Field Notes
For sports enthusiasts, July is the pinnacle of sports viewing, especially in an Olympic year. This month is a genuine feast of international events, providing an unparalleled viewing experience filled with excitement, drama, and the thrill of competition.
In an Olympic year, July is synonymous with the grandeur of the Summer Olympics. This monumental event brings together athletes from over 200 nations, competing in various sports, from swimming and track and field to gymnastics and basketball. The Olympics celebrate human potential, showcasing breathtaking performances, record-breaking feats, and heartwarming stories of perseverance and triumph. The sheer diversity of events ensures that there is something for every sports fan, making it a must-watch spectacle.
July also marks the climax of the Wimbledon Championships, the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament. The All-England Club becomes the center of the tennis universe as the world’s best players battle it out on the iconic grass courts. The intensity of the matches, the rich traditions, and the possibility of witnessing history in the making add to the allure of Wimbledon. Wimbledon offers non-stop excitement for tennis fans, from nail-biting five-setters to stunning upsets.
Cycling fans eagerly anticipate the Tour de France, which dominates the sporting calendar in July. This grueling three-week race covers diverse and challenging terrains, from the flatlands of northern France to the punishing climbs of the Alps and Pyrenees. The Tour de France is a test of endurance, strategy, and sheer willpower. The daily drama of breakaways, sprints, and mountain stages keeps viewers glued to their screens as riders push their limits in pursuit of the coveted yellow jersey.
In addition to these marquee events, July often features major international soccer tournaments, such as the UEFA European Championship or the Copa America, depending on the year. These tournaments bring together the best national teams from Europe and South America, respectively, and offer high-stakes matches filled with skill, passion, and national pride. The knockout stages and finals in July provide unforgettable moments and the crowning of champions.
July is also a bustling month for other sports. Major League Baseball reaches its midseason point with the All-Star Game and the Home Run Derby, showcasing the best talents in the sport. Golf fans can look forward to The Open Championship, one of the sport’s four major tournaments, known for its challenging links courses and unpredictable weather conditions.
July is the best month for sports watching, with such a diverse array of international sporting events. The blend of Olympic grandeur, Wimbledon tradition, Tour de France endurance, and soccer passion creates an unparalleled viewing experience. Whether you’re a dedicated sports aficionado or a casual viewer, the excitement, drama, and stories of human achievement unfolding in July will leave you captivated. So, grab your remote, settle into your favorite chair, and prepare for a month of unforgettable sports action.
x Matt Dunn
Sean Walter
What circumstances led you to begin working at Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach?
There was an opening when Sean Doherty moved into the Visitors Bureau Director role. At that point I had spent eleven years at a destination to the north of Port Charlotte. I was intrigued with the Punta Gorda Englewood Beach area being home of the Tampa Bay Rays Spring Training facility, building a new 786 room Sunseeker Resort Hotel, new competitive pools with indoor basketball facilities and their Harborside Event & Conference Center.
The destination also offered a quant walkable downtown on the Harbor that provide opportunities for visitors to stroll into shops, restaurants, and attractions. The growth of the destination and the timing was perfect.
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
What was the first thing you did when you learned you got the job?
I spent the day in the community driving around looking at the various assets I could offer to promote the destination. I stayed around into the evening and went to the various fields and sports complexes to gain an understanding of the destination dynamics while getting acquainted with our local leagues and top sports. I hit the ground running with a grass roots effort to meet the players and organizations within the community that will ultimately be able to support and assist my goals of leveraging sporting events and tournaments to the destination.
Tell us about the “bread and butter” sports Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach caters to?
Are these due to specific state-of-the-art facilities? We are very fortunate to have an aggressive non-profit that operates a 24- court pickleball complex. Their goal is to maximize their offering to the local community while balancing state, national and international tournaments.
This enhances the way of life in Charlotte County while supporting our industry partners. We are also fortunate to own and operate Charlotte Sports Park, a five-field and stadium baseball complex that is home to Spring Training for the Tampa Bay Rays. And we own a 44K Sq. Ft. Event & Conference Center and host various indoor sporting events and banquets.
Our community is a little unique compared to a larger destination in that we do not have as many fields or courts to accommodate a large event in one specific place. With that said, I need to get creative by securing multiple locations as well as focus on non-traditional sport.
The non-traditional sport still provided our residents a chance to participate or cheer as a fan and still supports our hotels, restaurants, and attractions. These include Corn-
hole, Martial Arts, Fishing, Ultra Running Races, Beach Races, Dance/Cheer, Canoe & Kayak Races, to name a few.
How does seasonality affect your annual book of business?
We still see the usual drop off in the hot summer, but I tend to shift gears and utilize our indoor space. I market the entire destination in hopes they participate in an indoor event and still enjoy our beautiful white sand beaches, preserves and Harbor.
It is always a challenge to secure a tournament during peak season as our hotel pricing increases due to the demand of being a leisure destination for vacationers during this period. It’s usually a balancing act and having those relationships with our hoteliers.
I try to leverage events that come with ancillary options, such as team outings, catering, team meals, fishing excursions etc… Providing this additional guaranteed revenue to the hotels tends to drop the rate slightly since they will make up the revenue on the back end.
Describe why Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach events are so meaningful to you.
They mean a lot to me since everything I do enhances the way of life for our residents. After all we are public servants. Tourism in our destination saves the homeowner $1046 a year in taxes. And the tournaments and events I leverage provide an opportunity for our residents and their kids to come cheer as a fan or participate as an athlete.
I also think it is special to support the various business that support our tourists. I enjoy working with our hotels, restaurants, attractions, and sports facilities daily. Another great day is seeing the laughter and cheering of the athletes and families that travel to our destination and knowing I
made an impact on creating memorable experiences for them.
Sean, you are known in the industry as someone who does exactly what they say they’re going to do. Your commitment to clients is second to none. In what ways has your passion led to increasing the overall portfolio within the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach sports tourism effort?
I like to challenge myself to become a friend of a potential rights holder first and foremost. I like to not only learn about their organization and event, but about them, their family and what motivated them.
I also make sure they understand that if you host an event in our destination, it’s a partnership and a long-term partnership. I truly
appreciate the opportunity they are providing me and the risk they are taking on myself and the destination. Since our industry is weighted heavily on word of mouth, these are important characteristics that must be top of mind.
I also enter the conversation making sure they understand I am the expert within my destination and will assist them with navigating through opportunities and assist with overcoming hurdles, as we all face from time to time.
What was the most significant moment you experienced thus far as Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach’s sports tourism lead?
I was truly humbled to receive a customer service award from our Administration and Board of County Commissioners. It was pre-
sented during our Tourist Development Meeting in front of my peers. Unbeknownst to me, the Mayor of Punta Gorda called the Board of County Commissioners to show her gratitude on how I handled an issue with a BMX racer participating in our USA BMX Nationals.
The racer was told to leave a specific parking area due to heavy rain and flooding. He refused to leave the parking spot and there became an altercation with a representative from the track. He ended up calling the mayor to explain his dismay and bad experience in her city. The mayor called me, and I told her I would take care of it and apologized she was involved.
After meeting with him onsite twice, I rectified the situation and he continued to race and was happy with the outcome. I then called the mayor to update her on the status. It was a great learn-
ing experience for all involved.
In what way, or ways, are you a different person today because of your experience working at Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach for the past 4 year(s)??
I really value the support and the ability to approach our administration and County Commissioners. It so rewarding to work with community leaders that are approachable and enjoy learning about your area and how they can contribute.
I have worked for many large corporations in my career and this aspect tends to get lost or convoluted within the organization. Here, they actual listen, support, and work to help in any way they can.
health
After Sitting All Day, Here’s How Much You Should Exercise
Is your work life sedentary?
Scientific research has long warned us about the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. A sedentary lifestyle is one characterized by little to zero physical activity. Such a lifestyle negatively impacts mental well-being, physical health, and longevity. The immediate discomfort from prolonged sitting is just the tip of the iceberg. Sedentary behaviors and physical inactivity are among the leading global risk factors for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. Even relatively active people are not entirely safe; long periods of sitting, whether due to desk jobs or TV watching, can undermine the benefits of their healthy choices.
But there’s good news before you consider converting a room into a treadmill office. Regular and achievable exercise can mitigate some of the health risks associated with extended sitting. Research has now identified the ideal daily exercise needed to counteract the adverse effects of sitting for ten hours.
Engaging in 30 to 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily can significantly reduce the risk associated with prolonged sedentary time. An analysis proved how varying physical activity levels, measured by fitness trackers, and sedentary time impacted health and mortality risk. Increases in sedentary time are associated
with increases in mortality in less active individuals.
Current fitness recommendations align with research to indicate that 35 minutes of daily exercise, such as high-intensity cardio or low-impact activities like yoga and stretching, can work to prevent depression. We should all strive for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week (roughly 20 to 45 minutes per day) or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week for adults.
No matter the specific activity, the goal is to move each day to reverse health risks from too much sitting. The answer is to engage in activities that increase your heart rate, whether a structured workout or more informal exercise.
Here are several activities you might consider:
Walking: Take brisk walks around your neighborhood. This is a simple yet effective way to stay active.
Cycling: Go for a bike ride, which is great for cardiovascular health.
Stair Climbing: Run up and down the stairs in your apartment building to get your heart pumping.
Dancing: Blast your favorite music and have a dance party in your bedroom.
Gardening: Engage in active gardening, which can be surprisingly good exercise.
Playing with Kids: Spend active playtime with your children.
If your word load becomes too challenging to squeeze in exercise, make it a point to stand up every 20 to 30 minutes to stretch your legs. Take a quick lap around your home or office, or do a few squats between tasks. Incorporating simple yoga stretches between meetings can also be beneficial.
Combating a sedentary lifestyle lies in consistency and finding joy in movement. Whether through structured exercise or spontaneous activity, moving your body regularly can counterbalance the negative impacts of sitting and contribute to a healthier, longer life.
Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Sports Complexes:
A Path to Sustainable Event Facilities
In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of global discussions, sports complexes recognize the need to reduce their carbon footprint. These facilities, often sprawling and resource-intensive, have a significant environmental impact. However, through innovative strategies and sustainable practices, sports complexes can create a greener future.
Understanding the Carbon Footprint of Sports Complexes
A sports complex’s carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) it emits annually. This measurement includes emissions from energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, transportation, and even athletic equipment and infrastructure production and maintenance. The environmental impact can be substantial, given the scale and frequency of events hosted at these venues.
Key Strategies for Reducing Carbon Footprint
1. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Integration
LED Lighting: Replacing traditional lighting with LED bulbs can reduce energy consumption significantly. LEDs are more efficient and have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Solar Panels: Installing solar panels on rooftops and parking areas can harness renewable energy, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. Many sports complexes are now generating some of their electricity through solar power.
Smart Energy Management Systems: Utilizing Smart systems to monitor and control energy usage can lead to significant savings. These systems can optimize heating, cooling, and lighting based on real-time usage and weather conditions.
2. Water Conservation and Management
Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and using rainwater for irrigation, cooling systems, and even restrooms can reduce the demand for municipal water.
Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can dramatically decrease water usage.
Efficient Irrigation Systems: Smart irrigation systems that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture can conserve water effectively.
3. Waste Reduction and Recycling
Comprehensive Recycling Programs: Implementing robust recycling programs for plastics, metals, glass, and paper can divert significant waste from landfills.
Composting: Establishing composting programs for organic waste from food concessions can reduce methane emissions from landfills.
Reusable Materials: Encouraging reusable cups, plates, and utensils at events can reduce single-use plastic waste.
4. Sustainable Transportation
Public Transit Partnerships: Collaborating with local transit authorities to provide convenient and efficient public transportation options can reduce the number of cars on the road.
Bike-Friendly Facilities: Installing ample bike racks and providing incentives for cycling to events can encourage more fans to opt for this zero-emission mode of transport.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Providing EV charging stations in parking areas can support growing electric vehicle users.
5. Green Building Certifications
LEED Certification: Pursuing LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for new constructions and renovations can ensure that buildings meet high environmental standards. LEED-certified buildings are designed to use resources more efficiently and reduce environmental impact.
Sustainable Materials: Using eco-friendly materials in construction and maintenance can reduce carbon footprint. These include recycled materials, sustainably sourced wood, and lowVOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes.
6. Community Engagement and Education
Environmental Awareness Campaigns: Educating fans, employees, and athletes about sustainability practices can amplify the impact. Awareness campaigns can encourage responsible behavior, such as proper waste disposal and support for green initiatives.
Green Games and Events:
Hosting events specifically focused on sustainability can showcase a complex’s commitment to the environment. This can include zero-waste games, eco-friendly product vendors, and sustainability workshops.
Success Stories
Several sports complexes worldwide are already making strides in reducing their carbon footprints. For example, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, is a LEED Platinum-certified venue with solar panels, rainwater capture systems, and electric vehicle charging stations. Similarly, the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California, runs entirely on renewable energy and has an advanced waste management system that diverts most of its waste from landfills.
The Road Ahead
As the urgency to combat climate change grows, sports complexes have a unique opportunity to lead by example. By adopting and promoting sustainable
practices, these facilities can reduce their carbon footprint and inspire millions of fans worldwide to embrace environmental stewardship.
The journey toward sustainability is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires continuous effort, innovation, and collaboration. However, with the right strategies and a commitment to green practices, sports complexes can play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for all.
INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
Jason Puckett
What circumstances led you to begin working at Pellucid Travel?
I was working for Sarasota County Parks & Recreation, focusing on increasing the connection and productivity between the county’s facilities and Visit Sarasota’s sports tourism marketing efforts, when our family was presented with a great opportunity. My wife was offered a promotion to move to Atlanta within her company, so we took it! While looking at my career options, I considered different positions within the local Atlanta professional sports scene or in the sports tourism industry. However, after discussing the potential role with Pellucid Travel, it felt like a perfect fit.
What was the first thing you did when you learned you got the job?
Upon learning about the potential role at Pellucid Travel, I immediately tapped into my network of friends and colleagues within the industry, seeking their valuable insights. Once I started in the role, I expanded my outreach, reconnecting with industry contacts and gaining a real-time understanding of the industry’s pulse. The goal was to get up to speed and identify future growth opportunities for Pellucid Travel.
Tell us about the projects you are currently working on. What will this new direction mean for Pellucid Travel’s future?
My focus is finding new partnerships for Pellucid, which includes event organizers, facilities, and destinations.
However, with us being a young, growing company, the leadership team wears many hats. In mid-2023, we upgraded our technology to make our operations more efficient and provide a great user experience.
All members of our leadership team played a vital role in evaluating and implementing the new system. It was a year-long process, but we
are now set up for future success. Another project that I enjoy most is helping our partners expand their event portfolio. We do this by helping with the RFP process (creation, distribution) and assisting them with identifying the best locations to host their events.
My background on the destination and facility side helps offer our partners a well-rounded perspective. Lastly, we are evaluating potential partnerships or acquisitions within our industry to help accelerate our growth, which will help us become more efficient in our operations.
Describe why Pellucid Travel as a company is so meaningful to you.
Pellucid Travel is meaningful to me because of the team we have built and the amount of value we put into caring for our customers. Everyone on our team has a background in hotel management, event operations, or sports tourism. Having a team with that experience is valuable, but their willingness to make good things happen for others, no matter the circumstance, inspires me. The team always strives to do the right thing and be transparent when challenges arise. As a “salesperson,” it feels good to know that your future partners will be well taken care of.
Jason, you are known in the industry as a connector who will go out of their way to fulfill promises. In what ways do these characteristics lend a hand to increasing the visibility for your career and for Pellucid Travel?
Integrity and a willingness to serve others have been foundational to my career, so I appreciate your comments. Having been in the industry for 15+ years, my reputation opens many doors for Pellucid Travel and gives opportunities for conversations we may not have been a part of otherwise.
If people trust you as a person and their previous interactions have been positive, it can only help with the visibility of Pellucid Travel.
What was the most significant moment you experienced during the first quarter of 2024?
Being asked to participate in the Sports ETA Mentorship Program was a significant moment for me because I would not be here without the support I received from industry mentors over the years. With
all the new talent entering the industry, I am excited to participate in that process.
In what ways are you a different person today because of your experience working at Pellucid Travel for the past three years?
I am a more well-rounded personally and professionally because of my time here at Pellucid Travel. The flexibility and general support from leadership have allowed me to spend more time with my family and for overall self-care. There is an emphasis on family, which makes us a better team. Also, the role exposed me to the inner workings of launching a start-up and allowed me to play a role in all elements of the business, which has been a valuable experience.
What advice would you give to others who find themselves in a situation like yours?
It is probably a cliché response, but my advice would be that relationships are everything. Taking the time to cultivate new relationships and foster the ones you already have is crucial for current and future success.
What would “today Jason” share with “first day on the job Jason?”
There are so many things, ha. If I had to pick one, I would preach patience. In my early career, I was so eager to complete a project, surpass goals, or advance in status that I could be like a speed boat cruising through a “No Wake” zone. While this served me well in some areas, it also caused unneeded waves. Luckily, I had great mentors who helped me navigate my early career.
What goals do you have for your career and Pellucid Travel in 2024?
I aim to continue adding value to the organization by supporting our team in growing our current partner relationships and securing the right partners to help scale our business.
mindfulness
Is Your Strategy for Selling Yourself Misguided?
Whether making a sponsorship presentation, giving an annual report update to a board of directors, or even applying for a new job, standard advice may steer you wrong.
The Traditional Approach
Passion, Confidence, and Vision. These three qualities are often touted as essential for success, especially when launching a new venture. It is widely believed that the more of these traits you exhibit, the better your chances of winning over sponsors, stakeholders, or potential employees. However these qualities often see rejection versus more valued characteristics such as data, a willingness to seek advice, and a collaborative spirit.
Below are valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a successful pitch:
Don’t Lead with Your Vision
Many will focus their pitch on their organizational goal of revolutionizing some segment of the sports tourism industry. They focus on the insufficient ideas currently in the space and their vision for change.
Leading with a bold idea is a common myth. Research suggests that people first need to be convinced and understand that there is a problem before they care about future solutions. It also cautions against assuming others share the same understanding of an issue and its possible consequences.
Preparation Trumps Passion
Another myth is that a great pitch must be passionate. However, more often than not, someone’s level of passion does not influence funding decisions. Instead, thoughtful, log-
ical, and data-backed pitches will often be judged favorably.
Passion is important, but thorough preparation and a well-researched argument are crucial for success.
Confidence vs. Collaboration
In the sports industry, we often see ego getting in the way of the best-laid plans for success. Self-aggrandizing projects presented with excessive confidence that can be off-putting.
Typically, investors focus on potential downsides rather than upsides. Despite this, showing some humility and a willingness to learn can be more effective.
Expressing openness to input and collabora-
tion signals that you value working relationships. Investors and employers are not just looking for results; they also seek meaningful engagement and the assurance that you are receptive to their insights.
Building Strong Relationships
Pitches are about building relationships. Investors and employers want to know they can work well with you and that the experience will be collaborative and enjoyable.
Seeking help or advice is a sign of strength. Truly confident individuals are fearless in asking for support. When pitching, remember that you are not just seeking funding or a new job but also looking for the other person’s support, insight, and goodwill. Keeping this in mind can significantly improve your chances of success.
travel
Our Annual Family Trip: 12 Must-Have Items
We Always Pack
Traveling with my family began at an early age. My Dad went on several business trips per year and often would take our family along. On two occasions, he went on sabbatical, once to California for a year and again to England for an extended summer. Our whole family joined him. Our childhoods were filled with road trips through Europe and summers at my grandparents’ house near the Jersey Shore. As adults, we still cherish our travels together, whether to explore a new beach or destination.
Over the years, we’ve perfected our packing strategy. Here are the 12 items we always travel with, ensuring our trips are comfortable and enjoyable.
1. Comfortable Shoes for Long Walks
Our family loves walking, especially in the morning or after dinner. Everyone owns comfortable shoes; though we usually disagree with the brand, we all swear by our selections. A comfy pair of shoes for walking miles and miles should include comfort and support, making them ideal for long days on your feet.
2. Comfy Travel Pants
Add a pair of lightweight performance pants to your suitcase. They should be breathable and quick-drying, with a comfortable waistband. Pants that include some protection from the elements, such as a durable water-repellent fabric, are perfect for the trail, shopping, yoga, or just lounging.
3. Packable Down Jacket
Depending on your destination, a packable down jacket is essential for warmth without bulk. Packable down jackets are lightweight and compressible, making them easy to stuff into a small pouch for travel. They provide excellent warmth for their weight, making them perfect for cold weather or chilly evenings. Plus, they are versatile enough to wear with a variety of outfits.
4. Lightweight Sweater
Sweaters provide warmth with little space. Choose a lightweight material that is perfect for travel. It provides warmth without bulk, making it ideal for layering.
5. Packable Hat
A packable hat is essential for sun protection, especially when traveling to sunny destinations. Look for one with a wide brim and a UPF rating to shield your face and neck from harmful UV rays. Packable hats are also great because they can be folded and tucked into your bag without losing shape.
6. Steamer
A portable steamer is a travel essential for wrinkle-free clothes on the go. It’s a convenient tool for keeping your clothes looking fresh and wrinkle-free while traveling. It’s much easier to use than a traditional iron and can be packed into your suitcase without taking up much space. Steamers are also great for sanitizing and refreshing clothes between washes.
7. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while traveling is crucial, and having a reliable water bottle is essential, especially when flying. Many companies now offer water bottles and straws that filter out bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, ensuring you have clean, safe water to drink wherever you go. Any double-wall insulated bottle will keep your beverage cold for hours, making it perfect for long days of sightseeing.
8. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have for any trip, especially if you spend much time outdoors. It helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin damage, sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer.
UV radiation increases with altitude, and snow reflects UV rays, intensifying exposure. Sunscreen is crucial in these environments to prevent severe sunburn and skin damage. In tropical climates and beach destinations, the sun’s rays are more intense, increasing the risk of sunburn. Sunscreen protects exposed skin during outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies, you may need a specific type of sunscreen. Bringing your own prevents the risk of using unfamiliar products that could cause irritation or allergic reactions.
9. Travel Backpack
A backpack is essential for hands-free travel. It holds everything needed for the plane and fits under the seat. A travel backpack is a versatile and practical accessory for any trip. It provides ample storage space for all your essentials and keeps your hands free while navigating airports or exploring new destinations. Look for one with padded shoulder straps and multiple compartments to keep your items organized and easily accessible.
10. Space-saving Toiletry Kit
A space-saving toiletry kit is a must for keeping your personal care items organized and compact. Look for one with multiple compartments and leak-proof containers to store your liquids and creams. A hanging toiletry bag is also a great option, as it allows you to easily access your items in a small bathroom.
11. Travel Pillow and Blanket
For long-haul flights, never travel without an ultralight travel pillow and a packable down blanket, which will ensure comfort throughout your journey. A travel pillow and blanket will keep you comfortable on long flights or road trips. Look for an ultralight pillow that provides support for your neck and head and a packable blanket that can be easily folded and stored in your carry-on bag. These items will help you get some rest and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.
12. Travel Games and Entertainment
Books, magazines, and games are essential for our travels. While some of us prefer Kindles, others stick to paperbacks. We also always have a deck of cards for games to pass the time and bond with during our trips. Some entertainment options are crucial for long journeys and downtime during your trip. Books are a great way to pass the time and spark interesting conversations with travel companions. A deck of cards is a versatile and compact option for playing games and bonding with your family or friends.
These 12 items have become essential for our family travels, ensuring we are prepared for any adventure. From comfortable shoes and versatile clothing to practical accessories and entertainment options, these musthaves keep us safe, comfortable and entertained wherever we go. Whether exploring a new culinary treat, hiking a new trail, or relaxing on the beach, these items help us make the most of our trips and create lasting memories together.
Industry Confidential
Check in every issue for the unfiltered thoughts of our guest writers and contributors as they discuss the hottest topics in sports tourism.
In this issue, our guest writer discusses the subject of whether or not sports tourism has an ego problem.
Does Sports Tourism Have an Ego Problem?
The sports tourism industry in the United States has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, driven by the allure of high-impact grassroots and major sporting events combined with the desire of fans to be part of these grand spectacles. From the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals to the Masters and the Kentucky Derby, the U.S. hosts some of the most prestigious events that attract fans from all corners of the globe. However, as this industry continues to expand, industry professionals need to ask a critical question: does sports tourism have an ego problem?
The Prestige Factor
One of the primary attractions of sports tourism is the prestige associated with hosting high-profile events. For many destination representatives, hosting events and driving positive annual economic impact is a status symbol that demonstrates their dedication and passion for the sports tourism industry. This desire for prestige often overshadows the actual enjoyment of the event itself, as many of us need to take the time to celebrate these successes appropriately. The focus can shift from the love of the industry to the recognition gained by being awarded and, ultimately hosting a successful event. This focus can foster an environment where ego and image take precedence. This trend can be seen and emphasized on conference and trade show floors during discussions on experiences, exclusive access, and event hosting history.
The Impact on Host Communities
While sports tourism can significantly benefit local economies by bringing in revenue and taxes from hotels, restaurants, and other tourist activ-
ities, it can also negatively affect host communities. The influx of tourists can increase prices, create overcrowding, and strain local resources. In some cases, the needs and desires of the local population are sidelined in favor of catering to visitors and their expectations. At the same time, sports tourism professionals will beat a drum that the events, field space, and more should be at their discretion. This dynamic can foster resentment and highlight the ego-driven nature of sports tourism, where the visitor’s experience and annual performance goals are prioritized over the well-being of the host community.
Environmental Concerns
The environmental impact of sports tourism is another critical issue. The carbon footprint of traveling to and from sporting events, especially when considering international travel, is substantial. Events also generate significant waste and require extensive resources to manage. While some efforts have been made to promote sustainability in sports tourism, the emphasis often remains on the grandeur and spectacle of the event, rather than the long-term environmental impact. This focus on image and experience over sustainability reflects an ego-centric tourism approach.
The Role of Social Media
Social media has amplified the ego problem in sports tourism. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook allow destinations and rights holders to showcase their experiences to a global audience, often in real-time. The pressure to curate a perfect image and share it with followers can detract from the genuine enjoyment of the event. Industry professionals may find themselves more concerned with capturing the perfect photo or video than immersing themselves in the
atmosphere and excitement of the event that they helped bring to fruition. This phenomenon contributes to a culture where the appearance of hosting an athletic event is more important than the experience itself.
The Economic Divide
The cost of attending events is now higher than ever before, even after 9/11. This wrinkle creates an economic divide between those who can afford to participate and those who cannot. This exclusivity can reinforce social and economic hierarchies, where participating in events symbolizes wealth and privilege. Even for spectators, the emphasis on luxury accommodations, VIP experiences, and exclusive access can further alienate average fans and underscore the ego-driven aspects of sports tourism.
Striking a Balance
Despite these concerns, sports tourism can be a positive and enriching experience. It has the potential to bring people together, foster a sense of community, and promote cultural exchange. To mitigate the ego problem, stakeholders in the sports tourism industry must strike a balance between catering to visitors’ desires and addressing the needs of local communities and the environment.
Promoting Authentic Experiences
Encouraging athletes and visitors to engage with local culture and communities can enhance the travel experience and create meaningful connections. By promoting authentic experiences over luxury and exclusivity, sports tourism can shift its focus from ego-driven status to genuine enjoyment and cultural exchange. This approach can be fostered by developing community-based tourism initiatives that allow visitors to experience the local culture, cuisine, and way of life.
Emphasizing Sustainability
Event organizers and tourism providers should prioritize sustainability in their planning and operations. This includes reducing carbon footprints, minimizing waste, and supporting local environmental initiatives. By adopting more sustainable practices, the industry can lessen its environmental impact and demonstrate a commitment to respon-
sible tourism. Initiatives such as carbon offset programs, sustainable sourcing for event materials (though sometimes more expensive), and promoting public transportation (such as bike share programs) can make a significant difference.
Enhancing Accessibility
Making sports tourism accessible to a broader audience can help bridge the economic divide. Offering affordable ticket options, promoting community-based accommodations, and providing inclusive experiences can ensure that more fans can participate, regardless of their financial status. Implementing tiered pricing strategies and creating packages that cater to different budget levels can make these events more inclusive.
Encouraging Mindful Social Media Use
While social media is integral to modern life, encouraging destinations and rights holders to use it mindfully can help reduce the ego problem. Promoting sharing genuine experiences and interactions rather than curated images can help athletes and visitors stay present and engaged with the event. Campaigns highlighting the value of in-the-moment experiences and the joy of being part of a community can shift the focus away from individual status.
The sports tourism industry in the United States is at a crossroads. As it continues to grow and evolve, industry professionals must address the ego problem that has begun to overshadow sports tourism’s genuine thrill and benefits. By promoting authentic experiences, emphasizing sustainability, enhancing accessibility, and encouraging mindful social media use, the industry can strike a balance that prioritizes the well-being of all stakeholders.
Ultimately, the goal should be to create an environment where the love of the sport and the sense of community take precedence over prestige and status. In doing so, sports tourism can become a force for positive impact, bringing people together in an inclusive, sustainable, and genuinely enriching way for everyone involved.
