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TWENTY YEARS LATER: ATLANTA’S PERFECT

GEORGIA GUIDE • 2017

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VIRTUAL SITE INSPECTIONS OF EVENT- READY DESTINATIONS

The standard for building Olympic venues that last

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SPORTS FOR LIFE IN GEORGIA

A Premier Travel Media publication • www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

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GEORGIA IS A GREAT DESTINATION TO

SUPPORT YOUR TEAM!

kevin langston Deputy Commissioner, Tourism

Georgia offers a rare combination of a thriving cosmopolitan city , mountains, beaches and much more, all within a very short drive. It’s our people and our places that make Georgia one of the top destinations for domestic and international visitors.

The mild climate in Georgia allows sport enthusiasts to attend and participate in sporting events year-round. Pair that with our world-class destinations, attractions, facilities and restaurants, and visitors have plenty to enjoy before and after the buzzer sounds.

Georgia is home to a wide variety of sports from professional and college football and baseball to professional and amateur motorsports.

Our pro sport teams include the Hawks, Falcons, Braves and new soccer teams Atlanta United and Tormenta, all of which welcome thousands of cheering fans each year. The Peach State also plays host to a multitude of amateur and youth sporting events; from big-city tournaments to small-town games, every corner of the state of fers unique sporting events for fans. No matter what your favorite sport, Georgia offers scores of fun and family-friendly places to watch exciting matchups.

Georgia has a long history of hosting major sporting events inAtlanta including the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, SEC Football Championships, NCAA Men’s Final Four, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Bank of America Football Classic, Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, the Chick-fil-A Bowl and many more. There is always a game to attend or a team to cheer on with six professional sports teams, numerous college teams and topnotch venues in Georgia. Whether you’re a runner, a hockey fan, a gymnast or a baseball and softball enthusiast, Georgia is a great destination to support your team!

Sincerely,

Kevin Langston Deputy Commissioner, Tourism

GA SPORTS

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7 Sports for Life in Georgia Atlanta’s Perfect 10

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Columbus Cobb County Columbia County Alpharetta ATL Airport District Cumming-Forsyth County DeKalb County Gwinnett County Athens LakePoint Sporting Community LaGrange-Troup County Lake Lanier Peachtree City Rome Valdosta-Lowndes County Savannah

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Stay and Play in the District

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150,000 Event exhibit hall 8,000 Hotel rooms 24 Hard tennis courts 12 Ultimate fields 6 International-sized soccer fields 4 Clay tennis courts 2 Golf courses 1 Cycling velodrome Minutes from just about anywhere +

Play in the district and save 30% or more when you book your stay or event in the ATL Airport District. @X^edSc c_edW _T R_g^d_g^ 3d[N^dN͹ dWS 6XcdbXQd _ůSbc V_[T͹ QiQ[X^V͹ dS^^Xc͹ c_QQSb͹ e[dX]NdS͹ N^R f_[[SiPN[[ TNQX[XdXSc͹ gWX[S _eb ͹ caͶ TdͶ ShWXPXd WN[[ Xc dWS `SbTSQd c`NQS T_b N[]_cd N^i SfS^d _b Q_]`SdXdX_^Ͷ 3 gXRS fNbXSdi _T `_`e[Nb W_dS[ PbN^Rc͹ VbSNd T__R͹ N^R SNci NQQScc d_ dWS NXb`_bd ]NZSc dWS 3G? 3Xb`_bd 6XcdbXQd dWS `SbTSQd RScdX^NdX_^ T_b i_eb ^Shd c`_bdX^V SfS^dͶ

LESS HASSLE, MORE SPORTS Visit ATLdistrict.com/Sports to help plan your next stay

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tains of north Georgia to the coastal beaches and farmland of southern Georgia, from the sprawling metr opolis of Atlanta’s vibrant ar t, music,

and literature to the quiet expanse of satellite cities dotted across the diverse landscape – there is something for every taste in Georgia. Sports are no different.

Georgia is defining what it means to be a sports state, going beyond traditional team sports to become a go-to destination for what is frequently called “sports for life.” Let’s explore seven of the best around the state: Buford Highway Bikes & Bites Location: Doraville Set on one of the busiest roads in Georgia, in one of the most economically , socially and culturally diverse cities in the world, Buford Highway Bikes & Bites takes place smack dab in the middle of Buford Highway in Doraville. If you’ve ever driven it, you can imagine how odd it will look with no cars but instead, a herd of bicyclists.

Winner of the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition's 2016 Local Bike Initiative Blinkie Award, this policeescorted tour by bicycle of Atlanta’s most deliciously diverse street is not to be missed.

Doraville is known for a diverse culture, where East meets W est, and features some of the best Vietnamese dishes in the area, as well as BBQ (both American and Vietnamese), Mexican-style tacos and Atlanta’s best Dim Sum.

Alpharetta CVB

Sports forinLife Georgia

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eorgia is known for its diverse landscape and cultures; from the moun-

Rome Sports Clocktower Classic Location: Rome Clocktower Classic Handcycle Stage Race, the only race of its kind in the continental United States, is comprised of 5 stages over the course of four days. This race has been endorsed by the US Handcycling Federation and US Paralympics Cycling.

Participants from around the world travel to Rome to participate in the race which features challenging hill climbs, rolling terrain plus flat and fast courses. US Paralympics has utilized the race as a training event for the national team.

The Clocktower Classic brand has recently expanded into wheelchair tennis, with the Clocktower Classic Wheelchair Tennis Championship.

The tournament has been named Best Wheelchair Tennis Tournament the last two years running by USTA Georgia. Both events are open to all abilities and ages. Both events donate a portion of their proceeds to purchase adaptive sports equipment for local youth programs.

Augusta Disc Golf Association Location: Augusta Augusta, Ga., has one of the most comprehensive community disc golf organizations in the southeast. The Augusta Disc Golf Association consists of six courses in the Augusta area and features weekly play days, monthly tournaments and leagues for all ages and abilities. The favorable year-round weather has turned this sport into a consistent draw for local and visiting patrons alike. The disc golf season culminates in the Augusta Disc Golf Classic, played at Lake Olmstead Park and Pendelton King Park on September 24 & 25, 2016.

The annual IronKids Alpharetta, one of the largest youth triathlons in the United States, has divisions for three age groups.

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Columbus Soldier Marathon Location: Columbus From start to finish, this is truly a community event. Organized by local event planners, the race utilizes the local terrain, boosts the local economy and provides benefits to local veterans. There is a race for everyone.

The Marathon is the main event and serves as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. If the Full Marathon is not for you, there is a half marathon, full relay marathon, Soldier 5K, a Kids Soldier Marathon, and a Virtual Marathon.

During the first six years, the Soldier Marathon Races donated $150,000 to military organizations in Columbus and Fort Benning, including the National Infantry Museum, House of Heroes, Fort Benning MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation), Team Red, White & Blue and Honor Flight. One hundred percent of all sponsor dollars given to the Soldier Marathon is distributed to military organizations.

Columbia County Wildwood Games Location: Columbia County After learning that they had secured the USA Cycling Marathon Mountain Biking National Championships, the Columbia County Convention and V isitors Bureau decided to build the Wildwood Games around the event.

The main event of the Wildwood Games, the Marathon Mountain Biking National Championship, will cover the grueling terrain of Georgia Fall Line (where the land shifts from slopes of the Piedmont to the flatland associated with South Georgia). This includes racing over gravel, single-track, woods roads, dirt roads, creek crossings and a long, dirt road descent into Below Dam and then a tough climb back up US-221 before finishing on a gravel road and double-track sprint to the finish line.

The Wildwood Games also include BMX Races, trail running and a disc golf tournament.

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Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon & 5k Location: Savannah Created by the Savannah Sports Council and entering its third year, the Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon & 5k welcomed 2,400 runners in 2016 with 65% of participants from outside the local area. This race route encapsulates Savannah’s history and charm in 13.1 miles in and around some of the area’s most scenic attractions. The course begins alongside each of Savannah’ s largest recreational parks, Forsyth Park and Daf fin Park, and navigates through 12 of the scenic squares in the city’s Historical District. With the finish line at the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain, this run provides a memorable experience unique to Georgia.

IronKids Alpharetta Location: Alpharetta Entering its 15th year of competition, IronKids Alpharetta is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event and will be held at Wills Park in Alpharetta, Georgia. This annual event is one of the largest youth triathlons in the US with more than 1,300 athletes competing in a swim, bike and run competition. The mission of IronKids is to inspire and motivate youth through sport and lead to active, positive and healthy lifestyles. The race includes three divisions: Junior for ages 6 to 8, Intermediate for ages 9 to 11 and Senior for ages 12 to 15. SPG

The Clocktower Classic handcycle and tennis events (top) take place in Rome, Georgia.

Right: The Soldier Marathon in Columbus.

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GEORGIA HAS

102 MILLION DOMESTIC VISITORS

3% PROFESSIONAL 3% PARTICIPATE IN

AMATEUR

ANOTHER

SPORTING EVENTS

ATTEND A

SPORTING EVENT

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SPORTS TOURISTS IN GEORGIA

$466 PER TRIP WHEN ATTENDING AMATEUR SPEND

SPORTING EVENTS

SPEND

$591 PER TRIP

WHEN ATTENDING PROFESSIONAL

SPORTING EVENTS

SPENDING

MORE LEISURE VISITOR THAN THE AVERAGE

ExploreGeorgia.org

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T W E N T Y

Y E A R S

L A T E R

McAuley Aquatic Center at Georgia Tech hosted 1996 Olympic events.

Atlanta’s Perfect

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t seems fitting that 20 years later , the venues of the successful 1996 Olympics were once again the home to the world’ s top athletes, serving as pre-event venues for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

McAuley Aquatic Center, located on the campus of Georgia Tech, hosted the swimming, diving and synchronized swimming events two decades ago, and in summer 2016 the stunning indoor facility played host to future gold medal winners Michael Phelps, Nathan Adrian and others as they hosted the pre-Olympic swim camp prior to the team’s departure for Rio. Another aquatic venue, sparkling and expansive Lake Lanier, located north of metro Atlanta in Gainesville, served as the 2016 Olympic qualifier for Rio. Commentators and critics often dwell on past Olympic venues that aren’t re-purposed and remain as legacies of dramatic overspending.

Yet, the 1996 Summer Olympics stands tall as an exemplary demonstration of utilizing Olympic facilities to support collegiate and professional sports, and creating public spaces for families and residents to enhance their quality of life.

Atlanta scored an upset when the International Olympic Committee in 1990 chose it over five other cities to host the 1996 Games. At the time, Atlanta was not considered a world-class city . But it beat out Athens, Greece, bidding to be the sentimental host of the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympics.

Led by Billy Payne, president of the Olympic Organizing Committee, and Mayor Andrew Young, Atlanta got busy fast. After winning the bid, Mayor Young joined the local Olympics organizing group, taking charge of relations with labor unions, civil rights and community organizations. Payne led the fund-raising efforts. There was over $1.7 billion in private funding for the Games themselves with millions more in state and federal government assistance in the form of housing, infrastructure improvements, security and over 100,000 staff and volunteers to wrangle.

The 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta successfully welcomed 10,320 athletes representing 197 nations who competed in 271 events in 26 sports. Atlanta remains the last U.S. city to host the Summer Olympics.

Immediately following the Olympics, the 1996 Summer Paralympics were also held in Atlanta. It was the first time the Paralympics followed the Olympics utilizing the same facilities and Paralympic athletes were awarded full medal status. The infrastructure was prepared for the challenge of hosting and successfully handled over 3,200 athletes and almost 400,000 spectators with ease.

Centennial Olympic Park, part of Payne’s vision, was conceived as both a central gathering location for visitors and spectators during the Olympics, and as a lasting legacy for the city. During the Olympics, the park contained sponsor exhibits, hosted entertainment and medal presentations, and was a hotbed for pin trading. Today, a 360-degree turn using Centennial Olympic Park as a vantage point offers a panoramic view of the residential, hotel, office and retail development now thriving around the 21-acre public facility. According to city of Atlanta statistics, over $1.5 billion in new development has been created around the popular park.

Atlanta’s 1996 re-purposed venues continue making a significant impact on Atlanta’s sports and collegiate competitions, tourism and overall quality of life. Here is a look at five venues still being used today: SportsPlanningGuide.com

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC STADIUM (TURNER FIELD)

The main 85,000-seat stadium for Atlanta’s Summer Olympic Games played host to one of the most moving opening ceremonies in Olympic history with Muhammad Ali’s poignant lighting of the Olympic flame, Michael Johnson’s world record in track and field, and Carl Lewis’ career farewell. Post-Olympics and Paralympics, the stadium was home to Major League Baseball’ s Atlanta Braves and was renamed Turner Field after legendary owner Ted Turner. The Braves, who generate over $100 million dollars in economic impact annually, have called the stadium home for 19 years. In 2018, however , the facility will be re-purposed once again as Georgia State University announced plans in 2016 to purchase the site and develop their football stadium, student housing and additional mixed-used development.

LAKE LANIER

This massive 59-square-mile reservoir in Gainesville was constructed in 1956 and averages over seven million visitors a year, in part from the publicity the area received during the 1996 games. The Lake Lanier Oympic Center hosted the canoe sprint and rowing competitions, which saw British, Italian and Dutch athletes taking home gold. Praised for its friendly locals during the Games, the venue generated $7 million to the local economy, and the facility still uses many of the same course configurations.

Lake Lanier has continued to host numerous world-class competions over the past two decades. In addition to the 2016 Olympic qualifier for Rio, Georgia’s largest lake hosted the May 2016 PanAmerican Championships and will host dozens of international teams at the 2018 Dragon Boat World Championship.

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MCAULEY AQUATIC CENTER AT GEORGIA TECH

Still considered by many as one of the top international aquatic competition venues, the McAuley Aquatic Center at Georgia Tech was built specifically for the Olympics. The center hosted swimming, diving and synchronized swimming events, but this venue presented a challenge following the Games. Olympic swimming is an outdoor event, while collegiate swimming is an indoor winter event. By looking to the future, Georgia Tech invested an additional $45 million after the Olympics and enclosed the facility. No changes were made to the competition pool and today the Olympic athletes’ 50-meter warm-up pool is still being used

by the school. The center regularly hosts championship events, including NCAA swimming championships and the USA Swimming Nationals.

GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK

The International Horse Park has been groomed for greatness since its 1995 inception, first serving as the equestrian venue for the largest sporting event in the world: The 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. The park was the setting for all equestrian events, as well as the final two events of the modern pentathlon. It also was the site of the first-ever Olympic mountain bike races, and the trails are still utilized today.

Today, the Horse Park still hosts a number of regional and national equestrian competitions, but has been expanded and enhanced. The park features a beautiful resort hotel, golf course, horse and mountain bike riding trails, camping, Arboretum and is a popular venue for reunions, special events and festivals.

SOUTH COMMONS SOFTBALL COMPLEX

A baseball venue a century before the Olympics, Golden Park in Columbus, Georgia, 90 minutes south of Atlanta, was developed into the eight-field South Commons complex for women’s fastpitch softball. The main Olympic action took place in the historic Golden Park, where 5,000 fans watched the American women triumph over China in the gold medal game. Today the property is also home to an ice rink, skate park and a soccer/football field, and in 2013 it hosted the BEEP Baseball World Series Championships.

One of the most overlooked legacies of the 1996 Olympics was that Atlanta not only broke even on a $3-billion venture but also proved to the world that it was a world-class city. The overall economic impact was estimated to top $5 billion, and today, many of the new developments that ring Centennial Olympic Park, including the new Center for Civil and Human Rights, College Football Hall of Fame, Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola, can be historically traced back to the development of this legacy park, as well as Atlanta’s reputation as host to the 1996 Summer Olympic Games.

Atlanta’s legacy truly leads the medal count. SPG 92

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COLUMBUS, GA

Southern charm meets abundant facilities in a city rich in history and amenities.

Find Fabulous Facilities for Your Event 1. Columbus Aquatic Center

3. Woodruff Farm Soccer Complex

Sports: Swimming, diving This state-of-the-art natatorium features a 50-meter, Olympic-sized swimming pool and diving platforms for oneand three-meter competitions. A 25-yard therapy warming pool and complimentary locker rooms are welcome to all competing athletes, while spectators will have plenty of space in the 900-seat mezzanine. The center is equipped with audio and video equipment as well as high-definition screens to provide high-definition coverage.

Concessions and ample parking are also available.

Sports: Soccer This 11-field complex features lighting, ample parking and concessions. Fields are suitable for any age group, and the area offers open space and a playground for younger family members.

2. South Commons Softball Complex and Stadium Sports: Softball, baseball Home to the 1996 Olympic fastpitch softball competition, this complex is internationally renowned by softball players and coaches. The elite venue includes eight fields with a roadhouse and a 2,500-seat stadium that has hosted local, state, regional, national and international competitions. For spectators, South Commons provides concessions, abundant parking and easy access to the Civic Center as well as nearby baseball and football fields. There are over 40 nearby hotels and dining options due to the center’s convenient location close to downtown and the greater Columbus metro area.

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4. Cooper Creek Tennis Center Sports: Tennis The facility has been recognized as a USTA Facility of the Year and features 30 lighted courts, making it one of the largest public softcourt tennis areas in the United States. Once the expansion is completed, the center will have 57 courts in one location, great for players, teams and coaches. They can play their matches, watch their students and support teammates without traveling to multiple sites.

5. Columbus Ice Rink Sports: Hockey, figure skating Ice skating groups of 25 or more receive a discount in this expansive skating facility, which welcomes hockey tournaments, ice skating competitions and fun nights out for teams of any sport.

Seating areas can accommodate 700 spectators. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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6. Columbus Civic Center Sports: Figure skating, hockey, cheerleading, indoor football This state-of-the-art and multipurpose sports and entertainment facility welcomes competitions and professional athletes from across the country. The 23,000 square feet of floor space and 10,000 seats are perfect for larger competitions, and a flexible floor can accommodate anything from hockey to cheerleading to arena football. Over 5,000 square feet of hospitality space and concessions are also available.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Columbus Off the Field The city’s main attractions are centered around the Chattahoochee River, with the 14-mile riverwalk guiding visitors through historic uptown to Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center. Uptown Columbus is where the locals go. Enjoy great restaurants, shopping and Woodruff Riverfront Park with its splash pad and playground.

Catch a show at the Springer Opera House, the State Theater of Georgia, or at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. If your team prefers a more adventurous day off, experience whitewater rafting and the Blue Heron zipline and treetop experience.

The National Infantry Museum is one of Columbus's premier educational attractions, featuring more than 70,000 artifacts from the last 240 years of American military history.

With thousands of artifacts, monuments, interactive exhibits and video presentations on display, the National Infantry Museum is one of the nation’s leading military history destinations. Visitors of all ages can experience first-hand the American Infantryman’s journey to defeat tyranny around the globe.

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center is located in the heart of Uptown along the beautiful Chattahoochee River and riverwalk. The center offers simulators, film screenings and observation events appropriate for all ages. The Omnisphere Theater can transport you to distant planets, while the Challenger Learning Center simulates a rocket launch from the command center.

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A Short Trip from Atlanta Columbus is 90 minutes south of Atlanta via Interstate 185 and is within four hours of Tallahassee, Birmingham, Montgomery, Macon and Chattanooga. Scenic Highways lead to Columbus and are accessible from all neighboring states, making bus and car caravan trips a breeze. For teams arriving from farther away, the Columbus Airport welcomes Delta flights from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

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“Each year in November, one of the largest competitive high school events of the year takes place in Columbus, Georgia. The Georgia High School Association counts on the staff of the Columbus Sports Council to coordinate planning, including hotels and restaurants, the local school system, local media and the local university. Got a problem - just call on the Columbus Sports Council. They will step up to the plate, or should I say mat, and find the solutions!”

— Pam Carter, Georgia High School Association Cheerleading Coordinator

COLUMBUS SPORTS COUNCIL Merri Sherman, CSEE, Executive Director 706-660-1996 • Msherman@columbusga.org ColumbusGASports.com

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COBB COUNTY, GA

Cobb County, Georgia is full of facilities to make your sports event one for the books.

A Wealth of Facilities Makes the Planner’s Job Easy 1. Kennesaw State University Sports and Entertainment Park Sports: Football, soccer, volleyball, track and field, flag football, lacrosse, rugby KSU Sports and Entertainment Park in Kennesaw boasts Fifth Third Bank Stadium, an 8,300-seat arena that can host football, soccer and lacrosse games on its regulation-size field and can keep spectators happy with all the typical amenities you would expect from a large, modern sports arena. It has The Perch, which comprises three lighted synthetic fields, one natural-turf field, four sand volleyball courts and an NCAA-regulation track.

The park also offers The Track, an eight-lane Rekortan-surfaced track with a water pit for steeplechase and separate areas for field events. Within its 88 acres are numerous concession options, a walking trail, a lake and concert venues.

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2. Al Bishop Softball Complex Sports: Softball Recently renovated, this complex in Marietta offers five softball fields that play host to about 2,500 tournament games and another 2,000 league games annually. With a control building, a picnic pavilion and parking aplenty, the Al Bishop Softball Complex is more than capable of hosting your next event.

3. Lost Mountain Park Sports: Softball, baseball, football, soccer, fishing, tennis This park in Powder Springs offers eight softball fields, one baseball field, two football/soccer fields, 12 tennis courts and two fishing ponds. In addition, it boasts three concession buildings, two playgrounds, three picnic pavilions, batting cages and walking tracks. It’s the perfect place to host an event. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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4. McEachern High School Sports: Football, soccer, marching band Walter H. Cantrell Stadium, located at McEachern High School in Powder Springs, puts many college stadiums to shame.

For one thing, it can seat up to 12,500 people. For another, it includes a high-definition video scoreboard and sound system. If that isn’t enough for you, it offers a luxury press box with private viewing areas and an adjacent field house with locker rooms.

5. Wild Horse Creek Park Sports: Softball, baseball, football, soccer, BMX, equestrian, fishing, tennis Powder Springs’ Wild Horse Creek Park offers six softball fields, four tennis courts, a baseball field, a soccer/football field, a brand new BMX track and an equestrian facility.

The park also has five concession buildings, walking trails and a horseshoe pit.

northwest about 10 miles and you’ve reached Cobb County.

Cobb County is only about 25 miles away from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (the world’s busiest airport), which accommodates most major airlines.

COBB SPORTS ALLIANCE

Rachel Rogers, Sports Sales & Services Manager 678-303-2630 • rrogers@travelcobb.org TravelCobb.org

6. Noonday Park Sports: Soccer, football, BMX Noonday Park in Kennesaw has 12 soccer fields, two hybrid football/soccer fields and two practice fields. In addition, it offers a BMX track, two concession buildings and a pavilion. If kids need something to do, there’s a playground.

And if you need a place to plan the details of your event, the venue offers a meeting room.

Free-Time Activities to Keep Your Group Entertained Cobb County is 10 miles north of downtown Atlanta attractions. If you want to stay in the county, you’ll still find tons of opportunities for fun and adventure. Scream your head off on a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia. Go for a walk, run or hike on the scenic Silver Comet Trail. Tour a Civil War battlefield at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park or try to land an ollie at Kennesaw Skatepark.

Of course, if you’re looking for less effort and more leisure, Cobb County has you covered, too. You can catch a concert or Broadway show at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre or stroll around the Marietta Square. Treat yourself to food, drinks and atmosphere at any of the area’s 300-plus restaurants, which offer everything from classic Georgia barbecue to fresh seafood, from fine and elegant to rustic and down-home.

A Quick Drive from Atlanta Just point the wheel toward Atlanta and you’ll be in Cobb County in no time. Your best bets will likely be to take I-20, I-85 or I-75 to get there. If you find yourself in Atlanta proper, head SportsPlanningGuide.com

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COLUMBIA COUNTY, GA Columbia County Offers Outstanding Parks and Facilities 1. Blanchard Woods Park Sports: Cross country, soccer, BMX, skateboarding As one of the premier soccer fields in the state, the highquality turf fields at this park in Evans are a top choice for athletes.

The cross country course, one of the best in the Southeast, will challenge athletes from high school to college and is designed for state and regional meets.

2. International Disc Golf Center Sports: Disc golf Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the sport of disc golf, the staff at the International Disc Golf Center in Appling provides training to visitors so that they can get out and enjoy the area’s courses. While you’re there, visit the Disc Golf Hall of Fame & Ed Headrick Memorial Museum, filled with an impressive collection of disc golf memorabilia.

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Whatever your sport, Columbia County is the perfect host for your next event.

3. Patriots Park Sports: Baseball, disc golf, soccer, softball, racquetball, tennis No matter what you’re looking for, this park in Grovetown is known as a one-stop facility in Columbia County. The Gymnasium Complex is a state-of-the-art indoor facility with an exercise room, game room, concessions and a 1,400-square-foot activity/meeting room. From aerobics to tennis, the park is an ideal choice for any event.

4. Riverside Park Sports: Baseball, boating, softball, T-ball, tennis, volleyball On the banks of a Savannah River tributary, this park in Evans has a boat ramp, docks and fishing pier. The complex has eight baseball/softball fields, tennis and beach volleyball options and a picnic shelter.

5. Savannah Rapids Park Sports: Biking, hiking, walking trails, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding This park in Martinez sits on an 80-foot bluff overlooking the beautiful Savannah River and Historic Augusta Canal. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors and get a dose of history too when paying a visit to the Savannah Rapids Regional Visitor Information Center. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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6. Wildwood Park Sports: Boating, disc golf, fishing, hiking trails Sprawling over 975 acres, this Appling park offers access to popular Clarks Hill Lake and is the choice of major fishing tournament organizations. Also on site is the previously mentioned International Disc Golf Center and museum.

Fun and Adventures Await You in Columbia County To say that there is plenty to do in Columbia County is an understatement. Choose from outdoor adventure, live entertainment, cultural events, museums and historical attractions. Selecting Columbia County for your next sporting event means that you won’t have to worry whether or not your athletes have enough to do off the field. At Adventure Crossing, you can battle at laser tag in the multi-level arena, play at the arcade, relax in the cafe, race along on one of three go-kart tracks or enjoy a game of mini golf.

At Clarks Hill Lake you can fish, swim, paddle and splash in one of the largest manmade lakes east of the Mississippi. With parks, marinas and campgrounds dotting the shore, there is no better way to take advantage of the county’s natural beauty.

For those who want to experience the local towns, Harlem holds on to its historic charm and is home to the Laurel and Hardy Museum.

SportsPlanningGuide.com

How to Get to Columbia County Just outside the city of Augusta, Columbia County is on Interstate 20, a major thoroughfare that makes its way from South Carolina to Texas. Two hours to the west is the hub of Atlanta, which is a great jumping-off point for regional travel, and Columbia, South Carolina is just over an hour northeast. Augusta Regional Airport is served by American and Delta airlines, connecting to major hubs including Atlanta and Charlotte, with seasonal service to New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

Planner Perspective “In 2015, USA BMX hosted our annual Gold Cup Championship event at Blanchard Woods Park in Columbia County. We could not have been more pleased with the facility and especially the team at the Columbia County CVB. From planning, to event execution to post-event, Shelly and Randy were truly partners in our success. They took the time to learn and understand our event and sport, which allowed us to have an extremely successful race while providing a great experience for our customers.”

—John David, Chief Operating Officer, American Bicycle Association

COLUMBIA COUNTY CVB

Randy DuTeau, Executive Director 706-312-1361 • rduteau@choosecolumbiacounty.com ColumbiaCountyItsHere.com

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ALPHARETTA, GA Facilities Range from Ball Fields to Ice Arenas

With year-round sunshine, modern and affordable hotels, well-maintained facilities and professional partnerships, planning a sports event in Alpharetta, Georgia is as sweet as the peaches the state is known for.

1. North Park

3. Wills Park

Sports: Football, softball, tennis, soccer, baseball This sprawling park is perfect for a variety of sports and tournament-friendly competition with its clusters of fields. Its facilities include seven lighted tennis courts, two multipurpose synthetic turf fields and eight lighted softball fields. Families can enjoy meals in its two picnic pavilions and kids can choose from two playgrounds.

Visitors to the park can also enjoy its Adult Activity Center, Arts Building, Rotary Reflection Garden and 3.1-mile walking trail.

Sports: Baseball, tennis, disc golf Home to the Alpharetta Youth Baseball Association, this 110-acre park is a tournament planner’s dream. The park includes seven grass baseball fields, one synthetic turf baseball field and two tee ball fields. Families and team siblings can enjoy its five picnic pavilions and Wacky World Playground. It also offers a disc golf course, six lighted tennis courts and a 1.8-mile walking trail where walkers can view the scenic Alpharetta Community Garden and Alpharetta Arboretum.

2. The Cooler Sports: Ice hockey, figure skating, volleyball, roller hockey, martial arts, yoga, wrestling One of Georgia’s largest skating facilities, the Cooler has two 85-by-200-foot ice arenas and one 85-by-185-foot roller arena.

Courts are available for basketball and volleyball, and are adaptable for other sports. Four party rooms can be used for team gatherings and celebrations.

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4. Windward Lake Club Sports: Tennis Windward Lake Club is a private tennis facility nestled amongst the pines in the heart of Alpharetta. WLC features 30 courts including 20 hard courts, two Har-Tru clay courts, six kids’ courts (36-foot courts for 8&U) and two platform/paddle tennis courts. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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Downtime Options Abound for Players and Families Every good sports event planner knows there is more to planning an event than just the games and tournaments. The safety of the players and a family-oriented atmosphere for downtime is crucial to success. Alpharetta was recently named America’s 7th friendliest city by Forbes and offers a wide variety of familyfriendly activities perfect for the young and young at heart.

Kids and adults can have a night out on the town together at Main Event Entertainment, where they can eat, play laser tag and bowl; or at Topgolf Alpharetta, where they can engage in friendly-competition with a point-scoring golf game over dinner and drinks. Families can enjoy picnics, fresh air and performances at one of three outdoor music venues: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Chukkar Farm or Matilda’s Under the Pines.

Take in a scenic outdoor walk on the Big Creek Greenway or at one of Alpharetta’s four arboretums. Release your inner daredevil during a rider training class at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

In the heart of historic downtown Alpharetta, you’ll find boutique shops, a self-guided history walk and locally-owned restaurants offering delicious food. For a more luxurious experience, Avalon offers 86 lush acres of upscale shopping, chef-driven dining, resort-level hospitality and family entertainment at Regal Cinemas or on the Plaza lawn. North Point Mall and the surrounding area is home to more than 100 major retailers, including the only

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American Girl Boutique and Bistro in Georgia, an innovative LEGO Store, and AMC North Point Mall 12 to see the latest Hollywood flicks while reclining in style. The Walk of Memories at American Legion Post 201 and Veteran’s Field honors all those who have bravely served our country with a brick-paved path memorial honoring our fallen heroes; a collection of military equipment and monuments adds to this moving tribute.

Finding Alpharetta is Easy Perfectly positioned between the North Georgia Mountains and the international city of Atlanta, Alpharetta is easily accessible from all major interstates in North Georgia and the metro Atlanta area. Located only 22 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a breeze to access off of Georgia 400. Visitors can also access Alpharetta via Georgia Route 19, Hwy 120 or Hwy 92, connecting to major highways such as I-85 and I-75. Alpharetta is surrounded by five airports in the metro area—Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, DeKalb Peachtree Airport, Mathis Airport, Gwinnett County Airport and Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport.

ALPHARETTA CVB

Anna Mikell, Sports Sales Manager 678-297-2811 • anna@awesomealpharetta.com AwesomeAlpharetta.com

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ATL AIRPORT DISTRICT A Wealth of Facilities Makes Planning Easy

Combine the convenience of the ATL Airport District with the top-notch sporting facilities and lively culture and you get a fantastic place to host a sports event.

1. Georgia International Convention Center

3. Georgia Sports Park

Sports: Volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading, weightlifting With 400,000 square feet of flexible space, the GICC is certainly large enough to accommodate big sporting events. And with a full-service staff, including professionals to help with electrical, engineering and audio/visual needs, the center has the manpower and experience to ensure your event runs smoothly. The GICC is also second to none in convenience: It offers parking aplenty; on-site catering; mass transit options, including a shuttle that runs directly from the airport; and three on-site hotels.

Sports: Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee, rugby The location has six international-size, professional-quality, sand-amended, natural-grass fields with fast water drainage and a large root zone, and there are plans to build 10 more fields on the site in the future. Plenty of hotels and restaurants are nearby. The park is easy to get to and only charges $1 per day for parking.

2. South Fulton Tennis Center Sports: Tennis With 20 hard courts and four clay courts, the center can accommodate large tournaments and events, and is certified by the U.S. Tennis Association as a location for competitions.

After extensive renovations, the center reopened in 2014 boasting resurfaced courts, a new pro shop and juice bar, and upgraded court lighting. The resurfaced parking lot can accommodate your event’s attendees, and the new pavilion can keep them shaded and cool as they watch participants volleying.

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4. John D. Milner Athletic Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, cheerleading, football, soccer This facility includes four baseball fields, a football field, batting cages, covered dugouts, concessions, a press box, restrooms and field lighting. The John D. Milner Athletic Complex in East Point, located conveniently close to both major roads and public transportation, can host your outdoor sports event with ease, and it has enough amenities to keep everyone happy. There is even a large playground space for young spectators who can’t quite sit through nine innings. Baseball fields are varying sizes to accommodate different ages, and concessions with restrooms keep everyone comfortable. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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5. Dick Lane Velodrome Sports: Cycling The facility has hosted numerous competitions and events, including state championships, collegiate meets and pro series. The track is one-fifth of a mile and is banked at 36 degrees. It is the only velodrome in the world that has a green space containing a large oak tree and a creek running through the infield. With concessions, free parking and a picnic area, the velodrome has everything you need to put on a flawless cycling event.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

6. Delta Flight Museum Host an event in a museum that boasts multiple full-sized airplanes, a flight simulator and a fully lit Lockheed cockpit. The Delta Flight Museum is a fully functioning aviation museum, but with its 68,000 square feet of space and its on-site catering and amenities, it is also capable of hosting a wide array of events. The museum offers a Jet Age Hangar that is capable of seating 1,200 guests, as well as smaller courtyard, theater and conference room spaces that can accommodate varying numbers of participants and spectators.

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The ATL Airport District Offers Fun for Everyone If museums are up your team’s alley, head over to the Delta Flight Museum (the Delta Airlines headquarters are close by) or visit the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Craving some more high-octane activity in the area? Check out the Porsche Experience Center, which offers a driving school and test track. World of Coca-Cola has multiple theaters, a bottling tour, a store and a tasting room that lets you sample more than 100 different Coca-Cola beverages from around the world.

Cool. For theme park thrills, take your group to Six Flags over Georgia.

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Convenient Atlanta Location The ATL Airport District is easily accessed on major highways and interstates, including I-75, I-85, I-20 and I-285. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the world’s busiest airport, so you should have no trouble finding a flight that brings you directly to the ATL Airport District. In fact, 80 percent of the U.S. population lives within a two-hour flight of Atlanta. From the airport, there are Greyhound buses, shuttles and rental cars that can get you where you want to go.

Planner Perspective “SkillsUSA has been working with the GICC and Marriott hotels for over seven years now. The facilities are convenient, nicely kept and always meet our needs. The staff on each property go above and beyond at every task. Each year we are greeted by familiar faces that know our event and most times, they think and act before we can even make the ask. Year after year they are working to make sure that everything is to our liking and they are always assisting us in making our event even better than the year before. I would highly recommend the GICC and surrounding Marriott hotels to anyone looking to host a top-notch event!”

— Ashley Brown, Executive Director, SkillsUSA Georgia

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ATL AIRPORT DISTRICT

Kristin Schneider, Sales Manager 404-334-7508 • kschneider@atldistrict.com ATLDistrict.com

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CUMMING-FORSYTH COUNTY, GA What better place for athletes to step up to the plate than in Georgia’s healthiest county – Forsyth County.

Fine Facilities for a Variety of Sports 1. Fowler Park Sports: Baseball, softball, football, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, basketball, skating Fowler Park in Cumming and the adjoining recreation center (with two basketball courts) provide ample space for groups. The park includes a skate park and a walking/jogging path. With amenities both inside and out, it is available year-round.

2. Central Park Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, basketball, disc golf As the name suggests, Cumming’s Central Park is a main gathering place when it comes to sports and activities. With a long list of amenities, it’s easy to find the space and facilities to meet your group’s needs. Included are a community center with two basketball courts and a walking/jogging path. Groups will enjoy the use of meeting rooms, art classrooms, dance classrooms and a banquet facility.

3. Cumming Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming For swimmers and divers, the venue of choice in Forsyth County is the Cumming Aquatic Center. The building features a 50-meter competition pool with seating for 750, and more seating can be added for a total of 1,250. It has a 13.5-foot dive well. There also are a 25-yard instructional pool and outdoor leisure pool featuring a waterslide and lazy river. Meets, competitions and classes are held throughout the year.

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Attractions and Nature are Easy to Find Take advantage of your free time enjoying all that Cumming/ Forsyth County has to offer for families. In a picturesque region just northeast of Atlanta, the county has plenty of activities to make your tournament or event a memorable one. With the major hub of Atlanta so close, you may want to spend time exploring all that the city has to offer, with popular attractions including the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium and plenty of shopping and international dining options. In Cumming-Forsyth County you can leave the big city behind and enjoy time with friends and family in some of the many beautiful natural areas that are all easily accessible by car. Lake Lanier offers boating, fishing, camping and swimming, while the North Georgia Mountains are full of sparkling rivers, waterfalls, lush forests and some excellent hiking. Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to Sawnee Mountain and the nature preserve, where you can hike, rappel and even visit the ancient “Indian Seats.” While you’re in town, check out the Cumming Playhouse for family fun in a school-turned-theater that features plays, musicals, and concerts.

A Great Location in the Heart of Georgia Forsyth County is conveniently located about 40 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta and 50 miles from Atlanta’s airport. Take 85 North from downtown Atlanta to Georgia 400 North. The total time to Cumming-Forsyth from downtown Atlanta is about 45 minutes.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the nation’s busiest airport, is served by all major airlines.

CUMMING-FORSYTH COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Anna Taylor Barlow, Director of Tourism 770-887-6461 • abarlow@cummingforsythchamber.org CummingForsythChamber.org

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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A Wide Variety of Planner-Pleasing Facilities 1. Southeast Athletic Complex Sports: Soccer, softball, football, lacrosse This complex has hosted countless local tournaments and offers ample parking for 300 visitors as well as a concession area. Its 80 acres consist of five soccer fields (one lighted), four softball fields (two lighted), a women’s fast-pitch field and three multi-use fields.

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2. Emory University Sports: Soccer, baseball, volleyball, tennis Emory’s Woodruff Center Gymnasium provides a state-of-the-art stage for basketball and volleyball, while Chappell Park and Cooper Field can play host to softball and baseball. The university also offers both outdoor and indoor tennis courts as well as a track & field stadium that doubles as a soccer pitch.

ATLANTA’S DEKALB, GA As far as hosting sports events is concerned, Atlanta’s DeKalb County is the MVP.

3. Wade Walker Park Sports: Baseball, football, soccer, softball, net ball, tennis, swimming With 177 acres dedicated solely to youth sports, Wade Walker Park is the perfect location to host a tournament. The park offers eight outdoor tennis courts, six softball and baseball fields, an indoor four-lane lap pool and several natural grass fields that can accommodate football and soccer. Additionally, Wade Walker Park offers trails that explore the nearby lake, five picnic shelters, a playground and a concession area.

DISCOVER DEKALB 770-492-5000 1957 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 510, Tucker, GA 30084 SportsDeKalb.com

rna me nt \ u o T r u o Y g in r B Ka lb! to Atla nta’s D e

Fun Times in the Atlanta Area If your teams are interested in exploring natural Georgia, look no farther than the scenic trails and spectacular views of Stone Mountain Park or the millions of years of history preserved in the archeological digs at Arabia Mountain. Bring your teams to Stone Mountain Park, where Geyser Towers is full of spontaneous water eruptions that let you cool off in the summer, or dart across suspended rope bridges and crawl through a maze of tunnels at SkyHike.

DeKalb will be the future home of the Atlanta Hawks' Training Facility and Emory Sports Medicine Complex. Coming in the fall of 2017, Executive Park in Brookhaven will house a 90,000square-foot facility that includes both an official training facility and practice facility.

DeKalb County is the Home of •

Atlanta Silverbacks Professional Soccer

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TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola

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Stone Summit, Atlanta’s Largest Indoor Climbing Gym

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Stone Mountain Park, Georgia’s #1 Attraction

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Atlanta Hawks’ Training Facility & Emory Sports Medicine Complex (Coming in 2017)

Finding Your Way to DeKalb DeKalb County connects to Atlanta via I-20.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is only 20 minutes from DeKalb County and is serviced by most major airlines.

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GWINNETT COUNTY, GA Sporting events are a breeze when planners choose Georgia’s Gwinnett County, a premier location for competition and fun.

Top-of-the-line Facilities 1. Suwanee Sports Academy Sports: Basketball, volleyball The Suwanee Sports Academy has over 100,000 square feet of space, including seven NBA-regulation basketball courts and 11 regulation volleyball courts. Entire national competitions are held here, all under one roof in a clean, safe and climate-controlled environment. This multi-purpose facility offers flexibility to any event planner, utilizing a pick-and-choose system of options where a group can tailor-make its configuration (i.e. set-up, concessions or bleachers). With a full range of amenities, professional staff, flexible space and plentiful spectator seating, Suwanee Sports Academy is an ideal venue for both regional and national competitions.

2. Infinite Energy Arena Sports: Gymnastics, wrestling, basketball, volleyball The Arena can accommodate groups from 3,500 to 13,000 for a variety of sporting events. The beautifully landscaped environment and state-of-the-art lighting and acoustics guarantee an enjoyable event. The house reduction system allows staff to scale back seating with the touch of a button. The Arena is the Southeast’s venue of choice for regional and national events, including the 2010, 2013 and 2014 SEC Women’s Basketball Championships; 2012 and 2015 SEC Gymnastics Championships; 2009 NCAA Women’s Round I and II National Basketball Championships; 2012 NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championship; Georgia High School state wrestling and basketball championships, plus numerous other regional competitions.

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3. Coolray Field Sports: Baseball Coolray Field is home to the Gwinnett Braves, the Atlanta Braves’ AAA affiliate. The stadium has over 10,000 seats and includes a state-of-the-art Diamond Vision screen. It offers fullservice catering, multiple bars and restaurants, and a wide variety of visual and audio equipment available. Besides its stateof-the-art baseball field, it also has indoor batting cages that include a viewing area for those watching. Coolray Field has a variety of suites, the smallest of which comfortably holds 25 people, perfect for watching a game or holding an event. There are multiple outdoor decks that are ideal for parties or activities.

Much to See and Do in Greater Atlanta Attend a Gwinnett Braves minor league baseball game or head down to Aurora Theater to catch a show or concert. Kids can explore one of the towns’ local parks and then get competitive at Dave & Busters. Gwinnett also offers a wide variety of restaurants and numerous other attractions including Infinite Energy Arena, a local concert venue. Gwinnett County is one of the most diverse counties in the Southeast and inspires intercultural events year-round.

Visitors can also explore the sights of downtown Atlanta. See the fish at the Georgia Aquarium and enjoy a fizzy soda at the World of Coca-Cola. Learn about college football legends at the College Football Hall of Fame, and walk in the footsteps of those who have made history at the Center for Civil and Human Rights. There is no shortage of fun when visiting Gwinnett County and its surrounding areas.

How Do I Get to Gwinnett?

Gwinnett County is located off of I-85, just 30 minutes north of downtown Atlanta. Teams flying into Gwinnett County can choose from the County Airport or Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

GWINNETT SPORTS COMMISSION

Leigh Hooten, Sales Manager 770-814-6051 • lhooten@gwinnettsportscommission.com GwinnettSportsCommission.com

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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ATHENS, GA

Home to the University of Georgia, Athens helps sports events thrive with its exceptional venues and enthusiastic sports fans.

Superb Venues Attract Event Planners

UGA and Much More

1. Akins Arena at The Classic Center

Discover the historic beauty of the area by taking a tour of the four house museums in Athens: T.R.R Cobb House, Ware-Lyndon House, Taylor-Grady House and Athens Welcome Center. Visitors can take a stroll through the University of Georgia North Campus, modeled after Yale University and featuring buildings that date back to 1801. You can also wander through the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, which includes a tropical conservatory and five miles of trails.

Take the time to visit a few of Athens’ many local art galleries or check out the Georgia Museum of Art, which is home to a permanent collection of more than 10,000 works of art. Home of legendary bands such as R.E.M. and the B-52s, Athens is known as a great live music city. Browse through records at Wuxtry, where the members of R.E.M. first met, or shop around Lo YoYo Stuff and Atomic Athens to find vintage apparel and hard-to-find albums.

Enjoy an afternoon at Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo or Sandy Creek Nature Center, which offers interactive animal exhibits.

Your group can also spend some time walking along the banks of the North Oconee River or take a nice kayak trip down the river.

Sports: Hockey, roller derby, cheerleading, volleyball, taekwondo Home of the University of Georgia Ice Dogs (winners of the 2016 SECHC Championship) and Classic City Rollergirls, Akins Arena is an expansive multi-purpose facility that can host a variety of sports events. The Classic Center offers concessions, telescopic seating for up to 2,000 fans, a 17,000-square-foot removable ice rink, a 20,000square-foot covered pavilion and a 45,000-square-foot arena.

2. Holland Youth Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, tee-ball, soccer Holland Youth Sports Complex is a 62-acre, multi-purpose facility with five baseball fields, four soccer fields, three batting cages, one softball field and one tee-ball field. Each field features an attached concession stand for easy access to refreshments during tournaments and athletic events.

3. Sandy Creek Park Sports: Swimming, kayaking, tennis, basketball, running, soccer Sandy Creek surrounds Lake Chapman and features a sevenmile trail that circles the lake. There are also three multi-purpose, non-turf fields, two tennis courts and two basketball courts. Lake Chapman can be used for fishing events and non-motorized boating tournaments.

ATHENS CVB

Athens’ Convenient Location Athens is 61 miles northeast of Atlanta and can be reached by major highways I-85 and I-20. Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is one of the country’s busiest airports and is served by most major airlines.

Chuck Jones, Director 706-357-4430 • cjones@visitathensga.com VisitAthensGA.com

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LAKEPOINT SPORTING COMMUNITY, GA

With every facility right on-site, why would you ever leave? At LakePoint Sporting Community, you don’t need to.

State-of-the-Art Facilities 1. LakePoint Multi-Purpose Fields

3. Champions Center

Sports: Football, soccer, kickball, lacrosse, rugby, Ultimate Frisbee With three multi-purpose fields, each featuring LED sport lighting and fully digital scoreboards, LakePoint is ready to host your outdoor sports event. The fields are engineered to avoid rainouts, as the synthetic turf can drain 22 inches of rain per hour and can be ready to play on as soon as rain storms cease.

The turf is designed to mimic the bounce of a ball off real dirt and grass, so athletes will appreciate the gameplay.

Sports: Basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, gymnastics, boxing, wheelchair basketball, wrestling, dance At 170,000 square feet, including 125,500 square feet of clear-span floor space, this is the Southeast’s premier indoor sporting facility. The Champions Center has room for 24 volleyball courts or 12 basketball courts, and there’s a 35-foothigh ceiling for optimal clearance. There are digital scoreboards, a video wall, locker rooms, meeting rooms and restrooms. You’ll also find a food court, a mezzanine and a courtyard for spectators.

2. Perfect Game Complex Sports: Baseball There are eight MLB-sized fields in this complex, all surfaced with high-tech synthetic turf that mimics the bounce of the ball off real dirt and grass. The fields are capable of immediate water drainage, so rainouts simply don’t happen, as evidenced by the more than 8,000 games played at Perfect Game with no rainouts.

The complex boasts fully digital scoreboards and LED field lighting, and each field has chair-back seats for spectators, as well as batting cages and bullpens for athletes. If you plan to feature elite talent at your event, scouts will love to watch athletes from stateof-the-art scout towers that provide a 360 degree view of each quad.

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4. Terminus WakePark Sports: Wakeboarding, wakeskating, water skiing, kneeboarding This three-pool wake park is the largest wake park in North America and was voted the No. 1 wake park in the country in 2016. The cables in this park offer opportunities for beginners, intermediate athletes and high-ability riders to get out on the water without the need of a boat. With two full six-station Sesitec Cable Systems and a System 2.0 lake, as well as an elaborate series of park features and sliders, this is the absolute best place to host your next water sports event.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

5. LakePoint Station Sports: Miniature golf, rock climbing LakePoint Station features a little bit of everything and a whole lot of fun. There is a pizza restaurant, rock climbing facility, 36-hole miniature golf course and even more on the way. LakePoint Station also holds an arcade, gem mining facility and laser maze — all encompassed in a train station theme.

6. Rally Volleyball Sports: Volleyball, beach volleyball Serving up 10 sand courts and a two-story, open-air pavilion, Rally Volleyball is the best place to host your next beach volleyball event.

The sand meets professional regulations, there are on-site showers and bathrooms, and the courts are lit with LED sport lighting.

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Everything You Need On-Site LakePoint has venues for baseball, football, softball, basketball, soccer, rugby, lacrosse, gymnastics, cheerleading, wakeboarding, boxing, wrestling and more. Whatever sport you want to host, LakePoint likely has a facility for it.

The synthetic turf on the eight professional-size baseball fields and three multi-purpose fields can drain up to 22 inches of rain per hour, which means no rainouts—ever. The enormous Champions Center indoor facility has 170,000 square feet and 35-foot-high ceilings housing 12 full basketball courts and 24 volleyball courts.

You want entertainment? LakePoint Station has you covered, with miniature golf, rock climbing and more. Soon you’ll be able to bowl, zip line, swim at a water park, ride a roller coaster or see a movie — all without leaving the property. You want food? LakePoint has numerous restaurants and will soon be the home of 50 different dining options, from fast food to sit-down to pizza joints. LakePoint also has three on-site hotels, including a Hampton Inn, and will have 20 hotel options available when the venue is completely built.

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Getting to LakePoint LakePoint, located in Emerson, is just 35 minutes north of downtown Atlanta, so make ATL your car’s destination and you’ll be there in no time. Your best bets will likely be to take I-20, I-85 or I-75 to get close.

LakePoint is less than 50 miles away from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the world’s busiest airport and carrier of most major airlines.

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LAKEPOINT SPORTS

Michael Grade, SVP Sports Operations 770-235-6935 • Michael.grade@lakepointsports.com LakePointSports.com

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LAGRANGE, GA

With its natural beauty and warm climate, LaGrange and Troup County provide an excellent location for your next tournament, and the adventure continues after a winner is decided.

Superb Sporting Facilities to Match Your Tournament 1. Harris and Shuford Baseball/Softball Complexes Sports: Baseball, softball Fourteen fields comprise the Harris and Shuford complexes, located across the street from each other on the east side of LaGrange. The fields come in various sizes for different age levels and abilities. Parking lines the west edge of the eight-field Harris baseball complex and also on the southeast corner of the sixsoftball-field Shuford complex. Spectators can watch the game from bleacher seating or stand or sit picnic-style alongside the foul lines.

2. McCluskey Tennis Center Sports: Tennis The Ann and Doc McCluskey Tennis Center offers 10 hydro soft courts and six plexipave courts, all with lighting for after-dark play. Players will enjoy the fully loaded pro shop for last-minute repairs and equipment. Parking is available surrounding the facility and spectators can watch the match from bleacher seats. The complex is located in the center of town near LaGrange High School. It is the home of several leagues and U. S. Tennis Association state championship tournaments. The facility is near several shopping centers and restaurants, and is a short drive from the downtown area and lodging locations.

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3. Pyne Road Park on West Point Lake Sports: Cross country, fishing, triathlon, water sports, biking, extreme sports On the northern banks of the scenic West Point Lake, planners will find a four-mile trail for running and biking with a pavilion for athletes to gather before and after the race. Swimmers, runners and cyclists will perform at the top level as they compete amid the wooded scenery. Bathrooms are on-site and parking is available around the park. On the south side is the Mega pavilion available for rent, along with boat launches and access to the water. The facility has hosted the Bassmaster Elite and state championship fishing tournaments, Bicycle Ride Across Georgia and West Point Lake Olympic Triathlons.

4. Mike Daniel Recreation Center Sports: Basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, swimming, indoor soccer The hub of the Troup County Recreation Department, the Mike Daniel Recreation Center offers a dynamic location for several indoor sports. The 75,000-square-foot center offers two basketball courts, an indoor soccer/floor hockey rink and a skate park. Swimmers will also enjoy the 25-yard, six-lane swimming pool. The facility includes meeting space, a snack bar, restrooms and locker rooms. It is located on the east side of LaGrange and has a parking lot in front of the entrance. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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5. Callaway Stadium Sports: Football, soccer, track and field Home of the LaGrange College Panthers football team, Callaway Stadium offers the seating, playing surface and extras a tournament planner needs. Also the home of local high school teams, Callaway Stadium features a FieldTurf playing surface and full concession, restrooms and locker rooms. The stadium is located on the south end of campus with parking around the field.

LaGrange College is in the heart of the city.

Getting to LaGrange Interstate 85 runs through LaGrange, and nearby cities Hogansville and West Point, coming from the northeast from Atlanta and stretching southwest to Montgomery. Interstate 185 offers access to nearby Columbus. LaGrange Callaway Airport has two runways for local air traffic. Just an hour away is Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, which is served domestically by American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit and United airlines.

There’s Plenty to Do After the Game

Planner Perspective

LaGrange has the variety of attractions and activities you’re looking for in a tournament destination. See the historic downtown area on a walking tour, and view the city’s true soul on the 3.6-mile loop. Starting at the Legacy Museum, visitors will learn about the city’s growth from its founding in 1828.

After visiting downtown LaGrange, your participants can see a number of mansions, estates and other historical sites in the area. Stonewall Jackson Cemetery is the resting place of more than 300 Confederate soldiers from the Civil War, as well as the Horace King Gravesite. Visitors can also tour the Hills and Dales Estate and the 1835 Bellevue mansion.

Enjoy some first-class shopping in LaGrange’s downtown area at boutiques, coffee shops, and other retailers. There’s also great shopping in nearby West Point and Hogansville.

“Troup County Parks and Recreation Department is one of the best in Georgia. Their professional staff has always impressed me with their commitment to ensuring excellence for every tournament. Working together, the entire community has always done a magnificent job during the Dixie Youth World Series, Georgia state and district tournaments.”

—Jerry Holmes, Georgia Dixie Youth Baseball State Director

LAGRANGE-TROUP COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Dave Marler, Director of Tourism 706-884-8671 • dave@lagrangechamber.com VisitLagrange.com

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LAKE LANIER, GA

Lake Lanier, Georgia is a high-octane field of dreams for land and water sports enthusiasts.

Facilities Fit for Water Sports and Other Athletic Competitions 1. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue Sports: Kayaking, rowing As home of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, this canoe/ kayak/rowing venue plays hosts to elite athletes from across the globe year round. Upcoming events include the Pan American Sprint Kayak Championships (May 2016) and Dragon Boat World Championships (2018). Located at Clarks Bridge Park, the venue offers rental facilities and stadium seating for up to 2,000 guests. Each facility is equipped with its own restroom, and the Boathouse is currently expanding to host additional guests.

2. Frances Meadows Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming This 34,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor center is located in Gainesville. After a $12-million renovation, the center now includes a 4,400 square foot fitness center and meeting space.

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four-lane instructional pool with indoor stadium seating for up to 300 spectators. The outdoor portion of the facility offers a kidfriendly water playground with slides and sprinklers. There are on-site concessions, locker rooms and a sundeck for relaxing.

3. Road Atlanta Motorsports Center Sports: Cycling, running With 750 acres of pristine Northeast Georgia land, the center hosts a wide variety of professional, world-class motorsports events, including the Petit Le Mans (150,000+ spectators). It includes a 2.54-mile, 12-turn road course, which is perfect for a cycling, running and other road-related sporting events. In 2006 the familyfriendly center underwent major renovations to include private rental spaces. The Podium Club offers private viewing decks, catering services and VIP parking. There are electric and water hookups for in-field camping and designated parking areas with shuttle service for spectators. The track includes multiple restrooms and concession stands. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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4. Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center Sports: Rodeos, archery Situated on 66 acres, the multipurpose complex facilitates equestrian and animal expositions, along with archery competitions, circuses, rodeo shows, and other community and corporate events. It offers bleacher seating, restrooms, concessions and free parking. There are 51 RV hookups reserved for vendor camping, large animal holding areas and indoor meeting facilities.

5. Allen Creek Soccer Complex Sports: Lacrosse The complex features nine youth and adult soccer and lacrosse fields that are perfect for practice, tournament and league play. The venue is located amid 54 acres of well-manicured playing fields and includes stadium seating for up to 2,500 people.

The grounds include over 800 parking spaces, restrooms and concessions.

6. Lanier Islands Resort Located on 1,500 acres by Lake Lanier, the resort includes several individual lodges and conference centers. It hosts a number of family-friendly activities and sporting events, including triathlons, adventure races, canopy tours, golf tournaments, cycling, swimming, boating and horseback riding. The main lodge offers pet-friendly luxury, and there are camping accommodations. The resort has many team dining options and daily parking passes for vacationers and sporting event guests. Resort features include a family-friendly beach, water park, boathouse, equestrian center and over 20 miles of walking trails along the lake.

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Lake Lanier is a Vacation Haven Lake Lanier and surrounding cities like Gainesville offer a perfect mixture of Southern charm and comfort that is sure to hit a home run in the hearts of your athletes and their families.

Besides fun on the water, the area offers plenty of convenient shopping locations, lodging and group dining options, and exciting family-friendly activities to help make them feel right at home. Gainesville proved its hospitality to thousands of spectators by hosting the 1996 Centennial Olympic flatwater competitions.

Making Your Way to Lake Lanier Gainesville is among the many hospitable Georgia cities located along the Lake Lanier shoreline. It is located roughly 45 minutes north of Atlanta. Gainesville is easily accessible from GA-369 E/W and I-985 N/S. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport receives flights from most major cities, and Greyhound provides shuttle service to and from Gainesville.

Locally, there is Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport.

LAKE LANIER CVB

Renee Carden, Sales Manager 770-536-5209 • renee@lakelaniercvb.com DiscoverLakeLanier.com

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PEACHTREE CITY, GA

A Small Town with Big-Time Sports Venues.

Facilities for Any Event 1. William L. Davis BMX Track

3. Peachtree City Tennis Center

Sports: BMX biking This venue has 1,100 feet of track in the standard “M” shape – including a designated space for amateurs and pros. So no matter which level you’re at, it’s the go-to venue for everything BMX. On top of that, it’s unique in that it’s one of the few terraced tracks in the U.S. For spectators and hungry athletes, there is a concession stand; additional facilities include a meeting room, registration center, and on-site restrooms.

Sports: Tennis The city’s Tennis Center is home to stunning facilities and caters to groups of all sizes and ages. Besides 24 courts (12 hard, six soft and six covered), the center has a fully stocked pro shop, a fast-serve racquet and stringing department and catering for tournaments. It was named 2015 Member Organization of the Year by USTA Georgia.

2. Home Plate: “The Chuck”

Sports: Golf Three golf courses are yours to choose from in the Peachtree City area. There are 27 holes at Flatcreek and 18 at Braelinn and Planterra courses – take your pick. These courses are no stranger to hosting tournaments and catering to large groups, so you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. And with the beauty of the region as your backdrop, there is no better place to hit the links.

Sports: Baseball, softball Step up to the plate and look no further than Home Plate, which offers pristine, all-weather fields for baseball and softball as well as 14 batting cages for perfecting that swing. There are also two pitching machines, three outdoor live hitting cages, four pitching mounds and a fitness room.

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4. ClubCorp Golf Courses

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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5. And So Much More Peachtree City has over 90 miles of multi-use paths, Lake Peachtree, Lake McIntosh, Lake Kedron, Peachtree City Disc Golf Course and a skate park.

Activities in Peachtree City The beautiful natural surroundings make for plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Have you tried geocaching? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or haven’t heard of it, Peachtree City is the place to give this a try. There are over 300 hidden “caches” in the immediate area, making it a geocachers paradise. Use GPS devices and coordinates to find these small hidden treasure boxes. Spend more time outside in the Flat Creek Nature Area, a 513-acre wetland inside the city limits that follows along the serene Flat Creek. Stroll along the 1,200-foot boardwalk and take in the views from various lookout points. The lush forest is home to a variety of wildlife and countless tree and plant species.

For a bit of history, head to the Commemorative Air Force Dixie Wing, which was founded to restore and preserve (in flying condition) a full collection of combat aircraft flown by all military services, including planes from other nations.

For outdoor entertainment, look no further than the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Peachtree City, the amphitheater has hosted big names like Hall & Oates, Cheap Trick, the B-52s and Blake Shelton. A farmer’s market, plenty of live music year-round and a huge variety of festivals add to Peachtree City’s profile as a dynamic city full of excitement for visiting athletes and their families.

Traveling to Peachtree City Situated about 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, this quaint town offers the charm of a small community with the benefits of a big city nearby. Routes 74 and 54 are convenient travel options for getting in and out of town. Peachtree City is just 25 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, America’s busiest airport.

Planner Perspective “Everyone in Peachtree City has welcomed us with open arms, from the City Council and Convention and Visitors Bureau to the Peachtree Running Club and Peachtree Fayette Sports Alliance.

This is an amazing new location for the Divas Half Marathon & 5K Series, incorporating a beautiful city in one of the most established running areas in the U.S. The canopied roads and slightly rolling course lends itself to a great race venue.”

— Robert Pozo, CEO Continental Event & Sports Management, Divas Half-Marathon & 5K

PEACHTREE CITY CVB

Eric Matos, Group Sales Manager 678-364-6949 • ematos@visitpeachtreecity.com VisitPeachTreeCity.com

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ROME, GA

With the largest tennis facility of its kind and the largest college campus in the world, Rome guarantees you’ll enjoy great amenities and still get a small-town experience.

Excellent Places to Play 1. Rome Tennis Center at Berry College Sports: Tennis Brand new, this is the largest hard-court tennis facility in the nation. A 2013 SPLOST project, the $11.9 million facility has 60 USTA standard asphalt courts. The facility features six NCAAregulation courts, three center courts for tournament and collegiate play, eight permanent 36’ courts and 10 courts with blended lines for 10 & Under Tennis. A 3,846-square-foot clubhouse with meeting and event space offers panoramic views of the facility. Rome Tennis Center is fully accessible, exceeding ADA specifications and is home to an award-winning wheelchair tennis tournament. This facility adds to Rome’s existing 72 tennis courts.

2. Historic Barron Stadium Sports: Football, soccer, lacrosse, track & field Located in downtown Rome, the 5,500-seat Historic Barron Stadium has played home to football, soccer, lacrosse and track & field events. A $3.4-million SPLOST project in 2010 funded the installation of a synthetic turf field, a hi-definition LCD scoreboard, new lighting and an eight-lane Beynon track that meets all NCAA, NAIA and IAAF standards. Barron Stadium hosted the 20082013 NAIA Football National Championship Game and is home to the Shorter University and Rome High School track & field and football teams. Barron Stadium is in the heart of downtown Rome.

3. Stonebridge Golf Club Sports: Golf, FootGolf Stonebridge Golf Club was voted a top-10 course for under $55 by Golf Magazine in 2012. Stonebridge now offers FootGolf, a hybrid sport combining golf and soccer. Stonebridge Golf Club hosts tournaments and events and would be a perfect way to relax during your tournament’s downtime (if you’re not already playing in a golf tournament!)

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Free-Time Diversions in Rome Little ones can bounce and play all day at Kangaroo Jakes and older ones can test their nerve at Daredevil Ziplines. Historical spots include Oak Hill and the Martha Berry Museum and historic Myrtle Hill Cemetery. Take your team to a Rome Braves game (the Class A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves) to watch future big-leaguers play, or try one of the world-class golf courses in Rome.

All Roads Lead to Rome Rome is located an hour from Atlanta and the surrounding suburban area. Take I-75 north to Cartersville, exit 290, and follow GA Hwy 20 to Rome. If you’re coming from the north, take I-75 South to exit 312 at Calhoun, and follow GA Hwy 53 to Rome.

From Gadsden, Alabama, follow Highway 411/AL Hwy 9/GA Hwy 20 to Rome. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has flights from nearly everywhere in the world and is only a 90-minute drive from Rome.

Planner Perspective “The City of Rome rolls out the red carpet for every event they host. No matter how big or small, you get the same Southern hospitality and genuine love of sports and people from those that live and work there. They do a terrific job of making your event feel big-time and like it’s the only thing in town.”

— Austin Bennett, Director of NAIA Showcase

ROME SPORTS COMMISSION Ann Hortman, Director 706-295-5576 • ann@romegeorgia.org RomeSports.org

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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VALDOSTA, GA

Valdosta and Lowndes County, Georgia love their teams and gladly welcome yours, too.

Facilities Galore for All Kinds of Sports 1. Freedom Park Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, disc golf The largest space for softball/baseball and soccer tournaments in Valdosta, this massive 250-acre park contains eight ball fields and 10 acres of soccer fields. Permanent bathrooms, concessions and covered picnic tables are on-site. A paved walking track weaves through the fields, so even the parents can get their exercise in at the game. Freedom Park also features another gem: an 18-hole disc golf course.

2. South Lowndes Recreational Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, basketball South Lowndes is a community center and park in one.

Outdoor amenities include two adult and two youth baseball/ softball fields, a concession stand with a covered eating area, restrooms, water fountain, a full-size playground, and three soccer fields with a dedicated concession stand and restrooms. There’s plenty of parking for tournaments and events, as well as two huge picnic shelters for a full day of fun. That’s not all: the community center on the other side of the parking lot features a gymnasium with a full basketball court and two half-courts, plus several multipurpose rooms and a commercial kitchen.

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES PARKS & RECREATION George Page, Director - VLPRA 229-259-3507 • gpage@vlpra.com VLPRA.com

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3. Vallotton Youth Athletics Complex Sports: Baseball, soccer Located just a few blocks away from the Valdosta State University campus, this complex has seven youth baseball fields, all of them with lights. Also lighted are the full-size soccer field and two youth-size soccer fields. There are two concession stands and two restrooms. A playground and picnic shelter gives this park a true family feel.

College-Town Vibes and Theme Park Thrills Aside from catching a game underneath the Friday night lights, you can catch one on Saturday afternoon, too. Valdosta State University is home to the Blazers, top dogs every year in NCAA Division II. The university is home to about 11,000 students, enough to liven the slow pace of a small southern town. Weave your away through the towering pine trees on VSU’s campus or take an afternoon stroll through the downtown square. For a real adrenaline rush, there’s Wild Adventures Theme Park and Splash Island Waterpark, which is both a water park and an animal park. Dozens of high-thrill rides work their way through a zoo, so families can have the best of both worlds.

Explore South Georgia’s dense wildlife in a walk through the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area or check in with your sophisticated side at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts.

Getting to Valdosta Coming from Atlanta or surrounding states to the north, all travelers need to do is get on Interstate 75 and stay on it until you run into Valdosta. Coming from Florida? Again, I-75 is your ticket to “Titletown.” Cruising along Florida and Georgia’s state roads is a trip unto itself. Valdosta is roughly a two-hour drive from both Tallahassee and Jacksonville International airports.

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SAVANNAH, GA

Host your next tournament in Savannah, Georgia and see why visitors can’t stop talking about this iconic Southern city.

Quick Facts on Savannah’s Great Facilities 1. Savannah International Trade and Convention Center

3. Historic Grayson Stadium

Sports: Cheer, dance, gymnastics, volleyball, wrestling With 330,000 square feet of smartly designed space, the Center provides the capacity to comfortably handle even the largest groups.

In addition to 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Center has 13 meeting rooms, four board rooms, a 25,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom and a 367-seat auditorium—all equipped with the technological amenities you’d expect from an international convention center.

Sports: Baseball Home of the Savannah Bananas, Historic Grayson Stadium offers plenty of free parking, multiple concession stands and covered seating. The stadium located in beautiful Daffin Park seats 4,000 people and has been open since 1926, making it a Savannah landmark.

2. Savannah Civic Center Sports: Basketball, cheer, dance, gymnastics, hockey, weightlifting The Savannah Civic Center is a first-class multi-purpose facility which hosts hundreds of offerings, including a wide spectrum of entertainment, sports, and cultural events. The building features the Martin Luther King Jr. Arena that seats 7,200 as well as the Johnny Mercer Theatre that seats 2,566, both of which are complemented by a grand ballroom and several meeting rooms.

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4. Armstrong State University Sports: Baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, volleyball The university is home to several great sports facilities that can host your event. Alumni Arena seats 4,000 and is home the school’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. The Aquatics and Recreation Center (ARC) holds a six-lane, 25-meter indoor pool as well as an auxiliary gymnasium that seats 1,000. The university also has a soccer field, baseball field, softball field and brand new (2016) tennis complex. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

5. Savannah College of Art and Design: SCAD Athletic Complex Sports: Lacrosse, soccer The SCAD Athletic Complex is a set of fields where the school’s lacrosse and soccer teams compete. Both of these fields are lighted and come with bleacher seating with restrooms, pavilion and parking nearby.

6. Savannah State University Sports: Baseball, basketball, football, softball, tennis, track and field, volleyball Savannah State is anchored by Tiger Arena and T.A. Wright Stadium. The arena has 6,000 seats and is the best basketball facility in Savannah. The football stadium has 8,500 seats and is the best football and track & field facility in Savannah. The university also has a baseball field, softball field, tennis complex and an auxiliary gymnasium.

What Can Savannah Offer My Teams?

Savannah gives visitors an almost endless array of attractions, experiences and history with its own little twist on each of them. Touring Civil War mansions becomes terrifying and exhilarating when you embark on your journey after the sun sets and the ghosts begin to haunt the properties.

With more than 15,000 hotel rooms available in the greater Savannah area, your teams are guaranteed to be well-rested in addition to being entertained, ready to play their hearts out at the tournament.

Getting to Savannah Only four hours southeast of Atlanta, Savannah sits directly on the Atlantic Coast and is easily accessible by both car and plane. If your teams are interested driving, Interstates 16 and 95 connect to Savannah and make road tripping efficient and easy. In addition to Atlanta, major cities under eight hours away from Savannah include Jacksonville, Florida; Charleston, South Carolina; Charlotte, North Carolina; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Montgomery, Alabama. For teams that want to fly, Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is just under 20 minutes northwest of the city center. Major airlines that fly to Savannah Hilton Head include Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue and United.

Planner Perspective Savannah is a great place for a family sports vacation. The history of downtown Savannah and its beach culture on Tybee Island makes it a destination for beach volleyball athletes and their family. EVP Tour is excited to return for our seventh year in a row May 8-9, 2016.

– Ross Balling, EVP Tour Commissioner

SAVANNAH SPORTS COUNCIL

Ben Wilder, Director, CSEE 912-644-6414 • bwilder@VisitSavannah.com SavannahSportsCouncil.com

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