Florida State Guide to Sporting Events 2020

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2020

FLORIDAGUIDE

The Sunshine State is an Adventure Lover’s Paradise

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Site InSpections of Event-Ready Destinations

Birthplace of Speed: Auto Racing Comes to Life in Florida

SPG

A Premier Travel Media publication www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

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Angela Suggs President, Florida Sports Foundation

Welcome to the Sunshine State where you can Come Play in Florida year-round! With beautiful weather and average annual high temps in the 80s, more than 30 local sports commissions from Pensacola to Miami host over 3,000 sporting events a year.

More than 11,000 miles of coastline and rolling hills of golf courses invite visitors to play outside while fresh sheets of ice and state-of-the-art convention centers host events indoors.

Multisport competitions like the annual Sunshine State Games, Florida Senior Games presented by Humana, Super Bowl LIV and LV, the College Football Playoff, and NASCAR can spread out over thousands of square feet of event space all year long.

Local sports commissions develop partnerships with universities to host events at the same facilities collegiate athletes compete in, giving aspiring youth athletes a goal for their athletic careers. Commissions partner with parks and recreation departments to showcase the same amenities for out-of-area athletes and fans that their residents enjoy daily. They reach deep into the community to develop new sporting opportunities, taking advantage of technological advances like esports.

For athletes and fans visiting the state’s sports-minded communities, local convention and visitors bureaus showcase other area amenities. Visitors stay in conveniently-located hotels, dine in restaurants to suit all appetites, and enjoy other attractions, making the communities a part of the state’s thriving sports industry. The more than 16 million who Come Play in Florida contribute to a $57.4 billion annual impact that creates 580,000 jobs.

Sporting opportunities are endless in the Sunshine State. There’s no age limit and blue skies await.

Come Play in Florida! and stay a while.

Angela A. Suggs President & CEO, Florida Sports Foundation

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Fire Up Your Engines Into the Wild Sports Industry Trends for 2020

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Bradenton, FL Kissimmee, FL Gainesville, FL Orlando North-Seminole County, FL Orange County Convention Center Florida's Sports Coast Lake County, FL St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL Palm Beach County, FL Sarasota County, FL

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Fire Up Your Engines Florida’s love for the automobile extends far beyond hosting the “Great American Race” ome to arguably the most important and prestigious race on the NASCAR calendar, as well as the company’s headquarters, Daytona Beach is a must-visit near the top of any racing fan’s bucket list. A visit to the Sunshine State wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging its immense lore and love for the automobile. The glittering shores of the Gulf of Mexico annually transform into the French Riviera, while a number of hotspots dedicated to the car --pocket the peninsula, giving every gearhead or grease monkey something to see. If you love classic cars, riveting racing, good eats and automotive memorabilia, keep these attractions in mind the next time you visit Florida.

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DAYTONA BEACH’S CRUISIN CAFE Located across from the Daytona Beach Pier, each table inside the Cruisin Café is a memorial to a different Daytona 500 winner. Ask to be seated at your favorite driver’s table while you enjoy a memorable meal for lunch or dinner. While the café has a diverse menu featuring many healthy options, Cruisin is known for its burgers.

Guests can attempt the Cruisin Cup Challenge by ordering the Cruisin Cup Burger, which features two pounds of all-beef patties, American, Swiss, Provolone and Cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and a pound of French fries. Participants who successfully eat the entire burger are rewarded with a t-shirt and are commemorated into immortality both on the café’s website and with the named etched into the Cup Burger Trophy.

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Sports Planning Guide

DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY With nicknames like the "Birthplace of Speed" and the "World Center of Racing," Daytona International Speedway is the most prestigious stop on the NASCAR circuit, as well as an epicenter for racing activity within the U.S. Thousands of fans flock to the oval course throughout the race season to catch world-class stock car, motorcycle, sports car and go-kart action. The speedway hosts major events through NASCAR’s Monster Energy Cup Series, Xfinity Series and Gander Outdoors Truck Series, as well as events through IMSA, ARCA and AMA in a bevy of formats.

Fans can also enjoy the thrills of the track for themselves by hopping into a real NASCAR race car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, which lets you take the wheel yourself or ride along with a trainer. A personal spotter gives you direction over a 2-way radio system installed in the car, giving you the closest thing to the real deal possible.

Daytona Beach

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OCALA’S DON GARLITS MUSEUM OF DRAG RACING Considered the patriarch of drag racing, the iconic Don Garlits won 144 national events during his heyday in the sport. Today, Garlits’ classic car collection and drag racing memorabilia is on full display at his Museum of Drag Racing just south of Ocala. Tours of the museum usually last between two to three hours, where visitors can view nearly 300 cars and check out the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame. Keep your eyes peeled for the epochal cars of Dean Moon, the Mooneyes gas dragster and the Moonbeam sports car.

OLD PALM HARBOR CAR SHOW All makes and models are open at the Palm Harbor Car Show, located just south of Pasco County. The 2019 event was held in late October, with proceeds benefitting Joshua House in Tampa and CS4C Giving Tree. Traditionally the event gives back to the community and benefits breast cancer research, treatment and awareness.

ORLANDO’S CENTRAL FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Explore the future of the automobile when you check out the cars of tomorrow—as well as the latest releases—at the Central Florida International Auto Show. The 2020 event will take place from September 25-27 at the Orange County Convention Center, with more than 400 new models on display. The event will feature fun options for the whole family, including a balloon artist, face painting and kids test drives.

PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY As one of six tracks in the U.S. built completely from concrete, Palm Beach International Raceway features a quarter-mile drag strip, 2-mile road course, a kart track and mud racing tracks. The facility hosted the Super Chevy Show in May of 2019, with drag racing competitions across four levels and a parade of nostalgia cars from the Southern Slingshots and Earth Shaking Entertainment.

SARASOTA’S CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM DISNEY’S “CARS” CHARACTERS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD The all-new Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy debuted in March of 2019 at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios, where guests become rookie racers on the chase to become champions like McQueen.

Disney World is full of opportunities to meet up with Lightning, Tow Mater, Cruz Ramirez and the rest of the gang with attractions, photo opportunities and more. Hollywood Studios, Epcot and a Cars themed wing of the Art and Animation Resort are all devoted to Lightning and his gang, while the Test Track ride at Epcot will also fuel the need for speed among car enthusiasts.

GAINESVILLE RACEWAY The fastest drivers in the world flock to the Gainesville Raceway, home to the NHRA GatorNationals. As one of the fastest tracks in the world, it was here in which drag racers clocked the first reported 260, 270 and 300 mph Top Fuel runs. The raceway is home to many events during the season from April to December and is also used for teaching and testing, with a full slate of law enforcement and emergency vehicle driver training sessions.

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Experience the pinnacle of the European luxury vehicle with a walk back in time at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum. Recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the country, the museum features one-of-a-kind classics European, antique and exotic cars, including options from Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Cadillac, Edsel and Ferrari. The gift shop offers rare collectibles and automotive books and is open seven days per week.

ST. PETERSBURG’S CORVETTES AT THE PIER St. Petersburg hosts the Corvettes at the Pier event annually, holding its 25th edition of the event in 2019 with the Suncoast Corvette Association. Held at the scenic North Straub Park on the St. Petersburg waterfront, the show usually features more than 200 Corvettes from around the country, ranging from stock and modified classes to full custom and race prepared.

ST. PETERSBURG’S FIRESTONE GRAND PRIX Travel to St. Petersburg in March and you’ll wonder if you’ve wandered into the middle of Monaco. The city hosts the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg annually, with featured races in both the IndyCar Series and the American Le Mans Series. The city’s streets transform into a 1.8-mile course along the bayfront, while racing simulators, face painting and rock climbing offer fun for the whole family as you wait for the engines to come roaring around the corner. SPG Sports Planning Guide

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As a gigantic plateau, most of Florida is barely above sea level, which has earned it a deserved reputation as a fantastic beach getaway. With a wild and varied terrain, two major yet distinctly different biomes and an incredible amount of ecological diversity, Florida’s outdoors have plenty more to offer than just world-class beaches. The Sunshine State’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for your next hike, perfectly lit by an intense Florida sunset. No matter your skill level, Florida has plenty of ramble paths, scenic hikes and fascinating state parks for you to explore as you traverse its mainland and islands on your next adventure.

ANCLOTE KEY PRESERVE STATE PARK The beautiful blue-green Gulf waters that surround the four islands which make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park are only available via private boat or a ferry service. Don’t let that dissuade you from visiting Anclote Key Preserve State Park in Pasco County, home to 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover. Collect shells along the beachfront as you hike around the islands, which in total add up to nearly 12,000 acres and provide plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and fishing, as well as primitive camping at the very north end of Anclote Key.

BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE Encompassing the southernmost section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, Big Cypress National Preserve is a hauntingly beautiful, rugged destination. Depending on what time of year you visit, some trails may be submerged due to rainfall, but visitors can still navigate through a labyrinth of dwarf cypresses adorned with bromeliads and native orchids. Keep an eye out and one hand on your phone as you stalk the same grounds and the endangered Florida panther, as this is one of its last remaining natural habitats.

BLACKWATER RIVER STATE FOREST Named after the eponymous Blackwater River, which meanders some 30 miles southwest from its source in Alabama, the Blackwater River State Forest houses both the Florida National Scenic Trail and the Alabama Hiking Trail. Longleaf pine communities house plenty of animal and plant life here, including many endangered, threatened, or of special concern status. Massive red clay bluffs along the Juniper Creek provide one of the best views in the state, while the scenery everywhere is gorgeous as you ramble down smaller tributaries.

Into the Wild Florida’s diverse landscape

is home to some of the nation’s most threatened or endangered species, most of whom you can find among its captivating hikes, parks and trails

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BULOW PLANTATION LOOP Walk thorough history on 12 miles of trails surrounding the Bulow Plantation Ruins, which burned down during the Second Seminole War in 1836. The seven-mile Bulow Woods Trail connects Bulow Creek State Park to Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park as you roam through some of the oldest and largest living oak trees on Florida’s east coast.

Make sure you leave time to check out the Fairchild Oak, a 400-year-old giant that is one of the largest live oaks in the entire South.

CITRUS HIKING LOOP Located southwest of Inverness, the Citrus Tract is immensely popular among lovers of long-distance backpacking. With alternatively flat and hilly terrain, there’s more than 48 miles to explore, while the Citrus Hiking Trail is the state’s longest backpacking loop trail in a single contiguous forest, as well as Central Florida’s most rugged hiking trail. Be prepared for encounters with wildlife on this well-groomed trail. Day hikers can enjoy shorter loop hikes while still taking in the wonders of the surrounding environment.

DEVIL’S MILLHOPPER GEOLOGICAL STATE PARK Situated northwest of Gainesville and just 15 minutes from the University of Florida campus, this hidden gem has fascinated visitors since the late 19th century. Tucked away in the midst of north Florida’s sandy terrain and pine forests, this deep cover-collapse sinkhole hides a miniature rain forest and secrets of the region’s natural history. Lush vegetation, more than 100 feet of exposed rock layers dating between 5.3 and 23 million years old and fossilized remains of prehistoric creatures can be viewed by those brave enough to plunge into the Millhopper.

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK Protecting the southern 20 percent of the original Everglades, this park is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, as well as the third-largest national park in the contiguous U.S. after Death Valley and Yellowstone. The Everglades feature a network of wetlands and forests while sustaining breeding grounds for tropical wading birds and threated or protected species like the Florida panther, American crocodile and West Indian manatee. The topography changes, depending on which of a number of trails you select, as visitors can meander through pineland, walk among cypress trees and through rich collections of mangroves, prowl through tropical hammocks and across coastal lowlands. There’s so much to discover here with over 1.5 million acres of terrain.

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JOHN D. MACARTHUR BEACH STATE PARK Anglers and birdwatchers alike will rejoice on this barrier island in North Palm Beach, which is swarming with biological treasure. Coastal and tropical hammock as well as mangrove forest covers the island, protecting endangered native species as well as coastal plant species.

Hydrophiles will love this rare paradise, where you can swim, picnic and surf at the beach or wade out a little farther to snorkel.

LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK Located just northeast of Bradenton and across the waters of the Tampa Bay from St. Petersburg, the 6.5-mile main loop at Little Manatee River State Park is an ideal trek for day hikers. Visitors interested in the diverse plants and animals found among Florida’s pine upland communities will be on the lookout for red shoulder hawks, gopher tortoise, white-tail deer and more. Explore the teeming environment on the trails north of Little Manatee River, including three miles of hiking along the riverfront bluffs, which has been designated as an Outstanding Florida Waterway.

OSCAR SCHERER STATE PARK Surrounded by housing developments and major highways within Sarasota County, Oscar Scherer State Park is another hidden gem with an invaluable role in Florida’s delicate ecosystem. Bald eagles nest in the park during the winter months, while 15 miles of trails provide a healthy experience for patrons year-round. Two ADA-compliant hiking trails are available in the Lester Finley Barrier-Free Nature Trail as well as the Lake Osprey Trail, ensuring inclusivity for all.

WHITE SPRINGS AREA TRAILS The town of White Springs sprung up around the banks of the Suwannee River, and today yields one of the most popular and scenic hikes in all of Florida, which is quite a feat. The riverbank is perfect for campers looking to catch a weekend hike among the white, sandy beaches, while Big Shoals State Park is a fantastic nearby day hike.

Explorers who visit Big Shoals will be rewarded with views of Florida’s only major whitewater rapids. SPG

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JON SCHMIEDER

Sports Industry Trends for 2020 I

t is that time of year to chime in on the

teams/athletes participating. There are several

true with golf courses and aquatics facilities

top trends we are seeing out in the sports

new sports that will be contested next year in

that are owned by municipalities. If a venue

tourism trenches. The arms race in our indus-

Tokyo that bear watching. We think freestyle

has a negative cash flow, cities and counties

try is at an all-time high and the competition

BMX and skateboarding are naturals to gain

are looking to get those assets off their

has never been greater. From larger markets

momentum.

balance sheets one way or another.

battling to host high-profile mega events to the smaller markets investing significantly in tourism-driving facilities, there doesn’t seem to

2

Tourism-Driving Facilities – More tourism related dollars are being

4

Non-Traditional CEOs – More and more tourism organizations today are

invested into venue development than ever

being led by people with entrepreneurial busi-

tinations are laser focused and allocate their

before. Communities are allocating bed-tax

ness backgrounds than those with experience

resources efficiently to compete. If there ever

money, restaurant taxes and tourism-improve-

in the hospitality sector. This not only applies

was a time to recalibrate what your organiza-

ment-district funds directly into facilities that

to convention & visitor bureaus (CVBs) but

tion has always done, now is that time.

be an end in sight. The top sports tourism des-

will drive economic development back to their

also sports organizations. New leaders at

Since this is a look ahead to 2020, it only

destinations. Unlike years past, if you are not

USA Swimming, USA Cycling and USA Gym-

goes to reason that we would offer up a vision

leading the discussion on planning and fund-

nastics all come from the private sector. Max

for the future, a crystal ball if you will. We hope

ing tourism-driving sports facilities in your

Siegel at USA Track and Field came from

you enjoy this year’s list.

destination, you are in the minority today.

Nike and NASCAR. The USOC’s new CEO came from a golf and media background.

New Olympic Sports – Nearly every

Retrofit Projects – Golf courses turned

One of the founding father sports commis-

into soccer complexes. Big-box retail

sions in our country is led by a person with a

program, that sport sees a significant bump in

stores becoming hardwood sports venues.

background in politics. In addition, several

exposure. That interest usually manifests itself

Tennis courts converted to pickleball. Pools

CVBs have tapped into the sports profession

in more kids wanting to try that sport, which

retrofitted into skate parks. If there is a facility

to lead their organizations – Monroe, Tulsa,

leads to more membership with the National

that isn’t pulling its financial weight, it is ripe

Quad Cities, Butler County and Cleveland, to

Governing Body (NGB), and often times more

for a change. We are finding this especially

name only a few.

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Freebird7977/Bigstock.com

time a new sport debuts on the Olympic

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Measurement – We are often asked, “How do you keep score beyond room

nights and economic impact?” It is a good

T 8

he last few trends for 2020 are holdovers from last year that are worth monitoring.

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Oversight – Non-profit organizations are being looked upon more

and more scrupulously on how they operate,

Expanding Roles – One trend from last

and specifically, how they spend the funds

year that we are keeping our eye on is

that are given to them. This includes conven-

Tourism Index™. We surveyed the top event

the expanding of mission and purpose of

tion and visitor bureaus, sports commissions,

professionals in our industry to ask them

many sports tourism organizations across the

NGBs and others in our industry. Whoever

what was important to them in a host desti-

country. The skill it takes to successfully exe-

manages the various funding pipelines to your

nation. These leaders helped us shape a

cute a sporting event is quite similar to the skill

organization are becoming more interested in

measurement tool that numerically evaluates

it would take to produce a music festival,

how those funds are allocated. With C-level

a host destination across four areas including

Harley rally or chicken festival (yes, you read

professionals having lost their jobs over

1,900 different metrics. Add to this the in-

that right, we have a client that runs a chicken

spending practices, today’s leaders need to

creased focus on primary research by our

festival). Many of our clients are adding spe-

be overly transparent in this area.

national association, and it’s evident that an

cial events to their sports staff’s plate. If it uses

added emphasis on identifying and measur-

the same event production skills and drives

ing success is critical for our industry going

overnight stays, why not expand from just

forward.

sports to sports and events?

question and one that we are addressing with a tool we created called the Sports

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Participation (or lack thereof) – Research by the Aspen Institute, the driv-

ers of Project Play, indicates that a majority of youth stop playing sports at age 11. Three years ago the average age was 14. This trend is not only bad for sports tourism, it is bad for our nation. Sedentary kids playing video games all day is not a pathway to success on several fronts. Sports teaches kids so many valuable life lessons that a video game console cannot. We are losing this battle and if the tide doesn’t turn, the sports tourism industry will take the brunt of the hit in the future.

“If you are not intentionally leading the charge in building relationship bridges with your stakeholders, sustainable success will be a challenge.”

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Safety – A closely related issue to

oversight, athlete safety continues

to serve as a high-profile issue on multiple fronts. The discussion on football concussions has escalated to the highest levels, and additional sports are joining the fray.

Athlete safety in several Olympic sports has spawned the creation of Safe Sport, an independent investigative organization created to protect athletes and those involved in the Olympic movement. Safe Sport, and in some cases full background checks, are now mandated by numerous sports organizations across the country, and it doesn’t stop with coaches. Officials, board members, event volunteers and others are now very likely to be required to complete a background check and the Safe Sport training program. Where the merry-go-round stops,

Relationships – More and more, our

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destinations, but to also referee relationship

team at the Huddle Up Group is asked

Creating Owned Events – Another

nobody knows.

repeat from years past, our destination

Leaders in our industry have a lot of hard

clients are more and more opting to invest

work ahead of them. While these challenges

their resources in created events. This is now

may seem daunting, that is what we love about

issues between CVBs/sports commissions

especially true in small and mid-tier markets

our industry. Every day we get the chance to

and their local stakeholders. Specifically, the

that don’t have the resources to compete with

lace ‘em up and go out into the sports tourism

issue nearly always includes a rift between

the big boys. If you can create an event with

and events market and compete. No matter

our client and the local parks and recreation

your local partners (or enhance/replicate

how challenging the tasks that lie in front of us,

department and/or elected officials. As in most

ones that already exist), those are assets that

we are all blessed to go to work every day and

industries, relationships are key in opening up

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

call sports our profession. SPG

doors for success. No matter your position, if

funded competitors. This doesn’t just apply to

you are not intentionally leading the charge in

the traditional sports either. CVBs and sports

building relationship bridges with your stake-

commissions across the country are devel-

holders, sustainable success will be a chal-

oping new events in many of the emerging

lenge.

sports noted above.

to not only consult on strategic planning for

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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.

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BRADENTON, FL DOZENS OF FIRST-RATE SPORTS FACILITIES ARE SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE BRADENTON AREA—ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS CHOOSE WHERE TO COMPETE.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “We want to thank Sean and Sam of the Bradenton Area Sports Commission for their continued support and assisting at our tournaments. We have built a great working relationship and look forward to future opportunities.”

IMG Academy

— Cristian Cubillas, CONCACAF

Premier Sports Complex

Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex

Visitors can get to the Bradenton area by driving along I-75, known as one of the longest interstates in the nation. Just within a day’s drive, you can venture to nearby cities like Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Tallahassee, Atlanta and Jacksonville. Get to Bradenton by driving 45 minutes on I-75 from the Tampa International Airport, or for more convenience locally, fly into the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT IMG Academy Baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field IMG Academy is often praised as one of Bradenton’s most prestigious sports facilities.

This mega-complex features every kind of tournament space, including over 50 tennis courts, over 20 multi-sport fields and an 18hole golf course. The academy also holds four convertible basketball courts, weight rooms totaling more than 10,000 square feet of space and a 5,000-seat stadium.

Premier Sports Campus Ultimate Frisbee, football, lacrosse, rugby, soccer Premier Sports Campus, situated in east Bradenton, hosts several soccer tournaments throughout the year, such as the US Soccer Winter Showcase/Nike Friendlies and the Luis Figo Soccer Championship. The campus holds 23 contiguous FIFA-approved Bermuda grass fields, eight of which are lighted. A new 4,000seat stadium completes the facility’s larger provisions. Besides state-of-the-art lighting and convertible features, the fields are equipped @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES with 65,000 square-feet of underground irrigation systems.

bleacher and grandstand seats.

▶ The Robinson Nature Preserve offers visitors numerous ways

LECOM City

to explore the coastal habitats,

Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex

Baseball

while the Riverwalk surrounds

Hockey, ice skating, roller skating, indoor lacrosse

LECOM City in downtown Bradenton is where you’ll find the Pittsburgh Pirates in game mode. Take your own game to the next level by planning a tournament at the facility’s star-studded baseball field, complete with a giant “P” by home plate. To add to the excitement, the park recently received field lights, offices and a clubhouse as part of its extensive $20-million upgrade. Teams can stay comfortably in spacious dorms with the availability of private event rooms and catering.

the Manatee River and features

The Ellenton Ice & Sports Complex was the training venue for the 2010 winter Olympic pair teams. The complex offers two NHL-sized ice rinks and a skating floor that teams can compete on or rent out for parties. Teams may use the inline skate rink and fitness center while tournament officials hold meetings in the conference rooms.

Pirate City

the Mosaic Amphitheater, Tidal Discovery Zone and a skate park.

▶ Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is a lens into Bradenton’s past.

▶ Go beyond the land and into the sea at the Parker Manatee Aquarium, which dedicates its services to aiding injured

Baseball

manatees.

Pirate City recently underwent a major renovation to provide new tournament space and amenities for sports planners everywhere.

This massive venue sports four full-sized baseball fields; each named after Hall of Fame or Pirates luminaries and equipped with

BRADENTON AREA SPORTS COMMISSION

▶ Climb, zip and swing your way

Sean Walter, Director of Sports

through hundreds of exhilarating

941-742-4051

aerial adventure games at

sean.walter@bacvb.com

TreeUmp.

bradentonareasportscommission.com

Go from world-class facilities to world-class escape in no time.

Premier Sports Campus

It’s time to discover the leader in Florida tournament venues. The Bradenton Area is where champions train, play and relax all while taking the game to the next level with exceptional facilities such as Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, IMG Academy, and Pirate City, the winter home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

To book your event today, call Sean Walter (941) 742-4051

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KISSIMMEE, FL IDEALLY LOCATED WITH GREAT WEATHER YEAR-ROUND, KISSIMMEE SHINES IN THE SPORTS TOURISM INDUSTRY

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Orlando International Airport is conveniently located just 25 minutes from Kissimmee.

Orlando Sanford International Airport is less than an hour away.

This Central Florida destination is also convenient for driving, as Kissimmee is located just off West U.S. Highway 192, which is Kissimmee’s primary tourist corridor; brightly colored guide markers make it easy to navigate.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Multipurpose Opened in 1997, the 220-acre complex is a state-of-the-art venue that can host nearly any sport. The complex is the preeminent multisports facility of its kind and features eight venues (including three indoor venues) and features an 80,000-square-foot arena that contains 8,000 seats, a field house with top-ofthe-line equipment and broadcast capabilities and a multisport athletic center that supports a variety of events.

The complex also includes a 9,500-seat baseball stadium and a variety of outdoor venues that can host baseball, softball, football, track and field and soccer events. This complex can host a multitude of sports and is designed to give every athlete the best possible competition experience.

Osceola Heritage Park Multipurpose This climate-controlled facility can accommodate a wide range of events due to its expansive layout. Located on 200 acres, the @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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Austin-Tindall Sports Complex

Central Florida renders warm weather training year-round for teams and clubs looking for professional fields with all the luxurious amenities of a world-class resort onsite. The facility maintains a parking lot for up to 400 cars. The complex is adjacent to the 800-plus room, Four-Star resort.

Football, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, archery, paintball, rugby

Kissimmee Lakefront Park

facility features the 34,000-square-foot Silver Spurs Arena, the 48,000-square-foot Event Center and the 3,500-square-foot Heritage Club.

Each space is unique and flexible to host an assortment of sporting events.

Near the shores of scenic East Lake Tohopekaliga and just eight miles from the Orlando International Airport, the 115-acre complex consists of 10 fields that host events in soccer, football, lacrosse, field hockey and archery contests. The complex also features a 1,500-seat stadium that is expandable to 4,000 seats. Up to 1,700 parking spots and eight bus parking spots are available.

ChampionsGate Sports Field Complex

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ Plan a day at the magical Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy live shows, water parks, fine dining, golf and more.

▶ Universal Orlando Resort offers a plethora of exclusive theme park options that allow you to immerse

Fishing, running, festivals A family-friendly destination built for relaxation, Kissimmee Lakefront Park features boating, playgrounds, a splash area, open fields and open parking. Located on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, it is also a world-renowned location for bass fishing. Find a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery at the grassy waterfront park that is filled with walking paths and picnic pavilions.

yourself in your favorite movies.

▶ A way to cool things down on a hot day is to visit SeaWorld Orlando, which is home to great rides and attractions.

▶ Kayak through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades at The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek.

▶ Gatorland offers family-friendly entertainment with live animal shows

Soccer, lacrosse, rugby

KISSIMMEE SPORTS COMMISSION

Exclusive to Omni Orlando Resort guests, ChampionsGate presents a distinctive sports field complex that houses eight professionally maintained regulation size fields. Opened in 2014, this complex located in the heart of

John Poole

and interactive tours.

Executive Director 407-569-4838 jpoole@kissimmeesports.com www.experiencekissimmee.com/sports

ChampionsGate Sports Field Complex

Austin-Tindall Sports Complex

Osceola Heritage Park

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Kissimmee Sports Commission has hosted a variety of event rights holders, including: • AAU • American Youth Football • Major League Fishing • NCAA • Spartan Race Submit your RFP or find more information at kissimmeesports.com or email info@kissimmeesports.com

kissimmeesports.com

Kissimmee, Florida is the premier location for sporting events. And we’re talking for all kinds of sports – from baseball and football to nontraditional.

With our state-of-the-art facilities, event services, and accommodation options, every team will feel like a champion.

When the competition is over, the play is still on – because you’re just minutes from worldfamous theme parks, memorable entertainment, and incredible outdoor adventures.

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Gainesville, FL HOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA AND ELITE SPORTS VENUES WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF MUSEUMS AND STATE PARKS, THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN ALACHUA COUNTY

Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “The Gainesville Sports Commission has been an excellent partner that the Florida Sports Foundation enjoys working with each year.

With the many events taking place throughout Alachua County, including the Sunshine State Games with archery, basketball, and karate, the Gainesville team continues to raise the bar of excellence and provides a dynamic atmosphere for the sporting community to engage in on daily basis.”

— Marvin E. Green, Jr., Vice President of Amateur Sports and Events

Legacy Park

Gainesville is accessible via a number of local roads, though Interstate 75 at its western edge connects motorists on the road from Atlanta to Tampa. If you’re flying, Gainesville is serviced through Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV), which offers flights through American Eagle, Delta and Delta Connection.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ Explore more than 30 miles of single-track mountain bike trails through Florida hammock woodland at San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park.

▶ Hang loose with more than 200 bats on the premises of the Lubee Bat Conservancy.

SportsPlanningGuide.com

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Stephen C. O’Connell Center

Legacy Park

Multipurpose

Baseball, basketball, football, gymnastics, karate, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, volleyball

Host sports competitions of all levels at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. This popular venue is home to University of Florida sports as well as the USA Synchronized Swimming Collegiate Championship, the USA Weightlifting National University & Under 25 Championships, and the Florida High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheerleading State Championship.

This 292,000-square-foot facility houses a variety of sports arenas, including a main court that seats a maximum of 12,000 guests. Athletes will also find 20,000 square feet of open space and an eight-lane indoor pool.

Legacy Park is a major hub for sports tournaments, including the USA Gymnastics Men’s Florida State Championship, USA Gymnastics Men’s Southeast Regionals and the Sunshine State Basketball Championship. The 100-acre facility was awarded the Florida Sports Foundation Mid-Market Venue of the Year Award in 2019. The outdoor part of the complex is joined with the Hal Brady Recreational Sports Complex. Teams will have access to five baseball and softball fields equipped with lighting and six other multi-sport fields plus a brand new amphitheater. The Championship softball field offers an air-conditioned press box and seating for up to 2,500 spectators. Planners can also host competitions indoors, where they will find 40,000 square feet of space, 30,000 of which is open wooden floor space.

GAINESVILLE SPORTS COMMISSION Joleen Cacciatore Miller Executive Director 352-338-9300 jcacciatore@gainesvillesportscommission.com www.gainesvillesportscommission.com

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Orlando North-Seminole County, FL GREAT RESTAURANTS, ATTRACTIONS, AMAZING SPORTS COMPLEXES AND PLENTY OF SUNSHINE … WHAT MORE CAN A PERSON ASK FOR?

Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County

Interstates 4 cuts right through Orlando, running from Daytona to Tampa. Interstates 75 and 95 are also major routes that take you around the state, while Florida’s Turnpike goes northsouth through Orlando. Located right in Orlando North, Orlando Sanford International Airport offers a range of domestic and international flights in the backyard of your final sports destination.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse Boombah Sports Complex is the cream of the crop when it comes to American baseball facilities. The complex spans 100 acres and boasts three batting cages, 15 playing fields, bullpen space and state-of-the-art LED lighting. Nine of the fields consist of artificial turf, while the other six are natural grass. The fences vary is distance from 315 to 385 feet, making this venue perfect for tourneys geared

towards just about any age group. The complex also has more than 900 parking spaces, a 1.2mile recreational trail, three concession stands and a playground. Complete with shaded bleachers, the complex is a perfect spot to relax and watch a great sports event.

Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park Softball, youth baseball Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park offers six lighted athletic fields, all of which are natural turf and have 220-foot fences. All the fields are build and designed to meet NCAA softball @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES regulations. One field is designated as the Stadium Field, and boasts increased capacity and is used for championship games. Some popular amenities include an indoor meeting space, a playground, walking paths and an eight-lane batting cage.

Seminole County Softball Complex

baseball history. Extensive renovations were made to the stadium in 2001, including major improvements to the grandstands, a new arc design roof and new clubhouses for both teams. The track facility contains eight worldclass lanes, Lynx MVP fully automatic timing system, two jump pits, pole vault and high jump areas.

Softball Those looking to host a softball tournament in the Orlando area should look no further than Seminole County Softball Complex.

The complex features five lighted fields with 305-foot fences and covered dugouts. Players and coaches love the water fountains and ice machines in the dugouts. The venue also features an 8,000-square-foot operations center.

▶ Rent canoes, kayaks or paddleboards at Wekiva Island and spend a day floating down the picturesque Wekiva River.

▶ Downtown Sanford is teeming with boutique shops and nationally recognized eateries, such as Hollerbach’s Willow Tree Cafe, a renowned German restaurant serving

Sylvan Lake Park

schnitzel, bratwurst and other German

Soccer, tennis, football

classics.

Home to the Professional Soccer Club Orlando City Lions of Major League Soccer, Sylvan Lake Park is a go-to venue, especially when it comes to tennis and soccer. The complex boasts 11 tennis courts and six international-dimension soccer fields, four of which are equipped with lights.

▶ Black Hammock Adventures takes visitors on top-notch airboat rides.

When embarking on an airboat ride, guests can expect to stop at the Live Gator Exhibit, visit the gift shop, enjoy a meal at the facility’s restaurant or have a cocktail at the Lazy Gator Bar.

Sanford Memorial Stadium

▶ Zoom Air Adventure Park invites

Baseball

ORLANDO NORTH SPORTS

This recently-renovated, 2,000-seat stadium once hosted the likes of Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson and Willie Mays. Built in 1951, it was once home to the New York Giants and the Boston Braves, certifying its importance in

Danny Trosset

guests to enjoy nature from a new

Director of Sports Tourism

perspective on their zip-lining

407-665-2902

adventures. The park’s Upland Course

dtrosset@seminolecountyfl.gov

features 30 game elements and four

www.playorlandonorth.com

zip lines.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE Central Florida USSSA gives the highest recommendation for Seminole County.

We host numerous events throughout the year, ranging from qualifiers to state/ national events. Their professionalism and work ethic are top notch, thus surpassing their competitors. They are in constant communication with us from the planning stage to the finalization of every event which in return eliminates errors/confusion.

— Girls Fastpitch: Tonya Waters (USSSA State Director) Sylvan Lake Park

Sanford Memorial Stadium

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ƍeeeƍ

PLAY ORLANDO NORTH .COM

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Orange County Convention Center KNOWN AS THE CENTER OF HOSPITALITY, THE OCCC WELCOMES SPORTING EVENTS OF ALL KINDS AND HAS THE CAPACITY TO HANDLE A VARIETY OF LARGE SCALE SPORTING EVENTS

North-South Building

West Building

The central location is easily accessible for most people all over the country, and just as easy for international attendees. Both area airports – Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Sanford Orlando International Airport (SFB) – continue to expand their nonstop routes and are served by most major airlines.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ See your favorite characters, fantasy landscapes and thrilling rides at Universal Orlando Resort.

▶ Immerse yourself into the wonders

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT North-South Building

West Building

Volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, gymnastics, taekwondo, other indoor sports

Volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, gymnastics, taekwondo, other indoor sports

With distinctive architecture and tropical ambiance, the North-South Building is designed for flexibility and functionality, featuring a dramatic Oversight Pedestrian Bridge with moving sidewalks leading to the West Building. With more than 950,000 square footage in exhibition space, and a planned expansion, the concourse offers remarkable opportunities for organizers hoping to bring their visions to life. The venue recently hosted the AAU Jr National Volleyball Championships, welcoming 45,000 participants and 2,805 teams from around the world. Recognized as the world’s largest volleyball competition, the event boasted a remarkable attendance of more than 110,000 guests.

The West Building highlights tropical atriums, skylights and intimate courtyards. With more than 1 million square footage in exhibition space, the impressive venue has hosted a wide variety of sporting events in 2019, from the All Star Challenge with over 6,000 attendees, to the Florida Volleyball Challenge, with over 16,000 attendees.

ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER Rodney Gutierrez Director of Sales 407-685-5731

of marine life and hop on more

rodney.gutierrez@occc.net

rides at SeaWorld® Orlando.

www.occc.net

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Florida’s Sports Coast LOCATED ON THE WEST COAST OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, FLORIDA’S SPORTS COAST IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS HIGH-QUALITY AMATEUR SPORTS VENUES

AdventHealth Center Ice

Florida’s Sports Coast is located about 30 miles north of Tampa and roughly 50 miles west of Orlando. Both the Tampa Bay International Airport and the Orlando International Airport are served by most major airlines and offer hundreds of daily flights from all corners of the country.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex

AdventHealth Center Ice

Basketball, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading, gymnastics, pickleball, martial arts, futsal, soccer, lacrosse

Ice hockey, roller hockey, ice skating, figure skating, basketball, volleyball, wrestling

Opening summer 2020, Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex will be the premier destination for local, regional and national competitions. Catering to players, coaches, referees, families and fans looking for quality venues, this all-encompassing athletic center will be the perfect place for your next sporting event.

At 150,000 square feet, AdventHealth Center Ice is the largest ice complex in the Southeast.

This state-of-the-art arena features three North American Standard NHL ice rinks (200’ x 85’), one Olympic/International standard ice rink (200’ x 100’) and one junior rink (80’ x 40’). The NHL rinks can also convert to a dry floor to accommodate basketball and volleyball. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES ▶ Gear up for your next Saddlebrook Resort

The Beach at Bishop

wakeboarding adventure at the

Tennis, golf, sports performance and training programs

Volleyball

Lift Adventure Park. The park

The Beach at Bishop is a state-of-the-art beach volleyball facility featuring ten, three-feet deep courts filled with pure white sand brought in from the Bahamas. In late 2020, this venue will have a total of 20 courts, including two stadium courts.

features a 2.0 Cable Wakeboard

Saddlebrook Resort’s 480 acres are home to two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses and 45 tennis courts in all four Grand Slam surfaces.

This award-winning and all-inclusive resort is an amazing sports and vacation destination where your athletes can train like professionals, play like kids and relax like champs. Saddlebrook’s elite tennis and golf facilities off year-round opportunities to grow with the guidance of ATP, WTA and PGA professionals.

SunWest Park Wakeboarding, volleyball SunWest Park is a recreational waterfront facility that has been developed around a former limestone mine. There is a wakeboarding cable over the lake, where experienced riders can practice their tricks on the spine kicker and modular box. On the shores of the 70-acre lake, you will find space for 20 beautiful white sandy beach volleyball courts perfect for college competitions.

System, exciting Aqua Park and much more.

▶ Giraffe Ranch offers intimate safari expeditions led by experienced guides in customized

Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center Tennis, pickleball Opening summer 2020, the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center will be a USTA sanctioned tennis facility featuring 11 tennis courts, one of which will be an exhibition court, eight pickleball courts and four padel courts. It will also feature a restaurant, pro shop and fitness center.

FLORIDA’S SPORTS COAST SPORTS COMMISSION

4-WD safari tour vehicles.

▶ With eight different courses and over 100 unique elements, your team will enjoy a challenging day of navigating cable walkways, wood obstacles and adrenalinecharged zip lines at Treehoppers Aerial Adventure Park.

▶ Score your next highflying adventure at Skydive City, known as one of the world’s premier drop

Consuelo Sanchez

zones. Skydive City caters to some

727-847-8129

of the best CRW parachutists and

cbsanchez@flsportscoast.com

formation skydivers from around

www.FLsportscoast.com

the planet.

Saddlebrook Resort

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “We work with many CVBs across the country, but what sets Florida’s Sports Coast apart is Consuelo and her tireless work ethic and passion for making the events successful. We look forward to continuing to work with Florida’s Sports Coast and Consuelo in the future.”

— Jonathan Oppenheimer, President/Managing Member, MYHockey Tournaments, LLC

Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex Rendering

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Lake County, FL IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO ORLANDO, LAKE COUNTY HAS PLENTY TO OFFER ON ITS OWN MERITS AS IT STAKES ITS CLAIM AS A PREMIER ATHLETIC DESTINATION

Hickory Point Beach

Victory Pointe

Mission Inn Resort & Club

Just northwest of Orlando, Lake County is accessible by road via Florida’s Turnpike, US Highway 27 and US Highway 441, as well as state route 44 from the northeast after exiting Interstate 4. If flying into the area, Orlando International Airport and Orlando Sanford International Airport are both less than an hour away.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Hickory Point Park/Hickory Point Beach

complex (six fields) and a boating complex used for fishing tournaments.

Sand volleyball, soccer, fishing

Victory Pointe

Located in Tavares, the Hickory Point Beach Athletics Center opened in 2019 as part of the Hickory Point recreational complex. This 4,000-square-foot facility is perfect for beach volleyball tournaments, with 21 sand volleyball courts ready for action.

The facility hosted the AVCA Small College Beach Championships in April 2019. Hickory Point Park is home to the Mike Stone Soccer

Triathlon, rowing, watersports, endurance Victory Pointe, located on Lake Minneola in Clermont, is a world-class venue designed for multi-sport athletes, event organizers and visitors. For over 34 years, Clermont has been a global destination for multi-sport training and competitive events including numerous regional and national championships. Nearby, @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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the Clermont Boathouse and Clermont Waterfront Park, include a 1,000-meter and 2,000-meter course for rowing and other watersports and an oak-tree covered shoreline which provides spectators a great viewing area.

Mission Inn Resort & Club Golf Spectacular vistas, sparkling water hazards and a stunning—yet challenging—course layout separate tournament play at the Mission Inn Resort & Club, which has a particular expertise when it comes to hosting golf tournaments.

The club boasts two championship-caliber golf courses in the El Campeón and Las Colinas courses, which blend right in with the surrounding Florida landscape.

Triathlon Certified Performance Center thanks to the available services in running, swimming, cycling, wellness and nutrition that maximizes sports performance through great coaching.

Professional and amateur athletes from all around the world compete and train at the NTC including many preparing for the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo. The NTC campus includes a Track & Field Complex, Aquatic Center, five multipuropse athletic fields and the Legends Way Ballfields softball complex. The Track & Field Complex features a 400-meter Eurotan Premier Sandwich (an impermeable synthetic surface) track and grass infield that supports multiple events.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ Revolution Adventures lets guests cruise around a 230-acre property on ATVs, go land-to-sea with the Mucky Duck amphibious vehicle or try their hand at target archery or clay-shooting.

▶ The Jones Brothers Seaplane Adventures give guests a birdseye view of Orlando’s attractions, the Harris Chain of Lakes, Mount Dora and much more.

▶ Tour a working citrus and cattle ranch in the World’s Largest 4x4 Monster Truck Adventure at the

VISIT LAKE (FL)

Showcase of Citrus.

The National Training Center

Steven Clenney

Swimming, soccer, softball, track and field

Manager, Sports Development 352-742-3918

festivals, fine dining, shopping

This state-of-the-art training center located in Clermont is nationally recognized as a USA

sclenney@lakecountyfl.gov

and more in historic downtown

www.VisitLakeFL.com/sports

Mount Dora.

▶ Experience award-winning

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C

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St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL LOCATED IN FLORIDA’S SUNNY TAMPA BAY AREA, ST. PETERSBURGCLEARWATER SPOT-LIGHTS SEVERAL SPACIOUS SPORTS FACILITIES AND ENTERTAINING ATTRACTIONS FOR YOUR UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENT

Sand Key Park

Situated off the coast of the breathtaking Old Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg-Clearwater can be easily traversed by Interstate 75 and Interstate 275 that join to the surrounding neighborhoods.

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes away. Tampa International Airport is just 20 minutes away and services 21 airlines.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Sand Key Park Beach volleyball, beach soccer, surfing, beach sports, outdoor water sports Grab your swimsuit and check out Sand Key Park, a deluxe, picturesque beach for swimming, surfing, fishing and other outdoor athletic activities. This great family outing area also supplies beach-goers with resources like beach cabanas, a designated dog park, a playground, large bath-houses with lockers and showers, loads of parking and seasonal

lifeguards. Concessions, picnic areas and restrooms are available onsite, and watersport and beach gear rental is offered.

North Shore Aquatics Complex Swimming, diving, water polo, water sports Situated on the St. Petersburg waterfront, St. Petersburg’s premier pool spotlights a number of facilities that will enhance your swimmers’ taxing days of practices and meets.

The complex features a 50-meter main pool, 25-meter warm-up pool, a play pool equipped @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES with flume slides and zero depth entry, a splash pad, a low dive and a shaded picnic area. A swim team building, offices and parking also make arranging team meetings and events worry-free.

Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex Softball, baseball Serving as Clearwater’s go-to softball facility, the expansive Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex is the city’s state and national award-winning softball complex. Across three locations you will find nine natural-grass fields, all of which are linked by the East-West Trail. Available for tour-naments are five 300-foot fields, two 250-foot fields and two 200-foot fields. The highly-acclaimed facility includes soft toss areas with batting cages for pre-game warm-ups and practices, and two fields feature the latest technology with covered batting tunnels. Ideal for long days of tournaments, the softball center is also composed of spacious picnic areas and pavilions, concession stands, benches, shelters and restrooms. The impressive venue also spotlights grandstands for spectators to watch the festivities, as well as scoreboards with the games latest updates.

North Shore Aquatics Complex

▶ Visit the Clearwater Marine

Long Center Aquatic Complex Swimming, diving, water polo, water sports, indoor sports

Aquarium, a 501 non-profit

The newly renovated Long Center Aquatic Complex is the ultimate destination for your next lengthy swim tournament, as it highlights an indoor Olympic-sized 50-meter swimming and diving facility. The complex is also equipped with a 25-yard training and therapeutic pool with consistent year round water temperature spanning about 90 degrees. Other indoor amenities at the Long Center include a gymnasium and fitness centers with treadmills, stationary bikes, rowing machine, free weights and other equipment. Outdoor resources feature soccer fields, a playground and walking/ jogging trails.

immerse yourself in the realm of

organization that lets you marine life rescue.

▶ Take a tour of the James Museum, where visitors will learn more about the culture of the wild, wild American West through diverse art.

▶ Continue museum-hopping by touring Imagine Museum, a top-notch art institution featuring glorious glass artwork and beautiful masterpieces.

▶ For those who can’t get enough of the outdoors, several dolphin

ST. PETERSBURG/CLEARWATER SPORTS COMMISSION

personal with the world’s most

Jeffrey John, Senior Business

beloved animals.

tours bring you up-close and

Development Manager 727-464-7217 Jeffrey@VisitSPC.com PlayStPeteClearwater.com

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE “This was our first year working with VSPC and it could not have gone better. There was a sense of partnership right away, that they equally cared about the success of the event.

As an event planner, I was incredibly thankful for their approach to planning and making sure that we were always on the same page.

We could not have been happier with how the event was managed and all success is owed to VSPC and their team. " — Ryan Cunnane, Director of Events USA Water Polo

Long Center Aquatic Complex

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Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex

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Palm Beach County, Fl Palm Beach County, Fl

In

Po

ELITE FACILITIES, WORLD-CLASS ATTRACTIONS AND KNOWLEDGEABLE EXPERTS MAKE PALM BEACH COUNTY A TOP SPORTS DESTINATION

se th Fo po pr Ch fie ac fie se Fie

ELITE FACILITIES, WORLD-CLASS ATTRACTIONS AND KNOWLEDGEABLE EXPERTS MAKE PALM BEACH COUNTY A TOP SPORTS DESTINATION International Polo Club International Polo Club

Fl St

Fo

sta eq ro 24 Me So int aF Ge th on sta vie

Stretching Stretchingfrom fromFlorida’s Florida’s Atlantic coast Atlantic coastinto intothe the state’s rural center, Palm state’s rural center, Palm Beach County is easily Beach County is easily accessible via Interstate accessible via Interstate 95. The Palm Beaches 95. The Palm Beaches are serviced directly via are serviced directly via Palm Beach International Palm Beach International Airport, with Fort Airport, with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and International Airport and Miami International Airport Miami International as alternative optionsAirport to as alternative options to the south.

the south.

FACILITY FACILITYSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT

FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches Beaches

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Baseball Baseball

Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium is the spring Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium is the spring training home of the Miami Marlins and St. Louis Baseball training home of the Miami Marlins and St. Louis FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches Cardinals. The 7,000-seat stadium features six luxury FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches Cardinals. The 7,000-seat stadium features six luxury is home to the Washington Nationals and boxes, two levels of permanent seating, parking, is home to the Washington Nationals and boxes, two levels of permanent seating, parking, Houston Astros during Spring Training. The concessions and 12 supplementary practice fields.

Houston Astros during Spring Training. The concessions and 12 supplementary practice fields. complex features a stadium with 6,400 fixed The Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium Complex is complex features a stadium with 6,400 fixed The Roger Dean seats as well as an additional 1,000 seats in the only stadium in theChevrolet country toStadium host fourComplex minor is seats as well as an additional 1,000 seats in the only stadium in the country to host four minor the outfield berm, six luxury boxes, two (2) league teams. This facility has played host to the the outfield berm, six luxury boxes, two (2) league teams.

This facility has played host party decks, 12 supplementary practice fields USA Baseball National Team Championships and to the party decks, 12 dimensions supplementary practice fields Perfect USA Baseball National Championships and with professional and seven Game’s WWBA WorldTeam Championship for with professional dimensions and seven Perfect multipurpose fields built to FIFA specifications. over 10 years. Game’s WWBA World Championship for multipurpose fields built ato360-degree FIFA specifications. With over 10 years.Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, The 160-acre venue features FITTEAM The 160-acre venue features a 360-degree With Chevrolet FITTEAM Stadium Ballpark and of the concourse as well as a city park with a Roger Dean thePalm Beaches, playground, park, basketball Santaluces Complex,Stadium The Palmand Beaches concoursesplash as well as afour citylighted park with a Roger Athletic Dean Chevrolet the courts and an 1.8-mile trail. has the ability to Athletic use 30 MLB-quality diamonds. playground, splash walking park, four lighted basketball Santaluces Complex, The Palm Beaches

Baseball

courts and an 1.8-mile walking trail.

28

Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium

has the ability to use 30 MLB-quality diamonds. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Sport

International International PoloPolo ClubClub

Polo,Polo, field field hockey, hockey, soccer soccer

The Gardens The Gardens North North County County District District ParkPark

POPULAR POPULAR ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES

▶ With▶47With miles 47of miles gorgeous of gorgeous

beachfront beachfront available available throughout throughout

The International The International Polo Club Polo(IPC) Club was (IPC) was Archery, Palm Beach Palm Beach County,County, soak up soak the up sunthe sun Archery, field field hockey, hockey, lacrosse, lacrosse, selected selected as “Florida’s as “Florida’s SportsSports VenueVenue of of and relax. and relax. rugby, rugby, soccer, soccer, croquet croquet the Year” the in Year” 2016 inby 2016 theby Florida the Florida SportsSports The Gardens The Gardens NorthNorth County County District District Park Park Foundation.

Foundation.

IPC is IPC the is home the home to theto world the worldis equipped As Florida’s As Florida’s only drive-through only drive-through safari safari is equipped with 10 with multipurpose 10 multipurpose fields fields polo circuit, polo circuit, whichwhich culminates culminates with the with the equipped and walk-through amusement amusement park, park, equipped with Latitude with Latitude 36 Bermudagrass 36 Bermudagrass and walk-through prestigious prestigious United United StatesStates Open Open Polo Polo Lion Country Safari features Safari features more more and lighting, and lighting, one full-size one full-size training training field, one field, one Lion Country Championship.

Championship.

It features It features sevenseven polo polo than 1,000 thananimals, 1,000 animals, plenty plenty of animal of animal agilityagility field, three field, three concession concession stands, stands, one one fields fields and 60 and acres 60 acres of field ofspace field space that can that canmeeting experiences, experiences, five rides, fivearides, a meeting room,room, a splash a splash pad, apad, playground, a playground, a afeedingfeeding accommodate accommodate up to up 50 multipurpose to 50 multipurpose water sprayground, food, shopping food, shopping ninja fitness ninja fitness coursecourse and a and fitness a fitness trail. Ittrail. can It can water sprayground, fields.fields.

Apart Apart from polo, from itpolo, has it also hashosted also hosted accommodate and more. accommodate sportssports such as such archery, as archery, field field and more. several several other other events, events, including including the USA the USA hockey, hockey, lacrosse, lacrosse, rugby,rugby, soccersoccer and croquet. and croquet.

Field Hockey Field Hockey National National Hockey Hockey Festival.

Festival. Each multipurpose With 42 With slides 42and slides attractions and attractions Each multipurpose field can field fitcan a full-size fit a full-size including a waveapool, wavemake pool,amake a FIFA field FIFAand fieldcan and becan configured be configured in a variety in a variety including Florida Florida Atlantic Atlantic University University splash splash at Rapids at Rapids Water Water Park. Race Park. Race of ways of to ways accommodate to accommodate an array an of array field of field Stadium Stadium to the and top then and the then bottom the bottom of of layouts. layouts.

State-of-the-art State-of-the-art LED sports LED sports lighting lighting to the top Football Football dual seven-story speed slides, speed or slides, chillor chill surrounds surrounds the multipurpose the multipurpose fields,fields, luscious luscious dual seven-story The 30,000-seat, The 30,000-seat, multi-purpose multi-purpose out in aout tube in a along tubethe along lazy the river. lazy river. hibiscus hibiscus flowers flowers line the line playground the playground area area stadium stadium (and home (and home of FAUoffootball) FAU football) is is and colorful, and colorful, anti-slip anti-slip concrete concrete has been has laid been laid equipped equipped with awith press a level, press five level, locker five locker Withthan more 550 than animals 550 animals and and in the in splash the splash pad. The pad. park Theispark adjacent is adjacent to theto theWith more roomsrooms and two and suite twolevels suite levels consisting consisting of of award-winning endangered speciesspecies on display, on display, the the award-winning Palm Beach Palm Beach Gardens Gardens TennisTennis endangered 24 suites.

24 suites.

It has It hosted has hosted the Olympic the Olympic Gold Gold & Pickleball Palm Beach Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Zoo & Conservation & Pickleball Center.

Center.

Medal-winning Medal-winning U.S. Women’s U.S. Women’s National National SocietySociety is openis363 open days 363 per days year, per year, SoccerSoccer Team,Team, Major Major League League Lacrosse Lacrosse and and bringing bringing you upyou close upand close personal and personal international international soccersoccer matches matches including including with your with favorite your favorite creatures. creatures.

PALM BEACH PALM BEACH COUNTYCOUNTY SPORTSSPORTS a FIFAamatch FIFA match between between Ecuador Ecuador and and COMMISSION COMMISSION Germany.

Germany.

This stadium This stadium also plays also host playsto host to Glen Allen, Glen Director Allen, Director of Sports of Sports the Cheribundi the Cheribundi Boca Raton Boca Raton Bowl, Bowl, whichwhich is is Development Development one ofone 40 NCAA of 40 NCAA DI FBSDIBowl FBS Games.

Bowl Games.

FAU FAU 561-233561-233 –3174 –3174 stadium stadium is the is only thecollege only college stadium stadium with awith a gallen@palmbeachsports.com gallen@palmbeachsports.com view of view theof Atlantic the Atlantic Ocean.

Ocean. www.palmbeachsports.com www.palmbeachsports.com

FloridaFlorida Atlantic Atlantic University University Stadium Stadium

ng Louis ury ix luxury king, fields. ex is rminor o the s and p for

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The Gardens The Gardens North County North County District District Park Park

Roger Roger Dean Chevrolet Dean Chevrolet Stadium Stadium

ches,

eaches onds.

tsPG #SportsPG

FITTEAM FITTEAM Ballpark Ballpark of the of Palm theBeaches Palm Beaches

SportsPlanningGuide.com SportsPlanningGuide.com

Sports Planning Sports Planning Guide Guide 324

29

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Sarasota County, FL SET AGAINST THE GORGEOUS BACKDROP OF FLORIDA’S WESTERN COAST, SARASOTA COUNTY HAS MANY PROFESSIONAL-GRADE FACILITIES TO GO ALONG WITH ITS FANTASTIC LOCATION

Nathan Benderson Park

Interstate 75 runs through the heart of Sarasota County on the route from Tampa to Miami, with Fort Myers on the way. For those flying in, Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is three miles north of downtown Sarasota and six miles south of Bradenton.

SRQ offers flights through 11 major airlines and flies to a number of destinations within the United States as well as Toronto.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ The Ringling Museum of Art offers

Ed Smith Stadium

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT Nathan Benderson Park Biking, dragon boat racing, running, canoeing, kayaking, rowing Nathan Benderson Park has a mission to improve quality of life for their community and be an economic generator for their region on account of their 400-acre lake that is surrounded by a 600-acre community park.

The park offers a 3.5-mile trail for walking, jogging, cycling and related activates. The world-class facilities are also capable of hosting 5-10K runs, canoeing, kayaking and competitive rowing.

Baseball

in addition to Asian, American and

Be sure to experience Ed Smith Stadium, the spring training home of the Baltimore Orioles of Major League Baseball since 2010.

The park offers a total capacity of 8,500 with three-air conditioned suites and a highdefinition LED video board in the outfield

▶ Dozens of exotic animals prowl the grounds at the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary.

30

Sports Planning Guide

CoolToday Park Baseball Sarasota County’s capacity to host Major League Baseball is anything but slim, as the Atlanta Braves committed to a 30-year lease following the development of freshly erected CoolToday Park. In a collaborative effort with Sarasota County, the Braves opened a new spring training facility that totals 8,000 in capacity. CoolToday Park debuted in March 2019.

Ed Smith Stadium

21 galleries of European paintings contemporary art.

following its recent $31.2 million worth of renovations. The complex also features three additional full-size fields.

VISIT SARASOTA COUNTY Shelby Connett Director of Sports 941-955-0991 sconnett@visitsarasota.org visitsarasota.com/sports @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

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Watch the construction & development of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex at FLSportsCoast.com/Sports

FLSportsCoast.com

An unbeatable destination for cheer, wrestling, volleyball, basketball, ketball, martial arts and other sporting events, Florida’s Sports ports Coast is the perfect place to tackle your next BIG tournament or team training event.

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PlayStPeteClearwater.com

PLAY THE BEACH

#LiveAmplified

Start with our 35 miles of award-winning white sand bliss. Add an endless supply of things to do, from outdoor activities to museums to Gulf-to-grill eateries.

And our sports facilities? World-class. Whether you’re a spectator or participant, come play.

Clearwater Beach

HIT FOR THE CYCLE

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