’s get the ball rolling—explore the versatile, state-of-the-art athletic venues around Greater Peoria and see what makes this the perfect place to play ball.

PEORIA CIVIC CENTER

Multipurpose

The Peoria Civic Center is home to the largest exhibition facility in central Illinois. The 110,000-sqare-foot Exhibit Hall is the length of two football fields and can be divided into four halls with a ceiling height of 30 feet to the beams. They offer an experienced staff capable of handling everything from technical services to catering, local rooms, restaurants, concessions and ample parking. The exhibit hall will hold 22 volleyball courts.

LOUISVILLE SLUGGER SPORTS COMPLEX

Multipurpose

Louisville Slugger Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art facility for baseball, softball, soccer and other sports. Major league walk-out style heated dugouts, bullpens, lights, electronic scoreboards, public announcement systems, 3 outdoor concession stands, 3 restroom facilities, full-service restaurant, umpire location, internet access, Youth Hall of Fame, meeting + banquet space.

Eastside Centre

EASTSIDE CENTRE

Multipurpose

Eastside Centre in East Peoria is one of the premier athletic facilities in the Midwest. The 100-acre facility is home to many different sports. Eastside offers 10 baseball/softball fields, 8 of which are equipped with field lights and scoreboards, plenty of spectator seating, 1 full size football field & stadium that can seat 4,000+ fans, 4 natural grass full length soccer/lacrosse fields, 3 indoor basketball courts and 4 volleyball courts.

WILDLIFE PRAIRIE PARK

Mountain Biking, Hiking, Running, Xc Skiing, Snow Shoeing

Wildlife Prairie Park has often been referred to as a jewel in the Midwest. Located just outside of Peoria, this 2,000acre zoological park is home to over 150 animals/60 different species that are native to Illinois. They also offer a banquet space, catering, restrooms and unique wilderness lodging options. Wildlife Prairie Park also offers over 25 miles of well-maintained mountain biking.

NORTHWOOD PARK

Disc Golf, Sledding, Hiking, Walking

This beautiful 108-acre wooded park has a covered picnic shelter and restroom building, grills, two nationally rated disc golf courses, and a winter sledding hill. Northwood Park Morton has 36 holes for people to play on.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We have been fortunate enough to host the Ledgestone Open in the Peoria area for the last 14 years. Between hotels, amazing restaurants, attractions, and our disc golf courses, everything is within a 20 minute drive with minimal traffic.”

— Nate Heinold Tournament Director of the

DISCOVER PEORIA

Patrick “PK” Kelly pkelly@peoria.org (309) 657-9382 discoverpeoria.com

Ledgestone Insurance Open

JACKSONVILLE, ILLINOIS

Jacksonville, Florida might be more widely known— but Jacksonville, Illinois is a sports haven with the facilities and attractions to make tournament planning simple and exciting. Whether your event is a volleyball tournament, car race, or fishing expedition, you will find what you want in this Midwest marvel, where a welcoming atmosphere makes weekend athletics all the more pleasurable. Jacksonville offers a dynamic blend of attractions that cater to diverse interests. The Plaza is a vibrant hotspot in the city, featuring a brewery where visitors can savor local craft beers, boutique shopping, and an axe-throwing venue for a bit of adventurous fun. This combination of activities makes the Plaza a perfect destination for a day out with friends or family, blending relaxation with excitement in a lively atmosphere.

FUTURE CHAMPIONS

SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball

The fundamental facts about this top-notch facility will be covered shortly, but first, the most attractive element of the Future Champions Sports Complex: all six infields within the baseball/softball diamonds are turfed. It also features electronic scoreboards and concrete dugouts to the new eatery, bar, and an arcade that opened in 2023.

MIDWEST ATHLETIC CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Cheerleading, Soccer Tournament planners looking for a flexible venue should look no further—this facility is the place to be. It boasts a full-sized basketball court and an indoor, turfed soccer field within a large multipurpose room, plus three basketball courts that are also often used for sports like volleyball, floor hockey, and other athletic events.

JHS BOWL

Basketball, Volleyball, Cheerleading, Dance and Wrestling

Constructed in 1952, the JHS Bowl is a historic gym that offers changing rooms, concession stands, a scoreboard, and ample parking. It is fit for lots of different events, and many of its features—arena seating, draped American flag, banners hanging in the rafters—give it that classic sports stadium feel.

JACKSONVILLE SPEEDWAY Racing

The venues covered thus far pride themselves in versatility—they can accommodate a number of sports, from wrestling to volleyball. Jacksonville Speedway is different: it does one thing—racing—and it does it exceedingly well. In the heart of Morgan County Fairgrounds, this iconic track serves as a hotbed for racing enthusiasts.

LAKE JACKSONVILLE

Boating, Fishing

Once named the top fishing destination in Illinois by Field and Stream magazine, this natural landmark is known for its fishing tournaments— and for good reason: the man-made lake spans 500 acres and is filled with redear sunfish, channel catfish, and bluegill. But fishing is not everything at Lake Jacksonville; visitors also love boating, water skiing, and other water activities.

ILLINOIS COLLEGE

Swimming, Track & Field, Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Soccer, Baseball Jacksonville Speedway and Lake Jacksonville demonstrate how some attractions can excel in one particular activity. Illinois College has facilities for sports ranging from tennis and baseball to swimming and soccer. The main complex on campus is the Bruner Center, which includes the Coultas Natatorium (an eight-lane, 25yard pool for competitive).

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has been a great partner with ICASSTT® since the start of our organization. They have been a valued partner and sponsor of ours since 2020 and it has benefited our Student Anglers tremendously. We are thankful for the JACVB, their gracious hospitality and their continued support!”

—

JACKSONVILLE CVB

Tracy Slater, Jr. (217) 243-5678 events@jacksonvilleil.org jacksonvilleil.org

Humberto Gonzalez, ICASSTT®, LLC

JHS Bowl

Hoops, Homers, & More!

Let’s plan your next tournament

The spirit of competition is alive and well here in Jacksonville, IL. The MVPs of tomorrow shine on our state-of-the-art fields and courts, accommodating all sports. Baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, golf, e-sports…

No matter what you play, see how our facilities can help take your games to all-new heights.

JACKSONVILLEIL.ORG

ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS

The Best Teams Deserve The Best Fields

Event planners might not initially think of Rockford when addressing their sports planning needs–but they should. It has all the facilities necessary to put on a dynamic event, from massive arenas capable of hosting volleyball and basketball tournaments to outdoor stadiums on the famous Rock River.

Beyond those versatile venues, readers should consider the attractions Rockford offers. One popular spot is Anderson Japanese Gardens, a stunning outdoor setting. This 12-acre landscape has streams, waterfalls, and koi-filled ponds, ensuring you will leave energized and enriched. Another nature-first Rockford destination is Klehm Arboretum, Northern Illinois’ top family-focused attraction and a hotspot for art walks and specialty gardens.

There is also lots to do in Rockford that doesn’t require stepping outside. The Discovery Center Museum offers exhibits geared toward childhood learning, while the Midway Village Museum is Rockford’s best place to learn about history. Whether guests want to enrich their minds or soothe their souls, this city has it all, not to mention some of the country’s most exceptional sports facilities.

UW HEALTH SPORTS FACTORY Basketball, Cheerleading, Dance, Dodgeball, Pickleball, Volleyball, Wrestling

Any facility spotlight on Rockford, Illinois, should begin with UW Health Sports Factory, a dream site for basketball, cheerleading, dance, dodgeball, pickleball, volleyball, and wrestling. It holds eight basketball courts that convert to 16 volleyball courts; 16 wrestling mats; and a maximum capacity of 3,700 spectators. One of the Midwest’s most expansive and flexible athletic havens, the UW Health Sports Factory is a can’t-miss attraction.

MERCYHEALTH SPORTSCORE TWO

Soccer, Softball, Baseball, Volleyball (Sand), Kickball, Wiffleball, Golf (Indoor), Ultimate Frisbee

From soccer to softball, kickball to indoor golf, Mercyhealth Sportscore Two is a picture of versatility. There are 180 acres of courts, fields, and amenities in this state-of-the-art site, including 26 outdoor soccer fields, seven of which are turf. Parents taking their kids to weekend tourneys should rejoice at a less glamorous but highly impactful feature of Sportscore Two: a 2,000-space parking lot, making driving to and parking at this locale exceedingly easy.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We are excited to bring this new IRONMAN 70.3 event to this unique and beautiful city in northern Illinois in 2025. We are excited to partner with GoRockford to offer this exciting new option on the IRONMAN 70.3 Series circuit.”

- Eric Atnip, Race Director for the IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon

GOROCKFORD

Lindsay Arellano

larellano@gorockford.com (815) 489-1653 www.gorockford.com

MERCYHEALTH SPORTSCORE ONE

Soccer, Softball, Baseball, Volleyball (Sand), Kickball, Wiffleball, Golf (Indoor), Ultimate Frisbee

Like Sportscore Two, Mercyhealth Sportscore One is nationally renowned for its ability to host a bevy of youth events. There are 18 soccer fields, eight lighted baseball diamonds, two playgrounds, a fishing pond, a boat ramp, and an indoor soccer building. Whether you want to host a tourney or relax by the water, this 147-acre complex is the right place for you.

LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

From the flower-filled meadows of the Lake County Forest Preserves to outdoor festivals, live events and a range of shopping options, Lake County is a fantastic destination. Lake County is home to two amusement parks, eight museums, more than 31,000 acres of outdoor fun and is just an hour from Chicago. It is also a great place to host a tournament with its beautiful complexes including the Waukegan Fieldhouse and Sportspark and Canlan Sports in Libertyville. Find plenty of chills and thrills at Six Flags Great America and its waterpark, Hurricane Harbor, in Gurnee.

Pacify your aquatic thrills with a tremendous indoor waterpark when you book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee. Gurnee Mills, the largest outlet and full-price retail shopping destination in Illinois, provides the ultimate shopping experience with nearly 200 stores, including Forever 21, H&M, Guess Factory Store, 2nd & Charles, Nike Clearance Store and Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. Visitors of all ages can enjoy over 208 miles of trails, ponds and lakes, public golf courses and historical and cultural venues.

VISIT LAKE COUNTY

Teresa Lewis teresa@lakecounty.org (847) 662-2700 www.visitlakecounty.org/Sports

WAUKEGAN FIELDHOUSE & SPORTSPARK

Indoor, Outdoor, MultiPurpose

The impressive and modern Field House Sports and Fitness Center in Waukegan’s Hinkston Park is a great place to visit when planners are looking for a venue to host any type of event. Between its six hardwood courts, two-story fitness center, the 80,000-square foot site has all the space and equipment necessary to make sure your sports tournament goes off without a hitch.

GREATER LIBERTYVILLE SOCCER ASSOCIATION Soccer

Soccer players and their devoted friends and family who travel to support them will be pleased with their time spent cheering their superstars on at Libertyville Township Soccer Complex. The outdoor complex’s 20 fields over 110 acres mean the location is equipped to host sizable events without waiting for available field space. The complex also has a parking capacity of over 1,200, bleacher seating for 100 and on-site concessions.

CANLAN SPORTS IN LIBERTYVILLE

Soccer, Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball, Football, Basketball, Volleyball

The Libertyville Sports Complex spans 160,000 square feet and includes a lighted softball field, an awardwinning driving range and a fitness center in addition to its Indoor Event Center. This center houses eight multipurpose courts, two turf fields, a 29-foot climbing mountain and conference rooms capable of holding up to 120 people.

GLACIER ICE ARENA IN VERNON HILLS

Hockey, Figure Skating, Broomball

Stay cool while working up a sweat at Vernon Hill’s Glacier Ice Arena’s two NHLsized ice rinks. Each rink features 350 heated seats so your supporters can cheer on their favorite team or skater in comfort. And for the players themselves, the facility is equipped with 12 locker rooms, study rooms, meeting rooms, a video game room and a snack bar for all to enjoy.

Waukegan Outdoor Sportspark

DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

The DuPage Sports Commission (DSC) is building on the rich tradition of competition in DuPage County, combining state-of-the-art facilities with top-notch attractions to position itself as the premier destination to host regional and national competitions year-round. DuPage is home to a host of popular attractions including The Morton Arboretum, which features 222,000 live plants and 16 miles of hiking trails on its 1,700 acres. The Arboretum is an impeccable setting for a leisurely stroll or an active adventure. Located at the former 500-acre estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, Cantigny is home to a top-ranked, 27-hole golf course, vast formal gardens, and the First Division Museum. Enjoy beautiful landscapes and learn about the history of World War I. The Forge: Lemont Quarries is a state-of-theart adventure park designed to deliver year-round activities for adventurers of all ages. It features a mix of attractions in a natural landscape.

FMC NATATORIUM AT TY WARNER PARK

Swimming, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Diving

Located in Westmont, the FMC Natatorium is a modern, 71,000-square-foot aquatic center designed for regional and national events. It boasts a 50-meter Olympic-size competition pool and a warmup pool. Amenities include springboards, locker rooms and weight & conditioning rooms.

OAK BROOK FIELDS

Soccer, Lacrosse, Football, Ultimate Frisbee

Located in the Village of Oak Brook, these outdoor Park District fields offer a premier location for sporting activities such as soccer, lacrosse, football, ultimate frisbee, and more. With amenities that include a turf field, lighting and a new concession stand with permanent bathrooms, these fields can accommodate large tournaments.

STARDUST

BOWL Bowling

With 84 consecutive lanes, it’s one of the largest bowling centers in the United States and the biggest in Illinois. This venue also includes a new video gaming lounge, a banquet facility, and a ProShop. A few of the significant events it has hosted recently include the UCBC Women’s Championships (2022), the USBC Intercollegiate Singles and Team Championships (2022) and the TNBA (2024).

SCRIMS ESPORTS

GAMING CENTER

Esports

Scrims Esports Gaming Center in Lisle offers a cutting-edge environment for gamers, with 60 full PC stations equipped with HyperX peripherals, 240hz monitors, and 3070 GPUs. This 6,000 square foot facility hosts tournaments in popular games like Call of Duty, CS, and Valorant, making it a central hub for the growing esports community.

United States Bowling Congress

MCCOLLUM PARK

Pickleball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Tennis

Spanning 50 acres, this park has recently undergone a major improvement project to expand its recreational amenities. One of the newest additions is the Adventure Falls Pickleball Courts, featuring eight permanent courts and 16 temporary courts for tournaments. It has amenities like LED lighting, restrooms, concessions, and ample parking.

MCCASLIN PARK Baseball, Softball

A robust, multi-use park and facility, McCaslin Park originally opened in 2002. In 2010, the park received a $3.5 million redevelopment. The park resides on 32 acres of land and features four baseball fields which recently laid new turf on its diamonds. It also has lighting and bleachers. The fields serve tournaments for youth as well as adult baseball and softball leagues.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I hold the DuPage CVB and DSC in the highest regard. During our site visit, they gave us a comprehensive tour of DuPage, including a delightful experience with Chicago pizza and hot dogs. The visit addressed everything my client needed and more, and the warmth we both experienced was a testament to their dedication to earning our business.

When we faced the challenge of securing a bid fee for my client to come to their city, the team went above and beyond. Instead of simply declining the bid, they worked tirelessly to help us meet our goal. Their commitment and professionalism were exceptional.

I cannot speak highly enough of the professionalism and business acumen displayed by this team. I look forward to future opportunities to collaborate with them and am proud to consider them partners of HelmsBriscoe. We truly operate as one team.”

— Wynell Shipmon, Director, Global Accounts, Helmsbriscoe

DUPAGE SPORTS COMMISSION

Igor Bakovic (630) 575-8070

Igor@DiscoverDuPage.com

www.dupagesportscommission.com

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, ILLINOIS

When it comes to showing off the ChampaignUrbana area, we just can’t help but notice its brilliance. Unexpected outdoor activities in the heart of the Midwest, perfect for exploration, await you. Discovering a flavor from a cuisine you’ve never tried, one of the many reasons we claim the title of Midwest Living’s Greatest Midwest Food Town, will delight you.  Champaign-Urbana is a leader in the local foods movement. Its rich agricultural scene offers exceptional flavors straight from the farm. Discover over 40 locally owned bars and restaurants in downtown Champaign, many featuring local ingredients. Groups looking for a challenge can solve the escape rooms at CU Adventures in Time & Space. Find your perfect fall décor at Curtis Orchard & Pumpkin Patch, where you can pick among hundreds of pumpkins and gourds. Stroll the apple orchards for to pick the latest harvest.

RANTOUL FAMILY SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football, Lacrosse, Rugby

The new Rantoul Family Sports Complex, just north of the University of Illinois, is a state-of-the-art facility in the Midwest. The complex offers all turf fields with eight baseball/softball, two T-ball/ Challenger baseball, eight soccer/football/rugby/lacrosse multi-purpose fields, over 800 parking spaces, a splashpad, and concessions.

STATE FARM CENTER

Basketball, Wrestling, WWE, Gymnastics

The State Farm Center has 15,500 permanent seats, with a max capacity of 16,500. Its flexible floor space means it’s just as ready to have a rock concert as it is a Fighting Illini basketball game. The arena has hosted the 2019 National Intercollegiate Wheelchair Basketball tournaments, the Illinois High School Individual Wrestling State Championships, and more.

MEMORIAL STADIUM Football, Events

Historic Memorial Stadium is located on the grounds of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Home to Illinois’ Fighting Illini football team, the stadium has undergone multiple renovations and upgrades to keep it at tip top quality, including an incredible new turf field in the Summer of 2022. Permanent seating capacity is set at 60,670.

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION CENTER (ARC) AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Diving, Squash

The ARC is a 340,000-square-foot oncampus rec center with the capacity to host nearly any indoor sport. The space has four gymnasiums that can be converted into 8 basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, three squash courts or 12 racquetball courts.

DODDS PARK

Softball, Soccer, Disc-golf

Located at Parkland College, Dodds Park has seven premier tournament quality softball fields, in a 3-plex and 4-plex structure. The site also has 11 top quality soccer fields that have hosted the Illinois Futbol Club Spring and Fall Invites, as well as an 18-hole disc golf course.

ATKINS TENNIS CENTER & KHAN OUTDOOR COMPLEX Tennis

Recognized in 1992 by the USTA as the country’s “Most Outstanding Tennis Facility,” Atkins Tennis Center & Khan Outdoor Complex has only gotten better since then. After an expansion in 2009, the complex boasts 20 outdoor and six indoor courts, with six courts containing individual scoreboards and spectator seating.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“As an event organizer, we saw firsthand how the commitment to excellence shown by the team of Experience Champaign-Urbana elevated the experience and the execution of US Quadball’s National Qualifier event. The way ECU wrapped its arms around our event to create a shared experience for the local community, businesses, and our athletes was equivalent to something one can only describe as concierge levels of service. You can go anywhere to host an event, however, if you want a true event partner, choose Experience Champaign-Urbana.”

—

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA

Robert White (217) 351-4133 robertw@experiencecu.org experiencecu.org/planners/sportsand-events

Erron J Toppin President & CEO of Hit Your Mark Productions Event partner to US Quadball

State Farm Center

BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL, ILLINOIS

Looking for the perfect day or evening getaway? Explore BloomingtonNormal. This charming area is home to a variety of great attractions. The only public zoo on Historic Route 66, Miller Park Zoo began around 1900 and features a Sumatran tiger, snow leopard, river otters, and a recently updated Animal Building, as well as varieties of viewing opportunities. Families can also visit the rest of Miller Park while there, which features paddle boats, disc golf, and a full-scale train to explore. Children’s Discovery Museum is a three-story building that provides interactive learning activities in a safe, fun, inclusive and engaging environment. Kids can enjoy the two-story climber, get creative with art, theater, and music exhibits, or learn about agriculture, healthcare, and gardening. There’s so much to see and do - including a visit to the Gift Shop to keep the learning fun going!

VISIT BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL

Zach Dietmeier zach@visitbn.org (309) 665-0033 visitbn.org/sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Bloomington-Normal has a rich tradition of hospitality and first-class sporting events. Thanks to the partnership with the Bloomington-Normal Area Sports Commission, our association has hosted and grown its championships in the community for the past 50 years.”

— Beth Sauser, Associate Executive Director of the

Illinois High School Association

CHAMPION FIELDS

Baseball, Softball

This complex features up to 10 diamonds for tournament use. This facility, located adjacent to Normal’s Maxwell Park has hosted 10 ASA/USA National Tournaments in the past two decades. The fields feature covered dugouts, bleacher seating, a P.A. system and scoreboards. There are also two concession stands, a connected dog park, and two playgrounds for entertaining younger siblings.

HANCOCK STADIUM, CEFCU ARENA @ ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY

Multisport

The Redbird Athletics complex boasts a 14,000-seat football stadium/multipurpose facility in the heart of Normal. The FieldTurf playing surface, LED scoreboard and state-ofthe-art sound system provide a memorable gameday experience. Other amenities include a modern press level, 5,500-square-foot indoor club, and a spacious covered concourse. CEFCU Arena will feature a fresh court this fall.

SHIRK CENTER @ ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Multisport

The Shirk Center is a true multisport, recreation and wellness center that regularly hosts basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and track events. The main arena seats 2,400 and additional expansion for 400 spectators. The attached facility space features a 200-meter, six-lane indoor track, two batting cages, and four courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball and badminton.

GROSSING MOTORS ARENA Multisport

This venue has a top seating capacity for sports around 7,000 spectators and features 24 private suites, two party suites, and plentiful concessions. The new home of the ECHL’s Bloomington Bison starting in fall 2024, the arena is home to two sheets of ice for hockey and figure skating and can be pro decked to suit competitive dance/ cheerleading, basketball, and wrestling.

ELGIN, ILLINOIS

In Elgin, you can experience big-city fun at reasonable prices in a smaller urban area. Elgin offers the perfect mix of visitor attractions and sports facilities. Fun awaits athletes of all ages and levels. The Fox River Trail was built on stretches of three former railroads: Chicago, Aurora & Elgin; Aurora, Elgin, & Fox River Electric; and Chicago & North Western. Today, it hosts a multitude of different birds, trees and wildlife, including bald eagles, herons, and woodpeckers. Hawthorne Hill Nature Cente r is the perfect place to enjoy and learn about the natural landscapes that surround our region. The nature center provides year round opportunities for experiencing nature. Explore the trails to witness the rich fall colors, snow-frosted trees, spring wildflowers, summer amphibians, and an ever changing host of birds. Hawthorne Hill is an excellent place to relax, recreate and explore the natural world providing two ponds, nature play area, about 2 miles of looped trails, and an interactive nature center.

ELGIN SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, T-ball, Volleyball, Soccer, BMX Biking

Elgin Sports Complex features tons of championship-level competition spaces all in one location. This 107-acre venue comprises 10 full-size soccer fields (four of which are lit), 10 fully-lit softball fields, two sand volleyball courts, hardsurface paths, a playground and The Hill, which is known as Chicago’s best BMX track.

LIFEZONE 360

Basketball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Futsal, Gymnastics, Cheerleading

Lifezone 360 is a versatile 130,000-square-foot sports complex and tournament/ meet destination. The facility can be transformed from a turf-only tournament space (soccer, lacrosse) to a 7-court (basketball, futsal) tournament space. Rental flooring can be brought in to operate gymnastics, cheer and wrestling.

CANLAN ICE SPORTS

Figure Skating, Hockey Train and compete on any one of three state-of-the-art NHL-size rinks, complete with access to Jerry’s Pro Shops for the newest gear. Canlan recently renovated its space to include large-screen televisions, a patio, tables and fireplaces. Its off-ice facility, Pinnacle Sports Development, offers programs for all levels of hockey, figure skating and sports conditioning.

EDWARD SCHOCK

CENTRE OF ELGIN

Basketball, Racquetball, Swimming, Pickleball, Team Handball

The Centre of Elgin is the Elgin area’s foremost recreational facility providing nearly 185,000 square feet of recreational space. Located in downtown Elgin, the Centre offers a three-basketball court fieldhouse, two racquetball courts and a lap pool. The center is perfect for larger or international tournaments.

BMX Course at the Elgin Sports Complex

ELGIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE – SPARTAN EVENT CENTER Basketball, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Tennis

The Spartan Event Center is a multipurpose athletic space that features one of the best basketball facilities in the region. As part of the Elgin Community College campus, the Spartan Event Center includes three NCAA basketball courts, three NCAA volleyball courts and converts into two tennis courts.

RANDALL OAKS GOLF COURSE Golf

This 18-hole championship golf course offers an unrivaled level of service that caters to your every need. Great for groups, with multiple teeing areas to accommodate all skill levels. No equipment? No worries! There is a fully stocked Pro Shop with top quality golf apparel and equipment with PGA Professional staff.

Welcome to Elgin, Illinois—a creative community in the Fox River Valley of Northern Kane County located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The Elgin area offers the perfect mix of visitor attractions and sports facilities, so no time of the year is a bad time to visit. While in the Elgin area visitors will discover a vibrant arts scene, captivating events, and abundant opportunities to immerse themselves in the outdoors. With so many places to explore and things to do, the Elgin area welcomes you to visit and experience it for yourself.

ELGIN AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Ryan Cortez Ryan@exploreelginarea.com (847) 695-7540 www.exploreelginarea.com

CHICAGO SOUTHLAND, ILLINOIS

Discover Chicago Southland, the ultimate sports destination located just 30 minutes south of Chicago. This dynamic region boasts easy access with connections via six major interstates and is within a five-hour drive from eight states. Ideal for team events and fan gatherings, Chicago Southland features state-of-the-art arenas and top-notch facilities. Its central location and convenient transportation options make it the perfect choice for organizing tournaments and sporting events. With its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional venues, it’s no wonder everyone’s cheering about Chicago Southland. Experience the best in sports and hospitality in a place where excitement and accessibility come together seamlessly. The next great event is just a drive away!

WINTRUST SPORTS COMPLEX

Badminton, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cornhole, Gymnastics, Kickball

The Wintrust Sports Complex at Bedford Park is a 116,000-square-foot venue. The complex offers 8 high school hardwood basketball courts or one championship court (16 volleyball courts). Amenities include a Redemption Arcade, Laser Tag/Laser Frenzy and a New Wyndham Garden opening onsite in 2025.

Chicago Southland offers everything you’re looking for.

HO-CHUNK SOUTHLAND CENTER

Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Dance, Gymnastics, Football

The Ho-Chunk Southland Center offers up to 100,000 square feet of indoor space, plus outdoor baseball fields. The facility offers a portable wood floor April - November, 2 indoor Desso Turf soccer fields, 4 basketball courts NovemberMarch and 10 indoor basketball courts (or 14 volleyball courts) April - October.

SEATGEEK STADIUM Soccer, Extreme Sports, Football, Lacrosse, Rugby Formerly known as Toyota Park, SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview is home to the National Women’s Soccer League Chicago Red Stars and Major League Rugby’s Chicago Hounds. This stadium features a natural grass, fullsize field of 74 x 120 yards. Additionally, teams will have access to two practice fields with their choice of a natural or artificial surface.

ROMA SPORTS CLUB

Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal Roma Sports Club in Frankfort offers state-of-theart practice facilities with one of the largest turf areas within a 20-mile radius. It expanded in fall of 2024 by adding another 20,800 square feet to their 50,000 square-foot facility resulting in 3 regulation basketball courts, 6 volleyball courts and 5 pickleball courts. Roma also boasts a lounge area, Wi-Fi and monitors.

OZINGA FIELD

Baseball

Home to the Windy City ThunderBolts, Ozinga Field has the capacity to hold over 3,500 spectators. Batting cages, bullpens, covered/ protected dugouts, a press box and more can be found at Ozinga Field. There are also on-site concession stands for spectators. In 2023, Ozinga Field hosted the Frontier League All-Star Weekend.

LINCOLNWAY

SPECIAL RECREATION ASSOCIATION Basketball, Bocce, Fitness, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Running/Walking, Softball

This facility provides adaptive and special recreation services for individuals with disabilities. The facility features four multi-purpose rooms, , gymnasium with a wheelchair-friendly floor, a therapeutic garden and a wheelchair softball field.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We’ve been here for the last seven years; we’ve built every year, we’ve just got more and more teams out here. I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that you can drive to this location…. [and] it’s like we’re family to be honest. Whatever we need, [Visit Chicago Southland and Chicago Gaelic Park] provided tons of resources for us, and I think over the years it’s gotten better and better.”

— Kara Cole, Event Staff at NXL Paintball

AURORA AREA, ILLINOIS

The second-largest city in Illinois boasts some of the state’s finest facilities and most thrilling attractions, making it a mainstay for sports event planners

The northern half of Illinois might be best known for the Windy City and all of its exciting exploits, but another renowned town in the Land of Lincoln has its own unique advantages. A visit to Aurora might include a trip to one of America’s most popular outlet malls, or to Illinois’ biggest waterpark. It might also bring you to a sparkling athletic facility, like the Great Lakes Volleyball Center or M14 Hoops . No matter what, guests keep coming back to this majestic city in Northeastern Illinois, where fun times and sports events are always within reach. Aurora is home to several must-see attractions that cater to a variety of interests. For those who love shopping, the Chicago Premium Outlets is a top destination. This expansive outdoor mall features over 160 designer and brandname stores, offering significant discounts on everything from fashion to home goods.

STUART SPORTS COMPLEX

Ultimate Frisbee, Football, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby

One of the largest soccer venues in the country, Stuart Sports Complex in Montgomery is suitable for every sport imaginable, namely soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, flag football, softball and baseball. Stuart Sports Complex makes their facilities available at affordable prices.

GREAT LAKES

VOLLEYBALL CENTER Volleyball

For all things volleyball, look no further than Great Lakes Volleyball Center in Aurora, one of the largest volleyball facilities in the Midwest and home to the Sports Performance Volleyball Club. Offering sports performance and development and competition workshops, Great Lakes Volleyball Center is the country’s largest camp and clinic program.

SUPREME COURTS

Basketball

Supreme Courts features four high school basketball courts with premium wood flooring used in 90 percent of NBA courts and top universities. The facility also includes full climatecontrolled courts and 24 collegiate grade ceiling mounted baskets, whose lowprofile interwoven subfloor design provides enhanced acoustic and dynamic uniform ball bounce.

M14 HOOPS

Basketball

M14 Hoops is a premier basketball training facility designed for athletes striving to elevate their game. Featuring full-sized basketball courts, advanced training technology, and experienced coaches, it caters to players of all skill levels, from youth to professional. The facility emphasizes skill development, with personalized programs.

SPORT ZONE PARK

Mini Golf, Baseball, Go-Kart

Aurora’s most exceptional fun zone offers a diverse range of activities that cater to families and eager, sunloving children. This expansive complex features batting cages, miniature golf, and a go-kart track. Known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained grounds, Sport Zone Park is a popular destination for those who want to get outside and stay active.

RUSH-COPLEY HEALTHPLEX

Tennis, Pickleball, Swimming

Rush-Copley Healthplex in Aurora is a state-of-the-art fitness center that combines wellness and recreation under one roof. Spanning 166,000 square feet, the facility offers a variety of amenities, including an aquatic center with a lap pool, multiple indoor tennis courts, and a comprehensive fitness area.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Seminole

Sports is thrilled to have established a great relationship with the Fox Valley Park District and Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The FVPD staff does a great job of communicating with our tournament directors and ensuring proper maintenance of their pristine fields.”

— John Suvada General Manager, Seminole Sports

AURORA AREA CVB Brad Banks brad@enjoyaurora.com (630) 256-3194 enjoyaurora.com/Sports

Stuart Sports Complex

QUAD CITIES, ILLINOIS

The Quad Cities region combines a family of dozens of communities in Illinois and Iowa to create one major sports destination. Whether it’s for sporting events along the beautiful Mississippi River at the award-winning Modern Woodmen Park , voted the best minor league ballpark in the U.S., or top tournaments for a multitude of sports at TBK Bank Sports Complex , the Quad Cities has you covered. There’s also plenty to see and do away from the action in the Quad Cities. Discover how local powerhouse John Deere forges the cutting edge every day at John Deere Pavilion , which features new and vintage equipment and interactive and immersive exhibits. The community-centered Figge Art Museum is located along the Mississippi River and features nine permanent galleries, traveling exhibitions, art studios and more. Enjoy a family-owned riverboat cruise aboard the Celebration Belle . For over 40 years, this four-deck riverboat has been a favorite attraction in the Quad Cities. For shopping, Freight House Farmer’s Market has locally grown produce, as well as art, jewelry and wood crafts among many other specialties. The night market Mercado on Fifth has a festival-like atmosphere and hosts a variety of food and retail vendors.

VIBRANT ARENA AT THE MARK Basketball, Ice Hockey, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports and Events

This 31,000-square-foot arena in downtown Moline features bowl seating for 12,000, with a regulation-size court, full-size hockey rink, luxury suites, automatic video scoreboards with replay capabilities and PA system. Vibrant Arena is home to the SPHL’s Quad City Storm, IFL’s Quad City Steamwheelers and Missouri Valley Conference Women’s Basketball Championship.

THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER Paddling, Boating, Fishing

The Mississippi River is the fourthlongest river in the world, capable of facilitating a wide variety of sporting events. Flowing east to west through the Quad Cities, this community has hosted Major League Fishing events, unique events like “Tugfest,” the annual Tug-of-War between Port Byron, IL and LeClaire, IA, and Floatzilla, the largest paddle event on the Mississippi, bringing together thousands of canoe and kayak enthusiasts each year.

TPC DEERE RUN Golf

Home to the John Deere Classic on the PGA TOUR, NAIA Golf Championship and more, the 18-hole TPC Deere Run is a beautiful 7,258-yard, Par-71 course that features a full practice green, 14,000-square-foot clubhouse, elegant dining, a top 100-rated pro shop, locker rooms and 160 parking spaces. The course was built on the site of a former Arabian horse farm that masterfully preserves the natural, rolling landscape.

BEND XPO

Martial Arts, Dance, Gymnastics, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports

Bend XPO’s 100,000-square-foot footprint features multiple indoor spaces, outdoor space, large restrooms and concession stands. With its flexibility, you can shape the space to fit anything you may want or need. Since opening in mid-2021, Bend XPO has hosted cornhole, taekwondo, dance and multiple other sports competitions. The entire Bend Campus includes 132 acres.

AUGUSTANA COLLEGE FACILITIES

Martial Arts, Dance, Gymnastics, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports Augustana College features several indoor and outdoor athletic facilities. Anne Greve Lund Natatorium is a 52,000-square-foot facility with a 10-lane, 25 yard, 7-foot depth competition pool with capacity for 250 spectators. Tim Dodge Mezzanine/Carver Wrestling Arena has 5,400 square feet of mat space for more than 330 spectators.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The preparation leading up to [our event], and the due-diligence that the Quad Cities team and the people here at TPC Deere Run have done have really set us up to put on a first-class event.”

— Austin Bennett, NAIA Director of Championships speaking on Women’s Golf National Championship in 2023

VISIT QUAD CITIES

Joan Kranovich

jkranovich@visitquadcities.com (309) 736-6831 sportsquadcities.com

John Deere Classic, TPC Deere Run

MEET CHICAGO NORTHWEST

In the diverse and lively northwest suburbs of Chicago, you will find renowned attractions, modern dining and endless shopping. Chicago Northwest is a destination dream for sports planners, as it features facilities perfect to host soccer, football, baseball, badminton, martial arts, wrestling, gymnastics and more. Meet Chicago Northwest will assist you every step of the way.

The 3,558-acre Ned Brown Preserve—popularly known as Busse Woods—is one of the largest and most diverse locations in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The site includes ancient upland forests, one of the largest fishing and boating waters in Cook County with nearly 13 miles of paved trail for hiking and biking.

Embark on an epic adventure at ENTERRIUM Schaumburg’s premier entertainment hub, where modern dining meets classic arcade thrills. Indulge in delectable American cuisine, crafted with fresh, local ingredients, while unleashing your competitive spirit on 100s of arcade games. Experience the thrill of bowling on their eight boutique lanes, or gather friends and family for private events in their stylish, upscale venue.

Travel through the mists of time to a celebration fit for a Queen. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament features heroic knights on spirited horses, astounding athletic feats and thrilling swordplay—all against an exhilarating backdrop of brilliant lights and a sweeping musical score. Enjoy a hearty four-course banquet medieval-style without silverware as you cheer on your Knight.

RENAISSANCE SCHAUMBURG CONVENTION CENTER HOTEL

Martial Arts, Volleyball, Mat Sports, Cheer/ Dance, Futsal, eSports, Meetings, Events

This 100,000-square-foot column-free convention center has the capability to configure into multiple floor plans to accommodate a wide range of sporting events. Located 12 miles from O’Hare International Airport, the convention center offers free on-site parking and is seamlessly connected to 500 guest rooms and suites at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. It also features built-in concession stands.

OLYMPIC PARK

Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football, Ultimate Frisbee, Kickball

This 72-acre sports venue features five softball/baseball fields, eight lighted synthetic turf sports fields, two natural grass sports fields. Equipped with two concession stands and 700 parking spots. Additional soccer fields available for tournament play. This premier sports facility has hosted annual events such as Schaumburg Athletic Association’s Soccerfest, Sockers FC Fall & Spring events, Common Goals Memorial Day Soccer Challenge and Kickball365.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“...we got to experience what Chicago Northwest has to offer. From nightlife, complexes to host events, to learning about the different areas/cities in Illinois. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!”

-Charles Hatton, Kickball365

MEET CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Melinda Garritano mgarritano@ chicagonorthwest.com (847) 278-3445 ChicagoNorthwest.com

THE SPORT CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Softball, Gymnastics, Pickleball, Lacrosse

This 110,000 square-foot building includes four basketball courts, six volleyball courts, two soccer fields, builtin concessions and a gymnastic center. It is a great place to play basketball, volleyball, soccer, softball, gymnastics, pickleball, lacrosse and more. The Sport Center offers rentals for a meeting/party room, softball and soccer fields (full), and basketball and volleyball courts.

INDIANA 2025 GUIDE

A Fresh Perspective

Indiana sports facilities are world famous, and these eight new and upcoming facilities are proof of keeping that bar high

The Hoosier State is home to a variety of

INDIANA

On behalf of Team Indiana and our statewide partners, I am excited to share with you why Indiana is the winning choice for your next event. Our state has been referred to as the birthplace of contemporary sport tourism, home to the Greatest Spectacle in Racing and the Amateur Sports Capital of the World. We have hosted hundreds of youth, collegiate, Olympic national and international championships across the state, creating memorable moments for each.

Indiana communities are committed to being the best sports destinations in the country. Our venues span the spectrum from historic to state-of-the-art, so we can find the perfect space to fit your needs. No matter where you go in Indiana, you’ll find consistent, top-notch service from our community members and partners. In addition to experienced professionals, we possess that one invaluable resource – dedicated volunteers who cater to the needs of every participant and fan.

Our state is centrally located, so traveling to Indiana is convenient and affordable. We are within a day’s drive for most of the country, and we have several regional and international airports for those who are farther or prefer to fly. Once you arrive in Indiana, you may be surprised to find the terrain varies greatly across the state, from the beaches along Lake Michigan in the north to the rolling hills in southern Indiana. You’ll discover vibrant cities and quaint towns, boasting plenty of attractions for you to enjoy once the event has concluded.

For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities, please visit team-ind.org or contact me directly at 317-237-5020. We are eager to help you in the planning process and look forward to sharing our Hoosier Hospitality with you.

Sincerely,

Rachel Frank, Director, Statewide Initiatives & External Affairs

Indiana is a great place to race a varity of vehicles from cars to bikes.

Photo courtesy of Team Indiana

ON THE COVER: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Photo courtesy of Team Indiana

Photo courtesy of Jack Kessler

A FRESH PERSPECTIVE:

NEW AND UPCOMING SPORTS FACILITIES IN INDIANA

Indiana sports facilities are world famous, and these eight new and upcoming facilities are proof of keeping that bar high •

The State of Indiana is renowned for being a major sports destination in the United States, with pro teams, the world’s most-famous IndyCar race and more. To keep up with that toptier status, there’s always something new or evolving statewide, not only to provide state-of-the-art sports facilities and amenities for tournaments and events but also diverse offerings that highlight its history and rich cultures.

NEXUSPARK, COLUMBUS

Opened in summer of 2024, NexusPark exemplifies an ideal opportunity for a city to repurpose existing infrastructure, taking a slowing shopping mall and turning it into a premier sports facility which not only benefits the community, but also boosts the local economy through sports tourism. The campus offers a broad range of health and wellbeing services through a partnership with Columbus Regional Health, as

By Christopher D. Silbernagel

well as recreation experiences with the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department.

The crowning part of this redevelopment is the Circle K Fieldhouse which boasts 150,000 square feet of indoor activation space, including a turf field, basketball, and pickleball courts. This adaptable venue can accommodate up to 16 high school basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, 50 pickleball courts, and 30 wrestling mats. For tournaments and

Mishewaka Fieldhouse

Photo courtesy of Team Indiana

events, the newly revamped site has all the amenities of dining and retail spaces in one place for families to enjoy between the action.

MISHAWAKA FIELDHOUSE, MISHAWAKA

Located just east of famous Notre Dame, Mishawaka Fieldhouse adds even more sports power to the South BendMishawaka area in Northern Indiana. Opened in October 2024, the $38-million fieldhouse offers a staggering 220,000 square feet with 10 multipurpose athletic courts for volleyball and basketball, 12 pickleball courts and an indoor turf field that can be utilized for anything from baseball to flag football. Along with the courts and turf field, tournaments and events are supplemented by batting cages, bleachers, a gym all for athletes and many on-site amenities to offer.

SUNSET SKATEPARK, EVANSVILLE

Opened in December 2023, Sunset Skatepark is a $1.7-million haven for skaters and BMX riders alike with 27,000 square feet of outdoor space to play and compete. Located along the Ohio Riverfront in downtown Evansville, this concrete space is the largest skatepark in Indiana with a fun decorative theme befitting its namesake. Sunset Skatepark features a hybrid roller rink and skatepark zone, flow bowl, pool bowl, long adaptive ledges, street-park style areas and a separated multi-jump line that is specifically designed for bikes— making this a true all-wheels park.

FISHERS EVENT CENTER, FISHERS

Opened in November of 2024, Fishers Event Center is an exciting new indoor facility that is poised to elevate Fishers’ and Hamilton County’s game for action packed sports events and electrifying entertainment. The venue will be the official home of the ECHL’s Indy Fuel, affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks, the Pro Volleyball Federation women’s volleyball team, Indy Ignite, and indoor arena football team, Fishers Freight. The 7,500-seat sports and entertainment venue is equipped to host a variety of sports including basketball, wrestling, indoor soccer, and indoor lacrosse, making it the ultimate destination for year-round athletic action.

WESSELMAN PARK TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL COMPLEX, EVANSVILLE

This top-notch sports center received a significant upgrade in 2024 with the addition of 16 pickleball courts, which along with its 12 convertible tennis courts allows for up to 40 pickleball courts. The new pickleball courts make up the largest post-tension court in the state of Indiana which has a special surface that significantly extends its life of use. All courts at Wesselman Park Tennis and Pickleball Complex are lit for night play, and there’s plenty of spectator space and other amenities.

INDIANA FARM BUREAU FALL CREEK PAVILION, INDIANAPOLIS

Located at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Events Center, the new 196,000-square-foot Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion was built for multipurpose indoor sports and events. The pavilion features a removable 200-meter banked oval for track and field that was assembled by Beynon Sports. The new state-of-the-art track is already a big hit with locals and visitors alike, with athletes considering it one of the best venues in the country for breathability. When the track is not installed, the venue’s 120,000-square-foot show floor space can host a variety of livestock and consumer events. In a nod to the building’s history, the original 1923 façade of the former Swine Barn was preserved in construction. It is a true testament to the Indiana State Fairgrounds, renowned for its sports pedigree, agriculture, and hospitality.

MARVELLA, FAIR OAKS

This newly announced development will be more than just a sports complex, Marvella is a groundbreaking destination designed specifically for female athletes. Committed to holistic development, Marvella will offer educational programs in leadership, character, mental health, and wellness. The campus, which is designed to be completed in three phases, will house an indoor performance facility with four fields and eight courts, a Women’s Hall of Fame and Museum, an auditorium, up to twelve outdoor fields, and media and content production facilities. Located in Indiana, the birthplace of Title IX, Marvella offers a comprehensive solution to the underserved market of women’s sports.

KUNTZ STADIUM, INDIANAPOLIS

The 6,800-seat Kuntz Stadium is projected to see a bright future, with a planned $45-million investment by Riverside Sports Properties in the works. Riverside’s vision is to expand the stadium into a state-of-the-art facility ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup. The project will not only look to expand the seating capacity to 8,000 but also add modern features to make Kuntz Stadium renowned as a top spot for rugby and a place for the community to call home.

The “Game They Play in Heaven” is one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation.

Sunset Skatepark in Evansville is a $1.7-million haven for skaters and BMX riders.

REV UP YOUR ENGINES:

INDIANA'S ULTIMATE MOTORSPORTS

ADVENTURE GUIDE

The Hoosier State is home to a variety of top-flight racetracks • By Emily Joseph

Indiana, often synonymous with the Indianapolis 500, has long been a Mecca for motorsports enthusiasts. The "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" has drawn drivers and fans from across the globe to the state every Memorial Day weekend since 1911. However, the Hoosier State's passion for motorsports extends far beyond this iconic event, encompassing a variety of racetracks, events, and attractions that cater to groups of all interests and sizes.

INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

No discussion of motorsports in Indiana would be complete without first mentioning the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). Known as one of the most famous tracks in the world, IMS is home to the Indianapolis 500 and the Brickyard 400. The track also hosts numerous other events, including the IndyCar Grand Prix, endurance sports car racing, and various vintage racing events. Beyond racing, visitors can explore the IMS Museum, which offers a deep dive into the history of auto racing with an extensive collection of race cars, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.

LUCAS OIL RACEWAY

Just a short drive from Indianapolis lies Lucas Oil Raceway, a versatile racing venue that hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. From drag racing and road racing to oval track racing, this facility is a hotspot for motorsports action. One of the highlights is the

NHRA U.S. Nationals, the largest drag racing event in the world.

IRONMAN RACEWAY

For fans of two-wheeled racing, Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville is a must-visit. This premier motocross track hosts the AMA Pro Motocross Championship, drawing top riders from around the world. The facility is renowned for its challenging terrain and thrilling races, making it a favorite among motocross enthusiasts. Beyond the races, the picturesque setting provides a great backdrop for picnics and group outings.

MADISON REGATTA

Indiana's motorsports scene isn't limited to land. The Madison Regatta on the Ohio River is a standout event in powerboat racing. Held annually, this event features hydroplane boats racing at high speeds, creating a spectacular show on the water. The Regatta also includes a parade, music, and various family-friendly activities, making it a perfect summer outing for groups.

GREAT LAKES GRAND PRIX

Another notable powerboat racing event is the Great Lakes Grand Prix, held on Lake Michigan in Michigan City. This event attracts some of the fastest boats and skilled drivers in the sport, providing an exhilarating experience for spectators. The race weekend also features live entertainment, a boat parade, and other festivities that make it a wellrounded event for groups to enjoy.

HISTORIC RACING AT WINCHESTER SPEEDWAY

Winchester Speedway, known for its high-banked turns and thrilling races, is one of Indiana's oldest and most storied tracks. Hosting events such as the Winchester 400 and ASA/CRA Super Series, this track offers an authentic racing experience steeped in tradition. The speedway's historic charm and exciting races make it a unique destination for motorsports fans.

ANDERSON SPEEDWAY

Located in Anderson, this track is famous for its Figure 8 races, where drivers navigate a course that intersects itself, leading to thrilling near-misses and collisions. Anderson Speedway also hosts traditional oval track racing, demolition derbies, and various community events, making it a versatile venue for motorsports entertainment.

TERRE HAUTE ACTION TRACK

The Terre Haute Action Track is another historic gem in Indiana's motorsports landscape. Known for its dirt track racing, this venue hosts the USAC Sprint Car series and other notable dirt racing events. The actionpacked races and the track's rich history make it a favorite among fans of grassroots racing.

BLOOMINGTON SPEEDWAY

For those who enjoy the raw, gritty appeal of dirt track racing, Bloomington Speedway is a prime destination. This track is known for its exciting sprint car races and the close-knit community of racers and fans it attracts. The speedway also hosts various special events, including fireworks displays and family nights, adding to its appeal.

KOKOMO SPEEDWAY

Kokomo Speedway is another dirt track celebrated for its competitive racing and lively atmosphere. Hosting events like the Indiana Sprint Week and the Kokomo Klash, this speedway offers a thrilling experience for motorsports enthusiasts. The track's dedication to providing high-quality racing and entertainment makes it a standout venue in Indiana's motorsports scene.

The Madison Regatta on the Ohio River is a standout event in powerboat racing.

ELKHART COUNTY, INDIANA

Elkhart County is home to alluring cities that are filled with attractions.

Nestled in the heart of Elkhart, Wellfield Botanic Gardens is a delightful 36-acre oasis often called a “living museum.” It features enchanting, themed gardens, serene ponds, and cascading waterfalls, offering a perfect escape into nature.

Bonneyville Mill Park in Bristol is a delightful spot hugged by the picturesque Little Elkhart River. Visitors love exploring the historic mill, hiking scenic trails, and tackling exciting mountain biking routes.

Experience Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury, where world-famous Amish-style country cooking makes for perfect team meals. You’ll adore their 30 varieties of freshly baked pie.

The scenic Pumpkinvine Nature Trail spans across multiple communities and is perfect for biking, hiking, and spotting wildlife. Wind through lush landscapes and charming farmlands for a refreshing escape.

ELKHART HEALTH & AQUATICS

Swimming, Basketball

Elkhart Health & Aquatics is a premier destination for competitions of all kinds, appealing to people of all ages and skill levels. Its centerpiece is a grand Olympic-sized pool holding 1.1 million gallons of water, equipped with adjustable bulkheads to customize the pool for various events. Whether you’re organizing lap swimming, swim lessons, diving, birthday parties, training, or swim meets, this facility can handle it all. The aquatic center features a 10-lane swimming pool, spring diving boards (one and three meters), platform diving (three and five meters), a full-size diving well, a warm water therapy pool, a whirlpool, and adjustable bulkheads. With a seating capacity of 1,200 and family, men’s, and women’s locker rooms, it’s designed for comfort.

Elkhart Health & Aquatics

Moose Rugby Grounds

Moose Rugby Grounds

MOOSE RUGBY GROUNDS

Rugby

Rugby is experiencing exciting growth in the United States, and Elkhart County is at the forefront with its exceptional Moose Rugby Grounds. This premier facility is perfectly equipped to host top-tier competitions, featuring four championship-sized rugby fields spread across 12 acres of pristine, grassy land.

With two entrance gates, paved parking for nearly 500 cars and buses, and additional grass parking, the Grounds offer unmatched convenience for teams and spectators alike. The meticulously maintained playing surfaces are irrigated four days a week, mowed twice daily, and fertilized four times a year, ensuring they remain some of the best in the country. Adding to its allure is a 250-seat pavilion with concessions and restrooms.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“On behalf of the SOC Raptors, thank you for another fantastic event at Moose Rugby Grounds! It’s a top-run a top event, from the organization, admin, fields (simply the best fields we get to play on every year), the referee crew (they were excellent), hotel organization, I can go on and on.

We are very privileged to be part of the 2024 Boys HS Rugby National Championship, and do not take it for granted, to our opponents, thank you for 3 fantastic games, played in true school boy rugby spirit.”

— Sam McMillan, South Orange County Raptors

ELKHART COUNTY CVB

Amanda Eckelbarger (800) 262-8161

amanda@eccvb.org www.visitelkhartcounty.com/sports

GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS, WESTFIELD, INDIANA

Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, IN expands over 400 acres and includes 31 multipurpose fields, 26 diamonds, a 377,000 square-foot Events Center, Pacers Athletic Center, Pro X Athlete Development, and Wrights 360° Movement Academy. In 2023, Grand Park welcomed 5.5 million visitors and hosted over 300 events. In 2023, the campus was named the Readers’ Choice winner for “All-Star” Multi-Purpose Sports Venue or Complex” by SportsEvents. Grand Park is proud to be the home to the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp for five weeks during the summer. The camp is open to the public and allows attendees to watch the team practice and participate in theme days, which feature food and drink deals, apparel deals, live music and entertainment, special activities, giveaways, and cheerleader performances.

OUTDOOR FIELDS AND DIAMONDS

Soccer, Lacrosse, Football, Ultimate Frisbee, Rugby, Field Hockey, Baseball, Softball, Running

Grand Park’s campus includes 31 outdoor fields that accommodate soccer, lacrosse, football, ultimate frisbee, rugby, and field hockey, and 26 baseball and softball diamonds. Visitors can also use the running/walking trails that span for miles; the campus also features a mapped-out 5K course.

GRAND PARK EVENTS CENTER

Soccer, Football, Rugby, Volleyball, Lacrosse, Cheerleading, Pickleball Plus: Conventions

The Events Center is an indoor sports facility that covers 377,000 square feet and features three fullsize synthetic turf fields, a 45,000-square-foot warmup area, four locker rooms, and fully equipped conference rooms. The facility also offers concessions and a sports pub with viewing suites.

PRO X ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT

Baseball, Softball, Football, Athletic Training

Pro X is a premier training facility that provides sportspecific programming for baseball, softball, golf, and football using state-of-theart technology to help each athlete reach their potential. Sports rehab and physical therapy are also offered as part of the programming. The facility also offers Sports Vision programs and Nutrition consultations.

PACERS

ATHLETIC

CENTER

Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal

This 88,000-square-foot athletic facility has eight courts and is utilized for youth sports training, leagues, camps, and club teams. The Indy Youth Basketball League is the largest youth basketball league in the state and is run by the Pacers Athletic Center. The facility also provides three in-house team basketball programs; Primetime, Grand Park Premier, and Grand Park Select.

WRIGHT’S

360° MOVEMENT ACADEMY Tumbling, Gymnastics, Dance

Wright’s 360° Movement Academy offers gymnastics, Ninjazone, and dance for preschool and youth. Families can also sign up for camps, kids’ night out, or preschool prep at the Westfield campus. The FUNdamentals program offered by Wright’s offers a 10-level system that is based on each child’s individual skill development. Wright’s always puts FUN FIRST!

EXCELLENT FOOD

Food options are a big part of sporting events and Grand Park has visitors covered. There are seven concession stands conveniently located close to all the sports action throughout the outdoor fields and diamonds. The Events Center has a full service cafeteria/concession stand on the main floor and a sports pub on the mezzanine level.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“I have the perfect place, Grand Park. I mean everything we have and need to get our jobs done, we have the indoor and with these fields. … It’s able to facilitate everything we do.”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager of the Indianapolis Colts

GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS

Matthew Trnian mtrnian@westfield.in.gov (317) 417-1742

https://www.grandpark.org/

Outdoor Fields and Diamonds

TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA

Explore the diverse attractions Terre Haute has to offer, strategically situated at the heart of the Crossroads of America. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the Wabash River or venture into expansive parks, including the tranquil Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area where you can walk, run or kayak. Experience the excitement of Terre Haute’s own Prospect League baseball team, The Rex , and enjoy live music at The Mill throughout the summer. Discover the city’s storied basketball legacy at the Larry Bird Museum Historic Downtown Terre Haute boasts a vibrant atmosphere with outdoor sculptures, murals, museums, dining options, and a burgeoning brewery scene. Delve into the city’s history through its landmarks and local legends, such as the infamous ghost dog Stiffy Green. The city hosts a variety of festivals, markets, and parades, adding to its allure.

GRIFFIN BIKE PARK

Biking, Hiking, Trail Running, Obstacle Course

Griffin Bike Park offers a full-spectrum riding experience for all ages and abilities. The Veteran-themed park honors and empowers those who served, featuring specialized areas for various riding styles and disciplines. The park includes the new “Freedom Trail,” designed for adaptive equipment users. With a 5-acre terrain park, basic skills area, loop trail, and racing venues.

HULMAN CENTER AT INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY

Basketball, Gymnastics, Tumbling, Cheer, Dance, Volleyball, Wrestling

The Hulman Center at Indiana State University is a premier indoor arena with over 10,000 seats. Hosting a wide range of sporting events, including basketball, gymnastics, cheer, and dance, it also serves as a venue for community events, regional tournaments, and entertainment shows.

HULMAN MINI-SPEEDWAY Racing

Home to the Terre Haute Quarter Midget Association (THQMA), the Hulman Mini-Speedway is a familyoriented venue for Quarter Midget Racing, designed for kids aged five to 16. Racing is divided into classes based on age, skill level, and motor type. The venue could potentially be used for other small-scale motorsports events, such as go-kart racing.

LAVERN GIBSON CHAMPIONSHIP CROSS COUNTRY COURSE Cross Country, Trail Running, Obstacle Course Racing

The LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course, located just east of downtown Terre Haute, is a world-class, 240-acre facility. Known as one of the few purpose-built cross country courses globally, it’s also one of the most spectator-friendly. It has hosted NCAA Division I and III Championships.

The Aquatic Center is home to Vigo County School Corporation high school teams, Terre Haute Torpedoes swim team, and Indiana State University women’s swimming and diving teams.

MARI HULMAN GEORGE EQUINE ARENAS AT SAINT MARY-OF-THEWOODS COLLEGE

Indoor/Outdoor Equestrian, Rodeo, Horse Shows

The Mari Hulman George Equine Arenas at Saint Maryof-the-Woods College are top venues for equestrian sports. With indoor and outdoor arenas, the facility supports year-round training, competitions, and regional events, playing a vital role in the college’s esteemed equine program.

SPRINGHILL SOCCER COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee

The Springhill Soccer Complex features 45 soccer fields for ages 4 to 13 and is home to the Vigo County Youth Soccer Association. It also hosts the Midwest Soccer Classic. The facility could also accommodate lacrosse and ultimate frisbee tournaments.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“It would not be possible to provide the many soccer programs and events without the support of the many volunteers, soccer families, local businesses, colleges, universities and especially the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau.”

— Jim Wilkey, VCYSA Tournament Director and Past President

TERRE HAUTE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Karen Dyer karen@terrehaute.com (812) 234-5555

Terrehaute.com

HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA

In the heart of Central Indiana, Hamilton County is home to world-class sports facilities and within a day’s drive for over half of U.S. residents. It’s also among America’s best places to live, work and play. Hamilton County is an easy-to-reach, affordable destination with top-tier sports facilities, amenities, and attractions. Hamilton County features 377,000 square feet of indoor synthetics, locker rooms and food service at Grand Park Events Center, 400+ acres at Grand Park Sports Campus, 5,000-plus hotel rooms, 150-plus multi-purpose fields, 80-plus ball diamonds, 40-plus hard courts and two professional arenas. Come to Hamilton County for sports; but see why it’s regularly hailed as one of America’s great places to live, work and play. No matter the sport, Hamilton County is, “Where Champions Play”. Learn more at HamiltonCountySports.com

GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS

Baseball, Basketball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Pickleball, Volleyball

For baseball, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, softball, pickleball, volleyball and wrestling, Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield is one of the largest complexes of its kind, operating more than 350 days a year and annual attendance topping 5.5 million. The facility boasts 26 diamonds, 31 multi-purpose fields, eight indoor basketball/volleyball courts.

CROOKED STICK TO CHATHAM HILLS

World-Class Golf

Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel has hosted numerous PGA, LPGA and USGA events including the PGA Championships, Solheim Cup and BMW Championships. Up next, Crooked Stick will host the Senior Open in 2028. Hamilton County is home to several other championship courses as well, including Chatham Hills.

HAMILTON COUNTY FIELDHOUSES

More than Basketball

Indiana is basketball crazy, but Hamilton County fieldhouses regularly welcome all sports. Seven venues – Pacers Athletic Center, Mojo Up Fieldhouse, Best Choice Fieldhouse, Aletto Family Sports Center, Boys & Girls Club, Pro Net Sports, Grand Park Events Center – offer over 40 courts for basketball and volleyball and 6 indoor turf fields for year-round training.

FOREST PARK AQUATIC CENTER

Swimming and Diving

The City of Noblesville’s Forest Park Aquatic Center holds one of America’s few remaining outdoor platform diving wells. Combining the championshipcaliber diving facility and Olympic-sized competition pool with state-of-the-art starting blocks, this aquatic center has attracted many Olympic medalist to its waters.

FISHERS EVENT CENTER

Where the Pros Play

Opening in November 2024, this venue will be the “center of sport” in the region. A 7,500-seat venue with 21 suites and multiple hospitality areas – the FEC will play home to three professional teams –Indy Fuel, Indy Ignite, and Fishers Freight. FEC will have the capacity to transform from a hockey rink to a basketball/ volleyball floor overnight and help attract new events to Hamilton County.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Working with Hamilton County Sports Authority was a wonderful experience. From the start of planning our national event, during the event and then through the completion, they went above and beyond in assisting with all aspects of the process.”

—

Pat Culp – ISWA Event Director, USA Wrestling Women’s National Duals

HAMILTON COUNTY SPORTS AUTHORITY

Carl Daniels

cdaniels@hamiltoncountysports.com

HamiltonCountySports.com

Gabe Amick

gamick@hamiltoncountysports.com

HamiltonCountySports.com

HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA.

HOME TO CHAMPIONSHIP-CALIBER VENUES, INCLUDING GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS.

Centrally located in the Midwest at the crossroads of America, Hamilton County, Indiana, can successfully host any type of sporting event and tournament, amateur or professional. The Hamilton County Sports Authority is your local sales and service team, ready to make your event a winner.

LAFAYETTE-WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA

Lafayette-West Lafayette offers a small-town feel with plenty of city-sized opportunities. Delectable restaurants, art galleries, museums, cool coffee shops, nightlife & entertainment, interesting architecture, unique shops, and festivals create a place full of vibrancy and charm. The scenic Wabash River, with walking and biking paths, connects these two great cities.

Explore all the great things the Columbian Park Zoo has to offer such as exhibits, tours, special events and more. The zoo is home to more than 190 animals from over 90 species and also includes playgrounds, picnic areas, a walking trail, and a baseball stadium.

Kick off your shoes, grab your swimsuit and come experience a taste of the tropics in the heart of Indiana at Tropicanoe Cove. It offers the perfect blend of Hoosier hospitality with the pleasure of a watery paradise.

Indiana’s newest state park, Prophetstown is located where the Tippecanoe River meets the Wabash near the town of Battle Ground northeast of Lafayette. Visitors can discover 1920s farm lifestyles, Native American culture and take a stroll through 900 acres of restored prairie.

LOEB STADIUM

Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Softball, Cornhole, Kickball, Quidditch, Rugby, Ultimate Frisbee

Dedicated in March 2021, the new Loeb Stadium has many new, exciting state-of-the- art features. This multi-use stadium features two concession areas, a large multi-purpose concourse, and ample retail and office space. With the combined lawn and stadium seating, Loeb Stadium features a seating capacity of approximately 2,600.

BIRCK BOILERMAKER GOLF COMPLEX

Golf

Enjoy the one-of-a-kind Purdue golf experience at the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex. The complex features two 18hole championship golf courses as well as a state-of-the-art training facility and driving range. The two courses, AckermanAllen and Kampen, each offer their own benefits and experience. Kampen has been rated one of the top collegiate courses in the nation and awarded 4.5 stars on Golf Digest’s “Places to Play.” The Birck Boilermaker Golf experience continues to be elevated with the construction of a brand-new clubhouse, coming late 2024.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We hosted our National Collegiate Club Golf Association’s Championship at the Birck Boilermaker Complex. With over 300 golfers traveling to West Lafayette, the courses couldn’t have been in better shape for a great challenge. We will be sure to come back in the future.”

- Matt Weinberger - Director, Nextgengolf Operations VISIT LAFAYETTE-WEST LAFAYETTE

Gabriela Espinoza gespinoza@homeofpurdue.com (765) 447-9999 homeofpurdue.com

SCHWARTZ TENNIS CENTER Tennis

Schwartz Tennis Center is Purdue University’s first indoor tennis center. The six indoor Basham Courts and 12 outdoor Schwartz Family Courts are available to the public. Six outdoor courts were added to the original six varsity courts in the fall of 2010. The 60,000-square- foot facility includes locker rooms for the teams, offices for administrative staff and coaches, an athletic training room, and seating areas for fans on the mezzanine above the courts.

NOBLE COUNTY, INDIANA

Filled with history and natural beauty, Noble County is an idyllic destination. Founded in 1836, Noble County, Indiana has a rich history centered around the natural elements in the region. Visitors will enjoy a variety of outdoor recreational activities, unique public art displays and historical landmarks that will take you back in time. Explore Noble County’s communities, each possessing its own character.

Explore Noble County’s welcoming communities, each with its own distinct character, where local charm and friendly faces are always part of the experience. From hosting youth tournaments to planning community sporting events, Noble County offers a variety of venues and facilities to accommodate your needs, all while providing an authentic taste of Midwestern hospitality. Whether you’re here for the action or just to take in the sights, Noble County will leave you with unforgettable memories.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The polite and knowledgeable staff are always welcoming and the facilities are always in top shape. Worth booking a tournament. 5 out of 5 stars.”

— Randall Mayberry, BARNSTORMERS 13U

VISIT NOBLE COUNTY

Alexis Wagner

Alexis@visitnoblecounty.com (260) 636-3602 www.visitnoblecounty.com

COBBLESTONE GOLF COURSE Golf

This award-winning 18hole course in Kendallville is a premier championship golf course and event center, offering golf on 240 acres of rolling terrain with challenging features throughout the course. In recent years, the course has a set of five tee boxes – sure to benefit golfers of all skill levels. A highly rated Northeast Indiana public golf course, Cobblestone will give you the quality experience you come to expect at top rated public golf courses.

NOBLE HAWK GOLF COURSE Golf

An 18-hole links course, Noble Hawks Golf Course is Northeast Indiana’s most unique public golf facility.

“The Hawk” features a unique design and theme featuring the perfect combination of links and traditional golf while showcasing a variety of beautiful golf holes. Some are pure “up-north” with serene tree-lined fairways. Others appear to be transplanted from Florida with lots of sand and water.

HIDDEN DIAMONDS PARK Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Trails, Disc Golf

Hidden Diamonds Park is 89 acres of rolling hills in Albion. The premier outdoor recreational area features a diverse array of outdoor recreation including soccer fields and concessions, lighted baseball/softball diamonds, a sand volleyball pit, lighted basketball court, disc golf course, playground, and walking trails. It also added a new skate park in 2024.

KENDALLVILLE OUTDOOR SPORTS & RECREATION COMPLEX

Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Shuffleboard, Disc Golf

Home to 89 acres of ball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, shuffleboard, and more, the Kendallville Outdoor Sports & Recreation Complex is an ideal venue for any sports event. It has four diamonds, three soccer fields, basketball and shuffleboard courts. It also added a new skate park in 2024.

COLUMBUS, INDIANA

Columbus, Indiana, renowned for its exceptional architecture, boasts a rich cultural tapestry that draws visitors worldwide. Home to masterpieces by renowned architects like I.M. Pei and Eero Saarinen, the city offers a unique blend of art, history, and design. With tranquil parks, vibrant public art installations, and a welcoming community, Columbus promises an enriching and memorable visit for all–especially tourney planners searching for the very best facilities that central Indiana has to offer.

Before launching into descriptions of all the athletic complexes in and around Columbus, consider the variety of attractions available upon arrival. An eager visitor’s first activity should be the famed architectural tour, which allows participants to discover how a tiny Midwestern city became a modern architectural hub. This tour will enrich your mind while exemplifying how the built environment–buildings, fountains, statutes–impact and enliven daily life.

Next up–and especially popular among children–is the Playground of the Commons, an indoor playground featuring infant and toddler areas, slides, a tunnel, and a two-story Luckey Climber. This area facilitates cooperation and prioritizes safety, making it the perfect spot for adults to relax while their kids enjoy. Of course, hours at a play area will lead to hungry children and parents, necessitating a trip to Columbus’ downtown dining scene. Whether you want a flavorful ale at Columbus Pump House or some healthy food options at Fresh Take Kitchen, Columbus packs quite the culinary punch.

CIRCLE K FIELDHOUSE

Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Baseball, Softball, Football, Soccer

Boasting four basketball courts; eight volleyball courts; six pickleball courts; two baseball/softball diamonds; one full-sized football field, and three total soccer fields. Circle K has the sort of versatility that tourney planners dream of. But that isn’t it: this facility is also popular because of its packed event calendar. And when you are done playing, dine at restaurants like Riviera Maya, Mother Bear’s Pizza, or Lucas Brothers, all supreme spots for postgame discussions and fabulous cuisine.

LINCOLN PARK

Baseball, Softball

Home to the Hamilton Center Ice Area and the Lincoln Park Softball Complex. These sites play host to dozens of annual events, and for good reason: the Lincoln Park complex has six lighted softball fields, four lighted tennis courts, a lighted basketball court, and a handball court. An additional feature that makes Lincoln Park a must-play venue: the six-station batting cage. Also offering barbeque areas and a playground, Lincoln Park is ready to satisfy your tournament planning needs.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

AJGA tournament destinations must have three traits: a great golf course, an engaged local community, and sponsorship dollars. Columbus delivered so much in every category that the association voted the city “Newcomer of the Year.” Our AJGA event in Columbus has been such a success on all levels, we’ll go as long as they’ll have us.

— Matt Larson, AJGA Midwest Senior Regional Director

COLUMBUS PARKS AND RECREATION

Brady Buckley

bbuckley@columbus.in.gov (812) 376-2695

columbusparksandrec.com/ programs-and-events/sports/

BLACKWELL PARK

Soccer, Rugby, Lacrosse

One of Columbus’ most cherished facilities, Blackwell Park has what it takes to host tournaments for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and other outdoor sports. Home to the Richard J. Wigh Soccer Center, this park can house up to 34 soccer matches across its sprawling spans of grass. There is also the renowned Freedom Field Playground and amenities like barbeque areas, a shelter house, and picnic areas. The perfect destination for tournament weekends, combining competitive spirit with community enjoyment.

KOKOMO, INDIANA

Known for innovation and automotive heritage, Kokomo, Indiana features outstanding, championship-worthy sports facilities providing a great experience for both teams and fans. With historic museums, a vibrant downtown, and familyfriendly attractions, the Kokomo area offers a large variety of sights to see.

Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center outdoor waterpark features high-energy water slides, lazy river, lap pool and kid’s splash pad, providing fun for all ages. Borrow a bike and explore downtown Kokomo with KokoGo Bike Share, a free bike share riding program open seasonally. You’ll find restaurants, unique shops, and art experiences throughout downtown Kokomo along with seasonal concerts, festivals and events.

In operation since 1888, Kokomo Opalescent Glass is the oldest art glass company in the United States. Schedule a tour in advance to go behind the scenes of this historic and fascinating glass factory. Glass produced in Kokomo is shipped worldwide and can be seen in installations at Disney World, Air Force Academy, and even the Vatican.

Located 50 miles north of Indianapolis and with state-of-the-art sports venues close to plenty of local food options and comfortable hotels, Kokomo is a great place to host your next tournament or championship game!

KOKOMO MUNICIPAL STADIUM Baseball, Softball, Soccer

Located in the heart of downtown Kokomo, this beautiful championship stadium features seating for up to 4,000 including stadium, lawn, and indoor suite level seating. The 360-degree concourse allows fans to walk around the entire playing field, so you can catch the game from every angle. Playing surface is all artificial turf with parking and concessions on-site.

KOKOMO H.S. SOFTBALL STADIUM Softball

This stunning championship-style stadium features full artificial turf field, indoor batting cages, concessions, large press box, athletic training room, LED video scoreboard, large parking lots. It also sports a nearby practice field, and seating for 1,000. The stadium opened in 2024 and is located at Kokomo High School.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We loved hosting our Alliance All-Star Game and National Championship Series at Kokomo High School. It was the perfect host site for the top high school softball players and teams in the country. From the playing surface and athlete amenities to the crowd experience and national broadcast capabilities, everything was first class.”

— Jami Lobpries, CEO, Alliance Fastpitch

GREATER KOKOMO VISITORS BUREAU

Sherry Matlock smatlock@visitkokomo.org (765) 457-6802 www.VisitKokomo.org

CHAMPIONSHIP PARK

Baseball, Softball

Championship Park is an outdoor complex that includes eight baseball/ softball diamonds, including four high school-sized and four softball/youth league-sized. Its features include full artificial turf fields arranged in two quads, concessions, outdoor batting cages, large parking lots, and other amenities.

FORT WAYNE, INDIANA

Fort Wayne, the second largest city in Indiana, is one of the top Midwest destinations for sports tournaments and events. With a wide selection of premier sports venues, first-rate hotels, familyfriendly entertainment, and restaurants, Fort Wayne excels in hosting tournaments of all sizes and skill levels.

Enjoy a break from the game and visit our many attractions. Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is a Top 10 national zoo with 40-acres of animals, rides, and educational opportunities. Parkview Field is home of the Fort Wayne TinCaps and the No. 1 minor league ballpark experience in the country. With more than 200 hands on exhibits, everyone can spark their imagination at Science Central Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is an oasis in the heart of downtown. Promenade Park is a fully accessible park voted the No. 7 best riverwalk in the country by USA Today in 2024, with serene walking paths, kayaking, a splash pad and playground, restaurant, permanent yard games, and more.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The team at Visit Fort Wayne were incredible. From the moment I reached out they cared about our wants and needs and delivered an incredible event for our teams. They were able to help us find a venue that met our needs and a host hotel in very little time, no stress on our end. Can’t wait to work with them again”

VISIT FORT WAYNE

Jazmin Zavala, Sports Sales Manager jazmin@visitfortwayne.com (260) 424-3700 visitfortwayne.com/sports

Score big with your next game or tournament in Fort Wayne, IN, with world-class facilities. Fort Wayne offers premier venues that cater to every need, from cutting-edge stadiums to versatile fields. Picture your event in a city renowned for its love of the game, any game, every game! Off the field, enjoy vibrant local culture, a wide variety of dining options and Hoosier hospitality. Host your next sporting event with seamless accessibility and all access full support in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

- Christian Smith, 2024 NCSA Division I Great American Regional Tournament

ALLEN COUNTY WAR MEMORIAL COLISEUM

Basketball, Hockey

This massive arena with 1,000,000-square feet of space capable of holding 13,000 spectators for basketball games and 10,480 for hockey. Most recently, the arena has been the host destination for 2019 through 2026 NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Championships as well as USA Wrestling tournaments. The Memorial Coliseum is an excellent fit for mat sports, basketball, hockey, CrossFit, and boxing.

SPORTONE PARKVIEW FIELDHOUSE

Volleyball, Basketball

This 57,000-square-foot multipurpose facility is a premier destination for indoor competitions, with its eight hardwood volleyball courts which can transition into six high school regulation basketball courts. Equipped with bleacher seating, onsite storage, full-service restaurant and bar, and a sports performance area. Located steps from the TownePlace Suites, the Fieldhouse a perfect location for tournaments.

SPORTONE PARKVIEW ICEHOUSE

Ice Sports, Roller Hockey

With three NHL-sized ice surfaces, SportONE Parkview Icehouse is the only threesheet ice facility in Indiana. The Icehouse has partnerships with Fort Wayne Amateur Hockey Association, Fort Wayne Ice Skating Club, and the Indiana Tech Hockey teams. The full-service restaurant overlooks all three surfaces to ensure you won’t miss a moment. Host of large tournaments such as the US Figure Skating Championship and States Roller Hockey.

TURNSTONE CENTER Paralympic Sports

An official Olympic and Paralympic training site, Turnstone is the only Paralympic training site in the state and one of three dedicated adaptive facilities in the U.S. The Plassman Athletic Center at Turnstone features a 75,000-square-foot fieldhouse with a 230-meter track and 4 collegiate sized basketball courts. Turnstone has hosted prestigious events such as the International Blind Sports Federation’s Goalball and Judo Paralympic Qualifying Competitions.

Parkview Field

EVANSVILLE, INDIANA

There’s always something to do in beautiful Evansville. This city has more than 300 locally owned and operated non-chain restaurants and food trucks, many of them serving you from local farms. At Burdette Park and Aquatic Center, the park is open 365 days a year. Walk, run or bike through the woods on a three-mile paved trail. Primitive trails wind through the 170-acre park. Enjoy fishing and swimming. Book a weekend at one of the rustic chalets, cabins, RV or tent camping. Burdette Park Pavilion and O’Day Discovery Lodge host groups from 20 to 1,000 people. The Aquatic Center is open from Memorial Day through the second week of August. BMX Club and competition track is also on site.

EXPLORE EVANSVILLE

Aaron King aking@exploreevansville.com (812) 421-2209 www.exploreevansville.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The new turf and other renovations to Deaconess Sports Park really helps tournament directors market and sell their events. Rising costs in fuel and other supplies make teams want to be confident, when they sign up for tournaments, that they will be playing regardless of rain and other mild weather conditions. Evansville embraces sportsmanship and hospitality, which is another reason why the community is a great fit for our tournaments.”

— Tim Foster, State Director, Indiana USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association)

DEACONESS

SPORTS PARK

Baseball, Softball

The Deaconess Sports Park is an eight-field complex that features synthetic infields and state-of-the-art amenities for girls’, women’s, and men’s fastpitch and slow-pitch softball as well as adult and co-ed softball league play and boys’ baseball 12 & under tournaments. Eight lit fields with Musco Sports Lighting, shaded spectator seating, extra-large brickcovered dugouts, batting cages, bullpens and team warm-up areas.

GOEBEL SPORTS PARK Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Football, Flag Football, Ultimate

A multi-purpose sports facility designed to serve local and regional tournaments and the community at large, this 10-field soccer and lacrosse facility recently underwent a 2.3 million dollar face lift. Two of the fields feature high quality synthetic turf surfaces for all-weather play, with six fields offering championship level Bermuda grass, as well as two cool season grass fields.

DEACONESS

AQUATIC CENTER

Swimming, Diving, Water Polo

Evansville’s newest city pool and recreation center, Deaconess Aquatic Center features an outdoor splash pad, a recreation pool, a 50-meter competitive pool and a separated diving well. It has four separate locker rooms for both participants and officials and has relay touch pads and a timing system. It contains just under 1,000 seats for spectators. These seats are a level higher than pool level for optimal viewing.

FORD CENTER ARENA

Basketball, Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Volleyball, Wrestling

As the region’s center for sports and entertainment, Ford Center Arena is a stunning and exciting multipurpose facility with 290,000 square feet and the capacity to seat 11,000 spectators. With 20,000 square feet of usable space, the arena can be modified for basketball, hockey, concerts, conventions, rodeos and expos. Ford Center Arena has all the amenities, including wheelchair accessible seating.

Deaconess Sports Park

SOUTH SHORE, INDIANA

The South Shore of Lake Michigan is located just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. Our state-of-the-art sports facilities and unique attractions draw youth, amateur, collegiate and professional sporting events from across the nation. With a wide range of top-quality hotels, family-friendly entertainment, and fantastic dining options, Northwest Indiana is well-equipped to host tournaments of all sizes. Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park, where you can relax on the beach and explore miles of hiking and biking trails. Indulge in the World’s Best Gummies, chocolates, nostalgic candies and nuts at Albanese Candy Factory. Take a trip to Deep River Waterpark, one of the largest outdoor waterparks in the Midwest which features a wave pool, a six-lane slide racer, two lazy rivers and much more. Escape to the countryside at Fair Oaks Farms, the nation’s leading agriculture attraction, to learn, dine and unwind with their endless adventures.

SOUTH SHORE CVA

Jimmy Nelson jimmy@southshorecva.com (219) 301-7762 southshorecva.com/sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The South Shore Sports team has the expertise to handle our every need and they always make us feel at home when we are in the South Shore. The National Softball Association’s Girls Fast Pitch ‘B & C’ World Series has been hosted in the South Shore 12 times since 2007 and is scheduled to return in July for the next four years.”

- Bill Horton, President/CEO for the National Softball Association

Region Volleyball

CROWN POINT

SPORTSPLEX, CROWN POINT

Baseball, Softball, Football, Soccer, Lacrosse

A 95-acre multi-use outdoor sports and event destination conveniently located off I-65. The facility features two synthetic turf multi-purpose fields, 10 illuminated fields (7 with turf infields) including a championship field with stadium seating for up to 750. The facility also includes a playground, walking path, batting cages, a concession stand and restrooms.

HAMMOND SPORTSPLEX AND COMMUNITY CENTER, HAMMOND Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Wrestling, Gymnastics

This state-of-the-art facility features six hardwood basketball courts, six regulation-size volleyball courts (12 cross-court), two indoor turf soccer fields and six indoor batting cages. New in 2023 are four outdoor sand volleyball courts. Other amenities include an elevated, quarter-mile walking/running track, hospitality room and the Union Bar & Lounge.

HOBART AQUATIC CENTER, HOBART Swimming, Diving, Water Polo

This new aquatic facility offers multiple configurations to fit all events. 50 meter pool with 10 lanes and two bulkheads, 20 starting blocks, four 1 meter and one 3 meter diving boards, infinity gutter system and depth ranges from 4.5’ to 13’. The center also features spectator seating for 630, hospitality room with 86” smart display board, 6 locker rooms, Colorado timing system and an 8-place award podium.

LEMON LAKE COUNTY PARK, CROWN POINT Disc Golf

Lemon Lake County Park is home to five 18-hole World Championship disc golf courses and hosted the 2010 and 2013 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships and the 2018 Tim Selinske United States Master Disc Golf Championships. The park encompasses 403 acres of rolling hills and open space surrounded by wooded areas. The Flight Center carries a full scale line of disc golf products and offers food concessions.

Midwest

Crossover Tournament at Hammond Sportsplex

SOUTH BEND AND MISHAWAKA, INDIANA

Perhaps best known as the home of the University of Notre Dame, South Bend is the economic and cultural center of Northern Indiana. The city truly has it all — whether you like Minor League Baseball or college football, chocolate factories or a night at the casino, this Hoosier State gem is the perfect place to hold a sports tournament.

At East Race Waterway, visitors can go rafting or kayaking in the summer on the first artificial white-water course in North America. At 2,000 feet long, East Race is perfect for rafters of any skill level.

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, the Indiana Dinosaur Museum invites visitors of all ages to explore the ancient world of dinosaurs. Wander through real and lifelike exhibits that bring these colossal creatures back to life, showcasing meticulously crafted replicas and interactive displays.

Generations Adventureplex has the newest titles of games and attractions. Everything from Axe Throwing and Laser tag to the hottest titles in arcade games like Jurassic Park and Transformers.

Discover the wonder and tradition of the University of Notre Dame through experiences that spark curiosity and ignite joy. Revel in the beauty of a sunset walk around our picturesque lakes. Light a candle at the Grotto or visit the sacred space of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Lose yourself in a melodic symphony, immerse in a world of art, or challenge yourself to a memorable round of golf.

MISHAWAKA FIELDHOUSE

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, and More

The Mishawaka Fieldhouse, is a new indoor sports facility and the first of its size in the area. The facility covers over 220,000 square feet with room for up to 10 basketball courts or 19 volleyball courts, plus an indoor turf field and 13 pickleball courts. It’s also in an ideal location – just off the interstate in Mishawaka within a short drive to several hotels and restaurants.

BYERS SOFTBALL COMPLEX Baseball, Softball

Looking to host a softball tournament in the Hoosier State? Look no further than Byers Softball Complex, which features electronic scoreboards, a PA system, team dugouts, bleacher seating and a full-service concession stand. The complex has hosted the U.S. Women’s Olympic softball team and multiple Amateur Softball Association national championships.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Great location, hotel selection and an abundance of first rate athletic facilities make South Bend a great choice for tournament planners! My organization operates several weekend events each season in South Bend each year and have experienced great success.”

– Tony Prpic, Hockey Time Productions

VISIT SOUTH BEND MISHAWAKA

Jeff Jarnecke

jjarnecke@visitsouthbend.com (574) 400-4022 www.visitsouthbend.com

INDIANA INVADERS SPORTS COMPLEX

Soccer, Lacrosse, Quadball

This complex features nine fullsize soccer fields, adjustable for any sport, with four more in the process of being added. The North Complex was developed in 1999 and offers five full-size fields. It has two stadium fields with large bleachers, a scoreboard and press box, lights for night games and 600 parking spots. The South Complex, which opened in 2010, has eight full-size multi-use athletic fields. It also offers 550 parking spaces and line customization for all sports.

Vehicle City Gridiron Classic

Vehicle City Gridiron Classic

Flint Firebirds - OHL Hockey

FireStix College Exposure Tournament

FLINT & GENESEE, MICHIGAN

Flint and Genesee County, Michigan, are big players in sports tourism, with facilities like Dort Financial Center and Genesee Fieldhouse at the top of their game for sports tournaments and events.

Along with its sports facilities, a variety of local activities will keep everyone entertained. The new Sloan Museum of Discovery features several interactive galleries, including the Discovery Hall with hands-on learning that makes science fun; the Durant Gallery, a 11,000-square-foot vehicle exhibition hall with rare collections of vintage and concept cars; and a 6,000-square-foot special traveling exhibit gallery.

For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum, a 383-acre nature preserve, is home to miles of all-season nature trails, a memorial garden, a barrier-free treehouse and a butterfly house. At Crossroads Village, wander through more than 34 historic buildings and shops and enjoy a ride on the iconic Huckleberry Railroad and amusement rides.

DORT FINANCIAL CENTER

Indoor Multipurpose

Located just a few miles east of downtown Flint, the 29,280-square-foot Dort Financial Center is home to the Ontario Hockey League’s major junior hockey team the Flint Firebirds. The facility has a seating capacity of over 4,000, which varies depending on the sport or event.

KETTERING UNIVERSITY

Indoor and Outdoor Multipurpose

Kettering University, the home of the Bulldogs, has some quality facilities to choose from. The 11,000-capacity Atwood Stadium features FieldTurf, bleacher seating on three sides and plenty of paved parking. The stadium has a storied history of hosting football games, but is capable of hosting multiple sports.

Creasey Bicentennial Park

GENESEE FIELDHOUSE

Indoor Multipurpose

Genesee Fieldhouse is the county’s only domed indoor multipurpose sports facility, capable of hosting a number of tournaments and events including baseball, soccer, lacrosse and more. Located in Grand Blanc, the 68,000-square-foot facility is just a few minutes away from Bishop International Airport, making it a prime venue for traveling teams.

CREASEY

BICENTENNIAL PARK

Baseball, Softball

Managed by Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation, Creasey Bicentennial Park features 10 diamonds, eight of which are assigned to two quads for tournament play. Plentiful parking is just the start of included amenities here, with pavilions also available for rent, picnic areas, rustic hiking trails, a dog park and more.

RICHFIELD

COUNTY PARK & BMX TRACK

Baseball, Softball, BMX, Tennis

Northeast of Flint is Richfield County Park & BMX Track. The park contains multiple diamonds for baseball and softball tournaments, tennis courts, pavilions, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails and more. The BMX Track includes a well-maintained start hill and advanced gate system.

MUNDY TOWNSHIP MIRACLE COMMONS

Hiking, Biking, Baseball, Softball, Outdoor Recreation

Located within Mundy Miracle Commons, the Miracle League of Greater Flint ballfield opened in September 2024. This is Genesee County’s first fully accessible baseball field. The Commons also features a 1.9-mile trail open to runners, walkers, cyclists, and leashed dogs, which winds through beautiful natural surroundings.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Genesee County is a great location because of how centrally located we are in the state of Michigan. It allows us to draw teams from northern, southern and western parts of Michigan as well as parts of Canada. Also, it is a very convenient drive up I-75 for our teams from Ohio and Indiana.”

– Kevin Babcock, president of Firestix

EXPLORE FLINT & GENESEE

Anthony Sitko, CYSA CTA 810-600-1452

asitko@flintandgenesee.org www.exploreflintandgenesee.org/ sports

Fastpitch

GREATER AKRON, OHIO

With a fabulous array of attractions, accommodations and restaurants, Akron/Summit County, OH is an ideal location for your next sporting event. Athletes and their families will have a multitude of options for entertainment. From theaters and concerts to shopping and culinary experiences at some of the best restaurants, visitors are bound to have a great time!

It is also home to numerous state-of-the-art facilities including the impressive Copley Road Soccer Complex; Firestone Stadium which recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation; the Lee R. Jackson Track & Field Complex at the University of Akron; and Rubber City Sports at Goodyear Gym.

Easily accessible and close to both Akron/Canton Airport and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Akron/Summit County is an affordable destination and looks forward to hosting your next sporting event.

SPORTS ALLIANCE OF GREATER AKRON

Cindy Coontz, Director of Sales ccoontz@visitakron-summit.org (330) 374-8935 www.playakron.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“We appreciate the support from the ASCVB since our softball state tournament moved to Akron in 2008 and our baseball state tournament in 2019. From logistics with hotels, restaurants and meeting spaces to making the teams feel welcome, their staff have gone out of their way to make this a special place for our participants, fans and the OHSAA.”

— Doug Ute, Executive Director, Ohio High School Athletic Association

RUBBER CITY SPORTS AT GOODYEAR GYM

Futsal, Soccer, Volleyball, Martial Arts, Gymnastics

Hold your next indoor tournament at Rubber City Sports at Goodyear Gym. Goodyear Gym boasts 20,000 square feet, with seating for up to 1,100 in the mezzanine. It is home to, and has welcomed, a wide variety of events such as the Great Lakes Regional Futsal Championships (held annually), the Rubber City Gymnastics Rumble, Ohio State Line Gymnastics Championships, and many more.

FIRESTONE STADIUM Softball, Kickball

Firestone Stadium was dedicated on July 25, 1925, by Harvey Firestone, the founder of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company. In 2023, the City of Akron and the Akron Recreation & Parks divisions began a multimillion-dollar renovation to the Stadium. The renovations include brand new, state-ofthe-art artificial turf fields, renovated restrooms, new press equipment, upgraded scoreboards, new dugouts and updated locker rooms with a seating capacity of 4,576.

LEE

R. JACKSON TRACK & FIELD COMPLEX Track and Field Events

The University of Akron’s Lee R. Jackson Track & Field Complex completed a $1.2 million full renovation in 2022. With a new eight-lane, 400-meter Rekortan surface that was widened, new curbing, a new javelin runway, hammer and discus cages, shot put sector, long jump pit and pole vault box. It has hosted the 2023 Mid-American Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships, Annual Pole Vault Convention and the upcoming 2024 NCAA DI Great Lakes Regional Cross Country Championships.

JOHN S. KNIGHT CENTER Cheer, Dance, Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Esports

The John S. Knight Center has welcomed visitors to the heart of downtown since 1994. The center offers - 28,000 sq. ft. of exhibit hall space, two large ballrooms, a green room for speakers, and 25 separate breakout rooms. The Center has a 3,000 sq. ft. glass rotunda - perfect for awards and registrations. Home to the Rubber City Cheer Dance Championships, AAU Martial Arts Championships, the Akron Marathon and much more!

Firestone Stadium

IOWA 2025 GUIDE

Nontraditional Sports in the Hawkeye State

Iowa’s communities have invested in alternative athletics

CONSIDER IOWA TO HOST YOUR NEXT SPORTING EVENT

Centrally located in the United States, Iowa features all four seasons and is easily accessible, with excellent interstate connectivity and major and regional airports conveniently spread across the state. Team Iowa invites your organization, teams, and participants to consider Iowa as the host for your next event.

The Hawkeye State boasts a diverse array of sports facilities, both large and small, and has a rich history of successfully hosting a wide spectrum of events. Among these notable occasions are the AAU Junior Olympic Games, John Deere Classic, NCAA DI Men’s Basketball, NAIA Championships, USA Wrestling Olympic Trials, USATF Outdoor Championships, USA Badminton, USA Gymnastics, National Senior Games, and so many more.

In addition to traditional sporting events, Iowa is also proud to be a prime location for non-traditional sports. Our state offers exceptional venues and natural settings for activities such as bowling, whitewater, kayaking, cheer and dance, cross country, triathlons, mountain biking, equestrian events, motocross, dirt track racing, and even esports. These diverse options highlight Iowa’s versatility as a sports destination, catering to both classic competitions and emerging, adventurous sports.

Team Iowa, an integral division of Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP), represents the sole statewide organization in Iowa with an exclusive focus on the sports travel market. Our mission is to attract youth, amateur, and professional sporting events to Iowa. Sports tradition and culture are deeply embedded in Iowa, rendering it an ideal destination for your upcoming event. Our iTIP membership encompasses a consortium of over 130 partners including Iowa sports commissions, destination marketing organizations, venues, and lodging partners spread across the state, offering event planners a plethora of hosting options to select from.

You can rely on iTIP to assist you in identifying the perfect sports facilities in Iowa. Reach out today to begin planning.

Yours in Tourism, Team Iowa

competition in the Quad Cities

courtesy of Team Iowa

Chelsea Lerud Executive Director, Iowa Travel Industry Partners IowaTravelIndustry.org/team-iowa

Leatherneck Bowling Classic in the Quad Cities

Photo courtesy of Team Iowa

Pool

Photo

NONTRADITIONAL SPORTS

Are a Hit in the Hawkeye State

Iowa’s communities have invested in alternative athletics, making it a dream state for creative sports event planners • By

Billy Stampfl

Football. Basketball. Baseball. These are the games we know well, the ones we watch most frequently on television and at bars and restaurants. Iowans are no different—they, too, enjoy an Iowa Hawkeyes football game or an Iowa State Cyclones basketball contest. But Iowa has also separated itself with a one-of-a-kind commitment to nontraditional sports.

AMES, CEDAR RAPIDS, SIOUX CITY

The Summer Games are Special Olympics Iowa’s largest event of the year, with more than 2,600 athletes 1,200 coaches and 2,000 volunteers converging on the campus of Iowa State University in Ames. The three-day event began with the Torch Run Final Leg bringing the Flame of Hope from downtown Des Moines to Hilton Coliseum for the Opening Ceremony presented by Hy-Vee.

Whitewater rafting in Charles City

Photo courtesy of Team Iowa

Cedar Rapids features the Adapted Sports League, providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in a variety of sports, fostering skill development and community engagement at the Marion YMCA. Iowa City hosts Courage League Sports, delivering tailored sports programs that emphasize inclusion and personal growth for athletes with physical and cognitive challenges. Sioux City’s Siouxland Adaptive Sports program connects athletes with opportunities to engage in sports like adaptive basketball and sled hockey, promoting an active lifestyle and community involvement.

CEDAR FALLS, CHARLES CITY, MANCHESTER

Cedar Falls is nearly finished with the build of a whitewater amenity and riverside park area on the Cedar River which runs adjacent to the bustling downtown area. The river park project will encompass in-river whitewater features for kayakers, stand up paddlers, river surfers and other river users.

Charles City boasts Iowa’s first whitewater park, a gem along the Cedar River. Opened in 2011, this park features three distinct drops and over 10,000 tons of limestone boulders, creating a challenging course for kayakers and tubers alike.

Manchester, a small town with a big passion for outdoor sports, offers a thrilling whitewater experience on the Maquoketa River. Opened in 2015, this park spans nearly 900 feet and includes six drop features. It is a prime spot for kayaking, tubing, and standup paddleboarding, with calm spots perfect for beginners and adrenaline-pumping waves for the more experienced.

CLEAR LAKE

Clear Lake hosts the annual Tri Clear Lake, a premier triathlon event that draws athletes from across the Midwest. This challenging race includes a swim in the clear waters of Clear Lake, a bike ride through scenic rural landscapes, and a run along the shoreline, offering participants a picturesque and invigorating course. Tri Clear Lake is known for its welcoming atmosphere, attracting both seasoned triathletes and beginners.

COUNCIL BLUFFS

Council Bluffs offers a serene kayaking experience on its picturesque lake, a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The calm waters of Council Bluff Lake provide an ideal setting for both beginners and seasoned paddlers to enjoy a peaceful day on the water. Surrounded by lush landscapes and scenic views, kayaking here is a great way to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle.

DES MOINES

Archery is a popular sport in Central Iowa, with facilities and programs in Des Moines offering exceptional opportunities for bow-and-arrow enthusiasts.

Des Moines’ Hy-Vee Hall is the state’s largest exhibit hall with 100,000 square feet of exhibit space and eight breakout meeting rooms. It hosts events large and small including the 2025 ISAA Pro-Am Archery Tournament.

Des Moines continues to host IRONMAN competitions in June of 2025. The city is considered an excellent Ironman destination because of its scenic beauty, family-friendly fun and upscale downtown vibes. Race day starts with a 1.2-mile urban swim in Gray’s Lake with downtown Des Moines acting as the background. Athletes will push their limits on a 56-mile ride featuring rolling hills and city views.

DUBUQUE, MARSHALLTOWN, OTTUMWA

Dubuque is stepping into the future with its growing esports scene, highlighted by the Dubuque Esports League. This initiative has turned the city into a hub for competitive gaming, offering a space where gamers of all ages can engage in various esports tournaments and leagues. The Dubuque Esports facility is equipped with state-of-theart gaming stations and provides a social atmosphere for gamers to connect and compete.

Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center also hosts esports competitions, including the Meet Your Destiny Esports & Arcade Tournament, featuring three days of games, competition, and fun in the video game capital of the world, Ottumwa, Iowa.

Marshalltown Community College is the unmatched “Mecca of Mario” in esports, as it recently hosted the Iowa High School Esports Association Spring State Showdown featuring Mario Kart.

FORT DODGE

Cross country is a popular sport in Iowa. The Iowa High School Athletic Association initially administered boys cross country state championships in 1930, with the first invitational championships held at the University of Iowa starting in 1922. Kennedy Park in Fort Dodge hosts one of the nation’s longestrunning co-ed state meets each year.

QUAD CITIES

The Quad Cities is home to top sports facilities, including the TBK Bank Sports Complex, Vibrant Arena at THE MARK, Modern Woodmen Park, TPC Deere Run, RiverCenter, QC Tennis Club, and Beyond the Baseline. The American Cue Sports Championships are just one of several billiards competitions hosted regularly in this region. The Quad Cities is currently home to the ACS Midwest and Iowa Championships. Bowling hits a strike every time in the Quad Cities because of its multiple tournament-ready bowling centers with the experience and facilities to wow competitors and fans. The Quad Cities has hosted a variety of United States Bowling Congress competitions and premier collegiate competitions like the 20th Anniversary of the Leatherneck Classic.

WATERLOO

The Cedar Valley SportsPlex in Waterloo is home to a sprawling fieldhouse, a gym, fitness studios, and a pool—is a hub for a variety of activities, including karate, dancing, and tumbling. This unique venue can host a variety of tournaments including the Iowa AAU District Karate Championships.

The centerpiece of Waterloo’s nontraditional athletics scene is not an individual sport or tourney, but a venue: the Waterloo Convention Center. This premier arena offers versatile spaces for events of all sizes. Located in the heart of downtown Waterloo, the center is designed to accommodate everything from large conventions and trade shows to intimate meetings and social gatherings. With modern facilities, 40,000 square feet of space, state-of-theart technology, and a dedicated team of event planners, the Waterloo Convention Center ensures that every event is executed flawlessly. Among the events it has held includes large-scale billiards tournaments including the Iowa State Pool Championships.

ENTICE GROUPS TO COME PLAY IN

IOWA

Iowa boasts an array of sports facilities, making it an ideal destination for tournament planners seeking to host memorable events. With state-of-theart venues like the Iowa Events Center and the UNI-Dome, alongside numerous well-maintained outdoor fields and courts, the state caters to a wide range of sports, from basketball and volleyball to soccer and track.

GREATER DES MOINES CEDAR FALLS

Des Moines represents a large metro area that thrives on sports and has a friendly Midwestern community

IOWA EVENTS CENTER

Iowa Events Center includes Hy-Vee Hall and Wells Fargo Arena. With a 17,000-seat capacity, Wells Fargo Arena is home to the AHL’s Iowa Wild, NBA G League’s Iowa Wolves and IFL’s Iowa Barnstormers.

MIDAMERICAN ENERGY COMPANY RECPLEX

MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex houses a 150,000-square-foot fieldhouse that features 11 full-size basketball courts, or 29 volleyball courts, and a full-size indoor turf soccer field that can be utilized for multiple sports.

DRAKE UNIVERSITY

Drake Stadium includes the infamous Blue Oval track and field facility as well as one full-size soccer field. Home to Drake Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams, the oncampus Knapp Center seats 6,424 and puts the fans right on the court.

Famous for its museums, outdoors and sports venues, Cedar Falls is a college town with much to experience

UNI-DOME

Located on the University of Northern Iowa campus, UNIDome features 80,000 square feet of AstroTurf and hard floor space and more than 16,000 permanent seats. UNI-Dome is the current home of the UNI Panthers football team, but with its 18 courts for volleyball.

UNI WELLNESS AND RECREATION CENTER

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI)’s Wellness and Recreation Center features 10 full-size basketball courts that can be converted for volleyball and other indoor sports, making it ideal for large youth sports tournaments and competitions.

FIT COURTS

FIT Courts is an ideal venue for indoor sports tournaments and events. FIT features over 14,000 square feet of space, with three college-size basketball courts, or up to six volleyball courts.

LAURA JASS

lauraj@catchdesmoines.com (515) 699-3455

ASHLEY JOHNSON

ashley@cedarvalleysports.org (319) 493-5371

COUNCIL BLUFFS SIOUX CITY WATERLOO

Located in Southwest Iowa, Council Bluffs offers superior sports venues for an array of events

COUNCIL BLUFFS RECREATION COMPLEX

The Council Bluffs Recreation Complex offers multiple fields for bat-and-ball sports, including four for softball, four for baseball and two for youth fast-pitch. The complex also has 10 full-size soccer fields and four full-size football fields.

IOWA WEST FIELD HOUSE

Iowa West Field House houses 100,000 square feet, with 12 regulation-size volleyball courts or eight high school-size basketball courts. The space is versatile to hold a variety of different sporting events as well.

IOWA WEST SPORTS PLEX

This 75,000-square-foot indoor turf facility can accommodate a variety of sporting events, with its regulation-size turf field able to be separated into multiple smaller field configurations. Its upstairs mezzanine area has bleachers as well as bench seating.

COUNCIL BLUFFS CVB info@unleashcb.com (712) 256-2577, x2

Located in western Iowa, Siouxland boasts boundless sporting opportunities for a wide-range of events

TYSON EVENTS CENTER

Located a short distance from the Missouri River, Tyson Events Center is the prime hub for large sporting events, concerts and competitions in Sioux City, Iowa. The 190,000 square feet dedicated to this venue allows for U-shaped seating, with a 10,000-seat capacity and 28 luxury suites.

SEABOARD TRIUMPH EXPO CENTER

This versatile expo center can be situated to fit numerous sporting and recreational events. With 80,000 square feet, the area is large enough to arrange 14 volleyball courts or 12 basketball courts.

SIOUXLAND SPORTS ACADEMY

This academy boasts numerous full-sized courts and training rooms, including 18 adjustable basketball hoops and a gorgeous hardwood dance studio.

WARD FRANZ ward@exploresiouxland.com (712) 224-1000

Waterloo is the major metro of the Cedar Valley Region of Northeast Iowa with multiple sports facilities

CEDAR VALLEY SOCCER COMPLEX

Located in Waterloo, Iowa, Cedar Valley Soccer Complex includes 11 full-size competition fields as well as four practice fields. The complex’s multipurpose fields are also perfect for flag football, 7v7 football and ultimate frisbee.

CEDAR VALLEY SPORTSPLEX

Cedar Valley Sportsplex features two full-size basketball courts that can be converted into four for volleyball. The Sportsplex also features a nearly 30,000-square-foot fieldhouse with artificial turf for indoor football and soccer.

YOUNG ARENA

Young Arena features one Olympic-size ice rink with 3,500 permanent seats. The arena utilizes an insulated ice cover and has floor space to accommodate eight 42′ x 42′ mats.

ASHLEY JOHNSON ashley@cedarvalleysports.org (319) 493-5371

CLEAR LAKE

Clear Lake, Iowa has a mighty sports community that ranges from perfect sailing conditions to fishing and basketball

CLEAR LAKE

This 3,684-acre, spring-fed glacial lake in Northern Iowa is a popular destination for fishing tournaments, with walleye, yellow bass and channel catfish. Along with fishing, Clear Lake has yearround events that range from sailing regattas to paddling competitions.

CLEAR LAKE ATHLETICS & WELLNESS CENTER

Clear Lake Athletics & Wellness Center is a state-of-the-art facility featuring 81,000 square feet of indoor space. Indoor facilities include two hardwood courts, three multipurpose courts, a 200-meter track and a 47,114-square-foot fieldhouse.

CLEAR LAKE LIONS FACILITIES

Clear Lake’s community takes great pride in school athletics with the Lions team name at the forefront. Lions Field Athletic Complex in particular features an artificial turf field suitable for football and soccer.

LIBBEY HOHN libbey@clearlakeiowa.com (641) 357-2159

AMES

Beyond the Cornfields: Ames, Iowa offers a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for your next sporting event

CYCLONE SPORTS COMPLEX

Cyclone Sports Complex provides ample space for events of all sizes and is home to Iowa State’s track and field, soccer and softball teams. The soccer facility features a seating capacity of 1,500, a surrounding Hobart Texture Track Surface, four long jump/triple jump runways, two pole vault areas and 3.5 acres of throw space.

LIED RECREATION CENTER

Lied Recreation Center is a large indoor sports facility, featuring 20 basketball courts that can be converted into eight racquetball or badminton courts. One basketball court can typically be converted into two volleyball courts.

HUNZIKER YOUTH

SPORTS COMPLEX

This spacious outdoor facility is perfect for youth and amateur sports, offering 24 soccer fields that can be utilized for various sports, as well as four softball and five baseball fields.

TRISTAN SPEARS tristans@discoverames.com (515) 956-4604

IOWA CITYCORALVILLE AREA

Located a short drive from one another, Iowa City and Coralville provide a superb, combined sports scene

XTREAM ARENA AND GREENSTATE FAMILY FIELDHOUSE

Xtream Arena powered by Mediacom is a modern 5,100seat arena that is home to Iowa Hawkeyes volleyball teams and the ECHL’s Iowa Heartlanders. The attached GreenState Family Fieldhouse provides its own space for additional sports with five courts.

CAMPUS RECREATION AND WELLNESS CENTER NATATORIUM

Located on the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City, the Natatorium at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center features a 2,500-seat Olympic-size pool and diving well at 14 to 17 feet for topnotch competitions.

HAWKEYE TENNIS AND RECREATION CENTER

HTRC houses 12 outdoor tennis courts, along with eight indoor courts that can be utilized for additional sports like pickleball.

LUKE EUSTICE luke@thinkiowacity.com (319) 337-6592

MARSHALLTOWN SIOUX CENTER FORT DODGE

Welcome to Marshalltown, Iowa:

A top choice for a “meet in the middle” sports tournament with top-notch facilities and activities

MARSHALLTOWN ROUNDHOUSE

This indoor facility boasts abundant court space for a multitude of sports, featuring a main gym that is the largest high school basketball arena in the State of Iowa at a capacity of 5,100. The court space can be utilized for up to six basketball courts and eight volleyball courts.

LINDA BLOOM NATATORIUM

Home to multiple swimming and diving championships, Linda Bloom Natatorium is a premier venue for water sports in the Midwest. With a capacity of 2,200, the natatorium features eight 7-foot lap lanes that are lined with 6-inch lane ropes.

THE ORPHEUM THEATER ESPORTS ARENA

Two gaming arenas are located within The Orpheum Theater Esports Arena, boasting a capacity of 40 computers and up to 300 spectators.

DYLAN DOES ddoes@marshalltown.org (641) 753-6645

Sioux Center, Iowa creates an exceptional experience for players, coaches, planners and fans

AMERICAN STATE BANK SPORTS COMPLEX

The air-inflated domed American State Bank Sports Complex provides nearly three acres of indoor turf for a multitude of year-round sports uses: two regulation softball fields, a regulation soccer field or a regulation football field.

OPEN SPACE PARK ATHLETIC COMPLEX

This award-winning athletic complex includes 80 acres of public recreational facilities, including the Iowa Baseball Field of the Year in 2017 and National Softball Field of the Year in 2019.

ALL SEASONS CENTER/ VERNON ARENA

This facility features an indoor NHL-sized ice rink, with ice events September through March and dry floor events April through August. Bleachers seat 750 spectators, with locker rooms and concessions. Facility also features indoor pool.

TRENT ROOSE trent.roose@dordt.edu (712) 722-6503

Enjoy family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures and cultural opportunities

HARLAN & HAZEL ROGERS

SPORTS COMPLEX

Home to the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union State Softball Championships for 54 years, the 100-acre Harlan & Hazel Rogers Sports Complex is an ideal spot for a sports tournament. The complex features 11 diamonds of different sizes for baseball and softball.

LAKESIDE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

Lakeside Municipal Golf Course is a beautifully manicured 18-hole course that includes a long and straight front nine and a short and narrow back nine. Along with the course, the site features a putting range, a driving range and a clubhouse with a pro shop concessions.

LIZARD CREEK MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS

Traverse 10 miles on the hand-cut, single-track Lizard Creek Mountain Bike Trails, situated along the Des Moines River Valley.

TIFFAY CONRAD tconrad@fortdodgeiowa.org (515) 573-4282

GREATER MUSCATINE

Plan your next sporting event in Greater Muscatine, Iowa, which borders the mighty Mississippi River

KENT-STEIN BASEBALL & SOFTBALL COMPLEX

Sprawled over 66 acres, KentStein Baseball & Softball Complex features nine softball diamonds, eight baseball diamonds and nine horseshoe courts, all of which are lighted.

MUSCATINE SOCCER COMPLEX

This impressive 41-acre, $3.8 million soccer facility features eight full-size soccer fields. Two of the eight fields are internationally sized, lighted and contain amended soils. The complex is fully equipped, including concessions, a media center, restroom facility and a parking area.

MUSCATINE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

Golfers will love this 18-hole facility located on the north side of Muscatine, offering a complete pro shop, concession area, cart rental and driving range. Hit your golf ball over the water on No. 13 or test your leg strength on a Par 5 on the nine-hole Foot Golf course.

REBECCA PAULSEN rpaulsen@muscatine.com (563) 263-8895

OTTUMWA DUBUQUE

Located in southeastern Iowa, Ottumwa is an upcoming sports city, featuring a revitalized downtown district

BRIDGE VIEW CENTER

Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center is a 30,000-square-foot exposition hall that is often used for many indoor sporting events. Past sporting events held at the center include AAU Trampoline & Tumbling, the Bullriders of America Finals, Cornhole League and esports tournaments. Along with the exposition hall, Bridge View Center also has a theater, conference rooms, a studio and an outdoor plaza with views overlooking the banks of the beautiful Des Moines River.

SOUTHEAST IOWA JBS SPORTS CENTER

Opening in 2025, the state-ofthe-art Southeast Iowa JBS Sports Center will provide three full-size basketball courts, four volleyball courts, a 9v9 turf soccer field, a softball and baseball infield, two batting cages, a turf football field, concessions and offices. Along with sporting events, the center will be able to be used for other major events.

LAURA CARRELL lcarrell@meetottumwa.org (641) 684-4303

Uncovering Dubuque, Iowa: a rich tapestry of history, charm and surprising sports adventures

FIELD OF DREAMS MOVIE SITE

Step onto the iconic baseball field where cinematic magic was born, surrounded by the nostalgic charm of Iowa farmland. This historic location provides ample space for events with additional facilities and its expansive grass/gravel parking lot.

DUBUQUE ICE ARENA

Get ready to lace up and hit the ice at Dubuque Ice Arena. Nestled on an island surrounded by the Mississippi River, this 3,200-seat arena offers spectators breathtaking views and ample space for ice hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions and more.

UNIVERSITY OF DUBUQUE CHLAPATY RECREATION AND WELLNESS CENTER

This center is a top-notch venue able to host a wide range of indoor sporting events. The center has a sixlane track, perfect for running competitions.

NOAH WESTHOFF nwesthoff@traveldubuque.com (563) 845-7698

CHARLES CITY CEDAR RAPIDS VISIT QUAD CITIES

Located along the scenic Cedar River, Charles City is a rural Iowa community that is rich in history

CHARLES CITY WHITEWATER

Charles City Whitewater is Iowa’s first whitewater park. With multiple river flows and skill levels and open year-round, kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, tubers, fishermen and all river enthusiasts will enjoy this park on the Cedar River. The park hosts annual events, with a course prepared to host slalom, downriver, and surf competitions.

ALL IOWA LAWN TENNIS CLUB

This grass tennis court is located on a family farm in rural Charles City, offering a oneof-a-kind tennis experience. Featured in Tennis magazine and dubbed as “The Court of Dreams,” AILTC is a prime spot.

USSSA BASEBALL

With multiple baseball diamonds across Charles City, including at Sportsman’s Park and Lion’s Field Park, USSSA Baseball has been putting on many 9U–13U tournaments over the past few years in the months of June and July.

GINGER WILLIAMS ginger@charlescitychamber.com (641) 228-4234

Cedar Rapids is a vibrant city in eastern Iowa and a host to wonderful sports facilities and activities for all to enjoy

ALLIANT ENERGY POWERHOUSE

The Alliant Energy PowerHouse, located in downtown Cedar Rapids, is a versatile complex featuring an arena, convention center and a 267-room hotel with two attached parking garages. The 37,550-square-foot arena seats 6,800 and includes four team locker rooms and two officials’ locker rooms.

TUMA SPORTS COMPLEX

Tuma Sports Complex features 22 full-sized soccer fields that can be customized for soccer, rugby and a multitude of other sports. It also includes two youth football fields at 50 x 120 yards, parking for over 1,000 vehicles and a 5,600-squarefoot pavilion.

IMON ICE ARENA

ImOn Ice Arena features two sheets of ice: an NHL arena with seating for 3,800 and an Olympic rink with seating for 200. The facility includes eight team locker rooms and two officials’ locker rooms.

JAY FANTA

J.Fanta@tourismcedarrapids.com (319) 731-4557

The Quad Cities feature versatile facilities for all sports and events from soccer to esports and more

TBK BANK SPORTS COMPLEX

TBK Bank Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment facility. Outdoors, it offers four soccer fields, 10 lighted turf baseball/ softball fields, and five sand volleyball courts. Indoors, you’ll find two turf multipurpose fields and eight basketball or 12 volleyball courts. Across the road and open in 2024, Iron Tee Golf adds 58 temperaturecontrolled driving bays.

MODERN WOODMEN PARK

Featuring 4,000 permanent seats and 2,000 additional seats on the grass and in the picnic area, there is also versatile meeting and event space with spectacular views. Families can also enjoy a variety of amusement rides at the park.

DAVENPORT RIVERCENTER

The RiverCenter is a 100,000-square-foot multiuse convention center that is conveniently connected to two of downtown Davenport’s finest hotels.

JESSICA VANDYKE jvandyke@visitquadcities.com (309) 736-6823

QUAD CITIES, IOWA

The Quad Cities region combines a family of dozens of communities in Illinois and Iowa to create one major sports destination. Whether it’s for sporting events along the beautiful Mississippi River at the awardwinning Modern Woodmen Park, voted the best minor league ballpark in the U.S., or top tournaments for a multitude of sports at TBK Bank Sports Complex, the Quad Cities has you covered. There’s also plenty to see and do away from the action in the Quad Cities. Discover how local powerhouse John Deere forges the cutting edge every day at John Deere Pavilion, which features new and vintage equipment and interactive and immersive exhibits. The community-centered Figge Art Museum is located along the Mississippi River and features nine permanent galleries, traveling exhibitions, art studios and more. Enjoy a family-owned riverboat cruise aboard the Celebration Belle. For over 40 years, this four-deck riverboat has been a favorite attraction in the Quad Cities.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“This is such a cool area, and it’s so close to so many different larger places, that this is kind of a home away from home.”

— Casey Clark - Keeper Wars CEO & Co-Founder

VISIT QUAD CITIES

Joan Kranovich jkranovich@visitquadcities.com (309) 736-6831 sportsquadcities.com

TBK BANK SPORTS COMPLEX

Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Volleyball, Indoor and Outdoor Sports

TBK Bank Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment complex. Outdoor facilities include two lighted turf soccer fields, 10 lighted turf baseball/softball fields and five sand volleyball courts along with concessions. The indoor facilities feature two turf multi-purpose fields, eight regulation-size basketball or volleyball courts, along with a team training area, a fitness center and batting cages.

MODERN WOODMEN PARK

Baseball, Events

Located in Davenport, Iowa, Modern Woodmen Park sits right on the banks of the Mississippi River. Home to the Quad Cities River Bandits, a High-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, the stadium has also hosted many collegiate and high school tournaments and events. Featuring 4,000 permanent seats and 2,000 additional seats on the grass and in the picnic area, there is also versatile meeting and event space with spectacular views.

DAVENPORT RIVERCENTER

Dance, Cheerleading, Table Tennis, Esports, Indoor Sports and Events

The RiverCenter is a 100,000-square-foot multiuse convention center that is conveniently connected to two of downtown Davenport’s finest hotels. It has a 32,400-square-foot hall with concrete floors and no columns, making it a perfect room to host any dance or cheer competition, table tennis tournament and more. In addition, there is a 13,130-square-foot carpeted hall perfect for billiards tournaments.

ST. AMBROSE UNIVERSITY FACILITIES

Track And Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Baseball, Indoor and Outdoor Sports

St. Ambrose University features an 80,000-squarefoot Wellness Center with a 56,000-square-foot fieldhouse. Sports events have use of a 200-meter, six-lane track, pole vault areas, long and triple jump pits and four multi-sport courts. Lee Lohman Arena has a collegesize basketball court with seating for 2,000.

Lee Lohman SAU, Cheer & Dance

FORT DODGE, IOWA

When the games are done, visitors to Fort Dodge, IA will be pleasantly surprised with the variety of local restaurants and attractions available. John F. Kennedy Memorial Park and Badger Lake are located behind Lakeside municipal golf course. Families can kayak or fish as well as enjoy a picnic or take the kids to the play area. A new 2.6-mile paved path goes around Badger Lake where families can walk or ride bikes. The Corridor Plaza Sports Plex will be completed in early 2025 and is included within a retail district. The Sports Plex will include space for pickle ball, volleyball and basketball courts. Included in the space will be retail and food options. The Matt Cosgrove River’s Edge Discovery Center offers an opportunity for visitors to learn and play while sharing the story of Iowa’s vital water resources. Cool down during hot summer months at Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center with over 30 water amenities offered including a lazy river, multiple slides, and diving boards. Two local ice cream shops, the Dariette and Snack Shack Treats N Eats offer weekly specials and fun flavors to try! The Community Orchard offers the Back 40 Play Area designed for families. Grab lunch or dessert from the café, shop the apple attic, or the market which offers dessert, food, and snacks.

LAKESIDE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

Golf & Cross Country

Play a round at the Lakeside Municipal Golf Course on 18 attractively manicured holes. The first nine are long and straight while the back nine are short and narrow. A driving range, clubhouse, pro shop, and deck with concessions are also available. The golf course hosts tournaments and numerous golf leagues along with high school state cross country and junior college cross country championships.

LIZARD CREEK MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS

Mountain Biking

Traverse ten miles on the hand cut Lizard Creek Mountain Bike Trails situated along the Des Moines River Valley. The trail system has three sections offering each skill level a chance to ride through the Fort Dodge wilderness. Beginners to pro mountain bikers can choose from Lower, Middle or Upper Lizard or the recently made Phinney Loop.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union is proud to call Rogers Sports Complex in Fort Dodge the home of the Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament for over 50 years. The city of Fort Dodge and the Rogers Park staff has been providing high school girls an amazing athletic experience in one of the top softball venues in the United States.”

– Jason Eslinger, Associate Director, Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union

VISIT FORT DODGE

Tiffany Conrad

tconrad@fortdodgeiowa.org 515-573-4282 ext. 1016

www.dodgetheordinary.com

HARLAN & HAZEL ROGERS SPORTS COMPLEX

Softball, Baseball, Soccer

Enjoy 100 acres of recreational opportunities for Iowa sports including baseball, softball and soccer at the Harlan & Hazel Rogers Sports Complex. The site comprises 11 baseball/softball fields (2 turf) with six equipped with Musco lighting. Amenities include three batting cages, four concession stands, 13 soccer fields, scoreboards, restrooms and parking for over 600 vehicles. Home of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union State Softball Championships for 54 years.

Welcome to Missouri!

On behalf of the Missouri Division of Tourism and Show-Me Missouri Sports, we hope you enjoy your time – and your competition – here in the Show-Me State.

Missouri is the ideal location for your event, thanks to its central location, transportation systems, affordability and ability to host events of all sizes and for all activities.

If you’re flying in from across the country, airports in Kansas City (MCI), St. Louis (STL), Springfield (SGF) and Columbia (COU) connect you to some of our largest cities. And because Missouri touches eight other states, driving here is very easy, especially for those who live in the South and Midwest.

Along with excellent facilities for hosting your sporting event or activity, Missouri boasts world-class attractions, great dining options, shopping, beautiful outdoor spaces and recreational activities to keep you busy and entertained when you have down time.

And across the state, the Show-Me Missouri Sports team works hard to ensure your group has everything it needs for a fun, safe and successful event. With partners in Branson, Cape Girardeau, Columbia, Joplin, Lake of the Ozarks, Maryland Heights, Springfield, St. Charles, St. Joseph and St. Louis, you’re always close to a valued member of the Missouri sports family.

In short, when you bring your event to Missouri, everyone wins.

Thank you and enjoy your time in Missouri,

Stephen Foutes and the Show-Me Missouri Sports team

ON THE COVER: Missouri hosts top-flight athletic competitions.

Fan Fest in Kansas City

Scan to discover more of what Missouri offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Photo courtesy of Visit Missouri

Photo courtesy of Visit Missouri

Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City will host six World Cup matches in 2026.

World Cup Thrills Come to the HEARTLAND

WITH WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES LIKE ARROWHEAD STADIUM, KANSAS CITY PREPARES TO WELCOME SOCCER FANS FOR THE BIGGEST

KSPORTING EVENT ON THE PLANET

By Billy Stampfl

ansas City has been named a host city for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, joining a select group of 16 cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada and setting the stage for an international appraisement of Arrowhead Stadium, one of the Midwest’s premier athletic facilities.

Held every four years, the World Cup is the most prestigious and widely viewed single sporting event in the world. In 2022, a combined 5 billion viewers tuned in to watch the tournament, and an estimated 3.4 million tourists visited Qatar.

The 2026 edition will feature a record 80 matches and will be the first World Cup hosted by three countries, as well as the first to include 48 participating nations. According to studies, host cities can anticipate up to $650 million in incremental economic activity as a result of World Cup matches.

Much has been written about the significance of FIFA’s deciding to bring its most famous soccer tourney to Missouri— and the preceding paragraph outlines the World Cup’s social and economic impacts—but Mayor Quinton Lucas summarized the gravity of this decision best: “Kansas City is the soccer capital of America. I can’t wait to welcome the world to Kansas City.”

The 2026 World Cup matches in Kansas City will be held at Arrowhead Stadium, located at the Truman Sports Complex in Jackson County, Missouri. Home to the back-to-back Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium is renowned for

its electrifying atmosphere and holds the distinction of being the loudest stadium in the world. The venue has recently showcased its capacity to host major events by staging five of the last six AFC Championship games. Arrowhead also hosted a recent Sporting KC vs. Inter Miami soccer match featuring the legendary Lionel Messi that drew a massive crowd of more than 72,000, the fourth largest stand-alone crowd in MLS history.

Adjacent to Kauffman Stadium, home of Major League Baseball’s Kansas City Royals, Arrowhead boasts a seating capacity of 76,416. This makes it the 25thlargest stadium in the United States and the fourth-largest NFL stadium, as well as the largest sports facility by capacity in the state of Missouri. A $425 million renovation completed in 2010 modernized the stadium, ensuring it meets the highest standards for international events.

Kansas City is slated to host six matches at Arrowhead during the World Cup, including four group-stage fixtures and two knockout games. Organizers expect approximately 650,000 visitors to descend upon the region during the tournament, providing a substantial boost to the economy and an unprecedented opportunity for global exposure.

The successful bid was the result of a collaborative effort led by many stakeholders. Co-chaired by Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt and Sporting Kansas City principal owner Cliff Illig, the bid was supported by an executive committee comprising sports

executives, government officials, and civic representatives from across the region. This bi-state coalition delivered a strategic vision for securing the largest event in Kansas City’s history, involving key stakeholders such as proposed training sites, base camps, hotel partners, and Fan Fest locations.

Why Kansas City? The historic city is proudly known as the Heart of America, and it is the nation’s most centrally located major metropolitan area. With 55 million people within a day’s drive and both coasts accessible within a three-hour flight, the city offers unparalleled accessibility. Enhancing this advantage is the new $1.5 billion state-of-the-art single terminal at Kansas City International Airport.

Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Chiefs

Beyond the matches themselves, Kansas City is preparing to offer visitors a rich cultural experience. Known for its vibrant arts scene, world-famous barbecue, and jazz heritage, the city is planning Fan Fest locations where people can gather to celebrate, watch matches on big screens and enjoy live music and local cuisine.

And while Kansas City will take center stage, it is important to note that the impact of the World Cup extends beyond the host cities. FIFA has named St. Louis, another Missouri marvel, as part of a group of cities that could host team base camps for the tournament. Although the city that calls itself the “Gateway to the West” will

not hold official World Cup matches, Saint Louis University could serve as a “home away from home” training camp site, with the Magnolia Hotel St. Louis as the paired accommodation. This arrangement allows teams the opportunity to establish a consistent base of operations throughout the tournament, offering a stable training environment that complements the dynamic atmosphere of the host cities.

The “home and home” setup in St. Louis provides an excellent opportunity for a famed city to engage with the global soccer community. Teams can acclimate in a supportive environment, and local fans have the chance to be part of the World

Cup excitement. St. Louis, with its rich soccer history and passionate fan base, is poised to contribute meaningfully to the success of the tournament. As anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup, Kansas City stands ready to welcome the world. With its state-of-the-art facilities, strategic location, and a community united by a love for soccer, the city is set to shine on the global stage. The event promises not only thrilling matches but also lasting economic and cultural benefits for the region. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or a traveler eager to explore the Heart of America, Kansas City, and Missouri will be the place to be come 2026.

MARYLAND HEIGHTS

MARYLAND HEIGHTS’ PROXIMITY TO ST. LOUIS ALLOWS VISITORS TO ENJOY MAJOR LEAGUE GAMES

Centene Community Ice Center

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Centene Community Ice Center

Ice Hockey, Ice Skating And More Ice Sports

Centene Community Ice Center has four sheets of ice, including an event center with a 2,500-seat capacity, two additional indoor sheets and a covered outdoor rink. One of the additional indoor ice sheets serves as the St. Louis Blues’ official practice center. The ice center also has a training and rehab facility, an off-ice hockey skills development center as well as concessions and retail shops. Along with NCAA ice hockey, the center also has recreational leagues and clubs, in-house training and learn-toskate programs.

2. Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex Soccer And More Outdoor Sports

This large sports complex contains 13 synthetic turf fields, 11 of which are lighted, including a standalone championship field with permanent seating for up to 500 spectators. Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex also features two smaller sized natural grass fields for youth play and practices. The complex also has ample concessions, restrooms and lighted parking areas.

3. Lou Fusz Soccer Complex Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby, Field Hockey And More Outdoor Sports

Lou Fusz Soccer Complex provides 12 multipurpose fields, two of which are grass and the rest featuring a synthetic grass surface. The complex also includes the Back Post Grill & Tap, a team store, pavilion and ample parking. The fields are capable of hosting just about any outdoor sport from soccer to lacrosse and more.

MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MO

Laura Brahan

Laura@visitmarylandheights.org (314) 374-5209

EXPLORE BRANSON

OUTDOOR ADVENTURERS, FOOD LOVERS, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT GOERS, AND THRILL-SEEKERS ALIKE SHOULD LOOK NO FURTHER THAN BRANSON

Ballparks of America

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Ballparks of America Baseball, Softball

Take your next tournament or sporting event to the Ballparks of America, a sprawling 1.2-million-square-foot campus composed of five replica Major League ballparks to give young athletes an experience similar to the pros. Each field is a 2/3 replica of a famous MLB ballpark, featuring synthetic turf, professional scoreboards, sports lighting, sunken dugouts and reclaimed seats to mimic the big league stadiums of St. Louis, Chicago, Kansas City, Boston and Brooklyn.

2. Branson RecPlex Basketball, Softball, Soccer, Swimming, Track, Volleyball

This impressive 35-acre recreation facility is a multipurpose sports complex that combines recreation fitness and sports in one convenient location. The 44,000-square-foot recreation center includes two gymnasiums for basketball and volleyball that are full-sized and features a wood floor and bleacher seating, electronic scoreboards and a divider curtain and a 7,500-square foot fitness center with top exercise equipment.

3. Hilton Branson Convention Center Cheer, Dance, Wrestling, Archery, Cornhole, Pickleball

With a sprawling 220,000 square feet of versatile space, from futsal to cheerleading, cornhole to wrestling, your athletic dreams come to life here. Built in 2007 and resting at the heart of the $420 million Branson Landing development is this planner, exhibitor, and attendee’s dream.

VISIT CAPE ST. JOSEPH SPORTS COMMISSION

EXPERIENCE A CHARMING DOWNTOWN WITH GREAT FOOD, SHOPPING AND THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI RIVER

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Cape Girardeau Sportsplex

Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Cheerleading

This sportsplex features six basketball courts that convert into 12 volleyball courts and two turf fields. It also offers full-service concessions during tournaments and youth league play. The facility has a dining area and lounge to help enjoy your meal. The sportsplex stands out because of the court space it offers under one roof as well as the proximity to the interstate. It also features on-site parking.

2. Shawnee Park Sports Complex

Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football

The Shawnee Park Sports Complex consists of eight lighted 300-foot softball fields with scoreboards, covered dugouts, water fountains, changing rooms, restrooms, three complete concession facilities, and 12 soccer fields, including three lighted tournament fields. It also sports two football fields. It has on-site parking, three full-service concession stands and is one of the biggest outdoor facilities in the region.

3. Show Me Center

Basketball, Volleyball, Cheerleading,

MMA

Due to its unique design, the Show Me Center is versatile enough to stage multiple events simultaneously, and flexible enough to host a rodeo one evening and basketball game the next. It is this dedication to quality client service and support that sets the Show Me Center apart from its competition. The main floor is 36,000-sq-ft and can be easily configured for an organizers needs. It also offers a full service concessions as well as catering options for events.

VISIT CAPE

FROM A WORLD-CLASS ART MUSEUM TO A RENOWNED SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, IT’S EASY TO FIND AN EVENT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Civic Arena Basketball, Volleyball, Indoor Football, Trade Show Space, Etc.

The Civic Arena is the perfect size for small college and high school sporting events as it seats 3,200. The arena has also undergone a complete aesthetics renovation recently to include a new LED scoreboard with ring, LED scorers tables, lighting, sound, seat replacement, court sanding, and a restroom renovation along with interior/exterior painting. Most recently, Civic Arena hosted the 2023 & 2024 NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championship.

2. Heritage Park Softball Complex Softball

This five-field, skinned infield venue is perfect for all levels of fast pitch and slow pitch softball. The venue was named the ASA venue of the year in 2008, hosted the 2011 NCAA Division II Softball National Championship and the 2014 Missouri State High School Activities Association Girls State Softball Championship. The facility has ample space for warmup in between fields that is crucial for multi-field, multi-game tournaments.

3. Spratt Stadium Complex Football, Soccer, Lacrosse

The Spratt Stadium Complex on the campus of Missouri Western State University is the home to the school’s football, soccer and lacrosse programs in addition to the Summer Training Camp home of the Kansas City Chiefs and MSHSAA Football Championships. It features a seating capacity of 7,200, lighting, a 2,500-square- foot LED video board and a spacious pavilion.

Shawnee Park Sports Complex

Civic Arena

JOPLIN SPORTS AUTHORITY GREATER ST. CHARLES CVB

WITH WORLD-CLASS VENUES, THIS DESTINATION IS A GREAT PLACE FOR YOUR NEXT SPORTING EVENT

Tom Rutledge

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Leggett and Platt Athletic Center

Basketball, volleyball, track and field

Completed in the fall of 1999, the Leggett and Platt Athletic Center serves as the dynamic home for Missouri Southern State University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. This impressive 80,000-square-foot facility features a wooden parquet main court surrounded by over 3,200 individual chairback seats, ensuring an intimate yet energetic atmosphere for fans. Encircling the basketball floor is the six-lane, 200-meter Mercy Track, which provides an indoor haven for track and field athletes and regularly hosts top-tier events like the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Championships.

2. Joe Becker Stadium Baseball

Joe Becker Stadium has been a cornerstone of Joplin since its original construction in 1913. A significant $4.7 million renovation in 2014 revitalized the venue, introducing modern amenities such as new lighting, stadium-style seating for 4,200 spectators, renovated restrooms, locker rooms, team dugouts, and the addition of concession stands and merchandise areas.

3. Tom Rutledge Cross Country Course Cross country

Named in honor of the legendary coach Tom Rutledge, this cross country course is a premier destination for runners seeking a challenging track and picturesque environment. Featuring a unique 5K grass loop that concludes just south of the starting line, athletes finish through a charming archway inscribed with “MSSU Cross Country,” adding a memorable touch.

JOPLIN SPORTS AUTHORITY

Jared Bruggeman jared@joplinsports.org (417) 625-1006

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Hyland Arena Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling, Gymnastics, Cheer, Dance

Nestled within the beautiful campus of Division I Lindenwood University, Hyland Arena is utilized for many different types of competitions including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics, cheer, and dance. With a capacity of 3,270 seats along with a brand-new 4-face LED jumbotron, complimented by a LED wall-mounted display and 40’ of LED scorers tables lining the court, Hyland Arena provides the ideal set-up for championship events!

2. St. Peters Rec-Plex Figure Skating, Hockey, Swim, Dive

Having celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2024, The St. Peters Rec-Plex is still one of the premier multi-use facilities in the Midwest. The facility features a world-class, Olympic-sized natatorium (with a seating capacity of around 1300), three NHLsize ice rinks (with seating capacities ranging from 450-1200), and adequate court space.

3. CarShield Field Baseball, Soccer

CarShield Field is home to the O’Fallon Hoots of the Prospect League, but it also hosts a number of other events including baseball tournaments and soccer leagues. The facility boasts an all-synthetic turf surface, and it has a seating capacity of over 5,000. With ample parking, lighting, concessions, and a close proximity to the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, CarShield Field is a home run for events.

DISCOVER ST. CHARLES

Chris Wilson, Sales Manager cwilson@discoverstcharles.com (636) 255-6102

Hunter Stadium

LAKE OF THE OZARKS

SPANNING 54,000 ACRES WITH OVER 1,150 MILES OF SHORELINE, LAKE OF THE OZARKS IS A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

Ballparks National

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Ballparks National Baseball, Softball

Nestled off of Highway 54 between Macks Creek and Camdenton, Ballparks National is a state-of-the-art youth baseball and fastpitch softball complex. Featuring eight all-turf fields, this privately-owned facility ensures games proceed rain or shine—only 10 games have ever been rained out since its inception. Teams from 19 different states have competed here, drawn by the high-quality facilities and the allure of the nearby Lake of the Ozarks, the number one recreational lake in the nation. Beyond sparkling diamonds, Ballparks National provides a unique dining experience with authentic BBQ and high-quality food and beverage options that far surpass typical ballpark fare.

2. Missouri Trapshooters Association Home Grounds Trapshooting

Located in Linn Creek at 51 Trapshooters Road—a dazzlingly appropriate address—the Missouri Trap Shooters Association (MTA) Home Grounds is the second-largest trapshooting facility in the world. Dating back to the early 1900s, when it was known as the Federation of Missouri Trapshooters, the MTA has a rich history of preserving this time-honored sport.

3. Golf Courses Golf

Lake of the Ozarks boasts 14 championship golf courses, each routed through a combination of forests, water and elevations carved and the rolling hills that will challenge any game, from weekend duffer to low-handicapper.

LAKE OF THE OZARKS

COLUMBIA CVB

FROM FESTIVALS TO FOOD AND SCENIC ESCAPES, YOU’LL FIND SOMETHING PERFECTLY UNEXPECTED

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Gans Creek Recreation Area Cross-Country, Soccer, Rugby, Lacrosse

Gans Creek Recreation Area features a dedicated Cross-Country Course with permanent timing tours, concessions, onsite and nearby parking, permanent finish line structure, media/race HQ building and a spectator berm overlooking course. It also sports five high quality, multiple-purpose, natural grass fields.

2. Columbia Sports Fieldhouse Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Indoor Event Space

Columbia Sports Fieldhouse is home to four basketball/volleyball courts, 12 pickleball courts, hardwood floors, bathrooms, concessions, onsite and nearby parking, meeting and office space, above court viewing area, court level loading/unloading area and moveable bleachers. It will double in size to eight courts with 24 pickleball courts after an expansion in May 2025.

3. Mizzou Arena Basketball, Wrestling, Indoor Sports and Events

Home to Missouri men’s and women’s basketball, Mizzou Arena produces one of the country’s top home-court venues thanks to state-of-the-art training facilities and locker rooms, and a fulllength practice gym which is open to Tigers student-athletes 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It has a seating capacity of 15,000 with ADA seating accommodations, club seating in 24 suites totaling 1,000 total, front row beachers that retract for additional event space, a hospitality room, concessions, team store, loading bay, practice gym, box office and multiple parking lots nearby.

COLUMBIA CVB

Gans Creek

ST. LOUIS

ST. LOUIS SHOWCASES A RICH ARRAY OF PROFESSIONAL AND COLLEGIATE SPORTS

America’s Center Complex

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. America’s Center Convention Complex Volleyball, Gymnastics, Wrestling, Cheer And Dance And More

Located in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, America’s Center offers a dynamic range of facilities to accommodate a variety of sports events. With over 574,000 square feet of flexible space, any event including high-flying gymnastics competitions to hardhitting wrestling matches, can be transformed to fit all needs.

2. The Dome at America’s Center Football, Motocross, Monster Jam

The Dome at America’s Center is a versatile venue capable of hosting a wide array of events and can seat over 67,000. From large-scale trade shows and exhibitions to thrilling motocross races and monster truck rallies, this facility can adapt to suit any occasion. Its innovative design and prime location within the America’s Center convention complex make it a premier destination for sports, entertainment, and corporate events.

3. Busch Stadium Baseball And More Outdoor Sports And Events

Busch Stadium is home to Major League Baseball’s St. Louis Cardinals, offering beautiful views of the city, including the famous Gateway Arch. The stadium features a capacity of 46,000, with 3,706 club seats and 61 luxury suites. Along with top-notch amenities like lighting, concessions, on-site parking and more, the stadium is complimented by the Ballpark Village, built on the site of the Cardinals’ old stadium. The village has shops, a fitness center and Budweiser Brew House, just to name a few places to enjoy.

EXPLORE ST. LOUIS

ST. LOUIS SPORTS COMMISSION

NO MATTER YOUR TRAVEL PERSONA, YOU’LL FIND PLENTY TO DO IN ST. LOUIS

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Enterprise Center Hockey, Ice Shows

Enterprise Center is one of the finest sports and entertainment complexes in the country, with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment and an unprecedented commitment to quality and service. The home of the St. Louis Blues Hockey Club, Enterprise Center seats up to 22,000 and also features a full range of arena programming, including concerts, ice shows, family shows and other sporting events.

2. Citypark Soccer

Home of St. Louis CITY SC, the 32-acre CITYPARK stadium district is the largest urban professional sports campus in the U.S. and the only one with a stadium, team headquarters, team store and practice facility all within the same footprint. The 22,423-capacity stadium has been voted one of the best soccer venues in the country.

3. Chaifetz Arena Basketball, Conventions, Concerts

Chaifetz Arena is a 10,600-seat venue sitting on the campus of Saint Louis University and is privately managed by Oak View Group. The arena has served as the home venue for the SLU Billikens men’s and women’s basketball teams as well as hosted a diverse range of concerts, family shows, national sporting events such as Olympic Trials events and NCAA championships, and much more.

St. Louis

SPRINGFIELD

SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI OFFERS A MIX OF PROFESSIONAL AND YOUTH SPORTING EVENTS

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Wilson Logistics Arena Arena Football, Bmx, Rodeos And More Indoor Sports And Events

Wilson Logistics Arena is a new facility that opened in January 2024 and is located on the same property with an additional 84,000-square-foot indoor facility. Home to The Arena League (TAL)’s Ozarks Lunkers six-on-six American football team, it has been affectionately nicknamed “The Tackle Box.” The 164,000-square-foot concrete floor features 6,400 retractable seats.

2. Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Town Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer And More Indoor And Outdoor Sports

The 82-acre Allison Sports Town is an indoor and outdoor complex that can host any type of sporting event. The complex offers 12 outdoor, professionally maintained multipurpose fields, including four turf fields that allow for all-weather play. The 94,000-square-foot indoor facility is home to four high schoolregulation basketball courts that can be converted into eight volleyball courts as well as two indoor soccer fields.

3. Cooper & Killian Sports Complex Softball, Baseball, Tennis, Soccer And More Outdoor And Indoor Sports

This sports complex features two 1,200+seat championship stadiums and is home to the Missouri State University softball team. In addition to the stadiums, there are 11 lighted turfed baseball/softball fields, 18 lighted outdoor tennis courts and 12 indoor hard courts and 17 lighted multipurpose fields.

KANSAS CITY

KANSAS CITY OFFERS A RICH EXPERIENCE THAT’S PERFECT FOR YOU

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Kansas City Convention Center

Volleyball, Fencing, Wrestling, Cheer & Dance

Located in the heart of downtown KC, the 800,000-square-foot Kansas City Convention Center has multiple options for any type of indoor sporting event. Along with an arena that can seat 10,700 people, there is 388,800 square feet of column-free exhibit space on one floor, 48 meeting rooms, a 2,400-seat fine arts theater and more. It also features concessions, lights, LED scoreboards, is column free and also has connected parking. There are also 5,000 hotel rooms conveniently located within one mile of the center.

2. T-Mobile Center Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling

Kansas City’s premier indoor arena is home to the Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships, as well as many more major sporting events. The flexible venue can host nearly any indoor sport, featuring seating for 18,000+ attendees along with 72 suites. Amenities include top-notch locker rooms, LED scoreboard, ribbon boards, green room, on-site parking and more. The adjacent Kansas City Power & Light District provides even more entertainment options for fans.

3. CPKC Stadium Soccer And Outdoor Events

Located in Berkley Riverfront Park in downtown KC, CPKC Stadium is the first stadium built that’s dedicated to a women’s professional sports team, the Kansas City Current. It features 11,500 seats and has 120 hotel rooms within one mile of the stadium.

VIRTUAL REALITY VIRTUAL REALITY

A Game Changer for Sports Tourism

The future is here and is revolutionizing sports marketing

By Melissa Corless

Innovators have continually evolved technology to entertain us, enhance business opportunities and test the limits of our intelligence. With predecessors such as 3D movies and simulators, the creation of virtual reality (VR) was inevitable. VR has transitioned from a futuristic concept to an essential tool for industries worldwide, including sports tourism. By offering immersive, interactive experiences, VR is revolutionizing how sports destinations are marketed, making it more accessible and engaging, how event planners engage their audiences and how travelers choose their destinations.

VR has become an essential tool for many industries.

OVER 40 YEARS IN THE MAKING

First invented in the 1960s by Ivan Sutherland, with his launch of the first head-mounted augmented reality display, Sutherland allowed users to experience a

virtual world for the first time. While this invention required ceiling supports to host the headset due to its immense weight, it served as the initial development in what would become the evolution of virtual reality experiences and usage.

The 1980s brought the official coinage of “virtual reality” and moved to a state of production through channels such as NASA and scientific communities, all working to utilize and developing the technology further to define how it could best serve people. Ranging from the first Virtual Visual environment displays to use in treating medical disorders, VR made huge gains and advancements, landing heavily in the video gaming communities with the launch of headsets in the early 1990s.

With the foundation laid, VR and its applications have exploded onto the consumer and business stages in the last 40 years, surpassing the gaming channels which led to its initial popularity.

THE DATA SPEAKS FOR ITSELF

VR headsets in the consumer electronics market have increased nearly 400 percent since 2018, with a projected continued growth to exceed an additional 15 perfect by 2028, according to a Statista study. For context, 2024 user projections reflect over 21 million, while 2028 is expected to be over 28 million. With 88 percent of headset owners stated to use it multiple times each month, these numbers support the idea that VR will continue its growth and immersion across the board.

While advancements continue and new use cases present themselves daily, leaders in technology are advancing the industries they serve. Companies such as VRritas, parent company to brands such

as CampusVR, SportsVR and TravelVR, are utilizing the technology within their videography services providing 360-degree, moving, 4K-quality immersive experiences to a variety of industries from sports venues to universities and more.

Through VR immersion, these services provide a solution for individuals and businesses capturing treasured moments such as weddings and concerts to enhance the reach and accessibility of universities, sports, venues and destinations globally.

“One of the most significant differences between traditional 2D media and VR is video view rates, or VVR,” said Manu Goffer, co-founder and CEO of VRritas. “Without understanding any personal habits of viewers, I can say that VR holds visitor attention much longer. In our experience, five-minute video coverage sees 100- to 300-percent VVR stats regularly.”

In further detail, Goffer explains that viewers of all ages engage with the coverage—stopping the video, immersing themselves in the surroundings and extending what would be five-minute experiences into 10- to 15-minute viewing.

DISRUPTING THE TOURISM INDUSTRY

With competition as strong as ever in industries like sports tourism, and costs continuing to rise, finding the appropriate venue for an event or guiding tourists and events to a specified location can be a formidable task. Leveraging the immersive value of VR moving technology provides the opportunity to share your event or location in ways not previously possible. Sharing a video link or QR code can now take your intended viewer on a trip to your location or allow a guest to experience your event as though they were present.

VR is an innovative way to promote campuses to prospective students and athletes.

VR coverage brings your venue or event with when you travel for industry events versus having to bring guests to you. Technological advancements of electronic companies such as Pico add an element of off-line connectivity with internet-free viewing capabilities, which further complement the mobility, visibility and access of VR coverage.

“This is the easiest way to get someone to physically experience the destination without having to be there at a certain time, like festivals or special sporting events,” said Andrew Marks, sales manager with Visit Lynchburg. “[We] can promote what [we] have to offer yearround with an Oculus, as opposed to the additional time and expenditures that come with hosting a familiarization tour.”

An additional impact the medium is playing that benefits destinations is visibility into areas closed to the public. As noted by VRritas’ TourismVR team, VR also unlocks new ways to showcase locations otherwise closed to the public or requiring a special pass. Whether it’s a sports

VR headsets in the consumer electronics market have increased nearly 400 percent since 2018.

venue with restricted access or a sensitive environment needing preservation, it is now possible for these areas to be shared with a broader audience without compromising safety or privacy.

As VR continues to evolve, its impact on sports tourism and travel in general will only grow. Innovations like Ray-Ban Meta recording sunglasses and forthcoming VR glasses indicate that immersive virtual experiences will become more accessible and integrated into daily life. The sports tourism industry will benefit as these technologies allow fans and athletes to experience destinations in increasingly realistic ways.

UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS AND STUDENT LIFE

Universities and University Athletics work with CampusVR services to provide coverage visible to students, guidance counselors and families globally who can now make educated and comfortable decisions regarding their higher education goals. Universities are experiencing

increased enrollment and diversity with VR coverage as entering students no longer forego long-distance universities which they previously would not have funding or the ability to visit.

“We want to be on the cutting edge of destination promotion and also offer our anchor institutions a new, innovative way to promote their campus to prospective students and athletes,” said Marks on implementing VR for Lynchburg’s five colleges and universities in the area. “We are hoping that our anchor institutions will join us to create videos that will increase the student population.”

Being able to experience numerous campus sports facilities and their accompanying amenities like parking and concessions in VR will also be beneficial to event planners. VR will allow them to gain an accurate understanding of whether a specific venue will fit their needs, “experiencing sporting facilities from the comfort of their office and, in turn, bring their events in the future,” said Marks on leveraging VR to bring in more

ENTER TO WIN!

Scan this qr code to be entered to win one of two VR Headsets from CampusVR!

Contest runs from Dec. 1, 2024 to Jan. 31, 2025. Winners to be determined randomly from all qualifying inquiries at the end of January. For more details please visit https://thecampusvr. com/contest/

sporting events and tournaments.

Lynchburg, Virginia, is among a growing list of destinations, venues and sporting teams locally and nationally to utilize SporstVR and TourismVR to highlight their facilities, attractions and events in VR, bringing the beauty, technology and impressive capabilities and amenities to the stage with virtual and moving immersion.

EMBRACE THE FUTURE

Changes and advancements in technology move fast and before you know it, the landscape has changed. VR immersion is inevitably changing the way consumers, destinations, advertisers and others are operating and making decisions. With the immersion of the engaged experience making its way quickly into daily decision making, now is the time to harness the potential of VR and unlock the benefits it holds for the sports tourism industry. The future of travel is immersive—and VR is leading the way.

By Jon Schmieder

10 EMERGING FORCES

Shaping a Milestone Year Ahead

This year marks the 10th edition of our annual Sports Planning Guide trends article. So, we brought our “A” game this year to celebrate such a grand milestone. Let’s get right to it! Here are the 10 sports tourism and events trends we are following as we launch into the new year.

1

Statewide Alignment – Our team at Huddle Up Group (HUG) has seen a lot more intentional involvement in sports tourism from the state level across the country. There is a lot more strategic thought and political influence than in the past. Seems like state tourism leaders have figured out that a majority of those they serve (DMOs and CVBs) count sports tourism as their top priority. Good to see the higher ups leaning into our industry.

2

National Leadership – One year into the role as the leader of our national sports tourism association, John David is coming up aces. His vision and engagement of people and organizations across our industry has made for a stronger SportsETA and has set the table for long-term success. It’s no secret that John and I have been friends for a long time. That said, his energy is contagious and his team has exceeded even my wildest expectations. We believe that even greater things are to come.

3

Transitions – There are a lot of great sports tourism leaders that are nearing the end of their careers. A few have retired recently and there will likely be more to come soon. Given the migration of these historically important figures to our industry, we will be looking to see how each of their organizations transitions into their next iteration as these leaders phase out.

4

Facility Development – There are new and creative funding models out there today that have historically not been available in our industry. Those that are leaning into these mechanisms are delivering tourism driving facilities faster and more effectively than those that use traditional voter-approved bonding mechanisms.

5

The Portal – As the NCAA recently announced their future event sites, what will the destinations that don’t fare well do for future business? The tea leaves say the NCAA portal is also about to change, which is worth monitoring in 2025 and beyond.

6

“Favored Nation Status” – Those that have worked with our team have this term ingrained in their brains. If you are a tourism driving entity and can’t get access to college or high school or parks venues, there are ways for you to move your way up the food chain. We are experiencing a larger number of intentional partnerships revolving around using tourism dollars for facility development, usually between a CVB/DMO and a parks district or academic institution (athletics).

7

External Partnerships – If you are a small CVB and you want to build your sports presence without adding headcount, a few solutions have popped up this past year. Airstream Ventures out of Jacksonville has been the lead in this space. If you don’t want to add head count with payroll and benefit costs, a third party may be a good option to handle your business development (sales) and event execution needs.

The last three are carryovers from last year…

The United States is poised to host one of the biggest events in the world: The World Cup in 2026.

8

Overflow – Our country is about to host two of the largest events the world has to offer (World Cup and the Olympics). You may say, “Our destination isn’t in the mega events game.” However, the spillover of these major events offers opportunities for international visitation for communities both large and small. What is your destination doing to be part of these legacy events?

9

Data – There has never been more research and data specific to the sports tourism industry than there is today. Those that lean into it will be able to make intentional and intelligent decisions on where they invest their

time and money. What sources are you using in your sector of our industry? If the answer is “nothing” let’s rethink things.

10

Highest Best Use – The three biggest parks/city trends we see across the country on the facility side are: (1) get pools off our books, (2) get golf courses off our books, and (3) convert tennis courts to pickleball. The theme here is what is our highest and best use of the real estate and facilities we have?

Best wishes for an awesome 2025.

Yours in Sport, Jon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jon Schmieder is the Founder of the Huddle Up Group LLC, a sports industry consulting company led by award-winning executives. Schmieder has 28 years of experience in leading sports tourism and events organizations through strategic growth and increased community collaboration. The Huddle Up Group has worked with more than 450 sports organizations and destinations since its founding in 2012. In 2017 the Huddle Up Group was given the Superior Service Award, the highest honor a consulting firm can earn from the National Association of Sports Commissions. We can be reached at Jon@HuddleUpGroup.com or 602.369.6955. To receive the weekly “Monday Huddle Up” visit www.HuddleUpGroup.com or sign up at www.tinyletter.com/ JonSchmieder.

Milwaukee Brewers’ heavy hitter Christian Yelich and the Sports Milwaukee team have raised the bar for your next event. Not only do our state-of-the-art facilities play in the big leagues, but our dining scene offers a star-studded lineup of James Beard Award-winning and “Top Chef” talent eager to create lasting memories for your team. We’re ready to serve up an all-star experience, so start planning today.

Carnevor Steakhouse Moderne