2019 SPG's State Guide to Sports in Virginia

SPG DISCOVER VIRGINIA’S

VIRGINIA GUIDE

NATURAL ALLURE New Venues, Events Keep Sports Tourism Flourishing

6 Site InSpections of Event-Ready Destinations and Their Top Venues

A Premier Travel Media publication • www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

2019

Joni Johnson Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism/Sports Virginia

Virginia Is For Sports Lovers On behalf of the Virginia Tourism Corporation and all the partners of Sports Virginia, I would like to invite you to bring your events to Virginia.

Sports Virginia is a statewide collaboration of professionals from local convention and visitor bureaus, sports commissions, parks and recreation offices and facilities. Sports Virginia’s goal is to make the planning and hosting of sporting events as seamless as possible.

Virginia is excited to show off our new venues across the state and to welcome for the first time in 2019 the State Games of America and the United States Women’s Disc Golf Championship. Virginia has played host to a myriad of sporting events over the years. We would love to add your event to our list of successfully hosted events.

Virginia is easily accessible by major highway systems, Amtrak rail service and nine airports. Southern hospitality paired with world-class venues, affordability and years of experience result in successful events that have kept athletes and their fans coming back to Virginia year after year.

New outdoor recreation attractions and updates to parks across the state will be sure to delight nature enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. And keeping true to our roots as the most historically rich destination in the country, there are plenty of new stories and legends to uncover here in the Birthplace of the Nation. After the competition, enjoy all that Virginia has to offer including 300+ wineries, 200+ craft breweries and 45+ distilleries to quench your thirst. With so many family friendly attractions and a range of activities, Virginia is truly a year-round sports – and vacation – destination.

Visit SportsVirginia.org for more information or please contact me at jjohnson@ virginia.org for personal assistance. For action-packed excitement, bring your game to Virginia, a premier sporting events destination.

Joni Johnson Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism/Sports Virginia

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Richmond, VA

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Stafford, VA

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Virginia Beach, VA

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Loudoun County, VA

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Williamsburg, VA

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egardless of where your Virginia event takes you, there’s an outdoor moment waiting nearby. Virginia has something for the most ardent outdoor adrenaline junkie and soft adventure that’s perfect for a family. Here are a few new things to enjoy.

For some time, Virginia has had a rails to trails program that converted old railroad grades to multi-use trails. Running from Mendota to Bristol, the Mendota Trail is the newest of those old rail corridors.

Additional distance is being added during 2018. With the Mendota Trail opening, the Virginia Rail Trails program has eight statewide multi-use complexes. The 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail is a relaxing two-wheel

adventure from Abingdon to the Whitetop Station. Sections of the Tobacco Heritage Trail are open in Brunswick and Lunenburg counties.

The 2,400-foot historic bridge highlights High Bridge Trail State Park in Farmville while the Guest River Gorge Trail in Southwest Virginia provides a six-mile remote escape. New River Trail State Park parallels the New River and totals 57 miles through four counties. From Shirlington to Purceville, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail crosses 45 scenic miles. The nine-mile James River Heritage Trail combines nature’s beauty and historic downtown Lynchburg. Following the Murray River from Lexington to Buena Vista, the Chessie Nature Trail permits no

Discover Virginia’s

Natural Beauty Dozens of new experiences from trails to zip lines to disc golf are awaiting visitors in Virginia’s great outdoors.

Virginia has miles of top-notch trails that enable bikers to enjoy the great outdoors.

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vehicles, including bicycles. The Huckleberry Trail between Blacksburg and Christiansburg is six miles long, but expanding.

Not all multi-use trails are rails to trails. In Norton, Flag Rock Area Trails is expanding from eight to more than 30 miles. Norton also recently opened the Woodbogger GeoTrail. The Powell River Trail connects Appalachia and Big Stone Gap following the Powell River with two bridge crossings and a walk, or bike through a 47-feet, seven-inch railroad tunnel. The Mary Ingles Trail has received a facelift through a partnership with the Army Corps and volunteer trail maintenance groups. The 7.8-mile trail from Glen Lyn to the West Virginia border follows the river and is an

easy biking, walking grade. In Giles County, the newly opened Twin Depot Scenic Trail follows Route 61 along Wolf Creek connecting two identical Norfolk Southern Train Depots. Waynesboro’s South River Greenway Trail will be expanding its one-mile paved pathway. Near Bedford, Moneta Park has opened new bike trails and disc golf. Plans are in the works to include a trail system for walkers, hikers and mountain bikers.

Moneta Park is not the only place for disc golf. Disc golf is growing in Virginia and there’s a new course in Roanoke’s Explore Park and a new one planned near Hillsville in Carroll County. Narrows, in Giles County, has expanded Camp Success to offer a new 18-hole disc golf

course open to the public.

As late as the 1970s, the zip line was basically a transportation tool moving people and goods across difficult terrain. Today, there are recreational and new zip lines continuously appearing. Virginia has several new facilities opening. Breaks Interstate Park in Dickinson has opened three new zipline tours covering 2,200 feet over the canyon rim. Go Ape! Zip Line & Treetop Adventure has opened the largest zip line course in Springfield and includes a junior course. The family adventure includes Tarzan swings, giant rope nets and more fun. In Franklin County just off Smith Mountain Lake Black Water Junction Wake Park, a new cable park has opened. Riders of all skill levels can experience wakeboarding and wakeskating. In Sterling, the Zavazone Trampoline and Indoor Adventure Park is now open. High and low rope courses join the Ninja Warrior zip line course in the Park’s Adventure Zone.

The 37 Virginia State Parks are as varied as the state itself. From the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains and historic sites to outside major cities, regardless of where you’re competing in Virginia there’s a state park nearby. There are certainly parks that feature trails for hiking and biking and others that are perfect for paddling and tubing. Many of Virginia’s State Parks feature special events and festivals. However, the one thing that’s available at all locations is a picnic area perfect for family, or team getaways. The newest addition to the state park system is Widewater State Park near Stafford, which highlights the area’s natural, historic and recreational resources.

Regardless which season you visit Virginia, or where your event is located you’ll find plenty of reasons to get out of the car and experience the great outdoors. To learn more about the many outdoor opportunities in Virginia visit online at Virginia.org/outdoors. #VAoutdoors SPG SportsPlanningGuide.com

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community’s commitment to investing in sports tourism comes from the support of numerous entities. That backing comes from local tourism officials, parks and recreation, city council and the area residents that so often carry the volunteer responsibilities. It’s a formula for success.

In August 2018, the City of Virginia Beach broke ground for the new 285,000-square-foot Virginia Beach Sports Center. By the fifth year, there’s a projected potential of 68 events on the combined courts and track. That’s a significant increase over the last fiscal year when just 20-percent of the 93 sporting events held in Virginia Beach were indoors. With this facility, the Hampton Roads Sports Commission has the opportunity to recruit events that before were unattainable. A case in point is the track at Norfolk State University. It is a great venue, and with the center’s new indoor track that meets NCAA standards, NCAA Division I and IAAF events are possible.

There will be spectator seating for 4,400. The courts will accommodate basketball, volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics, cheer and field hockey.

Construction is scheduled to begin on the $68 million project in December with a planned opening in 2020.

Virginia’s Blue Ridge has been awarded a Silver-Level Ride Center designation by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA).

David Wiens, executive director of IMBA said, “The new status puts Virginia on par with some of the greatest mountain bike destinations.”

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in being the only Silver-Level Ride Center on the East Coast. It’s believed the Ride Center designation will result in increased visitation and competitions, economic activity and supported jobs in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Glover Park (previously Greenwood Park) is near Richmond in Henrico County and opened in May 2018 with a brand new 88-acre tournament facility. There are four multi-purpose lighted synthetic athletic fields with an additional stadium field. The eight sand volleyball courts are sized and spaced to NCAA standards accommodating doubles, fours and sixes play. A pavilion, a large restroom building and children’s playground completes the new venue. Four sand volleyball courts are located a short drive from Glover Park at Pouncey Park provide an auxiliary facility.

In Lynchburg, the Liberty University Natatorium is now open. The 75,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility meets all the specifications for NCAA Division I swimming, diving and water polo. The facility features a nine-lane, 50-meter pool with a movable bulkhead. The 25yard pool can also be divided into 20-lanes for short course exercises.

The diving well can also be fashioned for eight additional lanes permitting multiple teams to practice. The 17-foot diving well has a threecolumn tower of one, three, 7.5 and 10-meter platforms. One and three meter springboards are also part of the diving well.

In Leesburg in Loudon County the ION International Training Center will open as a year-round, twin sheet indoor ice rink and Arena. The National Hockey League-sized rinks host professional and recreational

Cities throughout the Commonwealth are investing in new venues and events to capture their share of the $11.7 billion sports tourism industry

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Liberty Natatorium

Glover Park

Virginia has a history of building big-time venues and hosting big-time sporting events.

figure skaters, ice dancers, pair skaters and hockey competition. Stadium seating for 3,500-4,200 circles the one rink. The facility services everyone from beginners to elites, local and international skaters. The multifunctional floor can also be used for non-ice related events.

Named for 2016 Olympian and member of the 2015 Women’s World Cup championship team, the Ali Krieger Sports Complex officially opened in June of 2018. The 29.7-acre complex includes seven rectangular, multi-purpose fields, a softball field, playground, concessions and ample parking. The softball field and two of the rectangular fields have rugged, durable Bermuda grass. Two other rectangular fields are covered with artificial turf enabling athletes to play even in inclement weather. Two of the rectangular fields and the softball field will be lighted. Two additional rectangular fields are located at the adjacent elementary school.

The 450,00-square-foot The St. James in Springfield is a comprehensive sports, wellness and entertainment complex. The 110,000square-foot multi-purpose field house with a FIFA regulation-sized turf field for soccer is impressive. The sports venues continue with an Aquatics Center featuring an Olympic-sized competition pool. There are two National Hockey League-regulation sized ice rinks for hockey, figure skating and synchronized skating. The Basketball and Volleyball Center features four full-length basketball courts that easily convert to nine NCAA regulation sized volleyball courts. The 10,000-square-foot Gymnastics Training Center has dance performance space, completion sized spring floor, deep foam pits, Timbl Track and in-ground trampolines. The Baseball Softball Center includes six tunnels for batting and pitching.

There are eight international regulation sized squash courts and seven premium golf simulators in the Golf & Squash Center.

As these new venues come onboard, it may be three to five years before they begin to reach capacity. Even before then Virginia has attracted SportsPlanningGuide.com

some significant new events for 2019 and beyond. Here are just a few.

March of 2019 and 2021, the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Championship will be played at Cregger Field House on the campus of Roanoke College. Four teams will be coming to Roanoke to vie for a National Championship.

July 31-August 4, 2019 in a collaborative effort between Virginia Amateur Sports, Liberty University and the City of Lynchburg the State Games of America will be coming to Lynchburg. This is the first time Virginia has been selected to host this Olympic-style event completion that will attract almost 15,000 medal winners from State Games throughout the U.S. September 2019 brings the United States Women’s Disc Golf Championship (USWDGC) to Spotsylvania. The USWDGC event is one of the largest women’s disc golf competitions in the world.

July 29-August 8, 2020 the Hampton Roads region will be the site for the AAU Junior Olympics. The showcase event for the AAU Sports Program is the largest national multi-sport event for youth in the United States.

August 2020 marks the date for the U.S. Masters Swimming Summer National Championship in Chesterfield.

May 2021 Salem will host the NCAA Women’s Lacrosse National Championship for Division II and Division III. Four teams from each Division will compete at Kerr Field on the Roanoke College campus. In 2022 the Division III National Championship will return to Roanoke.

May 2021 & 2022 brings the NCAA Division III Softball Championship to Salem. Eight top teams will play a double elimination tournament with the winner crowned National Champion at Salem’s Moyer Sports Complex.

Big time venues and big-time events, Virginia has a history of having both. To learn more of what Virginia has to offer visit online at the Sports Virginia website Sportsvirginia.org. #SportsVirginia SPG Sports Planning Guide

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Richmond, VA Top-flight venues and great fun await you in Richmond 3 When planning a sporting event, convenience is key.

Richmond is home to several world-class sports facilities with comfortable lodging nearby. Virginia’s rolling hills, bustling cities, renowned monuments, home-style food and unique vibe will leave a lasting impact on your group – don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to stay long after the final whistle is blown.

Things to do in Richmond

Virginia’s capital welcomes visitors to explore its groupfriendly attractions. Capture historic sightings at the Virginia State Capitol, where the country’s oldest legislative body presides. Go on tours of the capitol’s exhibitions, all of which tell the story of the nation’s legislative system, the state building’s founding and its pivotal role in the Civil War. Stay on the history trail with a walk on the Virginia Capital Trail. The capital trail stretches for about 52 miles between Richmond and Jamestown. Whether you’re walking or biking along this path, you will encounter various courthouses, forests and rivers. You will even pass through the homelands of presidents William Henry Harrison and Benjamin Harrison and Revolutionary War battlegrounds.

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Also a part of Richmond’s outdoor attractions, the James River runs through the city, offering the only place in the country with Class III and Class IV rapids in an urban setting, making it a great destination for white water rafting. The King Dominion Amusement Park, just 20 miles away from Richmond, provides another day of outdoor fun. This large attraction features 12 roller coasters, five thrilling rides and different passes every season. The whole family can also enjoy shows at the PEANUT Playhouse. All your shopping can be done at the Carytown Shopping/ Entertainment District.

How to Get to Richmond

The Richmond International Airport, located only 8 miles from downtown Richmond, is home to all major air carriers. Due to Richmond’s advantageous location, it’s only within a day’s drive to half of the U.S. population by Interstates 64, 295 and 95.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. River City Sportsplex

Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, flag football

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River City Sportsplex encompasses 115 acres of top-notch athletic fields, including 12 all-weather turf fields, all of which are fully lighted. In addition to warmup areas, River City Sportsplex includes a plaza and common area with access to electricity, bleachers on both ends, indoor restrooms and a concession stand. The Sportsplex takes spectators into consideration and creates a pleasant atmosphere for parents and familie s by supplying on-site wi-fi and over 1,200 parking spaces. Your team will play their best under the lights on the high-quality turf before heading back to one of the 20+ hotels located only 10 miles from the complex.

2. Greater Richmond Convention Center

Sports: Volleyball, cheerleading, dance, fencing, field hockey, figure skating, taekwondo and gymnastics, meetings & conventions

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3. SwimRVA

Planner Perspective “We have worked with Tourism Departments all over the country on large scale athletic events and can honestly say that working with the Richmond Region Tourism team has been incredible. They have been accommodating at every turn and have helped make our events in Richmond very successful. Great event venues and great attractions keep all of our participants and fans excited about visiting Richmond every year.”

– Lee Corrigan, President, Corrigan Sports Enterprises

Richmond Region Tourism J.C. Poma

Sports Development Manager Phone: 804-783-7421 Email: jpoma@visitrichmondva.com Website: www. SportsRichmondVA.com

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Teams will feel like champions no matter what the score at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, located only minutes from Richmond International Airport. The 700,000-square-foot facility boasts the title as largest convention center in Virginia with 180,000 square feet of exhibit hall space.

Spectators will enjoy the 250-seat food court and lounge overlooking the courts, 1,100 parking spots for easy transportation, Cyber Café and business center with free wi-fi access. When it comes to athletic facilities, bigger is better – so why not give your sports team the best?

Sports: Swimming, water polo Swim RVA is the perfect destination for your team’s next swim meet. The 54,000-squarefoot facility features a 50-meter competition pool that was used for the 2008 Olympic Team Trials, where records were broken by the world’s best swimmers. In addition, the facility provides athletes with a warmup pool and a warm-water therapy pool. Spectators will be comfortable in the 700-seat grandstand and will appreciate the five 50-inch HD TVs, free wi-fi access and ample parking space. The state-of-the-art air and water filtration systems, Omega starting blocks and competition venue lighting will inspire your athletes to perform at their best.

4. Glover Park

Sports: Multi-sport Opened in March 2018, the new 88-acre, tournament-quality athletic complex in Henrico County, features an eight-court premium sand volleyball facility and four lighted multi-purpose organic infill synthetic athletic fields.

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Stafford, VA Take the next step and bring your future sporting event to Stafford for spectacular attractions and state-of-the-art athletic facilities.

Situated near the historic Washington D.C., Stafford presents several opportunities for visitors to soak up the sun at a variety of state parks, nature areas, and historic farms. Go for a nature walk along the river, hike among luscious greenery and woodland, or relax at a world-class forest preserve. If you’re not too fond of the outdoors, Stafford has countless museums, restaurants, hotel and lodging accommodations and other places of interest to relax and unwind from a grueling tournament. Most importantly, Stafford is equipped with a slew of sports facilities for your next exciting game day.

Things to do in Stafford Stafford promises a number of historical attractions to experience, and activities to participate in that range from sightseeing, hiking, and kayaking. Begin your stay in Stafford on a high note by visiting George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm. When George Washington was 6 years old in 1738, he and his family moved to this farm on the Rappahannock River. Now, the Ferry Farm Visitor Center spotlights artifacts from colonial and Civil War times, and offers gorgeous gardens to 12 266

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wander through and revel in history. History buffs on your sports team would adore visiting the Stafford Civil War Park, the site of 1863 winter fortifications of the Union Army’s 11th Corps following the December 1862 Battle of Fredericksburg. For athletes and families who love the outdoors, relish in the fresh air and kayak the Rappahannock River, Crow’s Nest, Lake Mooney or Aquia Landing.

How to Get to Stafford Traveling to Stafford and its splendid athletic facilities, historic sites, and other entertainment venues can be worry-free if you know the quickest ways to get there.

Stafford is located on Interstate 95, 25 miles south of the Washington, D.C. beltway and 55 miles north of Virginia’s capital, Richmond. Stafford is accessible by Richmond International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Embrey Mill Sports Complex

Sports: Soccer, football, field hockey, lacrosse

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Situated in the heart of Stafford, the stately Embrey Mill Sports Complex is conveniently located near the county’s major thoroughfares, shopping centers, restaurants and hotels, making it the ideal stop for teams and their families.

The impressive multi-sports complex contains eight fields - six synthetic, lighted rectangular fields and two lighted grass fields - suitable for youth soccer, lacrosse and field hockey games. Adjacent to the sports complex is the Jeff Rouse Swim and Sports Complex, which houses swimming pools and an athletic center with facilities for basketball, volleyball and other indoor sports activities. For those frisky, young spectators who can’t keep still, the complex is also composed of a playground, snack bar and concessions. Restrooms and parking lots are also on the premises.

2. Jeff Rouse Swim and Sports Center

Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo, water sports, triathlonl

3 Planner Perspective “After spreading our event over three counties for a number of years, the addition of the Embrey Mill fields complex made Stafford the perfect location for our annual St. Paddy’s Day Tournament.

Now, Stafford has the hotels, the restaurants, the shopping, AND the perfect fields for our event that serves over 200 teams each year.”

– Stephanie Johnson, Director of Operations, Stafford Soccer

This 76,000 square-foot world-class sports complex is equipped with a 50-meter by 25-yard competition pool with seating for more than 800 spectators and movable bulkhead, a 25yard recreation pool and a warm-water wellness pool. Additionally, the Rouse Center features a full-size basketball court, a group exercise studio, a fitness floor, restrooms, a full-service cafe and parking. The athletic facility presents 5,000 square feet of exercise space and workout equipment, strength and conditioning machines and free weights. It also provides resources for group exercise classes, cycling, swimming lessons, lifeguarding and league play for adults in volleyball and basketball. There are several summer camps, clinics and classes for young children, such as Lil’ Kickers for soccer for children ages 18 months to nine years old.

3. Chichester Park

Sports: Baseball and softball

Stafford County Tourism Lisa Logan

Tourism Manager Phone: 540-658-4580 Email: Tourism@staffordcountyva.gov

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Bring your upcoming outdoor sporting event to the spacious Chichester Park, a county park that offers five lighted baseball/softball diamonds and a concession stand. The vast park also features walking tracks, hiking and jogging trails with a natural mulch surface, a pavilion, restrooms, picnic areas with BBQ grills and tables and a new playground. Chichester Park promises protected spectator seating to enhance the fans’ experiences while watching nail-biting tournaments.

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Virginia Beach, VA QUALITY SPORTS FACILITIES AND EXCELLENT SERVICE PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ATHLETES TO COMPETE AND HAVE FUN ALONG ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST BEAUTIFUL COASTLINES.

Virginia Beach, located in the region of Coastal Virginia, offers numerous ways to play and then enjoy your stay.

Right away, planners have ready access to modern sports facilities that house all the amenities, equipment and staff they need to be successful. Athletes and families will love being within close proximity of competition venues, hotels, shopping centers and, of course, the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. In addition to being convenient and affordable, Virginia Beach is easily accessible through several major highways and two airports. This irresistible combination coupled with the city’s rich history and heritage makes one of Virginia’s gems the ideal destination for hosting any kind of sports events.

Things to do in Virginia Beach

Since English settlers first arrived in 1607, Virginia Beach has remained an integral part of America’s rich history and has since evolved into a major modern tourism hub.

Upon arriving, you will immediately be drawn to the city’s impressive beaches and vast array of attractions, dining and entertainment. Go for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean and Sandbridge beach or stroll along the three-mile long Boardwalk at the Oceanfront.

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You can also tour the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which marks where the mighty Atlantic Ocean meets the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. The adventure continues through Cape Henry’s 2,888- acre First Landing State Park, where more than a million visitors hike, bike, kayak, paddleboard, swim and camp every year. History aficionados will fly back in time at the Military Aviation Museum, home to aircrafts from both World Wars and one of the largest fully functioning warbird collections in the world.

How to Get to Virginia Beach

Those driving to Virginia Beach from the Midwest or Southeast will want to take either I-80 or I-85, respectively.

Visitors can also drive along I-95 S and I-64 E, the more scenic route, from Washington D.C. Norfolk International Airport offers non-stop and direct flights daily to nationwide connections servicing most air travelers into Virginia Beach. Located less than 20 miles away, the airport offers flights with Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and United. Newport News/ Williamsburg International Airport is another nearby option, about 45 miles away. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Virginia Beach Ocean Front

Sports: Soccer, Surfing, Running, Biking and Skating The Ocean Front hosted the 25th annual North American Sand Soccer Championships. You’ll find athletes roller skating or jogging along the boardwalk in preparation for the Rock n Roll Half Marathon, while many others trek through the sand on fat tire bikes. The water is also busy, as surfers train for the East Coast Surfing Championship.

2. Virginia Beach Sports Center

Sports: Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Field

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The new 285,000 square foot facility opening in 2020 features 117,000 square feet of multipurpose, column free flexible space built to accommodate 12 basketball courts convertible to 24 volleyball courts, or 195,000 square feet of programmable space to accommodate a variety of events using court space along with ability to lay the track flat. The facility also includes a 200 meter, state-of-the-art indoor hydraulically banked track and the field event space features dual jumping pits, dual pole vault pits and dedicated track warm-up lanes.

3. Princess Anne Athletic Complex

Sports: Softball, Baseball, Soccer, Rugby and Football

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Planner Perspective “(The CVB Staff) Provide direct event support, which is something you don’t always get.”

– Beth Porrecca, Director of Special Events US Lacrosse “(Participants) Love coming to the beach, they love playing their sport, they love laying on the sand and enjoying the Atlantic Oceanfront.”

– Dick Whalen, Executive Director, North American Sand Soccer Championship

The Princess Anne Athletic Complex is located in the heart of Princess Anne Commons across the street from the Virginia Beach Sportsplex and Veteran’s United Home Loans Amphitheater. The complex includes eight lighted tournament-quality softball fields and eight multi-purpose playing fields, four of which are lighted synthetic and four are Hybrid Bermuda.

4. Virginia Beach Convention Center Sports: Wrestling, Cheer/ Dance, Archery, Badminton, Baton and Boxing

Site of the annual Holiday Duals Wrestling competition, the Virginia Beach Convention Center offers over 150,012-square-feet of flexible event space and 26 meeting rooms. Planners can access a VIP Lounge, spacious board room and observation deck.

5. Virginia Beach Sportsplex

Sports: Field hockey, Football, Lacrosse, Rugby and Soccer

Virginia Beach CVB Dani Timm

Sports Marketing National Sales Manager Phone: 757-385-6648 Email: DTimm@VisitVirginiaBeach.com Website: www.VBSports.com

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The facility has a total of 6,000 seats located on two levels. The lower deck contains 3,600 seats, while the upper deck contains 2,400.The field is comprised of a state-of-the-art turf surface and provides amenities including lighting, luxury suites and press boxes. The Sportsplex 5K Course houses all track and field events, while the remaining athletic fields and training center are dedicated to youth sports.

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Loudoun County, VA Ensure your players play on the best facilities in the best area. Planning a sports tournament in Loudoun is an easy choice.

Located less than an hour from Washington, DC, Loudoun County, Virginia is the third largest county in the Commonwealth of Virginia and is home to Dulles International Airport. Far enough north to be cold for winter sports, yet far enough south to get the summer heat for outdoor tournaments, Loudoun County is an ideal location for any type of sports tournament in the nation.

Nestled between the Blue Ridge mountains and the shores of the Potomac River, it guarantees you will not only get a great venue, but one with some spectacular views as well!

Things to do in Loudoun County

As a sports tournament planner, you need to be worried about the actual tournament itself, not what the teams and their families will do in their down time, which is why Loudoun County, Virginia is an excellent destination because there are so many entertainment options that you won’t need to concern yourself with it!

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appreciate speed but don’t want to be behind the wheel, visit the world-renowned Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum at the Steve F. Udvar-Hazy Center or the historical monuments around Washington D.C.

How to Get to Loudoun County

Given that there are a myriad of highways leading into the metro-D.C. area, all of the following states can reach Loudoun County in a day’s worth of driving: Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Dulles International Airport can be reached by any airport in the United States in less than six hours.

Everyone has a need for speed somewhere deep inside them. During your tournament’s downtime, they can bring it out at the Indoor Autobahn Speedway – the largest indoor karting facility in the state. For those that 16 272

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Potomack Lakes Sportsplex Sports: Softball, soccer

The Potomack Lakes Sportsplex is a 47-acre athletic complex with softball and soccer fields, as well as a large playground, picnic pavilion, concession kiosk and rest rooms. The complex also includes a maintenance building and meeting room. The facility hosts athletic contests from March until November, which include county adult softball and soccer leagues and youth soccer. The complex hosts up to 29 local, state, regional and national tournaments annually. The Sportsplex has won numerous National awards including the 2007 ISA Softball Complex of the Year Award. All fields contain lights and parking is available.

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2. ION International Training Center Sports: Hockey, figure skating

The 85,000-square- foot, $19.5 million ION International Training Center is anticipated to open in May 2019 and will initially feature two National Hockey League size sheets of ice. The two-story building also will include a full-service gym, cafe, pro shop, medical room and hockey training room, among other amenities. The NHLsized rink’s multifunctional floor will be accessible for non-ice-related sporting events, school graduations, community events and concerts. It will be encircled by 4,000 seats. The center, with nearly 1,000 parking spaces and room to expand to four ice sheets, will encompass roughly 13 acres at The Peterson Cos.’ 450-acre Compass Creek development next to Leesburg Executive Airport.

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3. Philip Bolen Memorial Park Planner Perspective “As someone who puts on dozens of baseball events each year throughout the country, I’m incredibly fortunate and thankful for the relationship I have w/ Loudon County. They have provided our organization with everything we could possibly need to execute our events to the level demanded by our Collegiate Club Baseball teams. To be given the opportunity to use a facility with such history as Fireman’s Field is something we value very much. I highly recommend any event organizer to look into Loudon County for any of their needs as you surely won’t be disappointed!”

– Eric Curitore, Director of Division II Baseball Operations

Visit Loudoun Torye Hurst

Sports: Baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, soccer, recreational This 405-acre regional park has something for everyone – from the outdoor enthusiast to the seasoned athlete. The expansive property features baseball, softball, football, lacrosse, and soccer complexes, as well as trails, natural woodlands, picnic areas and a visitors’ center. Bolen Park is only a short drive from downtown Leesburg and minutes from Dulles International Airport.Built in 2011, this multi-million dollar sports complex offers nine diamonds, eight large rectangles, completely lit fields of Bermuda grass with ample parking. Bolin is host to several large tournaments on an annual basis including the PONY National, ASA/USA Softball Eastern Championship, Senior Softball Atlantic Championships and many other regional events.

Director of Sales, Sports & Servicesŏ Phone: 703-669-2005 Email: Hurst@VisitLoudoun.orgŏ Website: www. %/%0 +1 +1*.org

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Williamsburg, VA

Named one of the top 15 cities in the United States, Williamsburg is a living museum and lively college town that has something for everyone, especially tournament organizers.

It’s no surprise attendance increases when teams compete in the Greater Williamsburg area. Greater Williamsburg offers limitless facilities to host a wide range of sporting events. From state-of-the-art complexes to parks, water and fields galore, there is something for every sporting need. Greater Williamsburg is also one of North America’s most popular vacation destinations, and its unmatched combination of attractions and activities will delight and entertain athletes and families.

Things to do in Williamsburg Those looking to experience life in early America can do so in Colonial Williamsburg, where they can travel back in time and immerse themselves in an 18th-century city, explore historic buildings and wander through gardens.

Visitors can engage our nation’s founders and gain a new perspective on our American story.

England to Virginia in 1607. Busch Gardens offers fun for the whole family.

How to Get to Williamsburg Williamsburg is located adjacent to Interstate 64 and U.S. Route 60, which connects the city with Richmond to the northwest and Norfolk to the southeast. The primary airport for the Virginia peninsula is the Newport News/ Williamsburg International Airport in Newport News, a 20-minute drive from Williamsburg.

Planner Perspective “Great organization to work with. Very involved in the whole planning process and execution. Made our National Softball Association World Series a success.”

– Frank Rachubka, National Softball Association Hall of Fame:

The Jamestown Settlement features extensive gallery exhibits and films that explore Jamestown’s beginnings as a business venture, the impact of European colonization on the Powhatan Indian culture, and the origins of the first known Africans in Virginia. Outdoors, explore recreations of a Powhatan Indian village and a 1610-1614 fort, and board a replica of one of the three ships that sailed from 18 274

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

The complex features four regulation soccer fields, two instructional soccer fields, two youth baseball fields with grass infields, three youth baseball/softball fields with skinned infields, one adult softball field and one adult baseball field.

1. Kiwanis Park

Sports: Baseball, softball, basketball, tennis Whether your team dons a glove, bat or tennis shoes, Kiwanis Park is the place for you to host your next sports tournament, championship or competition. This 27-acre park in Williamsburg has three softball fields with electronic scoreboards, dugouts and bleachers. It also features a basketball court, six lighted tennis courts, a playground area with a pavilion, a concession building and restroom facilities.

2. Warhill Sports Complex

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, hiking, fishing The Warhill Sports Complex in Williamsburg is an excellent facility for indoor and outdoor sports. The venue features three lighted youth baseball fields, one lighted majors baseball field, four T-ball fields, outdoor batting cages and a concession building with restrooms and a playground. Warhill also houses a soccer/multi-use complex that contains four intermediate grass soccer fields, four premier full-size soccer fields, six synthetic turf multiuse fields and a concession building.

4. Quarterpath Park and Recreation Center Sports: Softball, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, dance, aerobics

Quarterpath can simultaneously hold outdoor or indoor league play, championship tournaments or showcase events.

This 23-acre facility in Williamsburg features three lighted softball fields, three tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts, a picnic shelter with tables and grills and a children’s play area.

The park also houses the Quarterpath Recreation Center, a 35,000-square-foot indoor facility that offers a wide array of recreational activities and amenities.

3. McReynolds Athletic Complex

Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse A multi-use venue, the McReynolds Athletic Complex in Yorktown is a 70-acre park with 13 lighted athletic fields that are available to rent for games, tournaments and camps.

Sports Williamsburg Lisa Pacheco, CSEE

Director of Sports Development Phone: 757-253-2313 Email: pacheco@visitwilliamsburg.com Website: www.visitwilliamsburg.com

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HAMPTON, VA

THE CITY OFFERS A VARIETY OF FUN ACTIVITIES TO GO WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART SPORTS FACILITIES

Hampton has great weather, a premier location on the Atlantic coast and a rich love of sports. Not convinced the people of this Virginia city enjoy good competition? The region has its own Hall of Fame—the Athletic Hall of Fame of Lower Peninsula recognizes the athletic achievements of competitors from Hampton and the surrounding region. The Hall is located in Boo Williams Sportsplex, an elite venue that boasts eight basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, an indoor track and a variety of other event friendly features.

Things to do in Hampton The city of Hampton is on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, meaning a day on the water is always an option. And after a tough game or grueling match, what better way to relax than kicking back at one of Hampton’s top spots, like Buckroe Beach or Outlook Beach. Beyond the bay, there is a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as golf at one of two challenging 18-hole courses or a game of tennis at the Hampton Tennis Center. Woodland Skatepark offers ramps for skateboarders, bikers and in-line skaters, while the Hampton Carousel provides a unique opportunity for fun on the downtown waterfront. The carousel, built in 1920, is one of only 100 antique wooden merry-go-rounds still existing in the United States. Discover a world of imagination and fun at the Virginia Air & Space Center. The world-class science and learning facility, and official visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center, immerses guests into a full-throttle space and aviation experience.

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Planner Perspective The City of Hampton, and Fort Monroe in particular, allow an almost perfect location to hold an inboard hydroplane race. Mill Creek is a protected body of water that lends itself to record setting possibilities. Thanks to the tremendous support we have received over the years from Sports Hampton and the City, the Hampton Cup Regatta is one of the oldest and most successful races in the United States.

—Lisa Hearn Adkins, President, Chairman/Race Director Hampton Cup Regatta

How to Get to Hampton Served by Interstate 64, Hampton is three hours from Washington, DC; three hours from Raleigh, North Carolina; four hours from Baltimore; five hours from Philadelphia; and eight hours from New York. Hampton is serviced by two major airports, Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport and Norfolk International Airport.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

1. The Hampton Roads Convention Center Sports: Aerobics, basketball, body building, boxing, fencing, gymnastics, team handball, martial arts, table tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, cheerleading, archery, field hockey, volleyball The Hampton Roads Convention Center, boasting 35 meeting spaces with the capacity for up to 14,000 delegates, as well as a 102,600-square-foot exhibit hall (divisible by three), is the perfect venue for any indoor athletic event. The center is supported by over 2,000 hotel rooms in close proximity, including the Embassy Suites host hotel. It has 2,200 parking spaces, 11 loading dock bays and three concession stands.

Other features include data ports in all meeting rooms/ exhibit hall, connectivity throughout the pre-function areas and LCD computer monitors.

2. Boo Williams Sportsplex

includes eight tournament play basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, a 200-meter, six-lane indoor track and two training rooms. A 4,238-square-foot concession area is available as well as 64,000- and 31,000-square-foot playing pavilions.

3. Hampton Coliseum Sports: Aerobics, basketball, body building, boxing, fencing, gymnastics, team handball, judo, karate, taekwondo, table tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, cheerleading, archery One of the most recognizable architectural jewels in all of Hampton Roads, the Hampton Coliseum is set on 75 acres of landscaped parkland. Former home to the Virginia Squires basketball team, the arena has hosted a plethora of worldclass sporting events and concerts in its 46-year existence.

The Coliseum holds a 26,263-square-foot arena floor, 3,200 parking spaces, 10 Xenon Super Trooper Lights and a fully equipped sound system.

Sports: Aerobics, basketball, volleyball, field hockey, body building, boxing, fencing, gymnastics, team handball, martial arts, table tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, cheerleading The 135,000-square-foot, $13.5-million Boo Williams Sportsplex is specifically designed for amateur sporting competition. Accommodating such athletic events as basketball, indoor field hockey and volleyball, the center boasts eight hard-wood basketball courts and retractable bleacher seating for 4,000 (6,000 with perimeter seating) attendees. It

Sports Hampton, a division of Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau Brooks Hierstein, CSEE Sports Sales Manager Senior Group Sales Manager Phone: 757-728-5315 Email: bhierstein@hamptoncvb.com Website: www.sportshampton.com

COMPETE IN A VENUE WORTHY OF CELEBRATION.

Boo Williams Sportsplex Hampton Roads Convention Center Hampton Coliseum Hampton University 800.487.8778 SportsHampton.com

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