2019 California State Sports Guide by SPG

SPG

2019

CALIFORNIA GUIDE

THE GOLDEN STATE IS HOME TO OFFBEAT EVENTS

9 SITE INSPECTIONS

CALIFORNIA’S SCENIC BEAUTY IS SECOND -TO - NONE A Premier Travel Media publication • www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

OF EVENT-READY DESTINATIONS AND THEIR TOP VENUES

Bob Seagren Motiv Sports

Welcome to California, your year-round destination for just about anything you can imagine. As an athlete, event planner and a California native, I truly appreciate all that the Golden State has to offer. Growing up in Southern California afforded me the opportunity to train year-round outdoors and hone my skills as a young pole vaulter, leading me to an Olympic gold and silver medals at the 1968 Mexico and 1972 Munich Summer Olympic Games.

For the past 20 years, I have been an event planner in the endurance sports fields of running, swimming and triathlons.

Our company, Motiv Sports, based out of Denver, Colorado, owns and operates over 30 endurance events worldwide reaching over 550,000 participants globally on an annual basis. California is currently home to 11 of those events taking place throughout the state. High-profile events like the Malibu Triathlon, Long Beach Marathon, Surf City Marathon Huntington Beach and the Golden Gate Half Marathon all take place in the beautiful Golden State.

Planning our annual events, we often interact with city officials, convention and visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce, parks and recreation departments, local sports commissions and venue managers.

In California, you will find all these individuals and organizations eager to help you plan your next event. So, what are you waiting for? The Golden State is your golden opportunity!

All the best to you and your next event.

Bob Seagren Motiv Sports

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California is Home to an Array of Nontraditional Events

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California’s Natural Playing Fields

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Sacramento, CA

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Redding, CA Fresno County, CA Bakersfield, CA

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Vallejo, CA Fairplex, CA Camarillo, CA Irvine, CA

Visalia, CA Sports Planning Guide

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OFFBEAT CALIFORNIA The

Golden State

is home to an array of nontraditional events

California is a biking haven for professionals and amateurs.

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hile California contains nearly twice as many professional teams as any other state and hosts some of the largest sporting events in the country, it is also home to numerous lesserpublicized and occasionally offbeat events that attract ardent crowds.

Here are some outings that may not be televised in prime time, but will certainly entertain the next time your tournament takes place in the Golden State.

Bay to Breakers (San Francisco)

This competition is the oldest consecutively run annual footrace in the world, having taken place in San Francisco since 1912. Each year on the third Sunday of May, the race starts at the northeast end of the downtown area and runs west through the city to finish at the Great Highway. The course stretches 7.46 miles and roughly 50,000 competitors enter the event while more than 100,000 spectators cheer them on. The competition is known for having a party-type atmosphere as its participants often wear creative costumes. The race is also renowned for pos46 4

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sessing a number of offbeat traditions, including a tortilla toss, in which crowds of runners throw tortillas at one another, and its special team division called centipedes, in which 13 runners are connected as a unit via a bungee cord.

Calaveras County Fair & Frog Jump Jubilee (Angels Camp)

The longest-running county fair in the state, the Calaveras County Fair is perhaps best known for its famous frog-jumping competition which unfolds in late May. Located just outside the Gold Rush town of Angels Camp in North-Central California, the fair features a rodeo, police dog demonstrations and a demolition derby, along with its frog jumping event.

The competition, which recreates Mark Twain’s short story, “The Celebrated Frog of Calaveras County� has taken place since 1928. Contestants enter bullfrogs into the event and encourage the frogs to leap as far as possible with scores of spectators cheering them on. The winner of the final event earns a $5,000 cash prize. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Kinetic Grand Championship (Humboldt County)

Beginning Memorial Day weekend in Humboldt County in Northern California, this annual three-day, 42-mile race has been described as the Triathlon of the Art World because of how it merges art and engineering with physical endurance. The competition consists of kinetic sculptures, which are all-terrain, handmade, human-powered art vehicles, racing over roads, water, mud and sand. These vehicles are creatively constructed to resemble whatever their inventors can envision, from a giant hippopotamus to a fire-breathing dragon to a smoke-breathing turtle that lays eggs.

The race, which was founded by metal sculptor Hobart Brown in 1969, begins in the college town of Arcata and ends in the small, historic city of Ferndale. In between, the competition covers various challenging landscapes, including floating across the Humboldt Bay.

Rodeo (Redding)

Each May, the Northern California city of Redding hosts the Redding Rodeo, featuring bucking broncos, calf roping, mutton busting, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Xtreme Bull riders and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association Barrel Racers. A highlight that accompanies the rodeo is its annual BBQ Steak Feed and Dance, which provides patrons with a hearty meal consisting of BBQ steak, beans, salad, baked potato and bread, as well as live music. Another memorable element of the rodeo is the Redding Rodeo Parade, which was first staged in 1949 and has grown to as many as 250 entries, with entrants competing in 52 different classes with winners earning prizes and trophy awards.

Bay to Breakers

Redding Rodeo

Sea Otter Classic (Monterey)

This four-day annual bicycling and outdoor sports festival attracts nearly 10,000 professional and amateur athletes along with 70,000 spectators. Held each spring at the Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey on California’s central coast, the classic features a multitude of cycling contests, including cross country, downhill, dual slalom and short-track racing events for mountain bikers, and circuit, criterium, and road events for skinny-tire racers. Since its beginning in 1991, the event has attracted thousands of amateur athletes from across the globe as well as hundreds of professional cyclists, including national and world champions and Olympic athletes. The festival is also an important consumer bike exposition as more than 450 vendors representing nearly 800 brands display new products.

Summer Sizzle (Hermosa Beach)

Combining the picturesque locales of beach volleyball with the frenetic action of tennis, beach tennis has been building a following for the past decade. The sport involves players using beach tennis paddles and a special tennis ball. The ball is volleyed back and forth without hitting the ground and each team or player can only hit the ball once to get it over the net. The Summer Sizzle tournament, which began 10 years ago in Hermosa Beach, a beachfront city in Los Angeles, has grown to a few hundred players competing in this International Federation of Beach Tennis event.

Kinetic Grand Championship

Winternationals (Pomona)

The Pomona Raceway is a fabled racing facility located at the Fairplex in Southern California that possesses a quarter-mile dragstrip and has a seating capacity of 40,000. Since its opening in 1961, the raceway has hosted the National Hot Rod Association’s Winternationals event, which is the organization’s traditional season opener that typically takes place in February. The NHRA is a drag racing governing body founded in 1951, and the Winternationals feature 10,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars racing at speeds of more than 330 miles per hour. SPG SportsPlanningGuide.com

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CALIFORNIA’S NATURAL PLAYING FIELDS

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alifornia is known for many things: eclectic culture, world-class cuisine and a buzzing celebrity scene. While those elements certainly draw people to its borders, there’s another that has been a true driver of tourism to the state: Its National Parks.

California has nine U.S. National Parks, the most of any state, each with their own unique characteristics and landscapes. For athletes, coaches and spectators visiting California for a tournament, the National Parks offer a gateway to the state’s natural playgrounds. When the whistle blows, and the crowds disperse, teams can venture off the turf fields and into mother nature’s backyard.

The National Parks of California

Spread across California, the parks provide visitors with some of the most famous—and frequently photographed—views in the world. In each destination, there are hundreds of trails to tackle, hidden gems to find and adventures to experience.

Yosemite National Park

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Yosemite has become famous for its dramatic rock formations and stunning waterfalls.

But those aren’t the only things to see in the 1,100-square-mile park.

If your team is visiting this California jewel, be sure to make a drive to Yosemite Valley to snag Instagram-worthy pictures of El Capitan, a towering granite monolith rising over 3,500 feet. Take a hike through Tuolumne Meadows, a large high-elevation meadow, and enjoy a picnic or some kayaking at Tenaya Lake.

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Athletes get off the turf and into the dirt at California’s National Parks Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

If you visit these neighboring parks, prepare for some serious neck craning. Giant trees and towering mountains are what they’re known for.

There are few places in the world where the trees are so tall they seem to pierce the sky and are so big around that tunnels can be made from their trunks. Make a visit to General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world at 275 feet tall and a 36-foot-diameter base. Continue along the Congress Trail to see even more of nature’s giants. Climb the 350 stone steps to the top of Moro Rock to soak in views from the San Joaquin Valley to the peaks of the Great Western Divide.

Redwood National Park

Running along California’s northwest coast, Redwood National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s coast redwoods. With the ability to grow over 350 feet, redwoods are the world’s tallest living things. But this park offers more than just tall trees. Teams can take in the ocean views with a walk along the beaches as there’s nearly 40 miles of coastline in the park. See if you can spot some of the park’s four-legged residents in the open, grassy prairies—Roosevelt Elk are known to roam here.

Pinnacles National Park

One of the newest parks to join the ranks, Pinnacles National Park was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Located in the Salinas Valley, this site gets its name from the domed rock structures that protrude out of the ground. Visitors can try to catch a glimpse of the endangered California Condor, as the park is one of four places where captive-bred condors are released to live in the wild. Pinnacles also boasts an extensive network of talus caves, which guests can freely explore if they don’t mind the dark—and the occasional bat. Above ground, there are 32 miles of trails to walk, lined by all kinds of wildflowers.

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Death Valley

California has nine national parks, the most of any state.

Yosemite

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Discover natural hot springs in Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is brimming with hydrothermal features such as fumaroles (steaming vents), mud pots, boiling pools and more. Teams can see the earth breathe with a walk along the Bumpass Hell Trail, one of Lassen Park’s largest hydrothermal areas. While the volcanic activity is a selling point for this park, there are many other beautiful spots to enjoy. Take a stroll around Manzanita Lake and take in views of Lassen Peak; or take a rigorous hike up Ridge Lakes Trail where two alpine lakes sit in a basin at the top.

Joshua Tree National Park

With hundreds of boulders and wacky trees spread across the desert landscape, Joshua Tree National Park feels like a whole different planet.

Fondly called “J-Tree” by locals, the park gets its official name from those well-known quirky trees that freckle the park. The Joshua Tree, a type of yucca, is an odd-looking plant, with zig-zagging branches and razor-sharp leaves. The best place to experience the park’s namesake is on the trails at Indian Cove. Take a half-mile stroll from White Tank Campground to see the 30-foot-tall Arch Rock, one of the most impressive boulders in the park.

Death Valley National Park

Amid California’s lush greenery stands the starkness of Death Valley, the hottest, driest and lowest national park in the country. But don’t let the name deter you, this park boasts beautiful, dramatic landscapes and some unique wildlife. Make a visit to the lowest point in the park, Badwater Basin, sitting at 282-feet below sea level; and then head down Artist’s Drive, weaving through nine miles of eroded, multi-colored hills. Be sure to stop at Zabriskie Point, which overlooks the badlands of Furnace Creek.

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Channel Islands National Park

Encompassing five islands and the mile of water that surrounds them, Channel Islands National Park is an oasis of beauty and nature just off the California coast. The park is made up of Anacapa Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island, San Miguel Island and Santa Barbara Island, and there’s something special to see on each one. Head to Inspiration Point on Anacapa for one of the best views of the park or view one of the rarest trees in the world—Torrey Pines—on Santa Rosa. Head to San Miguel, the westernmost island, to see thousands of pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) as they gather on 27 miles of beachy coastline. Hike along Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz, where you can see the island’s scrubjay, restored wetlands and some of the historic buildings that still dot the coast.

California’s National Parks are natural playgrounds, offering rugged terrain, unparalleled beauty and more than enough adventures to keep athletes active and entertained well after the final buzzer sounds. SPG

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SACRAMENTO, CA

SACRAMENTO IS A FRONTRUNNER IN TOP-NOTCH SPORTS FACILITIES AND HAS A ‘LET’S GET IT DONE’ APPROACH TO HOSTING LARGE SPORTING EVENTS

Sacramento is one of California’s most historic cities, boasting a remarkable array of parks, amenities, landmarks and, of course, top-notch sports facilities throughout. The city is proud of its iconic features and invites sports planners, players, family members and spectators alike to see what this capital city is all about.

A mini version of California’s renowned Golden Gate Bridge, Tower Bridge connects Sacramento and West Sacramento, accommodating pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic.

It affords spectacular views of the city. Sacramento, known as “America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, offers endless dining options, and visitors should check out some of its eateries popular with large groups, including Swabbies on the River, Localis, Bacon & Butter and Dad’s Kitchen.

Things to do in Sacramento Sprinkled with historical landmarks, museums and outdoor activities, Sacramento is a hotspot for family-friendly attractions. Old Sacramento Waterfront District, generally referred to as Old Sac, is a thriving 28-acre shopping and entertainment district, tourist destination and home to some of the city’s most influential history. The area is deemed a 50 8

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National Historic Landmark District and State Historic Park, dating back to California’s Gold Rush of 1849.

A fantastic educational experience for the whole family, California State Railroad Museum is located in Old Sacramento and regarded as one of North America’s premier train museums. Groups can enjoy a 45-minute train ride along the Sacramento River or, in season, relive the magical voyage of the Polar Express on an hour-long trip to the North Pole.

The California State Capitol building is the state’s working seat of government. It also serves as a museum, bringing together the past, present and future of the Golden State.

Tours are available.

Another prominent educational and cultural attraction, Crocker Art Museum is the longest continuously-operating art museum in the West. Permanent collections at the museum include American Art before 1945, American Art after 1945, European Art, Ceramics, and Works on Paper and Photography.

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1. Golden 1 Center Sports: Basketball, hockey Located in downtown Sacramento, Golden 1 Center is an indoor arena and part of a business and entertainment district called Downtown Commons, which includes a $250 million, 16-story mixed-use tower. The facility boasts over 1,000 next generation Wi-Fi access points with capabilities to seat from 10 to more than 17,500 guests.

Golden 1 is an ideal destination for hosting conventions, corporate events, exhibitions, company outings, political functions and sporting events. Home of the Sacramento Kings of the NBA, the facility is capable of hosting both basketball and ice hockey events.

2. Raley Field Sports: Baseball, softball Home of the Sacramento River Cats minor league baseball team, Raley Field has a capacity of 10,624 seats, featuring a grass surface and several facilities available for rent. The field is an ideal space for company softball games, youth baseball and softball games and tournaments, batting practice and graduation ceremonies. Various rental facilities at Raley Field include the Beer Garden, Sactown Smokehouse, Solon Club, Home Run Terrace, Pacifico Porch and Down on the Farm, a children’s play area with a Tower Bridge replica, Whiffle ball field, misting pad and inflatable play structure.

3. Sacramento Convention Center Complex Sports: Volleyball, Fencing, Boxing, Wrestling, Cheer/Dance

How to Get to Sacramento California’s capital, situated in the northern part of the state, is less than a 10-hour drive from major cities, including San Francisco, Reno, Portland, Boise, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Major highways that connect to Sacramento are I-5, I-80, I-70, I-15 and I-25. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento, with Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines and SkyWest Airlines being the airport’s largest airline carriers.

Sacramento Convention Center Complex is a collection of entertainment venues, including Sacramento Convention Center, the Community Center Theater, Sacramento Memorial Auditorium and the Jean Runyon Little Theater. Sacramento Convention Center features an exhibit hall with 134,000 square feet of exhibit space, 31 meeting rooms and a ballroom. Established in 1926, Sacramento Memorial Auditorium is a 3,867-seat multi-purpose venue and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each facility has several nearby parking garages. The Convention Center will be going under a significant expansion project that is scheduled to be completed at the end of 2020.

4. Sacramento State University Sports: All

Sacramento Sports Commission Mike Sophia Director Phone: 916-808-7780 Email: msophia@visitsacramento.com Website: www.sacsports.com

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Sacramento State University is undeniably Sacramento’s home for the best and highest number of world-class sports facilities. The university’s main facilities include Hornet Stadium/Broad Fieldhouse, the Nest, John Smith Field, Shea Stadium, Hornet Field, Sacramento State Aquatic Center, Sacramento State Tennis Courts and Livermore Community Park. Hornet Stadium was originally built in 1969 and has a capacity for 21,195 spectators; the facility has a new state of the art playing field, Mondo track and scoreboard.

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Redding, CA A medley of renowned fishing, kayaking and hiking trails paired with state-of-the-art sports facilities make Redding a premier destination for sports events in the Golden State.

As the second sunniest city in the U.S., seeing over 320 total days of sunshine throughout the year, Redding has also been named a “Top 10 Fishing Town in North America” by Forbes Magazine and the “Unofficial Capital of Kayaking” by Time Magazine. Known as the trail capital of America, Redding has also been hailed as the “gem of the U.S. trail system” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

With so many remarkable awards and recognitions, it’s no wonder people are flocking to Redding to experience all that it has to offer.

Things to do in Redding

At Turtle Bay Exploration Park, visitors can explore world renowned exhibits, get up close with wildlife, or take part in an aquatic adventure to learn about water ecosystems and the importance of the Sacramento River.

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the Sacramento River, with stunning hilly vistas on the north side and glimpses of the Sundial Bridge on the east end.

As the second oldest state park in the California State Parks system, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park lies within the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau natural region, with vast forests and five miles of lake shoreline and streamside. Lassen Volcanic National Park is another great destination for leisurely outdoor activities and is a prominent United States National Recreation Area in Northern California.

How to Get to Redding

Redding can be reached by taking I-5 N or I-80 W. Redding has an airport that features direct flights to San Francisco and beginning March 2019, service to LAX.

Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark is a geologic adventure for the whole family to enjoy, with the opportunity to take part in a comprehensive and robust tour of the caverns and surrounding lake with over 360 miles of shoreline. A paved multi-purpose trail, Sacramento National Recreation River Trail winds along 52 10

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Big League Dreams Sports Parks

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, hockey, volleyball, roller derby

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At Big League Dreams Sports Parks, the name says it all. This facility in Redding is dedicated to giving the average youth or adult player the chance to have the feeling of playing in the big leagues by creating smaller replicas of famous ballparks, such as Boston’s Fenway Park, New York’s Yankee Stadium and Chicago’s Wrigley Field. The facility’s 20,000-square-foot climatecontrolled field house is equipped for hockey, soccer and volleyball leagues. The baseball and softball playing fields feature stadium-style seating with the capacity to seat 200 spectators.

Other amenities at the sports park include batting cages, a playground and Stadium Club Restaurant.

2. California Soccer Park

Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football

3 Our Commitment “For athletes of all ages, and their families, we have so much to offer here, and it’s such a unique and beautiful setting. We are here to help in every way we can, so teams, families, and spectators have an amazing experience here in Redding, both on and off the field!”

– Sabrina Jurisich, Sports Commissioner, Redding Convention & Visitors Bureau

Redding Convention & Visitors Bureau Sabrina Jurisich

Sports Commissioner Phone: 530-225-4103 Email: Sabrina@VisitRedding.com Website: www.VisitRedding.com

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A nonprofit sporting facility connecting communities, enriching lives and inspiring families, teams and athletes through high quality experiences, California Soccer Park fosters respect, competition and accountability. The soccer park is devoted to delivering excellence through innovation in a safe environment for athletes, featuring a 22-acre facility with four NCAA sized lighted synthetic turf fields for yearround play, paved walkways, elevated seating, 2,000-square-feet of covered seating with ceiling fans and a full-service restaurant. There is a small entrance fee of $3 on game days and $4 during tournaments. Pets, food and drinks are not allowed inside the park, but water is provided for athletes.

3. Redding Aquatic Center

Sports: Swimming, rowing, boating, paddleboarding, diving A leading destination for aquatic sports, Redding Aquatic Center offers a variety of classes and practice facilities, including the Kid’s Sailing Camp, a course designed to give a general knowledge of the marine world through study and hands-on sailing experience. The Shasta Rowing Association is dedicated to the education of the art of Olympic-style rowing, featuring rowing courses for children and adults. For firsttime divers or anyone looking to improve their headfirst entry, the aquatic center offers diving lessons focusing on forward diving techniques from the deck and one-meter diving board.

Private swim lessons and various special events are also held throughout the year.

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FRESNO COUNTY, CA

FRESNO COUNTY IS THE BEST IN ITS FIELD FOR WORLD-CLASS SPORTS EVENTS. OUTDOOR PARKS, RENOWNED ARENAS AND MATCHLESS AQUATIC CENTERS INVITE SPORTS PLANNERS TO THIS BELOVED REGION Fresno County is idyllically located in the San Joaquin Valley, with Fresno itself remaining the Central Valley’s largest city.

Fresno County’s sports complexes are second to none, hosting a variety of world-class sports events annually. Sports planners will love all of the guidance and support the county provides, along with endless lodging options, fork-to-farm restaurants and outdoor activities to enjoy year-round.

Redding, CA

Things to do in Fresno County Towering sequoias, breathtaking foothills and mountain ranges and majestic lakes and rivers are just a few things that paint the picture of Fresno County’s stunning natural beauty.

1. Buchanan Softball Complex Sports: Softball, track & field This family-friendly, state-of-the-art softball complex is a local favorite and always kept in tip-top shape. Buchanan Softball Complex in Clovis comprises five softball fields fully-equipped with bleachers, lighting for night games, on-site restrooms and ample parking space.

A medley of renowned fishing, kayaking and hiking trails 2. paired withWest state-of-the-art Clovis & Clovis North Aquatic Centers Sports: Swimming, diving sports facilities make Redding a premier destination for sports events in the Golden State.

At Clovis West, featured facilities include three pools, a 1

Fresno County is located in close proximity to three national parks, national forests and wilderness areas, namely Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. These household namessunniest invite visitors explore their internationally As the second city into the U.S., seeing over 320 recognized landscapes.

Visitors can spend hours or even total days of sunshine throughout the year, Redding days exploring these vast wildernesses. Fresno Chaffee Zoo has also been named a “Top 10 Fishing Town in North provides fun for all ages, covering 39 acres and housing America” by Forbes Magazine and the “Unofficial Capital more than 190 animal species. of Kayaking” by Time Magazine. Known as the trail capital of America, has also been hailed as the “gem How to GetRedding to Fresno County of the U.S. trail system” by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Fresno County can be reached by Highway 99 that runs With so many remarkable awards and recognitions, it’s no strait through the San Joaquin Valley and also from I-5 that wonder people are side flocking to Redding to Its experience all runs on the western of Fresno County. nearest major that it has to offer. airport is Fresno Yosemite National Airport.

Things Perspective to do in Redding Planner

At Turtle Bay Exploration Park, visitors can explore world “Fresno State Athletics services FCCVB renowned exhibits, gethas up used closethe with wildlife,oforthe take part for years. Their staff has always worked hard to assist in in an aquatic adventure to learn about water ecosystems providing a quality experience for our visiting teams and and the importance Sacramento guests.

With the help of of the their hospitality, River. we were able to secure the Mountain West Conference Track and Field Lake Shasta Caverns Natural Championships for the National next three years.”Landmark is a geologic adventure for the whole family to enjoy, with —Matt Studwell, Assistant A.D. the opportunity tofor take part in a comprehensive and Internal Operations Fresno State Athletics robust tour of the caverns and surrounding lake with over 360 miles of shoreline. A paved multi-purpose trail, Sacramento National Recreation River Trail winds along 52 Sports Planning Guide 12 54 SportsPlanningGuide.com

baby pool, showers, handicapped accessibility, locker rooms, a one-meter diving board, three-meter diving board, an eightlane competition pool at 50 meters, a diving well and an outdoor diving pool. for the Clovis North on High the Sacramento River,Home with stunning hilly vistas theSchool competitive aquatics program, Clovis North Aquatic north side and glimpses of the Sundial Bridge on theCenter east offers end. two parallel 50-meter pools, a diving well and several green aspects, including HVAC water heaters, high-efficiency pool pumps and chlorination and acid systems that consume As the second oldest state park in the California State the minimum amount of chemicals necessary for health Parks system, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and safety. lies within the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau natural 3.

Woodward Park and five miles of lake shoreline region, with vast forests Sports: Biking, BMX, cross-country and streamside.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is another great destination leisurely activities and is Woodward Park isfor your go-to outdoor destination for outdoor sports events.

Harboring numerous speciesArea througha prominent United States National bird Recreation in out, the park features a multi-use amphitheater, Shinzen Northern California.

Japanese Garden, a fenced dog park, an exercise par course and five trails that are part of the San How tomulti-purpose Get to Redding Joaquin River Parkway’s S. Eaton projected to Redding can be reached Lewis by taking I-5 NTrail, or I-80 W. cover 22 miles upon completion.

Redding has an airport that features direct flights to San Francisco and beginning March 2019, service to LAX.

Fresno/Clovis Convention & Visitors Bureau

Andrew Smith Sales Manager Phone: 559-981-5503 Email: andrew.smith@fresnocvb.org Website: www.playfresno.org @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Sports Planning Guide 55

PUTTING BIG TIME SPORTS IN SACRAMENTO Joe Kovacs, 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist

USA TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS BASSMASTER ELITE SERIES AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA WORLD RUGBY PACIFIC NATIONS CUP USATF JUNIOR OLYMPIC CHAMPIONSHIPS NCAA DIVISION I MEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT CIF STATE FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS The Sacramento Sports Commission delivers the region’s premier sporting events from professional sports to national, state and regional championships to youth tournaments.

For more information on how to get into the game, visit www.sacsports.com

BAKERSFIELD, CA

BAKERSFIELD HAS ALL THE CUTTING-EDGE FACILITIES YOUR TEAM NEEDS FOR WORLD-CLASS SPORTS EVENTS, ALL WHILE CREATING MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME Located close to the geographic center of California, Bakersfield is only about four hours driving distance from 90 percent of the state’s population and is the ninth-most populous city in California. It’s no wonder Bakersfield has all the amenities sports planners are looking for when choosing that ideal event destination, accompanied by a staff that’s willing to help with every step of the planning process.

A unique experience exclusive to Bakersfield lies within its rich Basque heritage thanks to a history of immigration in the region. Traditional Basque family-style dining can be found throughout the city for a truly exceptional culinary experience.

The most popular restaurants offering this legendary cuisine are Chalet Basque Restaurant, Wool Growers Restaurant, Noriega’s and Benji’s French Basque Restaurant.

Things to do in Bakersfield

Planner Perspective

When the game is over and players and family members are looking for some exciting activities to indulge in off the courts, Bakersfield offers a variety of fun outdoor and indoor adventures for all ages.

Why Bakersfield? That's easy. It's a perfectly-sized modern city with state-of-the-art facilities, a large inventory of clean, family-oriented hotel rooms, welcoming restaurants, and a city leadership that values our championships and supports us in every way possible. Bakersfield is a tremendous host.

A music hall primarily used for country western concerts, Buck Owens' Crystal Palace was constructed in 1996 by none other than Buck Owens himself. The Buck Owens Museum contains items related to the country star’s career that includes 21 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country music charts.

Kids and adults alike will have a ball at Rush Air Sports bouncing on trampolines, partaking in a game of dodgeball, climbing the Rush Wall or rolling around inside a hamster ball.

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—John T, California Interscholastic Federation

How to Get to Bakersfield Bakersfield is located at the crossroads of State Highways 99 and 58, and just 15 minutes east of Interstate 5. Bakersfield is located within a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles and a 4-hour drive from San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas.

Meadows Field Airport provides all-jet commercial air from United and American Airlines and is located just eight miles north of downtown. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

1. Rabobank Arena Sports: Basketball, hockey, wrestling Rabobank Arena is a world-class arena serving a number of hometown Bakersfield teams, games and tournaments, including the Bakersfield Condors American Hockey League team, International Indoor Soccer Exhibitions, US Army High School Football All-Star Game and the California Interscholastic Federation High School State Wrestling Championship Tournament. In 2019, it will be the arena’s first time to combine the boys and girls State Wrestling Championship. With 17,000 square feet of arena flooring, this facility can seat between 8,751 and 10,400 spectators.

Amenities at the facility include handicap-accessible seating, ample parking, assisted listening devices, sign language interpreters, eight locker rooms and various catering and food and beverage options.

2. The Theater at the Rabobank Theater and Convention Center Sports: Cheerleading, dance, wrestling The Theater at the Rabobank Theater and Convention Center is focal point of the complex which also features a 26,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall and 14 meeting rooms. Providing tremendous flexibility, the Theater has a 140’ x 50’ stage with a 25 foot ceiling, 46 lines that hold a full set of stage drapery, cyclorama and 20’x 20’ rear projection screen.

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The Theater has four star dressing rooms, four chorus rooms, various production offices, and VIP rooms. Unloading and loading of equipment is easily achieved, as trucks can drive inside the facility and back-up directly to the stage area.

The Theater is perfect for Cheer competitions and has hosted Aloha Spirit Cali Finale, GSSA Championships (cheer) JAMZ State Championship (cheer and dance).

3. Tarina Homes Sports Complex at Mesa Marin Sports: Softball Located on 15 acres, Tarina Home Sports Complex includes four lighted softball fields, a 1,040 square foot prefabricated restroom and concession building, fantastic bleacher seating with a shade structure, landscaping and a parking lot. In 2018, the complex celebrated its second phase improvements, featuring a playground, spray park, group picnic area, expanded walking paths and a walk bridge from the parking area to the new park area.

Visit Bakersfield Matt Billingsley Title: Sports Sales Manager Phone: 661-852-7236 Email: mbillingsley@visitbakersfield.com Website: www.visitbakersfield.com

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Visalia, CA Dozens of sports facilities surround one of California’s major agricultural centrally located hot spots.

Visalia is located in the center of California, just three hours from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Sacramento at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Known as the Gateway to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, it is where some of the country’s freshest fruits and veggies are grown. But this central California city doesn’t just cultivate healthy produce, the area is filled with sports facilities geared to make your team’s events a success while providing great family activities. It’s easy to plan a tournament in Visalia, now home to the 2019 Cal Ripken 60 World Series, because the city boasts numerous facilities that are a perfect fit for any sport. Planners will work with seasoned professionals who will match your tournament needs with contemporary facilities that feature outstanding amenities.

Things to do in Visalia Embark on outdoor and indoor adventures when you’re in Visalia. Explore Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, just 40 minutes from Visalia which offers unrivaled natural scenery with towering giant sequoia trees, amazing vistas and deep canyons. Within the national parks are groves of age-old sequoias, rare wildlife, and woodlands that are perfect for hiking. Closer to the city, McKellar Family Farms offer tours of their citrus farms, so you can get an up-close look at how these juicy gems are brought from the farm to the table.

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1 Imagine U Children’s Museum provides young children interactive educational experiences through hands-on learning of the sciences, environmental conservation, and the arts. Here, kids stretch their imaginations and learn about modern technology. Visalia Adventure Park is another great option for family fun. You can zip around the race track on go-karts, play mini-golf, conquer the laser maze, and challenge yourself to arcade games. Head downtown and check out Visalia’s vibrant Main Street shopping district. Get all you need and more at charming shops and art venues. Sprinkled among these stores are many restaurants and breweries.

How to Get to Visalia Visalia is located in the center of California, easily reached via California State Route 99 which runs north to south through the state and connects with Highway 198, intersecting just west of the town. Visalia is about an hour’s drive from Fresno Yosemite International Airport and offers V-Line Shuttle Service express options connecting to our downtown transit center.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Recreation Park

Sports: Baseball, soccer, volleyball, basketball Home to the Visalia Rawhide, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ AAA affiliate, Recreation Park has been a city landmark since its opening in 1946. The family-friendly ballpark offers an exceptional game day experience including the first row of the grandstand just 20 feet from Home Plate. It is equipped to the standards of a major league stadium with a capacity of 2,468, free on-site parking and multiple concession stands.

4

2. Riverway Sports Park

Sports: Soccer, baseball, softball, archery Between 10 soccer fields and four baseball diamonds, it’s safe to say Riverway Sports Park is something of a sports haven. Its 83 acres include the CR Shannon Baseball Complex, Saputo Sports Field, playgrounds and an interactive water Splash Pad. For visitors’ convenience, the park also provides restrooms, picnic areas, and ample parking. Coming in 2020 are 4 Softball Fields with Musco Field lighting, 300’ fence, additional concession stands and restrooms.

3. Visalia Convention Center Sports: Indoor, multi-purpose

2

Planner Perspective “Visit Visalia and community have been phenomenal hosts, providing great accommodations and support for five years of the CIF State Girls Wrestling Championships.”

– Roger Blake, Executive Director, California Interscholastic Federation

Visalia Convention & Visitors Bureau Nellie Freeborn

Sales Director Phone: 559-334-0141 Email: Nellie@VisitVisalia.com Website: www.VisitVisalia.com

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Quality of service is what sets the Visalia Convention Center apart from regular convention center facilities. It has recently served as the host site for Region 1 USA Gymnastics, CA Scholastic Federation Girls State Wrestling Championship and the Aloha Spirit Central Valley National Championship for this very reason. With amenities such as an attached Marriott hotel, free parking, concessions and catering options in addition to 114,000 square feet of flexible space, the convention center has everything event planners are looking for, all in one convenient location.

4. Mineral King Bowl

Sports: Football, track and field, soccer, field hockey Give your team and fans the ultimate playing experience on an immaculate field, surrounded by friends and family cheering them on under the bright stadium lights. This and more are possible at Visalia’s Mineral King Bowl. This stadium complex is located on the campus of Redwood High School and can host a wide range of sports and events.

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5

2

4

Vallejo, CA

Your Bay Area Sports Fun Starts Here!!

Experience the best location in Northern California’s Bay Area when you choose Vallejo and its world-class venues surrounded by countless attractions.

When you’re ready to eat, there are plenty of restaurant options to choose from.

Things to do in Vallejo

By Car: Interstate 80 makes its way through the nearby cities of Berkeley, Oakland, Sacramento and San Francisco.

The San Francisco Bay Ferry makes getting in and out of Vallejo easy. A 60-minute ride links the two cities.

By Air: San Francisco, Sacramento and Oakland International Airports provide easy access to nearby Vallejo.

When athletes aren’t hard at work on the field or court, you’ll find more than enough to keep everyone entertained.

Don’t miss out on a visit to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, which is open year round thanks to the mild California temperatures. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is Northern California’s only combined marine life, wildlife and wild rides destination delivering on its promise as the Thrill Capital of Northern California. Coming in 2019, Batman: The Ride, Northern California’s first 4D free fly roller coaster. And you can even swim with a dolphin!

The city of Vallejo offers a growing art and culture scene and is very pedestrian-friendly. Check out the Saturday Farmer’s Market, held year round, for quality local goods and treats, and enjoy a stroll through the arts district.

The Vallejo Heritage Home District is one of just several nationally registered districts west of the Mississippi.

Radiating from downtown, the district is full of structures and homes that showcase the city’s architectural history.

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How to Get to Vallejo

Planner Perspective “I wanted to take a minute to write and inform you of how pleased the MuckFest MS San Francisco Association was with holding our 5K Mud and Fun Run at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA. I can personally say it has been a pleasure working with the Vallejo CVB, local hotels, and the city of Vallejo. It appeared to us that everyone was interested in making the event a success.

We are busy now making plans for the 2015 event and looking forward to working with you and the staff at the Vallejo Convention and Visitors Bureau.”

– Jake Geiger, Event Planning Manager, MuckFest MS

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Mare Island Sports Complex

Sports: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, batting cage This full-service facility is great for anyone looking for a comprehensive venue that can be used for a variety of sports.

The 61,000-square-foot complex has hosted everything from basketball leagues to dog shows to roller derbies. Inside you’ll find two soccer fields, two half-court basketball courts, two full-sized courts for basketball and volleyball, four batting cages, an arcade and pro shop.

2. Dan Foley Park

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, basketball Covering 60 acres in Vallejo, Dan Foley Park offers the perfect space to bring your group outside while taking advantage of the various sports facilities, including a lighted baseball field, soccer and turf fields, a basketball court and a fishing dock. For added leisure there is also a scenic nature trail and picnic areas with BBQ’s to help you unwind with friends or teammates. McManus Field offers restrooms, concessions, lighting, bleachers and a scoreboard.

3. Wilson Park

Sports: Softball, baseball Home to the professional baseball team the Vallejo Admirals, Wilson Park knows how to host a major sporting event. Fans enjoy coming out and enjoying the comfortable arena with its

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generous seating and plenty of concessions, restrooms and parking. The field is well lit during night games, and seating capacity is around 500.

4. John F. Cunningham Aquatic Complex Sports: Swimming, diving

Cunningham aquatic complex is prepared to host 1,000 spectators and provide top-notch facilities for athletes. The heated, Olympic-sized pool is 50-meters-by-25-yards and has 19 practice lanes. A special hydraulic flooring system allows the pool bottom to be raised or lowered to meet any special needs. On-site dressing rooms and showers are available.

5. Jesse Bethel High School

Sports: Basketball, archery, baseball, soccer, football, softball, wrestling This local high school is experienced in hosting a wide variety of sports. Whether you need space for a baseball game, basketball tournament or even an archery competition, this venue is prepared to serve the needs of groups and can comfortably seat 500.

Visit Vallejo Carrie Baulwin

Director of Sales Phone: 707-642-3653 Email: Carrie@visitvallejo.com Website: www.VisitVallejo.com

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Fairplex, CA

This southern California destination maintains a tradition of providing top-of-the-line sports facilities, tournaments and attractions all in one place.

With years of hosting a variety of sports tournaments in the books, Fairplex is well adept at organizing major competitions. In fact, this premier destination in Pomona just hosted the 2018 Modern Pentathlon World Cup in March. In addition, planners will be pleased to find that Fairplex and the area surrounding it maintain a tradition of arranging soccer tournaments, 5K marathons, seasonal events and even a robotics competition. Fairplex will easily become your playing field, as you and your team will have access to more than 10 expo halls and athletic equipment.

Things to do around Fairplex The key to capturing all the fun in 487-acre Fairplex is to get outside with friends and family. The Sheraton Fairplex, located just minutes away from attractions and sports facilities, is the ideal spot for your stay. Among nearby attractions are 10 different shopping malls and arcades— the Retro City Arcade is a proven favorite amongst the kids. Young athletes will also get an educational experience at the Farm at Fairplex, which is designed to encourage healthy eating habits and teach the basics of food agriculture. If you enjoy this hand-on approach, then you will love the Learning Centers at Fairplex. Teenagers and adults frequent this educational institution to develop the skills they need for work and life overall. Classes range from automotive manufacturing to cooking. You can even 62 20

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make your own ceramics in the center’s lab! And when you’ve masters your cooking skills, you can battle fellow classmates at the end of the course. Check out the farm’s garden by riding the Mother Road train along Route 66.

How to Get to Fairplex

Drive to Fairplex from major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix and Las Vegas. Located in Los Angeles County, the area can be accessed by driving along I-15. The Ontario International Airport is only nine miles away from Fairplex. This airport carries flights with Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, United and Volaris airlines.

Planner Perspective “We’ve been extremely happy hosting our annual Holiday Half Marathon & 5k at Fairplex. Its ample parking, scenic property and close proximity to Bonelli Park make it an ideal race course location. The friendly staff has been great to work with and we look forward to working together for many years to come.”

– Phyllis Blanchard, Events Director, RUN Racing

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Fairplex Fields

Fairplex Southern California Melissa DeMonaco

Director of Sales Phone: 909-865-4042 Email: demonaco@fairplex.com Website: www.fairplexevents.com

Sports: BMX, soccer The Fairplex Fields offer several outdoor spaces that can easily be configured to host sports, concerts and festivals.

This part of the complex features four full-scale soccer fields with lights. While two of the fields sport natural grass, the South Fields are covered in hybrid Bermuda grass and the North Fields use Perineal Rye. Each year, these grounds are the chosen venue for the youth Cerritos Memorial Soccer Tournament. The grounds also boast dirt surfaces and hilly obstacles for the BMX Red Bull Straight Rhythm competition, another one of the area’s annual events. Spectators can watch any of these events from the facility’s 10,000seat grandstand. Snack on treats from the complex’s mobile concessions.

2. Expo Hall 4

Sports: Boxing, cheerleading, gymnastics, karate, roller derby

BIG PLACE BIGGER EVENTS

Plan your next event at our nearly 500-acre campus!

Fairplex, home of the LA County Fair, is easily accessible and versatile – perfect for just about anything.

Fairplex houses a number of indoor sports venues, including Expo Hall 4, a 105,000-square-foot column-free exhibit space with air conditioning. Planners usually book this space for floor events such as boxing, karate and cheerleading, but added equipment flawlessly transforms the space into a roller derby, theatre stage or gymnastics hall. The expo hall is complete with DSL and high-speed Internet wiring. Six restrooms with special accommodations are available.

3. 5K Space

Sports: 5K marathons Track and field enthusiasts can test their endurance on Fairplex’s five million-squarefeet of unobstructed parking lots. Among events held on these grounds are the Night Nation 5K Run in July and the Holiday Half Marathon in December. Planners can attest to the race location given its short distance from Bonelli Park. Fairplex’s sports team can even design an entirely new race course onsite to suit various tournaments. Teams can rent their equipment and bleachers to fully transform the venue.

909.865.4041 fairplex.com sales@fairplex.com 1101 W. McKinley Ave. Pomona, CA 91768

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Camarillo, CA

A prime location just a stone’s throw away from Los Angeles and perfect year-round weather are making teams flock to Camarillo.

Camarillo boasts favorable weather year-round, making it a prime destination for both indoor and outdoor sporting events. It is idyllically situated just shy of an hour north of Los Angeles and a short half-hour drive to the beach.

Surrounded by green fields and a steady sea breeze, Camarillo is nestled amongst the Conejo foothills, making for stunning mountainous milieus spotted throughout the city.

Athletica, and many more. Visitors can take a short break from shopping and catch a flick at the outlet’s IMAX Edwards Camarillo Palace Stadium movie theater.

A Queen Anne Victorian home built in 1892 by Adolfo Camarillo, Camarillo Ranch House is a historic mansion with peaceful, park-like grounds. Teams and families can step back in time and experience daily life during the 19th century, with docent-guided tours throughout the property’s 15 rooms, Adolfo’s study and ranch office.

A historically significant SoCal city, Camarillo’s history began with the Camarillo family, namely Adolfo Camarillo and his brother, Juan Jr., who owned much of the land that is known today as Camarillo. Adolfo Camarillo, in particular, was a prominent rancher, horse breeder, land owner and philanthropist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and remnants of his and his family’s historical significance are still trickled throughout this charming Californian town.

Situated in the heart of Southern California and near the coast, Camarillo neighbors several other major Golden State cities, such as Ventura, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Palm Springs, San Diego and Bakersfield. Los Angeles International Airport, otherwise known as LAX, lies one hour southeast of Camarillo, serving the greater Los Angeles area.

Things to do in Camarillo

Our Commitment

Players, family members and spectators can shop until they drop at Camarillo Premium Outlets, a world-class outlet mall attracting international visitors from Brazil, Canada and China. Conveniently located off Highway 101, just 50 miles north of Los Angeles, Camarillo premium outlets features 160 retailers, including Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Lululemon

“Camarillo offers a SoCal experience without the heavy price tag – Experience small town hospitality and great sports facilities in this charming town. Our year-round warm California climate, multitude of lodging options, and off the field attractions make us an ideal partner for your next sports tournament.”

– Camarillo Hotel & Tourism Association, (Visit Camarillo)

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How to Get to Camarillo

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

include picnic tables, grills, horseshoe pits, a playground and restrooms. The park also features a gymnasium, the main facility for the Camarillo Youth Basketball Association.

1. Pleasant Valley Fields

Sports: Soccer, softball, kickball Home to the AYSO Region 68, Eagles Soccer Club and the Pleasant Valley Recreation Park District’s adult softball and kickball programs, Pleasant Valley Fields extends 46 acres and now uses reclaimed water to irrigate the natural turf.

Amenities at this state-of-the-art sports complex include 23 acres of turf lights for sports use, enough for over 10 FIFA sized soccer fields and three permanent softball fields, a playground and picnic area, restrooms, a storage room and classroom/meeting room, snack bar, half-mile walking path and 585 parking stalls.

2. Freedom Park

3. Mission Oaks Park

Sports: Softball, tennis, volleyball An ideal destination for softball tournaments, family picnics, birthday parties and business retreats, Mission Oaks Park is one of the district’s most reserved facility due to its stunning natural beauty, ample open space, playground, tennis courts, picnic shelters and abundance of available parking. Worldclass amenities at the park include three lighted softball fields, home of the Camarillo Girls Softball Association, three picnic shelters, six lighted tennis courts, lighted walkways and benches, grills, restrooms, a concession stand, drinking fountain, grass volleyball poles, a designated off-leash dog area and various multipurpose fields.

Sports: Hockey, BMX, baseball, softball, basketball Freedom Park features BMX and RC racing tracks, an incline hockey rink, a baseball complex and playground. This 33.86acre park is conveniently located at the Camarillo Airport.

The facility’s Freedom Park Baseball Complex includes four youth and one adult lighted baseball fields. Freedom Park BMX Raceway is a state-of-the-art dirt track open for BMX racing and practice. Freedom Park In-Line Hockey Rink is the city’s leading roller hockey rink, and amenities at the park

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Camarillo Hotel & Tourism Association (Visit Camarillo) Yuliana Gonzalez

Executive Director Phone: 844-775-2533 Email: Yuliana@VisitCamarillo.com Website: www.VisitCamarillo.com

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Irvine, CA

Sunny and spacious, Irvine’s Southern California charm make it an ideal spot for your next sports travel destination.

Home to no fewer than seven colleges and universities, Irvine also boasts more than a dozen top-notch sports venues. The town has played host to many tournaments, including the Champions Cup, the USA Swimming Nationals, and PGF Girls Softball. The Los Angeles Rams even hosted their training camp at the University of California Irvine’s facilities. Whether your team requires a venue with plenty of non-sport attractions for friends and family or pro-level facilities, you’re sure to find what you need in Irvine.

Things to do in Irvine Few teams get into a town, play their game, and leave again without sampling some of their host city’s attractions. Nestled in the middle of Orange County, Irvine is well within reach of all of the OC’s legendary tourist activities, but there’s no need to leave the city if you’re looking for fun things to do after the game.

If your group loves the great outdoors, there’s much to enjoy within Irvine’s city limits. There are miles of hiking and biking trails and thousands of acres of parks and open spaces planned right into the city’s design.

Hiking the Quail Hill Loop Trail is a great place to start; your smartphone can become your tour guide as you 66 24

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experience the natural beauty of Southern California.

Biking around town — maybe by renting an electric bike from local retailer Pedego — is also a favorite activity.

How to Get to Irvine Irvine is located near two freeways, I-5 and I-405. It’s an hour from Los Angeles, an hour and a half north of San Diego, and three hours south of Bakersfield. The Orange County John Wayne Airport is boarded by Irvine, Newport Beach and Santa Ana, and accepts American, Delta, Frontier, Alaska, Southwest, WestJet, United, and JetSuiteX airlines.

Planner Perspective “For generations, Irvine has been a hotbed for developing soccer and young athletes. We are excited to work with the great City of Irvine, and utilize the state-of-the-art soccer facilities at the Orange County Great Park to host a truly unique youth soccer tournament to ‘Advance the Game’ – Dan Kennedy, Consultant, Programming, LA Galaxy Cup

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Orange County Great Park

Sports: Soccer, Tennis, beach volleyball, baseball, softball Not only is Irvine’s Orange County Great Park an amazing place for post-game relaxation, it’s home to several of the city’s sports venues. In the future, these will include a 170-acre golf course and a public ice complex containing four rinks with seating for up to 2,500. Currently, the Great Park features: • A championship soccer stadium with full amenities and seating for 2,500.

• Six lighted grass soccer fields, with space for up to 124 natural and synthetic fields. Some of these can also be used for lacrosse.

• Several multipurpose fields.

• 24 lighted tennis courts, plus a championship court that seats 132 spectators. The tennis center also offers a conference room, restrooms, and concessions.

• Four sand volleyball courts and one lighted championship court with seating for 178.

• Four basketball courts.

• Ten baseball/softball fields with two championship stadiums.

2. William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center Sports: Swimming, water polo

The Woollett Center is home to Concordia University’s swimming, diving, and water polo teams. It boasts two 50-meter pools and a 25-yard pool that’s just right for

learning. Recently renovated, this facility has been used to showcase several major competitions, including the USA Swimming National Championships.

3. Momentous Sports

Sports: Indoor basketball, futsal, volleyball This newcomer to the Irvine sports scene boasts a total of 64 courts: 22 indoor volleyball courts, 21 indoor basketball courts, and 21 futsal courts. All courts feature special low-impact wooden flooring. There’s an onsite restaurant complete with hidef TVs, free Wi-Fi, and there’s a pro shop right across the street.

4. Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park Sports: Softball, tennis, soccer

This multi-purpose park includes a stadium, three lighted softball fields, three lighted soccer overlay fields, six lighted tennis courts, and four batting cages. There are two play areas and one open play area for the little ones, while a pair of concession stands takes care of the snackies. Additional amenities include an amphitheater, barbeque grills, six group picnic shelters, and the all-important restrooms.

Destination Irvine Dave Lucey

Director of Sports Sales Phone: 949-502-4114 Email: Dave@destinationirvine.com Website: www.destinationirvine.com

What was Good, What was Good,Just JustGot GotGreat!

Great!

Irvine, California’s NEW 194-acre Orange County Great Park Sports Complex is a destination for virtually any sporting event!

Featuring: • 12 baseball/softball fields • 24 soccer/lacrosse fields • 2,500 seat soccer stadium • 5 sand volleyball courts • 25 tennis courts • 4 basketball courts

• 21 Hotels • More than 4,700 sleeping rooms • Easily Accessible • Close to Perfect Weather • “America’s Safest Big City” Contact: Dave Lucey, Director of Sports Sales, Destination Irvine, 949.502.4114 or dave@destinationirvine.com

www.destinationirvine.com www.destinationirvine.com

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www.destinationirvine.com

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JON SCHMIEDER

10 Sports Industry Trends for 2019 I

’m guessing that years from now, our industry will look back on 2018 and say,

1

Emerging Sports – On our list again

this year, non-traditional sports are

2

Creating Owned Events – Another repeat from years past, our destination

“Man, what a year that was.” From the sexual

taking hold all across the country. The mem-

clients are more and more opting to invest

abuse scandals to the oval office chiming in

bership of USA Pickleball has grown seven-

their resources in created events. This is

on NFL player conduct. From the rise of

fold over the past five years to over 28,000

especially true in small and mid-tier markets

Esports to nationwide legalized gambling. No

members. Colleges are offering scholar-

that don’t have the resources to compete with

one will ever be able to say 2018 was a boring

ships for E-gaming. Drone racing has its own

the big boys. If you can create an event with

time period in our industry, that is for sure.

national league system. BMX racing is the

your local partners (or enhance/replicate ones

The key for sports tourism and event pro-

fastest growing sport in America according

that already exist), those are assets that you

fessionals will be to sort out how these story

to the Sports and Fitness Industry Associa-

don’t have to bid for against your well-funded

lines will affect our growing industry and

tion. Long considered international sports,

competitors. This doesn’t just apply to the tra-

course correct where appropriate.

cricket and Aussie Rules Football have

ditional sports either. CVBs and sports com-

Traditionally at this time, our team sits

opened offices here looking to build an in-

missions across the country are developing

down to takes a look ahead to develop a list of

frastructure in the United States (also look up

new events in many of the emerging sports

10 industry trends for the coming year. With

KUBB, another growing sport domestically

note above. In addition, destinations are look-

the high level of turbulence over the past 12

that you may hear about in the coming years).

ing at special events like music festivals and

months, and the continued proliferation of a

Ultimate and quidditch are both growing. Will

motorcycle rallies to fill their tourism calendars.

handful of trends from our past predications,

the day come where kids will replace bat and

The skills it takes to execute these special

we offer you our outlook for 2019.

ball sports with League of Legends or Scripps

events is very similar to sports.

There are three incumbents and seven new members that make up our list of 10 this

than we think.

The key for sports tourism and event professionals will be to sort out how certain storylines will affect our growing industry.

igor stevanovic/Bigstock.com

year. Enjoy…..

Spelling Bee? That time may get here sooner

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@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

3

Bricks and Mortar – Our last repeat from 2018, the list of communities that

are using tourism related taxes (bed tax

6

Oversight – Nonprofit organizations are being looked upon more and more

9

Legalized Gambling – We are not sure what the impact will be long-term

scrupulously on how they spend the funds

on the grass roots sports tourism industry, but

and/or food and beverage taxes) to build

that are given to them. This includes con-

there WILL be an impact. This is something

tourism driving sports venues is at an all-

vention and visitors bureaus, sports com-

to keep an eye on.

time high, and we believe this practice is

missions, National Governing Bodies (NGBs)

here to stay. The facilities arms race seems to

and others in our industry. Governing entities

have no saturation point in sight as communi-

that oversee the various funding pipelines to

ties continue to build large multi-sport com-

these organizations are becoming more

plexes. By using tourism related taxes to build

involved in how those funds are allocated. The

tourism related sports venues, CVBs and

end result is C-level professionals have lost

sports commissions can take control of their

their jobs over spending practices within their

venue assets to drive overnight stays first, and

organizations. Industry leaders need to be

offer enhanced places for local teams to play,

over cautious in this area to maintain their

second.

organization’s, and their professional integrity.

4

7

Facility Revamps –Traditional retail is dying (call it the Amazon factor), which

Safety – Closely related to oversight, athlete safety continues to serve as

DESTINATIONS ARE LOOKING AT SPECIAL EVENTS LIKE MUSIC FESTIVALS AND MOTORCYCLE RALLIES TO FILL THEIR TOURISM CALENDARS

will continue to create more empty big box

a high-profile issue on multiple fronts. The

retail locations and opportunities for sports

discussion on football concussions has esca-

organizations looking for affordable/free space

lated to the highest levels, and additional

to run tournaments and local programs. In

sports are joining the fray. Athlete safety in

addition, participation in golf has been flat for

several Olympic sports has spawned the

several years, and the profitability of municipal

creation of Safe Sport, an independent inves-

courses has been challenged to the point that

tigative organization created to protect

some cities have chosen to repurpose golf

athletes and those involved in the Olympic

in sports at every turn, and there will be more

real estate into multi-purpose sports com-

movement. Safe Sport, and in some cases

impacts felt down the road. Regardless of

plexes that can serve local groups and also

full background checks, are now mandated by

your political stance, it is hard to deny the

attract tourism driving tournaments. With the

numerous sports organizations across the

impact government actions are having on our

growth of pickleball, many parks and recre-

country, and it doesn’t stop with coaches.

industry. Consider the fact that we have a

ation departments are converting tennis

Officials, board members, event volunteers,

trade agreement with Mexico and Canada

courts into smaller, more utilized pickleball

and others are now very likely to be required

that is in flux, while we also have a partner-

layout. Everything is open for debate, including

to complete a background check and the Safe

ship with both countries to host a future World

the long-standing mantra of providing facilities

Sport training program. Where the merry-go-

Cup, and it’s hard to ignore the fact that poli-

for classic (fading) sports like golf and tennis.

round stops, nobody knows.

tics can and will impact the sports industry.

5

Tourism Improvement Districts (TIDs)

8

10

Politics – Similar to legalized gambling, politics is now ingrained

Leaders in our industry have a lot of hard Relocations – Over the past year,

work ahead of them. While these challenges

USA Badminton, USA BMX, and

may seem daunting, that is what we love about

been a tool for driving economic development

USSSA have moved or are planning a move.

our industry. Every day we get the chance to

in communities both large and small. More

Additional rights holders and NGBs currently

lace ‘em up and go out into the market and

recently, these districts have been created for

looking for a new home. Most of these relo-

compete.

the sole purpose of attracting tourism dollars

cations are tied to economic development,

through sports. While numerous municipal-

including new jobs for the host community

ities have had this tool in their arsenal for

and more events to fill hotel rooms and

years, some big players like Oklahoma and

restaurants, all contractually obligated in

Texas have recently opened the door for

the formal agreements tied to the move. We

implementing TIDs. Wisconsin and Illinois

may be at the tipping point of this trend. Is

are looking at this opportunity as well. The

your community equipped to compete in this

competition continues to escalate.

space?

– Improvement districts have long

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Best of luck to you and your organizations in 2019 and beyond. SPG ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jon Schmieder is the Founder + CEO of the Huddle Up Group LLC, an award winning sports tourism industry consulting firm based in Phoenix, AZ. Jon can be reached at Jon@HuddleUpGroup.com. For weekly best practice articles, sign up for the Monday Morning Huddle Up at www.tinyletter.com/JonSchmieder.

Sports Planning Guide

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