2016sportsscstatefeature

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 8:03 PM Page 153

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 7:48 PM Page 154

SPORT_153-161finalFINAL_Layout 1 9/16/15 11:17 AM Page 155

SOUTH CAROLINA Site InSpections

162 165 166 168 170 173 174 176 178 180 182 184

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Myrtle Beach, SC Greenwood, SC Aiken, SC Sumter, SC Columbia, SC Saluda Shoals Park, SC Florence, SC Mountain Lakes Region, SC Rock Hill/York County, SC Spartanburg, SC Greenville, SC North Myrtle Beach, SC

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Sports Planning Guide

155

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 7:09 PM Page 156

Bring Your Sports Event To South Carolina

If you're searching for a place to hold a professional, amateur or collegiate sporting event, look no further. Play here. South Carolina is just right.

We're just right for soccer games, baseball tournaments, golf championships and tennis playoffs. And let's not forget about football, basketball and the awesome mud run challenges, 5K walks and runs, and fishing tournaments.

The Palmetto State has played host to national and worldwide organizations including the PGA Tour, Women’s Tennis Association, Bassmasters, International Quidditch Association, USA Cycling and so many more.

Whether your event is small or large, professional or amateur, the members of the South Carolina Sports Alliance (SCSA) are committed to helping you create an atmosphere where your sporting event can achieve the utmost success.

From the deep forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful beaches of the Grand Strand, South Carolina's diverse landscapes promise a memorable escape to the great outdoors. Our charming small towns, coastal cities and inland areas offer a unique setting for indoor and outdoor sports. With award-winning restaurants, affordable accommodations and plenty of exciting attractions to keep athletes, families and spectators entertained, we can deliver an unforgettable experience. Did we mention the unrivaled Southern hospitality our visitors are certain to receive? You just might want to come back for your vacation!

Start planning your event in South Carolina today. Our team is ready to assist you in planning a winning event that your participants won’t forget.

When you step into South Carolina, you step onto your HOME TURF. Sincerely, South Carolina Sports Alliance

156

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 7:36 PM Page 157

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 6:56 PM Page 158

7

sports playing well

south carolina in

B

asketball, softball, quidditch, tennis, cycling, golf and fishing—South Carolina is stepping up its game when it comes to hosting these seven sports. W ith a communal passion and facilities to match, it’s no wonder these sports are succeeding in the Palmetto State.

Big-ticket basketball events are migrating to South Carolina, thanks to new facilities. Myrtle Beach Sports Center opened in March 2015 and is set to host NTBA boys’ and girls’ championships among other tournaments and camps. The 100,000-square-foot indoor facility features eight basketball courts (and 16 volleyball courts) spread over 72,000 square feet of column-free, hardwood space. Event planners love the team rooms, telescopic bleachers, a private mezzanine for elevated viewing and a café with indoor/ outdoor seating. Upward Star Center, which opened in fall 2014 in Spartanburg, hosts a variety of basketball events, tournaments and series. The 120,000-square-foot facility comprises six basketball courts (among volleyball courts, batting cages, a

running track, and outdoor sand courts and fields), complete with team and meeting rooms, a players’ lounge and café.

Tyger River Park in Spartanburg is South Carolina’s premier softball/baseball tournament facility. It features 12 fields in four-field clusters; a premier stadium with seating for 600; and a clubhouse with a conference room, meeting rooms, park administrative and athletic offices, restrooms, concessions and picnic tables in the clubhouse pavilion. The park has hosted events like the ASA State Championships, NSA & Louisville Slugger Class B Eastern World Series, 2015 ASA/USA 18U Class A Girls Fast Pitch National Championship and ASA Diamond Classic World Series. Tyger River Park and other complexes scattered throughout the state play host to SC USSSA, girls’ youth fast pitch.

“Spartanburg has always been a hotbed for softball, but with the addition of Tyger River Park it was an obvious choice to bring some of our largest tournaments here,” said Chad Greene, SC ASA commissioner. “A lot of

Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, seats over 80,000.

158

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 6:48 PM Page 159

Cheyenne Woods, Symetra Tour

towns host big events, but scatter teams to venues over a 40-mile radius.

At Tyger River Park, you have the luxury of hosting those same type tournaments all at one location.”

When it comes to the game made famous by the Harry Potter series, South Carolina is a cauldron for quidditch. In 2014, North Myrtle Beach Sports Park and Sports Complex hosted Quidditch World Cup 7. The complex offers plenty of room for racing brooms and snitch snatching with eight regulation soccer/lacrosse fields (to do justice to the complex as a whole, there’s also a variety of baseball fields and eight batting tunnels).

Quidditch players and fans delight in the concession areas, picnic shelters, playgrounds, amphitheater, trails, dog park and 25-acre lake. Quidditch hightailed its way back to South Carolina in April 2015 for Quidditch World Cup 8—this time at Manchester Meadows in Rock Hill. The 70-acre park features eight soccer fields, two lighted, synthetic turf fields—each with stadium seating for 750—six lighted natural turf fields and additional fields for multipurpose use. And an event of this caliber couldn’t take place without the park’s pavilions, concessions and shelters.

South Carolina of fers more than a picturesque backdrop for tennis tournaments. Take Columbia, for example, which hosted 2015’s SEC Women’s Tennis Tournament at the University of South Carolina. The university’s Carolina Tennis Center features 12 courts with lights and scoreboards on each one, plus video cameras, seating for 670 fans and courtside storage. South Carolina hosts many USTA events, too; the 2014 USTA/ITA National Small College Championships was hosted by the Palmetto Tennis Center in Sumter. The center serves up 24 lighted tennis courts, making it the largest tennis center in the state. In April, 2016, Charleston’s Family Circle Tennis Center will host the WTA Family Circle Cup—the largest women-only tennis tournament in the world, with 100,000 spectators and more than 70 athletes.

For cycling events, Rock Hill is a shining beacon. The city’s Rock Hill Outdoor Center houses a variety of cycling venues from paved to off road.

The center’s Novant Health BMX Supercross Track will host the 2017 BMX World Championships by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). The event is expected to bring approximately 3,000 amateur participants and 300 professional athletes from over 40 countries, and attendees will stay an average of 10 days. Another major venue at the center is the 250-meter, world-class Giordana Velodrome. Endorsed by USA Cycling, the facility SportsPlanningGuide.com

Rock Hill’s Giordana Velodrome hosts national-level cycling events.

hosts national and UCI-caliber events while introducing the local community to the Olympic sport of track cycling through a variety of rider development and outreach programs.

“The Novant Health BMX Supercross T rack in Rock Hill is the new gold standard for USA BMX tracks. It has been so thrilling to see the city of Rock Hill completely commit to the sport of BMX racing and create a worldclass BMX venue,” said John David, chief operating officer of American Bicycle Association. “Hosting the 2017 UCI BMX World Championships in Rock Hill is a dream come true for all parties involved, and this will be a phenomenal event. Earlier this year we hosted the USA BMX Carolina Nationals in Rock Hill and we could not have been more pleased with the facility—especially the staff. They truly understand big events and do them well.”

South Carolina’s natural beauty sets the stage for unmatched golf events.

The state offers 368 courses, 26 of which are Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries, boasting some of the country's most beautiful surroundings and wildlife. Myrtle Beach, the “golf capital of the United States,” offers hundreds of courses from pro-style to casual. PGA.com notes several other top golf courses in South Carolina, including Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, The Ocean Course Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort on Johns Island and Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken.

You can’t go fishing without water—and not only is South Carolina positioned along the Atlantic Coast, but the state is also home to 12 major lakes with sizes from 7,500 acres to 110,000 acres, and types ranging from reservoirs (such as Lake Jocassee in the upstate mountains) to the swampy wilderness of Lake Marion in the lowlands. Lake Hartwell in Anderson, located in the upstate region popularly known as the Upcountry, hosted the 2015 Bassmaster Classic. The state also plays host to Fishers of Men Tournament Trail and Ministries, Governor's Cup King Billfishing Series, South Carolina BAIT Division 1 and Striped Bass Festival.

South Carolina rolls out the red carpet for stellar sports events. The state’s subtropical climate allows for year-round play, and top-notch facilities are catalysts for competitive and unforgettable events—not to mention the highly-visited state offers a plethora of activities for all ages and interests. To learn more about hosting your sport in this Southern state, visit discoversouthcarolina.com.

Sports Planning Guide

159

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 6:43 PM Page 160

Off the Fields and Courts

south carolina

Is Just Right For Visitors From the mountains and the midlands to the coast and the islands, South Carolina is a ready mixture of history, adventure, amusement, entertainment and a healthy dose of fun. Here’s a quick walk through each of the state’s 11 tourism regions.

SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 5:30 PM Page 161

Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy, a peaceful spot in Greenville

Re-enactment of the 1865 Skirmish at Gamble’s Hotel, Florence

Nature and History Meet in the Pendleton District

Hit the Greens or the Lakes in Santee Cooper Country

Located in the northwest corner of the state on I-85, Pendleton is a gem. Hiking to some of the Southeast’ s most scenic waterfalls or braving the rapids on the Chattooga River are ideal outdoor adventures.

For a more leisurely pace, visit the South Carolina Botanical Gardens and Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum.

Exciting fishing, canoeing and kayaking challenges are found on Lakes Marion and Moultrie, two rivers, two canals and a large swamp.

The area is no longer a best-kept golf secret with 20 championship layouts. Try a flat-bottom boat tour of Cypress Gardens/Butterfly House & Gardens or the peaceful tranquility of Mepkin Abbey in Berkeley.

Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter is a favorite.

Exploring the Upcountry Hiking, horseback riding, biking and driving the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway are fun ways to discover the Upcountry. With 150 waterfalls, three freshwater lakes and the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River’s thousands of acres of parks and hundreds of miles of trails, great outdoor adventures await here in northwestern South Carolina. You’ll also find bustling cities and delightful small towns.

Go Back in Time in Old 96 Visit the off-the-beaten-path Old 96 Historic District to find historical importance among abundant natural resources. Revolutionary War tories are discovered at national and state parks. Museums and historic homes are not to be missed. Several thousand miles of shoreline are ready for exploring, along with hiking, walking and biking trails.

Olde English Offers History and Thrill Rides South Carolina experienced more Revolutionary War battles than any other colony. Many were fought within the Olde English District. Monuments and markers, living history sites, reenactments and Kings Mountain National Military Park all tell the story of our nation’ s battle for freedom. Carowinds amusement park recently introduced a $50-million expansion featuring Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster.

Capital City & Lake Murray Country Columbia, the state’s capital city, has a dozen museums, including the SC State Museum and EdVenture Children’s Museum. The Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens features lush botanical gardens and new North American river otter and grizzly bear habitats. The region’s three rivers are a delight for paddlers, with canoeing, kayaking, rafting and tubing. Lake Murray offers the best in bass fishing, sailing, jet skiing and paddle boarding.

Race through Thoroughbred Country As the name indicates, this South Carolina region has a rich horse tradition and culture. Also discover Civil War battle sites and historic plantation homes. From the Jim Harrison Gallery in Denmark to the Healing Springs near Blackville to the fall Chitlin Strut Festival in Salley, there’s something to see and do in Thoroughbred Country’s small towns.

Cycling through a cool forest in western South Carolina

Pee Dee Country: From Agriculture to NASCAR Named for the Pee Dee Indians and easy to reach, this region is served by I-95 and I-20. The South Carolina Cotton Museum and South Carolina Tobacco Museum exemplify the agrarian lifestyle of the region. The famous Darlington Raceway and its “track too tough to tame” is part of the NASCAR tradition. Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum is a must-see.

Relax in the Lowcountry & Resort Islands Regardless of your interests, this region has something for you.

The immaculate beaches of the resort islands give way inland to historic antebellum homes and farmland. The arts are alive at the SC Artisans Center. Whether you parasail of f Hilton Head Island , kayak a lush marsh or just relax under a stately live oak with a good book, this is a lifestyle to enjoy.

Historic Charleston The Charleston area, with its venerable architecture, magnificent gardens and plantation homes, is a living museum. Blended with more than 300 years of history are invigorating outdoor recreation, well-known art and music venues and world-class dining options. A carriage ride through the “Holy City” is a great way to begin your Charleston visit.

The Gibbs Museum of Art and Charleston Tea Plantation should be on every visitor’s list.

Myrtle Beach & The Grand Strand Few destinations can claim to have everything, but, with the exception of mountains, the Myrtle Beach area comes close. Centered around 60 miles of wide sandy beaches are outdoor activities from parasailing and fishing to zip lines and boating, kayaking and canoeing. There are dozens of amusements and attractions, including one very large oceanfront Sky Wheel. The evenings come alive with a half-dozen, family-oriented live entertainment theaters.

Sunrise over Myrtle Beach, a South Carolina vacation haven

SPORT_162-163_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:58 PM Page 162

3

MYRTLE BEACH, SC Myrtle Beach Boasts Impressive Facilities 1. Myrtle Beach Sports Center

Bring your teams to the summery shores of Myrtle Beach, a proven winner when it comes to entertainment and adventure.

3. Grand Park Athletic Complex

Sports: Basketball, volleyball, badminton This brand new facility offers 100,000 square feet of indoor courts, as well as a cafĂŠ, retail area and entertainment zone. The complex contains eight basketball courts and 16 volleyball courts, and can be easily configured to accommodate a variety of indoor sports such as badminton.

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, football This multi-use complex features seven lighted, full-size baseball fields that can be easily converted to accommodate soccer, lacrosse and football. The facility also offers two natural-grass youth baseball fields that also can be converted, as well as three full-size, natural-turf fields for soccer and lacrosse. Additional amenities include multiple concession locations and a batting cage.

2. Myrtle Beach Convention Center

4. Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium

Sports: Cheer, dance Adjacent to Myrtle Beach Sports Center, this facility consists of 250,000 square feet of flexible space as well as a 30,000-square foot outdoor plaza that’s perfect for dance and cheer competitions.

Sports: Track and field, football, lacrosse, soccer This NCAA-certified track is made of a full pour polyurethane synthetic surface with embedded texture, and is complete with a Daktronics video board and a FieldTurf infield that can accommodate football, soccer and lacrosse.

162

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_162-163_Layout 1 9/13/15 5:09 PM Page 163

5. Myrtle Beach Recreation Centers (Pepper Geddings, Canal Street and Crabtree Memorial Gymnasium)

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Sports: Basketball, swimming All three centers include one full-size basketball court, but the Pepper Geddings facility also houses a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool complete with a Colorado Timing system.

6. North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse This baseball and softball park consists of four fields with dirt infields and a 225-foot fence, along with two adult softball fields with dirt infields and a 330-380-foot fence that can be used for collegiate baseball games. The soccer and lacrosse complex consists of eight natural-grass regulation fields, four of which are lighted, as well as an official’s room and a full-service concession stand.

2

Families Love a Myrtle Beach Vacation In addition to the friendly warmth of beaches and crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, your teams can find additional excitement at every turn in Myrtle Beach. If they want to take a break from the seashore but stay outdoors, head to rapids and waterslides at Myrtle Waves or strap on a harness and try out the zip line and treetop adventure course over at North Myrtle Beach Park. If your teams are interested in history, schedule a trip to the Hopsewee Plantation, where you can enjoy traditional English tea and tours of the gorgeous plantation, or take a Segway tour around an old Air Force base. If the weather isn’t cooperating, spend an afternoon at the Coastal Grand Mall, Medieval Times or the Ripley Museums. Rain or shine, Myrtle Beach will keep your teams entertained between games and after the tournament.

6

Myrtle Beach is Easily Accessible Myrtle Beach connects via Highway 17. Cities that are less than eight hours away from Myrtle Beach include Charlotte, North Carolina; Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; and Virginia Beach, Virginia. Highways 501 and 17 run through the Myrtle Beach area. Myrtle Beach International Airport is a mere seven minutes from the heart of Myrtle Beach and is serviced by American, Allegiant, Delta, Spirit and United airlines.

Planner Perspective

4

“Myrtle Beach is such an easy sell to my travel teams that play in our events. The city sells itself! With miles of sandy beach, tons of attractions and plenty of hotels that accommodate any budget, teams simply love coming to play in our tournaments. Parents use our events as a vacation while getting a chance to watch their child play in a national championship. The city facilities are top-notch as well.”

— John Whitley, National Travel Basketball Association

MYRTLE BEACH AREA CVB

Mike Anderson, Executive Director, Sports Tourism 843-916-7264 • mike.anderson@visitmyrtlebeach.com MyrtleBeachSports.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

1 Sports Planning Guide

163

SPORT_164_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:54 PM Page 164

SPORT_165_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:51 PM Page 165

served by Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest and United. The Atlanta and Charlotte airports are a few hours away.

Sports Travelers Enjoy Greenwood

3

GREENWOOD, SC Greenwood is known for its hospitality. Add one of South Carolina’s most peaceful lakes and a gracious approach to sports travel, and you’ve got a winner.

A Solid Lineup of Facilities 1. Jeff May Recreation, Wellness and Sports Complex Sports: Softball, baseball, soccer, tennis This 25-acre Lander University venue encompasses a 950-seat baseball stadium, a 350-seat softball stadium, a soccer field, a field house, 12 tennis courts and a tennis pavilion.

After the gear has been stowed and the final score tallied, fans and players can choose from several pastimes. A simple stroll in Uptown Greenwood, with stops to dine at unique restaurants and browse boutiques and art galleries, can be a great way to unwind.

Serious shoppers will want to visit The Commons and Greenwood Mall.

Greenwood always seems to have some kind of celebration going on. May hosts the Catfish Festival, while the SC Festival of Flowers in June has life-size safari topiaries that line the streets of Uptown. July’s SC Festival of Discovery features barbecue and blues.

Planner Perspective “Not only has the Greenwood Regional Tourism & Visitors Bureau gone above and beyond in helping us host a successful event, they proactively laid the initial groundwork to get their tournament started.

Today, it’s the No. 1 stop on our tour!”

— Mike Nichols, Chief Business Officer, LPGA Symetra Tour

GREENWOOD REGIONAL TOURISM & VISITORS BUREAU

Lindsay B. Burns, TMP, Director of Sales 864-953-2464 • lindsay.burns@cityofgreenwoodsc.com VisitGreenwoodSC.com

2. Area Golf Courses The Links at Stoney Point is best known for the premier event on the LPGA Symetra Tour, offering a challenging layout with an exceptionally beautiful spot on Lake Greenwood. The Links offers a newlyremodeled clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts and a fine-dining restaurant.

The Patriot at Grand Harbor also embraces the shores of Lake Greenwood. It often hosts the Big South Conference Championships as well as South Carolina Golf Association events.

3. Lake Greenwood Sports: Fishing, recreational boating, kayaking and paddle boarding Combine 11,000 acres of lake water and over 200 miles of shoreline with largemouth bass and crappie, and you've got a place that will keep fishers happy for hours, if not days. Thanks to an average depth of about 21 feet, there's plenty of room for water sports of all types.

Travel to Greenwood Couldn’t Be Easier Greenwood is located between two major southeastern cities—Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina—and just an hour north of Augusta, Georgia. Groups can drive into Greenwood via Interstate 85 or Interstate 26. Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, an hour’s drive, is SportsPlanningGuide.com

Sports Planning Guide

165

SPORT_166-167_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:17 PM Page 166

4

1

AIKEN, SC

Aiken, South Carolina has a long history of providing outstanding sporting events and unforgettable family experiences.

Top-of-the-Line Sporting Facilities 1. Weeks Recreation Facility

3. Citizens Park

Sports: Pickleball, disc golf, soccer, volleyball, basketball This state-of-the-art recreation facility has something for everyone. With its two full-size gyms, nine pickleball courts and soccer field, it accommodates a wide variety of sports events.

Athletes and fans alike can enjoy its mile-long walking track and nine-hole disc golf course. The facility also has outdoor workout and training equipment, a variety of workout rooms and locker rooms, plus picnic shelters and playgrounds that are perfect for families with kids or an outdoor team lunch.

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer This 123-acre, multipurpose sports park is perfect for hosting a multitude of tournaments. There are 15 lighted baseball/softball fields and access to meeting rooms and umpire rooms. The park has three score towers, concessions and multiple open fields.

Players can practice their skills to their heart’s content in one of the park’s eight full-size batting cages. Adults and children alike will be entertained at the new Sprayground and can enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables and the covered eating area. In addition, there is a playground.

2. Weeks Tennis Center

4. Convocation Center

Sports: Tennis Located in Virginia Acres Park, this sprawling, 46-acre complex will make any tennis player feel like a pro and includes 10 lighted clay courts and 10 lighted hard courts. The city also provides access to over 40 courts in the surrounding area. The center also features a covered wrap-around porch with Adirondack chairs, dining tables with chairs and ceiling fans so both players and their audience can stay cool in the shade. Players can purchase gear and other items in the full-service pro shop and enjoy the locker rooms and concessions.

Sports: Basketball, volleyball Home to Pacer athletics of the University of South Carolina at Aiken, this 100,000-square-foot building is a sports event planner’s dream. The complex holds three gyms and can also be used as an entertainment venue. The main arena has state-ofthe-art sound and scoreboard systems and is surrounded by a practice court on each side. Athletes and coaches will be happy with its training facilities, and fans will appreciate the spacious seating, which has room for up to 4,000 people. The center also features eight locker rooms, concessions and meeting spaces.

166

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_166-167_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:11 PM Page 167

Getting to Aiken is a Snap Near the western edge of South Carolina, Aiken is a hidden gem surrounded by forests not far from major Southern cities.

Getting there is surprisingly simple, with a choice of several nearby airports and only 20 minutes away from Interstate 20.

Aiken is within 2½ hours of Atlanta, Greenville, Charlotte, Charleston, Hilton Head Island and Savannah. It is connected to Atlanta by Interstate 20; Routes 78 and 1 connect other interstates to the city. Aiken is home to Aiken Municipal Airport.

Nearby is Augusta Regional Airport, just seven miles from downtown Augusta. Other airports within driving distance of Aiken include Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.

Aiken is Horse Country Traveling for sporting events is about more than the games won and lost; it’s about the times spent with family in unforgettable locations. Aiken is just that. With a rich equestrian heritage, this town is definitely horse country. There are horse statues in the streets, the annual Aiken Triple Crown, the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and a horse district. Surrounded by polo fields, tracks and early 20th century estates, Aiken is a scenic beauty just waiting to be experienced.

For those interested in outdoor activities, there are many equestrian sites, a farmers’ market and the Citywide Arboretum.

Families and athletes can relax after a grueling day of play by

SportsPlanningGuide.com

heading to Hitchcock Woods, one of the largest urban forests in America, explore the grounds at Hopelands Gardens or head to Aiken State Park. There they can enjoy a peaceful hike on one of the many nature trails, kayak the Edisto River, unwind while having a picnic or cool off in the lake. In the heart of the town are historic homes and churches to tour. The interactive Train Museum is located in the town’s old train depot. The blend of historic and newly established restaurants, such as The Little Bake Shoppe and Stables Bar and Restaurant, will satisfy any hunger cravings.

Planner Perspective “We love coming to Aiken, and the reason we do is they are always so on top of everything—they anticipate our needs. Aiken is a nice, quaint town that people love going to and experiencing!

At a tournament a couple years back it rained the final day, but that didn’t stop the City of Aiken staff from helping out. They actually came out and dried the courts for us and we were back playing within 30 minutes!”

— Mary Goins, USTA Director of League

CITY OF AIKEN PARKS RECREATION & TOURISM DEPARTMENT Jeff Metz, Athletic Superintendent 803-642-7652 • jmetz@cityofaikensc.gov CityofAikenSC.gov

Sports Planning Guide

167

SPORT_168-169_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:05 PM Page 168

1

2

SUMTER, SC

Visit this South Carolina town for a taste of hospitality and sporting fun.

There’s No Place Like Sumter Looking for that perfect East Coast tournament spot? Look no further than Sumter, South Carolina, where you are in the middle of everything. The city of Sumter is in the heart of the community with a total city and county population of 108,123. Come enjoy an outdoor lover’s paradise with an abundance of leisure activities, including a vibrant arts culture and superb sport facilities. More than enough exciting attractions orbit this wonderful community as 168

Sports Planning Guide

well. In Sumter, you’re just a 90-minute drive from the state’s beautiful beaches, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are only three hours to the northwest.

Sumter proudly houses Shaw Air Force Base, which inspired the town motto “Uncommon Patriotism.” Truly, Sumter loves nothing more than showing visitors the town’s “uncommon” personality, offering visitors a hometown feel with the conveniences of a large city. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_168-169_Layout 1 9/13/15 4:04 PM Page 169

Just the Place for Swim Meets and Tennis Matches 1. Aquatics Center Sports: Swimming The public Aquatics Center meets requirements for competition swim meets with its unique design and is fully equipped with swim lanes, diving blocks, and electronic timer and touch pads. Each year, the center hosts more than 11 swim meets for the city league, community invitational and high school. In October the center is host to the TriSumter Triathlon. The sprint triathlon includes a 300-yard swim in the heated 25-meter, six-lane pool, continues on with a 16-mile bike ride and wraps up with a 5k run at the Aquatics Center. For the recreational swimmer, the center is open six days a week and is swimmer-friendly for all ages. The Aquatics Center also has a twisting tube waterslide, an adjustable spray fountain and a wading pool with beach entrance for easy access.

This official American Red Cross facility boasts an experienced training staff for the Sumter community. Training is available for lifeguards and water safety instructors. Stroke and turn training for volunteers and staff to assist at swim meets is also available.

2. Palmetto Tennis Center Sports: Tennis The Palmetto Tennis Center at Palmetto Park boasts 24 state-of-the-art, Deco-Turf courts with lighting for night play.

Other amenities include shaded stadium and courtside bleacher seating, cool water misters, a bistro-style seating area, a shelter area with picnic tables, two ball machines, stringing service, pro shop and a locker-showers facility. The tennis center is conveniently located adjacent to a playground and spray park. Tennis tournament knowledge is paramount to a facility’s continued success. The PTC’s years of successful new and returning events and tournaments come from experience. In April of 2004, the PTC opened the doors to the Conference Carolinas and added a fall individual event soon after. Collegiate play also includes the Southeast Regionals and National Small College Championships. They’ve learned from the best by hosting annually a Women’s 25K Pro Circuit Event since 2008 and the National Zonal TEAM Championship since 2013, as well as four junior state tournaments.

Explore Sumter’s Many Enjoyable Leisure Opportunities There’s plenty to do in Sumter when you need to unwind from your latest game. Enjoy the local artistic community by visiting spots like Sumter Little Theater, Sumter Opera House and Sumter County Gallery of Art. In between games, teams can be inspired by the artists and performers and support the community at the same time.

Sumter offers much natural beauty for its visitors to enjoy, with nature trails through Crosswell, Memorial and Palmetto parks, among others. The crowning jewel would have to be Swan Lake Iris Gardens, a vast collection of expertly maintained gardens with sections like the Butterfly, Chocolate and Camellia gardens.

Local eateries offer a diverse range of cuisines, from Sambino’s Bistro, Asian Barbecue, Willie Sue’s and Hamptons to J. O’Grady’s, Mary Ann’s Deli, Thai House and Duncan Dogs.

There’s something to suit everyone’s taste.

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Getting to Sumter is Simple Sumter is located in Central South Carolina, meaning a fairly even travel distance from multiple points in the region. Several major roads intersect in Sumter. Routes 76 and 521 come in from the west and northwest, respectively, while Route 15 bisects the town from north to south, with Route 521 accompanying the southern portion of 15. Coming in from the east and northeast are Routes 378, 401 and the other tail of Route 76. Sumter’s two nearest commercial airports are Florence Regional Airport and Columbia Metropolitan Airport, with Florence roughly 50 miles to the east of Sumter and Columbia roughly 50 miles to the west. Teams can expect to arrive in town from the airports in just over an hour.

Planner Perspective “On behalf of all the ITA coaches and players who participated in the 2014 USTA/ITA National Small College Championships, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to you for serving as tournament organizer for this special event. All of our ITA coaches and players felt the Championships went great and much of this was due to the quality of the tennis center and the super support of the staff and local community….We hope to be able to return to Sumter and the Palmetto Tennis Center next fall for our 2015 USTA/ITA National Small College Championships event.”

— David A. Benjamin, Executive Director, Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA)

CITY OF SUMTER RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Susan H. Wild, Recreation Programs & Facilities Director 803-774-1651 • swild@sumter-sc.com SumterSC.gov

Sports Planning Guide

169

SPORT_170-171_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:45 PM Page 170

1

COLUMBIA, SC

Columbia, South Carolina is hot on the scene for amateur sports, making it the perfect destination for your next tournament.

Columbia’s Top-Notch Facilities are Sure to Meet Your Needs 1. Williams-Brice Stadium

3. Carolina Stadium

Sports: Football This giant stadium, home to the USC Gamecocks, is one of the finest in the country and when filled to capacity hosts over 80,000 spectators. Over the years the stadium has undergone nearly $30 million in renovations and expansions to make it the topquality venue that it is today. The single football field is natural grass. Spectators can find some of the best premium seating and suites in all of college football. The 11,000-square-foot banquet facility offers excellent views.

Sports: Baseball One of the premier baseball stadiums in the U.S., this University of South Carolina ballpark is a recent addition to the Columbia sports world, with the ability to host 9,000 fans. Visitors enjoy amenities such as a Picnic Terrace along left field and premium seating in the Suite and Club levels. The $35-million facility boasts everything from a state-of-the-art video scoreboard and sound system to a fully equipped press box with TV/radio booths. Field dimensions: 325 feet down the lines, 400 to center field. The stadium is fully ADA-accessible. Players will enjoy the enormous weight room and four indoor batting tunnels.

2. Colonial Life Arena Sports: Basketball This University of South Carolina arena is the largest in the state, with 18,000 seats and square footage of 329,006. Colonial Life Arena is a perfect entertainment venue that features 41 suites, a four-suite Entertainment Club and a hospitality room that can host 300, plus plenty of concessions. A state-of-the-art sound system and scoreboard complete the experience, making Colonial Life an unforgettable venue for basketball fans and players alike.

170

Sports Planning Guide

4. Lexington County Tennis Complex Sports: Tennis Just eight miles west of downtown Columbia, the Lexington County Tennis Complex has played host to major tennis events, including the USTA Junior Team Tennis National Championships.

It features 21 hard lighted courts and seats upwards of 500 spectators, making it the region’s premier tennis venue. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_170-171_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:52 PM Page 171

5. Lexington Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, t-ball, tennis This multipurpose facility in the western Columbia suburb of Lexington is ideal for baseball and softball teams of all ages. Featuring five youth baseball fields, one intermediate field, one regulation baseball field and two T-ball fields, the complex plays host to groups of various experience levels. It also boasts four softball fields and four tennis courts.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

6. Kelly Mill Recreation Complex Sports: Baseball, football, soccer Four baseball fields with a press box and concession stand are joined by a football and soccer field along with a playground, picnic area and walking trails. A recent addition to the community within the last few years, it’s a testament to the strong presence of sports in the area.

3

Columbia Offers Endless Possibilities for Leisure Time Fun Looking to get out into nature? Rent a boat, kayak or canoe, and explore Columbia’s three rivers or Lake Murray. There are riverfront trails for running or biking and an abundance of parks where you can pass an afternoon relaxing in the sweet Southern air.

Animal lovers can’t miss out on the Riverbanks Zoo – one of the best in the country and just steps from downtown. It’s home to over 2,000 animals plus a lush botanical garden in a beautiful riverfront setting.

The University of South Carolina is right in the center of the city, its gorgeous campus great for a stroll taking in some Southern architecture or attending a university sporting event.

Learn about the state’s history at one of the many museums, including the South Carolina State Museum and African American History Monument. Walking tours are a popular way to see the city and learn about Columbia’s rich military and civil rights history.

Columbia’s youthful vibe flavors the colorful arts scene and lively entertainment districts. Major headliners have passed through the city, so be sure to check out what concerts will be going on while you’re in town or catch a local band at any of the city’s music venues. Columbia boasts over 450 restaurants, so don’t worry about finding your favorite meal the night before the big game.

2

How Do I Get My Sports Group to Columbia?

Groups can drive into Columbia via I-77 from the north, I-20 from the west or I-26 from the south. Delta, American and United airlines serve Columbia’s airport, which is located just eight miles from the city center.

Amtrak’s Silver Star line between New York City and Miami stops in Columbia. The train station is conveniently located in the center of downtown.

4

Planner Perspective “We are really for the Columbia Sports Council! You and your team are to be commended for your hard work. We can’t thank you enough for your care, energy and time.”

—Randy Coleman, CEO/President, International Dance Challenge, LLC

COLUMBIA SPORTS COUNCIL S. Scott Powers, Executive Director 803-545-0004 • spowers@columbiasportscouncil ColumbiaSportsCouncil.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

6 Sports Planning Guide

171

SPORT_172_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:40 PM Page 172

SPORT_173_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:29 PM Page 173

SALUDA SHOALS PARK, SC

Located in the Midlands of South Carolina, Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park is built to support modern competition and rewards fans with a fun, memorable getaway in an amenity-packed area.

Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park Has Everything You Need Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, rugby, quidditch, competitive runs, biking, canoeing, kayaking The Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park offers so much for sporting groups. Six multi-use, natural-turf fields with state-of-the-art lighting offer exceptional field visibility and can host a wide variety of events. Amenities like conveniently located restrooms, Wi-Fi access, on-site concessions and ample parking ensure a great experience for your teams. Responsive professionals offer detailed tournament planning and unparalleled customer service before, during and after every event. Customized contracting flexes to fit your event’s unique requirements, and large-bracket tournaments can utilize a bullpen of supplemental fields nearby.

The athletic complex is located within a 400-acre riverfront park.

Saluda Shoals Park’s amenities include 10 miles of paved and unpaved trails for walking as well as access to the Saluda River for canoeing, kayaking, tubing and fishing.

Local Attractions for Off-the-Field Fun First on your list is Saluda Shoals Park, a natural park located a mile and a half from Lake Murray with beautiful outdoor experiences, such as picnicking and swimming, that the whole family can enjoy.

Then, check out Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, one of the nation’s premier natural habitat zoos. The Harbison Boulevard area offers two movie theaters, a bowling alley and Frankie’s Fun Park for families to enjoy. For those who are interested in history, arts and culture, the city of Columbia is less than 20 minutes away. There you can visit the SC State Museum and Planetarium, Columbia Museum of Art, SC State House and EdVenture Children’s Museum.

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Saluda Shoals Park is Easy to Reach Interstate 26, a major South Carolina highway, is located within two miles of the park. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is less than 20 minutes away.

Planner Perspective “Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission facilities are top-notch. The staff goes over and above to make sure our event and participant experience is outstanding. We have enjoyed our partnership and are looking forward to returning for many years to come.”

—Jason Gross, Gameday Sports Executive Director, SC USSSA State Director

IRMO CHAPIN RECREATION COMMISSION Ashley Smith, Market Development Director 803-772-1228 • asmith@icrc.net ICRC.net

Sports Planning Guide

173

SPORT_174-175_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:19 PM Page 174

4

3

5

FLORENCE, SC

Offering outstanding venues and plenty for athletes to do after the competition, Florence bills itself as the Amateur Sports Destination of the Southeast.

Florence Sports an Impressive Line-up of Facilities 1. Dr. Eddie Floyd Florence Tennis Center Sports: Tennis Since its founding in 2011, the Dr. Eddie Floyd Florence Tennis Center has been the area's premier place to play, averaging about 13 events every year. With 24 asphalt courts, six clay courts and a 5,000-square-foot activity area, it has the space to host tournaments. In fact, there is a partnership with McLeod Health Systems for the annual October Ladies Pro Circuit Tennis Tournament, now named the McLeod for Health Florence Open, to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Lowcountry.

In the activity center, additional amenities include a lounge area, a study area, restrooms, locker rooms, showers, and space for meetings or offices. A pro shop rounds out the indoor amenities; outside, guests will find ample parking space and easy access to and from town.

2. Freedom Florence Recreation Complex Sports: Softball, football, gymnastics This 100-acre, multi-use park is part of Florence’s Parks and Recreation Department, and it was purpose-built to provide an elite, beautiful site for tournaments. Sport-ready areas at the complex include nine lit softball fields, three football fields and a roomy, 11,600-square-foot gymnastics center. Outdoor amenities are just as extensive; they include a lake, picnic areas, an amphitheater, and a selection of trails. While access to the majority of the park is free, most tournaments will require some kind of usage fee. Freedom Florence Recreation Complex averages approximately 50 events each year.

174

Sports Planning Guide

3. Sparrow Stadium at Francis Marion University Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer Sparrow Stadium, which includes Clifford S. Cormell Field, is a new, state-of-the-art venue for baseball. The facility has seating for 900 with a capacity of 1,755. On-site amenities include a concessions area, a single ticketing area, restrooms, VIP room and a press box. Sparrow Stadium is part of the university's $11.1-million R. Gerald Griffin Athletic Complex, which includes a lake, soccer and softball stadiums, and a fieldhouse.

Note: The university's former baseball facility, also named Cormell Field, is used by Florence-Darlington Technical College.

4. Florence Civic Center At 50,000 square feet, the Florence Civic Center is the largest convention facility in the northeastern part of South Carolina. It includes a 10,000-seat arena, a 14,500-square-foot ballroom and several smaller meeting rooms. The arena covers 29,000 square feet, and the facility comes packed with amenities, including four breakout rooms, five dressing rooms, corporate suites, facilitywide Wi-Fi and available catering. In-house personnel can help with planning your event.

5. Darlington Raceway Sports: Racing One of the Florence area's premier sports venues, Darlington Raceway hosts numerous events each year, including the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles’ Southern 500®. This year, NASCAR racing returned to its historic Labor Day weekend date. Other events include the Greater Darlington Chamber of Commerce's annual July 4 bash Freedom Fest, NASCAR XFINITY series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 on Labor Day @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_174-175_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:11 PM Page 175

weekend, and November's Speed and Feed BBQ Cook-Off and Car Show presented by Sam Carbis Solutions Group. Track rentals and tours are available. Other on-site race weekend amenities include camping and RV areas. The Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum and NMPA Hall of Fame are open year-round, excluding holidays and weekends.

Planner Perspective “We loved working with the Florence Area Sports Council… I wish all of our CVB and sports commission contacts were like that!”

— Lindsay Judd, Color Vibe

After the Game is Over, Leisure Options Abound Once the gear has been packed and the day's score settled, it's time to relax and enjoy life off the playing field. And in Florence, you can take a civilized approach to this part of sports travel planning. Here you’ll find two museums that highlight the area’s heritage, live entertainment to take in, and plenty of strolling to do in and out of the city.

If a window into the past is likely to resonate with your group, they'll want to check out the Florence County Museum and the War Between the States Museum. Each March, there's a reenactment of a Civil War skirmish at Columns Plantation.

In town, you can catch a show at the Florence Civic Center,

SportsPlanningGuide.com

where everything from the circus to the Beach Boys has stopped by. Or take in a local performance at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center or Florence's own Little Theatre. Florence's downtown area is a great place to stroll, browse, eat and generally enjoy life.

And don't forget the great outdoors when it's time to relax.

Anchored as it is by the region's namesake Pee Dee River (and in the city itself, by Jeffries Creek), Florence has a trail and park system that invites a steady saunter or a quiet rest.

90 Minutes from Myrtle Beach One of seven counties in South Carolina's Pee Dee Region, Florence is about 90 minutes away from Myrtle Beach and within a few hours' drive of Charleston and Charlotte. Both I-20 and I-95 lead to Florence County. It's approximately midway between New York City and Miami. Florence is served by the Florence Regional Airport. Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (2.5 hours) and Myrtle Beach International Airport (1.5 hours).

FLORENCE AREA SPORTS COUNCIL Jade Perkins 843-664-0330 • jade.perkins@visitflo.com PlayFlorence.com

Sports Planning Guide

175

SPORT_176-177_Layout 1 9/13/15 2:58 PM Page 176

3

MOUNTAIN LAKES REGION/ OCONEE COUNTY, SC From Spacious Lakes to Disc Golf Courses 1. Lake Keowee Sports: Golfing, sailing, hiking, fishing, boating, water sports, tennis This man-made lake, known for its Christmas tree shape and crystal-clear waters, was built in 1971 to generate hydroelectric power. Now, it serves as an excellent public recreational destination with fishing, boating, swimming and other water activities for its guests. Tennis Play Days are available every week, where players at all levels are welcome to participate in friendly competition.

Connected to the Keowee, Little and Seneca rivers, which flow into the larger Savannah River, Lake Keowee is the center for fun in the water.

2. Lake Hartwell Sports: Fishing, boating, hiking, bird watching Lake Hartwell State Park not only provides access to the 56,000-acre lake, but also various nature trails and wildlife spottings. Coyotes, deer, skunks, groundhogs and foxes tip-toe on the trails. The park also takes bird watching up a notch—see birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, or possibly spot the country’s national emblem, the bald eagle. Boat access is available for visitors to participate in various water sports, from water skiing to fishing, but don’t forget your South Carolina fishing license; you won’t be allowed to fish without it.

176

Sports Planning Guide

Pick South Carolina’s Mountain Lakes region for your next sporting event to bring everyone together and in the zone.

3. Lake Jocassee Sports: Hiking, fishing, kayaking This lake provides guided tours for vacationers, giving you the ultimate experience of the deepest lake in South Carolina (385 feet). Lake Tours navigate through the lake to rivers and waterfalls to see the exquisite, untouched nature. Take a Twilight Cruise that lasts past sunset. Kayak Tours travel around the 75-mile-long shoreline. Hop through rocks on the Adventure Tour by foot. Drop your boat in to partake in a day of waterskiing, wakeboarding or tubing.

4. Shaver Baseball/Softball Complex Sports: T-ball, baseball, softball Shaver Complex’s four 200-foot fields and two 285-foot fields can handle youth baseball and softball tournaments. Both the Dixie Youth/Ozone State Tournament and Dixie Boys World Series take place at this complex, attracting teams from all over the state.

5. Shaver Disc Golf Course Sports: Disc golf This course is the most technical of the Mountain Lakes region’s disc golf courses, with a wood-chip bath in the wooded areas and well-labeled signs to navigate through the course. The fairways are tight with rolling elevation. It even has a pro shop that sells equipment. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_176-177_Layout 1 9/13/15 3:02 PM Page 177

6. Sertoma Field Disc Golf Course

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Sports: Disc golf Sertoma Field Disc Golf Course has amazing scenery with a handful of elevations. One-fourth of the holes are accompanied by water, making this challenging course a must-play. The foliage is mixed with both green areas and open spaces. Tee types are either concrete or gravel depending on your preference.

An Area Blessed with Natural Resources Mountain Lakes’ sporting events typically go hand-in-hand with its natural resources: four lakes, over 150 waterfalls, two rivers and over 80,000 acres of national forest land. This makes it a unique destination for fishing tournaments, road cycling, water sports, hiking adventures and archery.

Road bicycle events vary from three-day endurance rides through the mountains (Road Titans 300) to one-day rides with different mileage options (Issaqueena’s Last Ride, Rally in the Valley or Tour de Tugalo). For water-savvy athletes, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet racing and acrobatic competitions are all in season. The National Watercross Tour and INT Wakeboard Competition all occur within the region’s borders.

Bass fishing is one of the most popular attractions in Mountain Lakes region. With seven different genus species of bass, its bass fishing tournaments reel in fishermen near and far. Bass Fishing League has multiple events on both Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell. Hike the Big Bend Trail to get a glimpse of the notorious Big Bend Falls or visit one of the region’s five public golf courses to practice your backswing. Culturally, the area abounds with museums, art collections and theaters. Located in the center of Walhalla, the Oconee Heritage Center is located in the old Tobacco Factory and provides a vast collection of artifacts that illustrate the diverse history and heritage of Oconee.

2

4

Easy Access a Big Plus Smack-dab in between Atlanta and Charlotte, the Mountain Lakes region is less than a three-hour drive from each. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is about a two-and-a-half hour drive from the Mountain Lakes region. Greenville International Airport is 45 minutes away.

5

Planner Perspective “After working with more than 20 bureaus across the country, the SC Mountain Lakes CVB definitely ranks highest. They have far exceeded our expectations. They were prepared to help and accomplish anything necessary as a partner with our event.”

—Jonathan Strauss, Operations Coordinator Road Titans 300

MOUNTAIN LAKES CVB

Charlotte Waters, Sales Manager/Event Planner 864-364-4525 • charlotte@scmountainlakes.com SCMountainLakes.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Sports Planning Guide

177

SPORT_178-179_Layout 1 9/13/15 2:38 PM Page 178

1

3

5

ROCK HILL/ YORK COUNTY, SC Top Venues for Soccer, Cycling and Water Sports 1. Irwin Belk Track at Winthrop University Athletic Complex Sports: Soccer, track and field This newly built $2.8-million track and soccer complex, named after Charlotte’s famous businessman and philanthropist Irwin “Ike” Belk, is Rock Hill/York County’s best facility yet. Its top-quality Mondo rubberized surfaces attract NCAA Division I competitors. The complex includes a full-sized soccer field and designated area for field events like discus and pole vault.

Comfortable seating is provided for fans to cheer on their track stars.

2. Giordana Velodrome Sports: Cycling The Giordana Velodrome, part of the Rock Hill Outdoor Center, is a 250-meter, world-class cycling track endorsed by USA Cycling. The idea backing this facility is to introduce to the community and its visitors the Olympic sport of track cycling. Its home base was made to train and develop those interested in track cycling, and offers programs for cyclists of all levels and equipment rental.

178

Sports Planning Guide

Planning a sports event shouldn’t cause blood, sweat and tears; Rock Hill/York County, South Carolina ensures your event will be a smooth success.

3. Novant Health BMX Supercross Track Sports: BMX Cycling This BMX Supercross Track opened in 2014 and is the only Olympic-caliber training center on the East Coast. One of only a few in the country, it hosts local, state, regional, and national events and provides training and insight for those dreaming of entering Olympic cycling one day. With all ages and experience levels welcome, and countless programs, races and events to choose from, the track is a premier cycling facility.

4. Lake Wylie Sports: Water sports, golf, 5k/10k runs Lake Wylie offers natural beauty and sports activities close to the city. Put your water sports skills to the test with swimming, rowing, sailing, fishing, skiing, wakeboarding—you name it. The lake hosts the annual Splash Dash, a 5k/10k walk or run, and Captain’s Choice Golf Tournament.

5. Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer, biking Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex is a new 70-acre park featuring six regulation and two championship soccer fields, a stadium to hold 1,500 people and a pavilion with concessions.

Other features include bike trails, a picnic pavilion and playground. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_178-179_Layout 1 9/13/15 2:33 PM Page 179

Wild Rides and Lakeside Leisure

Convenient Location a Big Plus

York County is full of activities ready to be experienced once you get a break in play. Carowinds, an amusement and water park, has rides of all speeds and sizes, with roller coasters for adrenaline junkies or carousels for theme park beginners. Comfort Inn at Carowinds and Hampton Inn, Rock Hill are the perfect places to stay and play.

Check out “The Stadium” Sports Amphitheatre at Revolutions in the Rock Hill Galleria or sit down at its full-service restaurant after bowling on one of its 20 VIP bowling lanes.

Cherry Park has five state-of-the-art softball/baseball and multipurpose fields, plus a playground with picnic tables and grills. The legendary baseball player Mighty Casey is honored here with a sculpture—perfect for photo ops with the team.

Looking to enjoy the beauty of nature? Kings Mountain State Park sets the stage for a great retreat. With two lakes and streams for fishing and 35 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, the park is the place for everyone to unwind.

Quaint boutiques and antiques shops filled with hidden treasures line the streets in Rock Hill, a charming Southern town. Stop by Gettys Art Center to get a glimpse at local Rock Hill/York County artwork and view artists’ galleries and studios.

With various downtowns to choose from, Rock Hill/York County has a vast selection of shops.

The Carolinas have access to three major interstate systems: I-77, I-85 and I-40. Whether coming from the Northeast, Southeast, Southwest or Midwest, there will be an easy route option for your arrival to Rock Hill/York County. I-40 provides an important east-to-west link for coast-to-coast travel. Located 25 minutes from downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, Rock Hill is 20 miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of the fastest growing airports in the U.S. with over 120 non-stop service destinations.

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Planner Perspective “We had a great experience working with the City of Rock Hill, York County, and the folks at Manchester Meadows. They went above and beyond to help us put on a fantastic event for participants and spectators alike.”

— Alicia Radford – Acting Executive Director, US Quidditch

ROCK HILL / YORK COUNTY CVB J. Auvis Cole, Sports Sales Manager 803-487-5702 • acole@visityorkcounty.com VisitYorkCounty.com

Sports Planning Guide

179

SPORT_180-181_Layout 1 9/13/15 2:00 PM Page 180

4

SPARTANBURG, SC Spartanburg Has the Facilities You Need 1. Tyger River Park Sports: Baseball, softball As one of the South’s premier baseball and softball tournament facilities, Tyger River Park features 12 ball fields arranged in convenient four-field clusters in addition to a championship stadium that comfortably seats 600 people. In addition to its excellent playing fields, Tyger River Park also offers top-of-the-line site amenities including a clubhouse, several concession areas, umpire changing rooms, a lounge, a VIP Suite, Wi-Fi, covered seats and two parks where the whole family can play.

2. Upward Star Center Sports: Basketball, volleyball (indoor and beach), soccer, lacrosse, cheerleading, 7-v-7 football This 120,000-square-foot, multi-sports facility opened this year and can host almost any sport that comes its way. Indoors, the center is equipped with six full-sized basketball courts, 12 indoor regulation volleyball courts, several studios designed for cheerleading, dance, aerobics and yoga, as well as a team shop.

Additionally, the center houses a running track, batting cages, and a gym complete with free weights and cardio machines. The outdoor part of the facility has four lighted sand volleyball courts, two 180

Sports Planning Guide

Bring your teams to the sports mecca of the South and mix tournaments with outdoor adventures in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

soccer fields with artificial turf and four grass fields that can be used for soccer, lacrosse or 7-v-7 football. Upwards Sports is partnered with Spartanburg Regional Health Services and is able to offer strength training, rehab opportunities and orthopedic services.

3. Milliken Arboretum and 5K Fitness Trails Sports: Cross country The rolling hills of the Milliken Arboretum have hosted renowned cross-country events including the NCAA National Cross-Country Championships, Junior Olympic National Cross-Country Championship and Milliken Earth Run. The all-grass course is part of a 600-acre private corporate campus and is available for approved community events.

4. Viking Track Sports: Track and field The world-class outdoor track boasts the same surfacing materials used at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the recent World Indoor Championships in Valencia. The custommade track lends itself to optimal traction, providing the best contact between the track and the athletes’ spikes. Viking Track contains eight lanes, two jump pits, pole vault and high jump areas. The complex is lighted and uses the Lynx MVP automatic timing system. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_180-181_Layout 1 9/13/15 2:10 PM Page 181

5. Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park Sports: Soccer, football, tennis, beach volleyball, disc golf Renovated in the spring of 2015, the park offers seven regulation-sized fields that are covered in Bermuda grass and can be used for soccer or football. Additionally, the park features an 18-hole disc golf course (see below for Shoally Creek), three tennis courts, two beach volleyball courts and shaded picnic tables. The recent renovations also included a restroom and concession complex as well as an expanded parking lot.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

6. Shoally Creek Disc Golf Course Sports: Disc golf Heralded as one of the best disc golf courses in the state, Shoally Creek contains 18 holes that span 4,647 feet when played from the short tees, and 6,796 feet when played from the long tees. The course runs mostly through the woods and has several elevation changes.

1

Spartanburg is Easily Accessible Located a few hours away from a variety of metropolitan hubs, Spartanburg is a laid-back oasis in the heart of the Carolinas. By car, Spartanburg is just one hour and 10 minutes south of Charlotte, and is connected to the popular North Carolina city by I-85. Cities less than six hours away include Columbia, Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; and Nashville, Tennessee.

Greenville-Spartanburg Airport, a mere 24 minutes away from the city center, is served by Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest and United airlines.

Outdoor Adventures Keep Traveling Teams Busy Whether you’re trying to fill downtime between games or looking to spend a few laidback days at the end of your trip, Spartanburg is full of timeless attractions that will have your team begging to come back.

Explore the great outdoors of Upstate South Carolina as you kayak the lakes, rivers and streams surrounding Spartanburg, hike, ride or bike along its hundreds of miles of trails. Discover plants and animals in the sprawling gardens and forests of preserves such as Hatcher Garden, the Cottonwood Trail, Glendale Shoals and many others. Spend an afternoon exploring Croft State Park and go fishing, boating or geocaching, or head to Strawberry Hill USA and pick delicious in-season berries, peaches or pumpkins.

Check out Hollywild Animal Park, a zoo where your team can help feed a variety of animals or relax on a safari ride. Prefer to beat the heat and stay indoors? Go rock climbing at Climb Upstate. Get a little shopping in at the WestGate Mall, then head next door to the Regal Spartan 16 and catch a movie. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at a well-loved Spartanburg classic like the The Beacon Drive In, Wades Restaurant, Sugar-n-Spice or Cribb’s Kitchen.

2

3

Planner Perspective “Spartanburg has great sports facilities that are well maintained, and they are easily accessible from the airport and highways. We found super support for our events from the City, CVB, hotels and tourism industry.”

— Warren Jones, State Commissioner, Ohio Amateur Softball Association

SPARTANBURG CVB Kristyn Hawkins, Sales Associate 864-594-5050 • ksmith@visitspartanburg.com SpartanburgSports.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

5 Sports Planning Guide

181

SPORT_182-183_Layout 1 9/13/15 1:56 PM Page 182

5

GREENVILLE, SC Elite Facilities Draw Major Tournaments to Greenville 1. MeSA Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate This is home to the Carolina Elite Soccer Academy, which has both recreational and competitive soccer programs and recently came in second place in the National Soccer Championships. In 2012 the complex hosted the US Youth Soccer Southern Regional Soccer Tournament, which welcomed over 10,000 athletes and spectators. MeSA Soccer Complex accommodates both large and small group events.

With exceptional facilities and a lively city, Greenville, South Carolina is more than the sports metropolis of the South—it’s a family-friendly oasis. entertainment arena. It is home to the NY Rangers affiliate Greenville Road Warriors that play in the ECH AA hockey league.

In 2013 it began a three-year renovation project that has seen the installation of a new curtain system, a 360-degree ribbon board, a high-definition video scoreboard, digital menu boards and concourse signage, parking lot upgrades and new risers. Bon Secours Wellness Arena has been recognized as one of the top 50 venues in the world.

4. Furman University

Sports: Swimming, water polo, kayaking Westside Aquatic Complex has an indoor 25-by-50-meter, 20lane competition pool and an indoor, five-lane, 25-yard heated therapy pool. Its state-of-the-art Paddock Evacuator System provides fresh, clean air for everyone and its concessions will fill all your cravings. The complex also includes newly renovated locker rooms, meeting rooms, an exercise room and aerobic equipment.

Sports: All This university features 11 state-of-the-art, sport-focused facilities. The Latham Baseball Stadium is a 10,000-square-foot complex that has undergone significant improvements in the past years and provides seating for 2,000. The Pepsi Softball Stadium boasts a 2,700-square-foot press box facility and seats 300. The Timmons Arena is a 100,000-square-foot arena that seats 3,500 people for basketball and 6,000 for concerts and other entertainment. Paladin Stadium is a 44,000-square-foot, four-story facility that serves as the new home for Furman football. The Eugene Stone Soccer Stadium houses more than 3,000 fans and includes a fully-automated scoreboard, press box and lighting.

3. Bon Secours Wellness Arena

5. Fluor Field at the West End

Sports: Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, hockey, mat sports, crossfit Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, Bon Secours Wellness Arena is a state-of-the-art, 15,000-seat sports and

Sports: Baseball A replica of Boston’s historic Fenway Park, Fluor Field at the West End serves as the host field of the Greenville Drive, a

2. Westside Aquatic Complex

182

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_182-183_Layout 1 9/13/15 1:52 PM Page 183

Class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. It includes a 30-foot-high “Green Monster,” which is named after the famous left field wall at Fenway. The facility can seat more than 5,000 fans and has a handoperated scoreboard. Spectators will not be disappointed when watching a game here as the farthest seats are only 12 rows away from the field.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

6. Conestee Park Sports: Baseball, softball Conestee Park features four top-tier baseball/softball fields, and a stadium field with a permanent pitching mound at 60 feet, six inches and 400 feet to the center field fence. Its event pavilion in the center of the four fields has a seating capacity of 200 people. It offers restrooms, electrical power, two grills and ample parking. Adjacent to the pavilion are a large playground and open green space for the kids to play in.

Lake Conestee Nature Park is located 100 yards away.

3

Enjoying the Area with Family and Teammates In downtown Greenville, visitors love browsing the one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques. Your team can even catch a game in their downtime with Greenville’s professional hockey and baseball teams – the ECHL Greenville Road Warriors and the MiLB Greenville Drive. Afterward, when everybody is hungry, there are more than 100 restaurants to choose from, many of them chef-owned. Next, take a stroll over to Heritage Green, which sets the stage for art, learning and entertainment.

At Falls Park on the Reedy savor the peace and quiet at this tranquil spot which features the Liberty Bridge, waterfalls and landscaped gardens.

If you are looking for something more fast-paced, Greenville is sure to supply. Fly through the air at exhilarating speeds on the Gorge Zipline Canopy Tour that is perched precariously on the rim of the famous Green River Gorge. Cook a world-class meal at Charleston Cooks! where visitors can view demonstrations or take a hands-on class. Make a splash and bask in the sun at one of three GCPRT waterparks. Or take a look at out-of-this-world art at Art Crossing at River Place, where artists gather daily to create.

2

Greenville is Easy to Reach Located directly off of Interstate 85, Greenville is within a two- or three-hour drive of many major cities in North Carolina and Georgia.

It is only an afternoon’s drive away from the beaches on the coast.

Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is served by six major carriers and has around 50 direct flights daily. The airport is a 15-minute drive from the heart of the city.

4

Planner Perspective “Greenville hits all of our marks when we’re looking for a site to host our events. It has the accommodations we need, it has the facilities and it has the nightlife…. We are treated wonderfully here from the CVB to the Recreation Department.”

—Christian Smith, Director of Division II National Club Baseball Association

VISITGREENVILLESC Robin Wright, Senior Sales Manager – Sports 864-421-0000 • rwright@visitgreenvillesc.com VisitGreenvilleSC.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

6 Sports Planning Guide

183

SPORT_184-185_Layout 1 9/13/15 1:40 PM Page 184

1 3 4

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC Looking for a venue to host your unique sport? Call North Myrtle Beach; we’re only limited by our imagination.

You’ll Find Just the Right Venue for Your Event 1. Wyndham Vacation Baseball/Softball Complex Sports: Baseball, softball For baseball/softball, the Wyndham complex at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex features four regulation youth baseball/collegiate softball fields and two regulation high school/collegiate baseball fields. The latter can be changed to regulation youth baseball, or collegiate fields. The complex has eight batting tunnels. Umpire rooms, misting fans in each dugout, picnic areas and concessions enhance athlete and family enjoyment. Free live streaming video is on all baseball/ softball fields with over 200,000 views to date. Family and friends back home can keep up with all the action.

2. Wild Wing Cafe Soccer/Lacrosse Complex Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, cross country This facility at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex features eight soccer/lacrosse fields with officials’ room.

As on the baseball side, there are concessions, picnic areas and playgrounds. The NMB Park and Sports Complex includes a 10-acre meadow, 25-acre lake, walking/bike trails and amphitheater. There’s even a three-acre dog park.

3. Central Park Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, pickleball, archery This 20-acre park can host a variety of events. Two multipurpose fields measure 100 by 200 feet, with another at 180 by 300 feet.

There are four outdoor pickleball courts. Two youth baseball/ softball fields measure 200-225 feet to outfield fences, while one field has 185-200-foot fences. Each has clay infields. The baseball/ softball area has five batting cages. The complex also features restroom facilities, concessions, playgrounds and two basketball half-courts.

184

Sports Planning Guide

Team up with great venues, wide sandy beaches and plenty of family fun. Only in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

4. North Myrtle Beach Aquatic & Fitness Center Sports: Swimming The NMB Aquatic & Fitness Center is a membershipbased facility and a favorite of high school regional and Masters Swimming events. A full Colorado timing system and scoreboard keep track of the action on an eight-lane, 25-yard lap pool.

The center also offers a three-lane, warm-water therapy pool, sauna, hot tub and 20-foot indoor waterslide.

5. J. Bryan Floyd Community Center Sports: Basketball, volleyball, pickleball This indoor venue features two regulation-style basketball courts that have hosted major events, including the USBA Summer Nationals. Easily transformed, the courts can become six pickleball or four regulation volleyball courts. Officials’ room and meeting rooms are available to planners.

6. Main Street, North Myrtle Beach Sports: 5K, 10K, half marathon, beach volleyball What’s a beach destination without a beach venue? The Main Street location is an ideal start/finish line for half-marathons.

Runners, including the DIVAS Half-Marathon, are treated to a scenic ocean view route, completing their run in the heart of North Myrtle Beach.

Good Times Await Away from the Field, Court and Pool With 10 miles of pristine beaches and all the fun they offer, do we need to look any further? You decide. Located in the southeast corner of the NMB Park and Sports Complex, Go Ape Treetop Adventure spans six acres, includes five zip lines, rope ladders and two Tarzan swings, and finishes crossing a lake. That lake is also home to Jetpack Adventures. Do your best George Jetson and enjoy the ride. The North Myrtle Beach Segway Experience takes riders on a cruise around the NMB Park and Sports Complex, then into the woods for nature and photo ops.

Barefoot Landing is a shopping, dining and entertainment @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPORT_184-185_Layout 1 9/13/15 1:05 PM Page 185

destination and home to Alabama Theatre, Alligator Adventure and House of Blues; it has 15 restaurants. Specialty shops and boutiques offer accessories, apparel, jewelry, shoes and gift items. Belk and Bass Pro Shops anchor nearby Myrtle Beach Mall. Tanger Outlets, with 100 outlets you’ll recognize, is just across the highway.

Inlet Point Plantation Stables provides year-round horseback riding on the beach. Maybe watersport options are more your style. Consider parasailing, kite surfing down the beach, kayaking, or inlet or deep-sea fishing.

Amongst all the sports action and off the field fun there’s a milder side of North Myrtle Beach awaiting visitors. From the point at Cherry Grove to the peaceful Intracoastal Waterway to the majestic marshlands, guests are discovering a quiet, peaceful, relaxing destination. Find a comfortable chair, prop up your feet and listen to the comforting sounds of quiet.

Come hungry and discover the dining delights of NMB. From seafood buffets to grills to raw bars there are more seafood restaurants than you can imagine. As at any beach destination, breakfast is important and NMB is famous for its top breakfast places.

With more than 15,000 vacation rentals, there are plenty of overnight options. Outstanding condominiums and resorts offer oceanfront, waterway and golf course views. Large families, multiple families and groups may prefer a beach home, available in all NMB communities. There are 18 rental companies ready to help you search. More than a dozen flag and family hotels/motels are available from oceanfront to inland.

NMB is Easy to Reach by Car or Air Located midway between New York City and Miami, North Myrtle Beach is within a day’s drive of most metropolitan areas east of the Mississippi River. It is slightly more than an hour from the intersection of I-95 and I-20. Myrtle Beach International Airport has non-stop flights from more than 30 cities in the United States and Canada. Airlines servicing North Myrtle Beach are Allegiant, Delta, Porter (Canada), Spirit, United, American, ViaAir and WestJet (Canada).

Once you’ve arrived finding your way locally is a breeze.

All sports venues are well marked and easily found. All are within minutes of the Main Street and U.S. Highway 17 intersection.

Area accommodations, attractions and restaurants are also effortlessly located.

For information about NMB accommodations, attractions and dining:

NMB CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CVB Sports & Group Tourism Manager 843-361-3047 • groups@explorenorthmyrtlebeach.com NMBSportsTravel.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YH9NLiw7hQ

For more information about NMB sports facilities:

CITY OF NORTH MYRTLE BEACH Matt Gibbons, CPRP, Superintendent of Sports Tourism/Athletics 843-280-5574 • jmgibbons@nmb.us NMBPark.com