2018ncstatesportsguide

SPG TAR HEEL STATE PERFECT FOR ANY ADVENTURE

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EVENTREADY DESTINATIONS HIGHLIGHTING TOP VENUES

BIG-TIME CHAMPIONSHIPS FLOURISH IN NORTH CAROLINA A Premier Travel Media publication • www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

NORTH CAROLINA GUIDE • 2018

Jason Philbeck NCSA Chair Dear Sports Event Rights Holders, SportsNC is North Carolina’s statewide sports development effort dedicated to maintaining and strengthening our rich sports legacy. In partnership with Visit NC, this ongoing effort is championed by the North Carolina Sports Association (NCSA), a statewide collaboration of Sports Commissions, CVB’s, Park and Recreation entities and Sports Authorities from across North Carolina, who share a direct interest in supporting sports events. The NCSA exists to help you explore North Carolina to find the perfect community to host your next successful sports event!

North Carolina’s arsenal of sports venues is as impressive as the state’s wide-ranging and geographically diverse footprint. From the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to some of the highest mountains on the East Coast, it’s a footprint of unrivaled sports terrain whether you are a participant or spectator. Sports events rights holders choose North Carolina year after year due to our unbeatable venues, hospitality, temperate climate and central location on the East Coast.

Whether you are looking to bring a new event to North Carolina or already have an event in the state, SportsNC’s partners are ready and willing to provide unparalleled service to ensure the success of your event. From amateur events to international championships, North Carolina can provide the perfect location for any sports event. The state is home to world-class venues, world champion professional sports, superior amateur sports and the best collegiate sports in America.

SportsNC and its 38 partners are your ultimate planning resource! For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities and award-winning venues in North Carolina, please contact: info@sportsnc.com.

We are ready and eager to assist your organization in bringing your next sporting event to North Carolina… the state to play!

Yours in Sport, Jason Philbeck NCSA Chair

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NORTH CAROLINA

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There’s No Need to Go Far Away to Get Away State is No Stranger to Big-Time Championships

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FAYETTEVILLE, NC

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DURHAM, NC

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GASTON COUNTY, NC

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MOORESVILLE, NC

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WILMINGTON AND THE BEACHES, NC

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GREATER RALEIGH, NC

SCORE BIG BEFORE YOU EVEN GET ON THE FIELD. Great events start with a great place.

One with unbeatable hospitality, unique venues and year-round temperatures perfect for a multitude of sporting events.

Search our database to find your next ideal venue.

Amanda Baker | Visit North Carolina amanda.baker@visitnc.com | 919-447-7765 T H E S TAT E T O P L AY

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There’s no need to go far away to get away

ith its diverse landscape, from amazing mountain scenic views to sandy coastal beaches, North Carolina provides a wide range of outdoor activities, sure to fit any visitor’s interest. From water sports and extreme sports to hiking, biking and camping, parks and the seashore are perfect for any adventure.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is the most visited of all our nation’s parks. With more than 800 miles of trails, there are plenty of options for backcountry hiking to camping locations. Frontcountry camping in more developed campsites is very familyfriendly and there are a half dozen favorite hiking trails, including some parts of the Appalachian Trail. There are also kid-friendly hikes that are perfect for introducing youth to the outdoors (nps.gov/grsm/index.htm).

Another National Park Service gem located in the mountains of North Carolina is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as “America’s favorite drive,” the parkway provides stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, forests and landscapes. Along the parkway there are an abundance of outdoor activities to experience. Numerous mountain communities are ideal for biking enthusiasts. On the National Registry of Historic Places, Elkins offers biking, hiking and paddling on the Yakin River.

Brevard is known as “the land of the waterfalls” and is ideal for biking, hiking, fishing and camping. Asheville is home to one of the state’s most visited attractions, Biltmore Estate. Blowing Rock, Hot Springs, Mars Hill and Rutherfordton are each special and well worth a visit (blueridgeheritage.com).

On the coast, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is abounding with natural beauty and adventure. Climbing one of the park’s two lighthouses is a must

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The competitions are over and the trophies awarded.

It’s time for families and athletes to explore North Carolina’s great outdoor offerings.

With miles of trails, beautiful mountainous views and pristine sandy beaches, North Carolina is a perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy any adventure.

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@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

when visiting. Both the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Bodie Lighthouse are open seasonally. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore has four campgrounds, each with tent, trailer and motor home sites. You really should not get this close to the Atlantic Ocean without casting a line in the surf, from a pier, or offshore by boat. Many different varieties of fish can be taken. The curious may want to explore a barrier island away from the beach and there are three hiking trails available. For visitors into birding and photography, the opportunities are almost endless and the beaches are resplendent. For the wind-sport enthusiasts, there are kite boarding and windsurfing opportunities. Snorkeling is fun on the Pamlico Sound side of the island, while surfing and swimming are still the favorites (nps.gov/caha/index.htm).

Before leaving North Carolina’s Outer Banks, there are still a few more outdoor adventures awaiting you at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

It’s here that you will find the tallest living sand dunes on the Atlantic coast and a premier location for kites. Sand boarding is welcome and a permit is required. The more adventuresome might want to try a hang gliding experience. The views are awesome (ncparks.gov/jockeysridge-state-park).

From the mountains to the piedmont to the coast, North Carolina has 41 state parks. Throughout the system there are opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, boating and paddling, swimming, rock climbing and picnicking. Regardless of your adventure meter reading, experiencing a state park is a joy (ncparks.gov).

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North Carolina’s four national forests span the state and offer a wide variety of recreational options. Check out the Croatian National Forest near New Bern. In central North Carolina, there’s the Uwharrie National Forest. The Nantahala National Forest is located across the mountains of western North Carolina. The Pisgah National Forest covers terrain in the southern Appalachian Mountains. (visitnc.com/story/explore-northcarolina-s-national-forests).

Explore all there is to see and do in North Carolina online before visiting this majestic state (visitnc.com). SPG

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ore than 30 championship events are coming to North Carolina in 2018 and beyond. It’s the know-how at the local level learned from past involvement that tips the scale in favor of the Tar Heel state. Here are just a few big-time collegiate events that are finding a home in North Carolina.

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NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship Charlotte will host first/second round action in March 2018 with Greensboro being awarded the basketball tournament in 2020. Raleigh will be hosting the competition in 2021.

NCAA Division II Baseball Championship The USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary will host the 2018-22 championships.

NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary will host the women’s championships in 2018 and 2020. The men’s championship will visit Cary in 2019 and 2021.

NCAA Division III Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships Bryan Park Soccer Complex in Greensboro will host championships in both competitions from 2018-21.

NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem will host the championships.

Raleigh will be hosting a Division I women’s golf regional competition in 2020, women’s gymnastics regional in 2020 and 2022 and men’s and women’s rifle championship in 2022. The 2019 Division I field hockey championship will be held in Winston-Salem. The Greensboro Aquatic Center welcomes Division III men’s and women’s swimming and diving championships in 2019-20.

NORTH CAROLINA is no stranger to big-time championships The Greensboroheadquartered Atlantic Coast Conference and the National Collegiate Athletic Association are awarding championship events to SportsNC members across the state.

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ACC Championship Football Game The conference has announced the championship games at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte have been extended through 2020.

ACC Men’s Championship Basketball Tournament The ACC brings its men’s basketball championship to Charlotte’s Spectrum Center in 2019 and the Greensboro Coliseum in 2020.

ACC Women’s Championship Basketball Tournament The women’s tournament returns to the Greensboro Coliseum in 2018.

The ACC Baseball Championship will be at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in 2018 and 2019. The men’s and women’s swimming and diving championships will be at the Greensboro Aquatic Center in 2018 through 2023. ACC Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships are set for North Carolina golf courses in 2018 through 2021. Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships are a the Cary Tennis Park in 2018, while the ACC Women’s Soccer Championship will be hosted by Cary’s WakeMed Soccer Park.

There are numerous examples of North Carolina hosting professional, collegiate and amateur competitions. Big-time events like the 2017 PGA Championship and NASCAR races to the Tryon 2018 FEI Equestrian Games are just a few. Major destinations in North Carolina with worldclass venues and facilities, lodging and dining options are always in the mix when planners and event holders are shopping for locations. Well-deserved coverage in print, broadcast and social media tell the state’s story.

And there is still more to tell.

From Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports in the mountains to the Carteret County/Crystal Coast TDA in Morehead City on the coast, the 37 members of SportsNC are filling every weekend with individual and team, youth and adult competitions. They are the backbone of North Carolina sports tourism and planners have learned to count on their experience and expertise. The major players certainly earn the well-deserved headlines, but at SportsNC, it is truly a team effort.

For more information on North Carolina sports, a good place to begin is the informative SportsNC website (sportsnc.com). To contact a representative directly email info@sportsnc.com. SPG

From the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament to the Division I men’s and women’s tennis championships, more than 30 top-flight events are coming to North Carolina.

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Over the next several years, new large-scale facilities will open in every region of the U.S. This means the competition is coming and the game will undoubtedly change.

Successful Sports Tourism

Facility Planning 8

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

By Dev Pathik he current boom in youth and amateur sports facility developments has been fueled by the defunding of school sports in the 90s and the rise in travel sports that followed. Youth tournaments produce billions of dollars in overnight hotel stays annually and this has led communities to pursue large-scale sports facility developments that would not be possible without hotel bed tax and other economic development incentives.

In the best cases, these facilities produce new revenue streams in excess of their operating expenses and debt service while also creating access for local residents. But beware, facilities of this magnitude are not guaranteed to succeed. Success requires proper planning, right sizing, and sound strategy. This is especially true given the current construction and planning boom. Over the next several years, new large-scale facilities will open in every region of the U.S. This means the competition is coming and the game will undoubtedly change. I see this as a great time to reflect on what it will take to successfully plan, fund, and perform in the sports tourism marketplace that’s changing so rapidly.

The current ramp-up in the number and types of communities evaluating, funding and constructing large youth-focused facilities is also evolving. Along with mega soccer, baseball, softball, ice hockey, and basketball/volleyball facilities, the market is broadening as communities seek to differentiate themselves. We are seeing new types of projects that include expansions in tennis, rowing, surfing, climbing, BMX, indoor performance training centers that support travel athletes, and we are seeing big changes in the technologies, playing surfaces, sponsorship opportunities, and other areas within operations.

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Year-to-date, our offices have experienced a 300 percent increase in new project planning sessions and feasibility studies over the same period just two years ago.

Requests for proposals for outsourced management have also spiked as projects that might have once been the domain of parks and recreation are now seeking enterprise level management.

What’s more, project concepts are getting bigger, more sophisticated, and the developments more multi-faceted. I know of several developments that are currently estimated to cost more than $100M when complete. This is leading to changes in financing as most large-scale projects require collaboration between multiple-public agencies and private sector partners. This in turn has led to more complex partnership agreements, and other legal, political, and social factors such as who gets access to a new facility. Successful planning considers these and other factors.

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Unlike the traditional community recreation center, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sports destination development.

The decision to invest in sports tourism efforts should begin with an assessment of your destinations key attributes and a review of a comprehensive list of spots tourism events and facility types.

The loss of a few basketball tournaments to another destination, does not necessarily mean that you should build a $10-20 million basketball facility. Depending upon the destination, the stakeholders might be better off to focus on other types of sport tourism offerings. Considering the destinations history, events management capabilities, event marketing capabilities, and the amenities and attractions that will keep players and their families in the market are also vital to the planning process.

Planning successful sports tourism facilities requires good process. With intimate experience in dozens of sports and recreation projects, we have developed the Concept-to-Concrete model as a road map for the major elements required to turn ideas into action. In far too many communities, a lack of good process prevents good concepts from being realized. In other cases, new facilities can fail to meet forecasted revenue and economic impact numbers if the pre-opening process is poorly managed.

What’s worse, once a project misses its early projections, it can be difficult to regain political and community support that may be needed to turn the project around. For these and other reasons we have developed the Concept-to-Concrete Road Map as a tool to guide the sequencing and important steps in the process.

This article series outlines the key factors involved in evaluating your community needs and opportunities for sports tourism including unique programming options that have the potential to transform your tourism marketplace.

To read parts two and three of this series, please visit our website at sportsplanningguide .com/category/best-practices/

Dev founded SFA in 2003 and is widely regarded as an industry thought-leader who has contributed to the well-being of communities around the world. A passionate social entrepreneur and innovator who has dedicated more than 25 years to the development of numerous businesses that empower and develop communities, his leadership has produced facilities that integrate traditional sports with special events, adventure sports, education, leadership-development, and amusement to turn early concepts into financeable and sustainable facilities that make a difference in communities. SPG Sports Planning Guide

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FAYETTEVILLE, NC

Located in the heart of North Carolina, the communities of Cumberland County have a historic charm packed with culture, excitement and top-notch sports facilities.

Elite Facilities Draw Major Tournaments to Fayetteville 1. Crown Complex Sports: Indoor sports The $55-million Crown Complex has hosted NBA games, pro boxing matches and NHL exhibition games. Located directly on business I-95, this multi-use complex offers two buildings suited for a variety of sporting events. The state-of-the-art Crown Coliseum opened in October 1997 and has continued to set success records.

With seating for 13,500 this versatile facility can host ice hockey, arena football, high school, college and professional basketball games and tournaments, boxing and rodeos. The popular, multipurpose Crown Arena seats up to 5,000 and can host a wide variety of athletic competitions, including wrestling, basketball, cheerleading and soccer tournaments.

swimming pool, a 4,000-seat basketball arena, indoor track, racquetball courts, outdoor tennis courts and the FSU athletic department's training facility.

3. Milton E. Mazarick Park Sports: Disc golf, tennis, baseball, softball, fishing Milton E. Mazarick Park contains 80 acres and a variety of activities for patrons. Featuring an 18-hole disc golf course, eight tennis courts, a baseball field, scenic running trails, fishing at Glenville Lake and more, this park meets many recreational needs. Other amenities: pavilions, concession stand, boat rentals and playground.

4. Jordan Soccer Complex 2. Fayetteville State University Sports: Football, basketball Serving as the home site for the Fayetteville State University Broncos' men's and women's basketball teams, Felton J. Capel Arena was completed in 1995 and is known as one of the best in the NCAA's Division II. Featuring more than 12,000 square feet of competition space, the arena houses an Olympic-sized 10

Sports Planning Guide

Sports: Soccer, ultimate frisbee, lacrosse A $1.5-million, eight-field complex, said to be one of the finest eight facilities in the South. The complex, which is adjacent to Methodist University, features eight high-quality Bermuda grass fields. A full-service snack bar, restrooms and ample paved parking are part of this stellar complex.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

5. Fort Bragg Clay Target Center Sports: Archery, clay shooting As the area's premier archery and clay shooting range, the Clay Target Center has hosted a number of specialty tournaments, including the Armed Forces Skeet Championship and the U.S. Open Skeet Shooting Championship.

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

6. Arnette Park Sports: Baseball, volleyball, disc golf A popular place for walking and jogging, this 100-acre park offers a combination of developed facilities and natural woodland, including several scenic spots that overlook the Cape Fear River. Picnic pavilions, ball fields and more make this a popular gathering spot for families and large groups.

The one-mile-long perimeter road is ideal for biking and walking. Amenities: baseball fields, sand volleyball courts, concession stand, horseshoe pits, disc golf, picnic pavilions, playground, tennis courts and nature trails.

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What Can Your Visitors Do in Fayetteville?

Whether exploring the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens on the All-American Adventure Trail, taking in a live theater production at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre on the Patri-Arts & Gardens Trail or witnessing a parachute jump at Fort Bragg on the Patriots: Past & Present trail, Fayetteville/Cumberland County has the perfect route planned for whatever your interest might be.

For history and military sights, Cumberland County has many memorials and locations with connections to the Civil War and American Revolution.

Check out the Fort Bragg military community, the first one of its kind in the country. Visitors can also visit the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Museum, 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum and Airborne and Special Operations Museum.

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How Do You Get to Fayetteville?

Interstate 95, a major north-south artery, goes right through Fayetteville.

Florida and Georgia drivers can take it up from the south, and it connects with New York, Baltimore and Washington D.C. to the north. I-95 connects with I-20, which goes west through much of the South. U.S. Route 401 stretches north to Raleigh. On the south end of town is the Fayetteville Regional Airport, servicing flights through American, Delta and United airlines. Other regional airports are in Raleigh, Charlotte and Myrtle Beach.

Planner Perspective

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“The staff at FACVB has been instrumental with getting the right people in the room to assist Elite Tournaments with planning a new tournament in Fayetteville. Their understanding of the youth sports market and the key decision makers have accelerated the planning and development process to get us on the way to creating a top-level event in a new location while working with excellent local partners.”

— Matthew Libber, Vice President of Operations and Business Development, Elite Tournaments,

FAYETTEVILLE AREA CVB Stephanie Decatur, Sports Sales Manager 910-483-5311 • sdecatur@visitfayettevillenc.com FayettevilleNCSports.com

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Where Relationships Begin

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very journey begins with a single step. For the sports tournament planner, that first step is locating a destination and venue and finding local contacts who want to help make your tournament successful.

SPG delivers hundreds of destinations and venues for your consideration and provides contact information so that you can begin the planning process.

Start your journey today with SPG, the premier destination reference guide for the sports tournament planning industry.

SPORTSPLANNINGGUIDE.COM

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DURHAM, NC Durham Facilities Deserve a Standing Ovation 1. C.M. Herndon Park Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, football From athletics to special events, your needs can find a home here. The park has two turf fields lined for both soccer and flag football, plus grass fields for youth sports. In addition, a trail lines the park, making it easy to get a jog in, and there are shelters, picnic tables and a playground.

2. The LeRoy T. Walker Complex at North Carolina Central University Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, basketball, volleyball, fencing, gymnastics, wrestling, racquetball, handball The athletic facilities at North Carolina Central University seat 1,500 and include four separate gymnasiums, a dance studio, a multipurpose gymnasium (with four basketball courts), and a strength and conditioning facility. The latter facility contains hammer strength, body master, free weights and dumbbells, Olympic platforms, a wellness center, an indoor Olympic-size pool, six racquetball/handball courts and four tennis courts.

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Sports Planning Guide

Home to Duke University, NCCU & the Durham Bulls, Durham, North Carolina, is a natural sports destination 3. Koskinen Stadium at Duke University Sports: Soccer, lacrosse Home to the Blue Devil soccer and lacrosse teams, Koskinen Stadium can accommodate 7,000 spectators and is the host site of the annual Duke Adidas Soccer Classic. The 11,000-square-foot complex also features a camera deck, media room and hospitality suite.

4. Durham County Memorial Stadium Sports: Track and field, lacrosse, soccer, football The newly-renovated Durham County Memorial Stadium reopened in the fall of 2010 with new and upgraded facilities, features and services for the citizens of Durham and surrounding counties. It has become a venue for major athletic and community entertainment events; the primary use is for football, soccer, lacrosse, and track and field.

5. Historic Durham Athletic Park Sports: Baseball Named El Toro Park when it was built in 1926, the Durham Athletic Park served as the home of the Durham Bulls for almost 70 years and was the film location for the movie Bull Durham. Its facilities are newly renovated and maintained as the home of the @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

North Carolina Central University baseball team. The complex offers home and visitor dugouts, along with bullpen benches and clubhouses.

6. Durham Bulls Athletic Park Sports: Baseball Durham Bulls Athletic Park is the home of Triple-A affiliate of baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays. It features a 10,000-seat facility equipped with the Diamond View Plaza overlooking the field. The new PNC Triangle Club, exclusive luxury suites, stadium concourses, picnic areas and playing field are available to rent year-round on non-game days. The ACC Baseball Tournament returns to this venue in 2018.

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Durham’s All-Star Entertainment Options Durham is booming. It has more than 70 hotels and 8,300 guest rooms ready to welcome participants, families and fans. Durham is a place that will make you want to stay an extra day to discover all that it offers. From a celebrated food scene to unique shopping districts, kidfriendly museums and entertainment options, no one will have a shortage of things to do.

For the history buffs, Historic Stagville, Bennett Place and Duke Homestead are not to be missed for fascinating Civil War and tobacco history. The Museum of Life + Science covers more than 84 acres and is a must-see for families with interactive exhibits, live animals and much more. The Streets at Southpoint is the perfect destination for rainy days, as one of the nation’s top super-regional malls with over 100 different stores, a cinema and more than 20 restaurants. And for those into the tech scene, feel free to visit Augmentality Labs to try your hand at virtual reality games.

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Planner Perspective We had an exceptional experience working with the Durham Sports Commission last spring. Ashleigh and her staff were wonderful listeners and proactive is finding solutions to potential roadblocks. Our event is better due to our relationship with the Durham Sports Commission and we look forward to a long productive relationship working together.

–Jon Lantzy, Assistant Director of Athletics & Head Lacrosse Coach, Durham Academy Middle School

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How Do We Get To Durham?

Interstates 85 and 40, plus U.S. Highways 70 and 15-501, connect Durham to the rest of the country. These are the easiest routes to take when driving into town. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is an East Coast hub, not to mention being one of the nation’s fastest-growing airports. RDU is situated on the eastern edge of Durham County, less than 10 miles from Durham’s downtown.

DURHAM, NC 1-800-899-7080 Social media handle: @DurhamNCSports Info@DurhamNCSports.com

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GASTON COUNTY, NC

With a suburban feel and easy access to the big-city amenities of Charlotte, Gaston County is an ideal location for outdoor sporting events in North Carolina.

Tournament Planners Find Everything They Need 3. Martha Rivers Youth Complex 1. Belmont Abbey College Sports: Baseball, softball, tennis, lacrosse, field hockey, volleyball, basketball As part of the NCAA’s Division II Conference Carolinas, Belmont Abbey College provides venues for all indoor and outdoor sporting events. Abbey Yard, home to Belmont Abbey baseball, has undergone several renovations and upgrades including a new outfield wall and a field turf ring. Alumni Field hosts amenities for soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. The college offers a softball field with a new brick backstop and netting system, a seven-court tennis center, a strength and conditioning room, and the Wheeler Center, fully equipped with volleyball and basketball courts, wrestling mats, an athletic training room and locker rooms.

2. George Poston Park Sports: Football, softball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, biking, cross country, fishing The park features four softball and baseball fields with metal halide lighting for night games, a beach volleyball court and four lighted multi-purpose soccer and football fields, all with groomed hybrid Bermuda grass. Near the picnic shelters is a 10-mile, single-track mountain biking trail.

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Sports: Football, softball, baseball, soccer, cross country This 48-acre, collegiate-level park in Gastonia houses four-fenced baseball and softball fields and four regulation multi-purpose fields, all equipped with hybrid Tifway Bermuda grass, automatic irrigation systems and metal halide lighting for night games. Also featured are two-story climate-controlled towers with telephones, enclosed dugouts, electronic scorekeeping equipment and water fountains.

4. Robinwood Lake Sports: Basketball, track, floor hockey, swimming, boating, fishing, cross country Robinwood Lake, now part of the Gaston County Family YMCA in Gastonia, has recently undergone several renovations and upgrades to provide more amenities for indoor and outdoor sporting events. The newly renovated YMCA features an indoor running track and a gymnasium equipped for basketball and floor hockey, while Robinwood Lake offers fishing and boating.

The aquatic center includes two pools, one set to 82 degrees for lap swimmers and the other set to 86 degrees for recreational swimmers. Two miles of hiking trails have been added and can be used by cross country runners. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

5. Crowders Mountain State Park Sports: Basketball, volleyball, biking, cross country, boating, fishing Located in Kings Mountain, Crowders Mountain’s sevenacre manmade lake is an ideal destination for outdoor sporting events, providing opportunities for fishing and canoeing with picnic areas and nearby parking. Trails for cross country and biking range from one to six miles with various difficulty levels.

6. Catawba River Sports: Water sports, boating, fishing, bowling, tennis, cycling A boater’s paradise, the Catawba River spans two states and more than 200 miles with endless opportunities for sports events. Guided canoe and kayak tours are provided, while private boating route suggestions are also available ranging from three to 20 miles with various difficulty levels. With breathtaking views of Catawba River, Tailrace Marina offers pontoon, stand-up paddle board, canoe and kayak rentals. The marina also has showers, restrooms, a pet walking area and picnic areas with seating and BBQ grills. The newly opened Kevin Loftin Riverfront Park in Belmont provides a pier and kayak launch for accessing the Catawba.

Exploring Gaston County Head eight miles south just along the banks of Lake Wylie to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden for a relaxing day at an 380acre property filled with flourishing gardens, iridescent fountains and tropical plants. Bring the kids along to Lineberger Maple Spring Farms in Dallas for strawberry, blackberry and pumpkin picking or navigate your way through a perplexing cornstalk

maze. To dip into some local history, visit the Gaston County Museum, where exhibits include an original 1884 Edison dynamo, the first hydroelectric power generator and a ravishing Congressional Ball gown worn by the Maid of Cotton in 1946.

In the Heart of North Carolina Situated just 15 miles west of Charlotte, Gaston County is centrally located and easily accessible. Cities in the Northeast, Midwest and Southwest can reach Gaston by I-40, I-77 and I-85.

I-44 offers an important east-west link to Charlotte, just a 20-minute drive to Gaston. With more daily flights per capita than any other airport in the nation, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) flies non-stop to over 130 destinations with over 650 flights per day.

Planner Perspective “I worked with Brandon Black during the 2017 Gary Koch Invitational hosted by Auburn University and Kentucky. I had to work remotely during the planning stages of the event with Brandon. I requested that we incorporate live scoring for the 2017 Gary Koch Invitational. Live scoring required several additional volunteers to assist around the golf course. Brandon and the GO Gaston Team provided me with all the resources I needed to run an elite college event. We are excited about returning in 2018.”

—Joan Alexander, Director of Golf Operations Men’s and Women’s Golf, Auburn University

GO GASTON Brandon Black, Sales & Marketing Manager 704-825-4044 • brandon.black@gastongov.com gogaston.org

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GREENSBORO, NC

The city offers the perfect combination of sports and leisure, with premier athletic venues, top-notch museums and a big-time water park.

Flexible Indoor and Outdoor Facilities 1. Bryan Park Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer Originally built in 1990, Bryan Park Soccer Complex has 17 Bermuda grass fields. The facility has hosted countless successful events. After current renovations are completed, the soccer complex will have 21 fields—19 Bermuda grass and two artificial turf—which allows for non-stop sports action regardless of weather. It will also boast nine lighted fields in addition to the Macpherson Stadium complex, which features a fieldhouse, press box, concessions and seating for 3,000. In addition, the complex will offer a covered roof, high-speed, fiber-optic data communications, a Subway restaurant and two additional concession stands.

2. Irwin Belk Track at NC A&T State University Sports: Track and field This IAAF-certified track is composed of a Mondo Super X Olympic-style surface. The 23,000-seat complex features 18

Sports Planning Guide

eight 48” running lanes, dual-direction runways for long jump, triple jump and pole vault, multi-directional high jump and brushed concrete shot and discus circles.

3. Greensboro Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized swimming This 79,423-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility features leading-edge concepts in aquatic design. The GAC brings together all major aquatic sports—competitive swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized—in one venue. It features three bodies of water—a competition pool, warm-up pool and diving well. The GAC hosts high school and collegiate events, USA Swimming events, US Masters Swimming, USA Synchro and USA Water Polo events as well as a myriad of local, regional, national and international competitions. The GAC also serves local citizens through its diverse programs, including therapeutic rehabilitation and “Learn to Swim” classes. The venue has quickly emerged as one of the top aquatic facilities in the nation. An addition of a fourth pool is due for completion early 2019. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

4. Greensboro Coliseum Sports: Basketball, volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics Greensboro Coliseum is the largest indoor public assembly facility in the Piedmont Triad and surrounding region. The arena can seat up to 22,000 but maintains a round-house curtaining system that can automatically reduce the arena seating capacity to as low as 4,500 for a general session. The Coliseum has seven dressing rooms, backstage function space and a 298-seat theater for intimate gatherings or press conferences. It regularly hosts concerts, college basketball contests, conventions, motorsports and touring family shows. The arena floor and concourse are also compatible for exhibit space.

the existing 13 clay courts. Phase II will increase the number of courts (from 13 to 18), renovate the existing tennis building, add a shade structure to the north end of the tennis building and convert the tournament court to quick-start courts. A possible Phase III is also under consideration.

How to Find Greensboro I-85, I-40 and I-73/74 are three major interstates that converge in Greensboro, making travel by car simple. The city is also just a five-hour drive from both Atlanta and Washington, D.C. Piedmont Triad International Airport services all major airlines without the long lines of larger airports.

5. The Fieldhouse Sports: Basketball, gymnastics Formerly The Pavilion, this venue is the new home to the Greensboro Swarm, the Charlotte Hornets’ NBA D-League affiliate. The Fieldhouse is currently undergoing a $5-million total makeover to create an entirely new facility. New scoreboards, sound system and basketball floor are being installed as part of the renovations. The 40,000-square-foot complex will include a 2,300-seat capacity, backstage locker rooms, referee rooms, a fitness room, media rooms and other amenities.

6. Spencer Love Tennis Center Sports: Tennis One of the busiest tennis venues in North Carolina, Spencer Love Tennis Center is getting a major upgrade in several phases.

Phase I, which is currently underway, is focusing on refurbishing

Planner Perspective “A heartfelt thank-you to Henri Fourrier and our primary contact Brian Ambuehl at the Greensboro CVB office for seeing the incredible value in youth sports. From the very beginning, their insight and service have been a guiding force in NC AAU consistently growing our event base in the Gate City.”

— Sean Kilmartin, Governor, NC Amateur Athletic Union

GREENSBORO NC Brian Ambuehl, Dennis Edwards, Sports Sales Managers 336-335-1581, 336-335-1586 bambuehl@visitgreensboronc.com, dewards@visitgreensboronc.com VisitGreensboroNC.com

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GREENVILLE, NC

Discover the natural beauty, history and top-notch facilities of Pitt County and Greenville, North Carolina, a prime tournament destination.

These Facilities Can’t Be Beat 1. ECU North Recreational Complex Sports: Soccer, flag football, lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, rugby, disc golf, sand volleyball, cross country Located 10 minutes away from the ECU campus, eight multipurpose fields, including one championship field, offer a versatile platform for tournament planners looking to host outdoor events like soccer, flag football, lacrosse and rugby. The NRC’s field house offers covered seating, restrooms and ample parking. The beaches on the lake offer the proper site for beach volleyball. Six walking and jogging trails along with a 5K running trail can offer a number of routes for a cross country tournament and the 18-hole disc golf course offers a unique and challenging layout.

8,000. Johnson Soccer Stadium seats 1,000. All facilities have parking on site along with concession, restrooms and locker rooms.

3. Elm Street Park’s Stallings Stadium Sports: Baseball, softball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, bocce, tennis At the eight-acre Elm Street Park, visitors will find Stallings Stadium, home of the local Little League program. The stadium is no stranger to big events, with a modern grandstand behind home plate and concessions, locker rooms and lights for play after dark.

Also at Elm Street Park’s Stallings Stadium are six lighted tennis courts with bleacher seating and courts for horseshoes, bocce and shuffleboard. Ample parking is available inside the park along with access to the Greenville Greenway.

2. East Carolina University Sports Facilities Sports: All NCAA Division I Eastern Carolina University boasts five facilities capable of hosting events at a top level. Natural-grass Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home of the Pirates football program, seats 50,000, is fully lighted and includes an 84-foot-wide, 28-foot-tall high-definition videoboard. The 5,000-seat Clark-LeClair Stadium offers both indoor and outdoor batting cages for baseball events.

For softball tournaments, the new ECU Softball Stadium seats 1,000 and includes three covered batting cages. ECU Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum hosts both volleyball and basketball, seating 20

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4. Greenville Convention Center Campus Sports: Indoor sports The Greenville Convention Center Campus is a 91,000square-foot facility offering space for most indoor sports, including cheerleading, gymnastics, dance, boxing, taekwondo and weightlifting. Inside you’ll find the 57,000-square-foot convention center with its 28,000-square-foot-carpeted exhibit hall and 28-foothigh ceilings. The venue has full concession, ticket booths and complimentary parking. The ultra-modern 32-acre campus includes three acres of greenspace and three AAA 3-Diamond hotels. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

5. River Birch Tennis Complex Sports: Tennis Home to local tennis programs, the River Birch Tennis Complex features eight lighted courts ready for competition and striped for both adults and children. The spacious clubhouse provides plenty of room for a tournament headquarters, offering vending machines and restrooms. Located in Greenville’s Evans Park, the River Birch Complex has ample parking and bleacher seating available for visitors. The complex is home to the ECU Pirates tennis team and has hosted numerous regional and local tournaments.

6. Sara Law Softball Complex Sports: Softball Resting on 20 acres of greenspace, the Sara Law Softball Complex offers four natural-grass competition fields and two additional practice fields. The complex is home to the Pitt County Softball League, so it’s no stranger to big games. Dugouts and bleacher seating are available, and the complex also features a concession stand, storage and restroom facilities.

What To Do In Greenville After the Buzzer Groups can embark on a float trip down the Tar River with Knee Deep Adventures. This watercraft outfitter will supply your team with a helpful guide and a fleet of kayaks or paddleboards to pass through old-growth North Carolina forests. Your group can even try SUP (“standup paddleboard”) yoga with a certified instructor from Moxie Yoga. Those interested in watersports can also stop by Cable Paradise Park, a wakeboarding complex that can accommodate experts to beginners. Group rates are offered

to teams looking to learn the basics of the sport, and a variety of ramps and runways are available to practice tricks and jumps.

Travel by Car or Plane Most major Southeastern metropolitan areas are within a few hours’ drive of Greenville, which is accessible from Interstate 95 via Route 264. These cities include Raleigh, Atlanta, Nashville, Jacksonville, Louisville, Richmond, Baltimore, Charlotte and Washington, D.C. Located in the city of Greenville is the Pitt-Greenville Airport, which is served by American Airlines.

An hour-and-a-half drive away is Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which is served by most major airlines.

Planner Perspective “It is always great working with the people at the Greenville-Pitt County Convention and Visitors Bureau. They have helped me with hotel discounts, reservations and literature for our participants and their families (like maps, etc.). If they do not know the answer to a question, they will research and find the answer for you.”

— Darlene Rose, Rose’s Gymnastics, USAG North Carolina Xcel Bronze and Xcel Silver Gymnastics State Championships

GREENVILLE-PITT COUNTY CVB Gray W. Williams, Sports Sales Manager 252-329-4200 • gray@visitgreenvillenc.com VisitGreenvilleNC.com

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MOORESVILLE, NC Complexes for Every Event and Sport 1. Mazeppa Park Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse This do-it-all sports complex boasts a regulation-sized baseball field, three softball fields and six soccer fields—two of which are made up of artificial turf. Beyond the basics, Mazeppa Park offers free Wi-Fi, shelter areas, a paved walking track and a playground. With so many different features, this site has been a favorite among baseball, softball and soccer tournament planners, as well as families looking to enjoy a picnic.

2. Cornelius Road Park Sports: Baseball, softball, tennis, disc golf Cornelius Road Park has a bevy of options for anyone who loves outdoor activity. Its six lighted tennis courts make it a hotspot for tennis players, while the park also has four youth baseball/ softball fields. Complete with a one-mile walking track, a stateof-the-art playground and free Wi-Fi, this venue also attracts visitors looking to try the 18-hole disc golf course.

Baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, tennis, golf…this town can do just about any sport.

4. Edgemoor Park Sports: Tennis This new tennis complex offers seven lighted courts including a championship court with bleachers and a hitting wall. Edgemoor also has free Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art playground and two shelter areas.

5. Talbert Recreation Center Sports: Basketball, wrestling, volleyball, gymnastics This 26,000-square-foot facility provides patrons a chance to get involved in athletic programs and fitness classes, while it also offers open gym time Monday through Saturday until 6 p.m. In total, the complex offers two regulation basketball courts that can also be used for volleyball, wrestling events and gymnastics.

6. Mooresville High School Gym Sports: Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling The new Mooresville High School Gymnasium boasts three full-sized basketball courts, 6 volleyball courts, 32’8” ceilings, 18,047 sq. ft., and seating for 200-2200 making it perfect for basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling and other indoor sports.

3. North Main Park

7. Mooresville Golf Course

Sports: Softball, baseball This park is beloved amongst youth baseball and softball players, coaches and tournament planners. The complex boasts three lighted youth softball/baseball fields. The park has a batting cage, picnic areas, a paved walking track, a play area and free internet access.

Sports: Golf Mooresville Golf Course recently reopened after undergoing roughly a year’s worth of renovations, and it has received acclaim from local golfers. The 18-hole course now includes an 18-acre driving range, a new shot game practice area and a large practice putting green. The best feature, though? The brand new, twostory, $4.8-million clubhouse.

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@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Why Mooresville?

How do we get there?

Mooresville, just 25 miles north of Charlotte, is America’s car racing capital. The town is home to many NASCAR teams and related businesses, along with an INDYCAR team. In addition to offering two automotive museums—Memory Lane Motorsports and Historical Automotive Museum and North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame—Race City is also the home to NASCAR teams JR Motorsports, Richard Petty Motorsports, Team Penske, Kyle Busch Motorsports and Kasey Kahne Racing to name a few. Baseball and softball players will love their choice in parks: Between Mazeppa, Cornelius Road and North Main, you really can’t go wrong. Golfers will relish a round at newly-renovated Mooresville Golf Course, while tennis players will enjoy Edgemoor Park, a new tennis complex. Finally, those looking to play basketball or volleyball are not left out, as they can flock to Talbert Recreation Center or the new Mooresville High School Gym.

Mooresville sits just off of Interstate 77, which runs north-south and grants residents easy access to Charlotte. Other roads include Highways 150, 152 and 115. Interstate 85, located just south of Mooresville, runs through Charlotte and connects to major population centers like Atlanta. Interstate 40 is located just north of Mooresville and runs east to west connecting to Asheville, Winston-Salem, Greensboro and Raleigh. The closest major airport to Mooresville is Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Situated 34 miles from the center of Mooresville, this airport offers both international and domestic flights.

What about when we’re not playing?

The aforementioned automotive museums are fascinating, while other main attractions include Zootastic Park and Lazy 5 Ranch for family-friendly options. For those who want to try their hand at racing, the Pit Indoor Kart Racing and GoPro Motorplex can fill the need for speed. Mooresville is located on beautiful Lake Norman.

The Lake Norman State Park offers swimming, camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking and pedal boats, canoes, kayaks and stand up paddleboard rentals. If climbing is on your list, CliffHangers Rock Climbing and Fitness Gym is a state-of-the-art facility.

Planner Perspective “We appreciate the relationship we have built with Leah and the Mooresville CVB over the past 4 years. Our lacrosse tournament has grown and it takes a partnership with folks all working in the same direction to make that happen.”

—Trent Brown, Carpetbagger Lacrosse

MOORESVILLE CVB Leah Mitcham, Executive Director 704-799-2400 • leah@racecityusa.org RaceCityUSA.org

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WILMINGTON, N.C., AND ISLAND BEACHES A sports fan’s paradise 1. Wilmington Convention Center Sports: Various indoor sports Opened by the city of Wilmington in November 2010, Wilmington Convention Center has acted as a vital economic driver. The convention center offers meeting capabilities up to 2,000 people and a variety of spaces including a 12,000-squarefoot waterfront event lawn. The Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront, located adjacent to the convention center, is slated to open this fall. The center is a top spot for planners to settle in and prepare for a prime event.

2. Althea Gibson Tennis Complex Sports: Tennis If you like tennis, you will love the Althea Gibson Tennis Complex. It boasts 19 lighted courts and a 1,500-square-foot clubhouse with a lounge, meeting room, and snack counter. The courts are open to the public free of charge, making this a fantastic place to play a match or get lessons.

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A variety of available sports venues and natural conditions, along with the largest convention center on the NC coast, make this town a top pick.

3. Cape Fear Community College Sports: Basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf Twenty-five thousand students attend Cape Fear Community College, and many of them use its top-notch athletic facilities.

The college offers men’s and women’s basketball and soccer, in addition to men’s golf and women’s volleyball. The basketball and volleyball arena is the Joe and Barbara Schwartz Center, which can hold 1,800 people and is home to the Wilmington Sea Dogs of the Tobacco Road Basketball League.

4. Cape Fear Regional Soccer Complex Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, cross-country Cape Fear Regional Soccer Complex offers seven full-sized soccer fields for challenge and classic soccer leagues, adult leagues, and other soccer tournaments. Home to the Cape Fear Soccer Club, this unique venue also boasts the opportunity for other events such as lacrosse and cross-country races.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

5. Legion Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, tennis, soccer, lacrosse, swimming Legion Sports Complex includes some main components that make it one of North Carolina’s most athletically-flexible venues as it houses Jurgenson-Gabriel Field, Buck Hardee Field and Robert Shipp Pool. Jurgenson-Gabriel, commonly called Legion Stadium, seats 6,000 spectators and is perfect for performances, exhibitions, athletic events and other activities. Buck Hardee Field is great for a baseball tournament, while the complex also boasts four lighted tennis courts.

6. UNC Wilmington Sports: Tennis, baseball, softball, volleyball, cross-country, golf, soccer, swimming Often referred to as “The Dub,” UNC Wilmington first broke ground in 1947 and has since opened venues such as Trask Coliseum— home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams—and Brooks Field, where the baseball team plays. The university has 18 varsity athletic teams, including ones for basketball, volleyball, cross country, softball and swimming.

Activities in Wilmington After a thrilling buzzer-beater or a game-winning home run, players, coaches, and fans are inevitably left with one question: What do we do now? In Wilmington, answering this query is made easy, as there are a number of great options. For starters, visitors can spend a day at one of Wilmington’s scenic beaches. Also across the river from downtown Wilmington is the World War II Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, named one of the best museum ships in the country. In

addition, Airlie Gardens boasts 67 acres of period gardens and lakes. For a little more mystique, take a tour of the Bellamy Mansion Museum. Built between 1859 and 1861, the mansion is a mixture of Neoclassical architectural styles.

Planner Perspective Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach provide a unique setting for a 70.3 distance triathlon. With the amazing beach and rural country roads, as well as the beautiful historical downtown, it is a triathlete's perfect playground. All the agencies involved in the planning of the 70.3 event are very accommodating and help make sure our event goes off without a snag. We always look forward to producing our event in Wilmington and Island Beaches every October.

—Brian Bohrer, IRONMAN 70.3 North Carolina

Finding Your Way to Wilmington The major east/west interstate transportation artery I-40 leads directly to Wilmington, which is also served by U.S. highways 17, 74/76, 117 and 421. The area also features convenient access via the state’s numerous interstate highways. Both Delta and American fly into the Wilmington International Airport, which is a short distance from the center of Wilmington. Currently there are direct flights between Wilmington and five major cities, including New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Charlotte.

WILMINGTON & BEACHES CVB John Sneed, Vice President of Sales & Services 800-650-9064 x125 • jsneed@wilmingtonandbeaches.com SportsWilmington.com

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GREATER RALEIGH, NC Fabulous Facilities 1. PNC Arena Sports: Hockey, basketball It isn’t hard to figure out why PNC Arena welcomes over 1.5 million guests every year. Home to NC State Men’s Basketball and the Carolina Hurricanes NHL team, this arena annually hosts more than 150 events. Amenities include over 68 concession stands, 37 restrooms and parking for 8,000 vehicles. The arena can seat 19,722 fans for basketball and accommodate 18,680 fans for hockey.

There’s no doubt about it— Greater Raleigh is any sports event planner’s dream.

3. Cary Tennis Park Sports: Tennis This award-winning complex offers 29 championship courts, four permanent QuickStart courts, and many amenities. Covered courts were installed in 2017, providing a huge advantage for tournaments to continue play in the case of inclement weather. The ACC Tennis Championships, USTA Tennis on Campus National Championships, Atlantic Tire Championships (USTA Pro Circuit Event) and many other regional and national events are hosted at the park regularly.

4. WRAL Soccer Park 2. WakeMed Soccer Park Sports: Soccer, cross country, lacrosse, rugby, Ultimate At 150 acres, this multipurpose complex is one of the hottest sports destinations in North Carolina. The park features one lighted stadium field, two lighted match-only fields and five additional fields, with permanent stadium seating for 10,000. WakedMed hosts events that range from youth to professional level and offers concession areas, locker rooms, restrooms and 2,600 parking spaces. Additionally, the park has an outstanding cross country course with 5K, 6K and 8K runs.

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Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, Ultimate Located in northern Raleigh, this 22-field complex includes five brand new synthetic turf fields with lighting. Recent renovations include paved parking, new restrooms and shelters, new nets and improved landscaping. WRAL Soccer Park has hosted state, regional and national events that bring in thousands of teams every year, such as the annual visitRaleigh.com Showcase Series. A sampling of other events hosted at the venue include U.S. Youth Soccer and Adult Soccer regionals, U.S. Lacrosse regionals, USA Ultimate championships and Powerade State Games of North Carolina. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

5. Triangle Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming, water polo The largest public aquatic complex in North Carolina, Triangle Aquatic Center offers three pools: a 50-meter Competition Pool, a 25-yard Program Pool and an Instructional Pool. The facility has seating for up to 1,000 fans, a full service café, scoreboards and a “dry land” fitness area.

The Competition Pool can easily be configured to hold eight long-course lanes or 18 short-course lanes, while the Program Pool is set up with 10 lanes. Triangle Aquatic Center has hosted a remarkable number of swim meets this year alone, including the NCHSAA Swimming State Championships and the National Black Heritage Championship Swim Meet.

Planner Perspective “I cannot adequately express how welcomed, supported and appreciated we feel by you and your entire organization. The GRSA is a model sports-directed civic support organization.Your love of our wonderful city and commitment to its success and future development is evident in all that you do. Both the City of Oaks Challenge and MAPL Raleigh were tremendously successful.

Again, we cannot thank you enough for your enthusiasm and support of what we do."

— Sherry Fadool, Executive Director, Triangle Volleyball Club

GREATER RALEIGH SPORTS ALLIANCE Scott Dupree, Executive Director 919-834-5900 • sdupree@raleighsports.org raleighsports.org

6. Walnut Creek Softball Complex Sports: Softball, baseball With nine top-tier, lighted fields, Walnut Creek is one of the premier softball venues in the Carolinas. The complex is undergoing a major renovation, which includes improved ADA access, and plans to re-open in 2018.

In addition to the first-rate amenities, five of the nine fields can also accommodate baseball.

Leisure Activities for Every Taste From rock concerts to movies in the park, the opportunities for entertainment in Greater Raleigh are as varied as they are abundant. No matter what your athlete’s interests are, they’re sure to find their own perfect adventure during their stay. Outdoor enthusiasts can find a wide variety of hiking trails, kayak tours and one-of-a-kind parks, while athletes who want to stay inside can enjoy some of America’s best shopping malls and museums. Regardless of your inclinations, Raleigh locals suggest all young visitors try looking for excitement at Triangle Rock Club and the Daniel Dhers Action Sports Complex.

Great North Carolina Location Raleigh is nestled between I-40 and I-440, with connections to highways 70 and 401.

I-85 and I-95 also pass within 25 miles of the city. Major cities under six hours from Raleigh include Richmond, Virginia; Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; and Jacksonville, Florida. Only an 18-minute drive from the city center, RDU International Airport is readily available for teams interested in flying. Airlines serving RDU provide nonstop service to 50 destinations on more than 400 daily flights.

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