SportsNC and its winning team of partners invite you to choose North Carolina for your future sporting event. Anchored by Visit North Carolina, North Carolina Amateur Sports, and the North Carolina Sports Association, SportsNC channels the expertise of local sports commissions and authorities, chambers of commerce, and convention and visitors bureaus into helping you create tailored experiences and ensuring that every tournament, game and trip is a success.
With world-class indoor and outdoor venues, top professional and collegiate teams, and exciting vacation destinations, North Carolina builds the action from your arrival to beyond the final whistle. As your dedicated partner, we will work with you to create unforgettable events and experiences that drive attendance, interest and success for athletes, families and fans.
From amateur events to international championships, North Carolina can provide the perfect location for any sports activity. Situated in the center of the Eastern seaboard, North Carolina is an easy drive for the nearly 39 million potential event participants who live within 300 miles of our mountains, Atlantic coastline and Piedmont landscapes. With international and regional airports, extensive rail service and well-maintained highways, travel to, from and around North Carolina is fast and convenient.
For more information on the wide variety of sports-friendly communities and award-winning venues in North Carolina, please contact info@sportsnc.com.
We look forward to seeing you here soon.
Yours in Sports, The SportsNC Team www.sportsnc.com
Photo courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem
PLAY IN HICKORY
From hardwood courts to open fields, huddle-ups hit different here — and trust us, sitting on the bench isn’t an option when your competition is already calling us.
So if you were wondering where to host your next big win...
Scan here to see why Hickory is your ultimate sports destination!
Photo courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem
North Carolina: America’s Racquet Sport Powerhouse
New mega complexes are redefining the state’s court capacity, while established venues continue to deliver a championship pedigree
By Dave Bodle
Greensboro
Pickleball’s growth is surging, and nowhere is that more evident than Greensboro. Here’s an example: The CVB’s board greenlit the purchase of 40 portable courts arriving early 2025. The CVB, Greensboro Sports Foundation and the Greensboro Complex partnered to make “Pickleball Town” a reality. It all paid off when the team secured a major national qualifying tournament in May 2025 through USA Pickleball.
Cary
In June 2024, the Cary Tennis Park and pickleball expansion was announced. The $60 million investment will enhance the Cary Tennis Park clubhouse and stadium while adding 25-30 new state-of-theart pickleball courts. The existing clubhouse will be enlarged to include
the North Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame. Stadium seating will increase from 530 to more than 900. Sustainability, including solar energy and EV chargers, will be a significant part of the investment.
With a history dating to 2015, the Cary Tennis Classic will return in 2026.
The 2025 event saw 2024 Australian Boys’ Singles Champion Rei Sakamoto defeat Kentucky alum and No. 2 seed Liam Draxl in straight sets. On the women’s side, Darja Viďmanová of the Czech Republic defeated 18-yearold qualifier Monika Ekstrand in straight sets.
Raleigh
Another big development was Swing Racquet + Paddle’s groundbreaking in Raleigh’s Brier Creek area in August 2024. The 44-acre campus is on track to open in 2026 as the largest multi-
racquet sports facility in the world. There will be a combination 80 indoor and outdoor courts, including 28 for tennis, 25 for pickleball, 15 padel courts, four beach tennis courts and a ping pong lounge. The venue is capable of hosting state, regional and international tournaments. When not on the court, groups can enjoy unique food and beverages created by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani. The $100-plus million investment in racquet sports deservedly creates the buzz. It’s the existing venues that have attracted rights holders and set the table for this growth.
Winston-Salem
Since 2011, the Winston-Salem Open has been a regular stop on the ATP Tour. An international men’s tennis event will be played this year on resurfaced hardcourts at the Wake Forest University Tennis Complex. Winston-Salem
partnered with Serve First Racquet Sports to host the 2025 North Carolina 40 & Over State Championship.
Mooresville
Mooresville’s Triangle Badminton & Table Tennis caters to all levels of play. Outstanding coaching is available for players training for competitive events. Designated a USATT National Center of Excellence, the facility opened in 2014. They’ve hosted elite tournaments including the Butterfly Cary Cup Championship and the 2017 USA Table Tennis National Team Trials.
Asheville
Aston Park is managed by the City of Asheville Parks & Recreation Department. The historic facility’s 12-lighted clay courts host USTA League play and sanctioned tournament play for juniors and adults. The Asheville Open is the longest consistently running sanctioned tournament in North Carolina and has been hosted by Aston Park for more than 90 years.
Regardless of the event’s size, there are three components that guarantee your North Carolina racquet competition will be a success.
Sponsorships are important and often begin their work well in advance of the event. A professional event may need sponsors to make a sufficient financial commitment to attract top athletes. Other events may need sponsors’ promotional power to reach fans for ticket sales and attendance.
Volunteers often work for the love of the game, a T-shirt and maybe a free lunch. Yet their contributions are invaluable. Consider the behind-thescenes story of the 2025 Cary Tennis Classic. As on-court excitement built, a tropical storm approached. The decision was made to move the matches indoors. It was staff and volunteers who made it happen without losing a beat.
The more than 135 Sports NC partners are professionals skilled in making every rights-holder’s event a success. Working as a team or individually, the Sports NC partners are the rightsholders’ perfect fit.
NC’s Post-Helene Comeback Guide Mountains Reopen:
After Hurricane Helene battered the Blue Ridge region, Western North Carolina’s parks, trails and towns are open for adventure
By Dave Bodle
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina with a fury. Many of the mountain region’s most popular attractions were damaged. The good news is that most of them are welcoming visitors again. Here’s the view from north to south.
North Carolina’s aptly named High Country features some of the highest elevations in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Every season is a delight in this milehigh adventure destination. While many sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway remain closed, the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct is open, and several popular attractions can be accessed by the parkway. The road’s status is updated regularly at nps.gov/blri/ planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm.
Grandfather Mountain offers a plethora of activities off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Begin with a stroll on the 228-foot-long Mile High Swinging Bridge. There are wildlife habitats to observe plus walking and hiking trails for every level. The
Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Mildred’s Grill are open, and the new Yonni’s Clubhouse arrives this fall. Plan your visit and get tickets online at grandfather.com
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway is known for its strollable carriage trails and grand manor, which houses the Southern Highland Craft Guild Craft Shop. Nearby Julian Price Memorial Park offers hiking and paddling with rentals from nearby Price Lake Boat Rentals. Access to scenic Linville Falls remains limited and its visitor center closed.
Tweetsie Railroad is a Wild West theme park, ideal for families. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, it has rides and amusements for all ages. Be certain to catch the threemile ride on a train pulled by one of two historic steam locomotives. There is always something special going on. tweetsie.com
Skiing or snowboarding might be the competition that brought
you to the High Country. If not, you will find more than a half-dozen quality ski resorts. Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowtubing, snowboarding or snowshoeing; you pick your fun. goskinc.com
Asheville and the Foothills Region are well known for Biltmore, Chimney Rock State Park and waterfalls as well as vibrant arts and famous farm-totable restaurants. Most destinations are eagerly welcoming visitors, and lengthy sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville south have reopened.
Chimney Rock Park is open seven days a week with reservations and payment. Most trails as well as the elevator to the top of the towering monolith are open. Check the website for the status of the Skyline Trail and businesses in Chimney Rock Village. chimneyrockpark.com
Waterfalls abound in Brevard and other destinations near Asheville. Popular beauties include Looking Glass Falls, which you can see from a
roadside observation deck, Hooker Falls and Catawba Falls. Sliding Rock, a 60-foot natural waterslide with an eight-foot-deep plunge pool, has lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day; there’s a small fee. Find more information at exploreasheville.com/ things-to-do/outdoors/waterfalls
Biltmore Estate has so much to experience. From Biltmore House and its period furnishings to 8,000 acres of gardens, outdoor activities, outstanding dining and a winery, it holds a wealth of pleasure. biltmore.com
Parts of Asheville’s River Arts District have reopened for visitors. Even as recovery continues, there are galleries, studios and unique art spaces to explore. riverartsdistrict.com
Asheville’s diverse culinary scene is open for business. You do not need to be a foodie to appreciate the fare. exploreasheville.com/eat-drink
The far western tip of North Carolina is home to visitor favorites Cherokee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From the park to Fontana Dam, there’s rafting, cycling, fly fishing and even gem mining.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a few road closures that should not impact a visit. Hiking, camping, scenic drives and wildlife viewing are among the popular activities. Check here before arrival. nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/ conditions.htm
Fontana Dam and its Visitor Center are open. The view over the Smoky Mountain National Park is incredible.
The fishing from shore or boat is well worth the visit. Boats, canoes and paddleboards are available. The Appalachian Trail crosses the tallest dam east of the Mississippi River. blueridgeheritage.com/destinations/ fontana-dam/
Nantahala River rafting near Bryson City is a family-friendly adventure on one of the most popular rivers in America. It is a three -hour trip through Class I & II rapids with the final drop a class III. noc.com; wildwaterrafting. com/white-water-rafting
Gem mining spots are located throughout the North Carolina mountains. If your competition is in the western part of the state, a visit to Sylva and the Rock Ridge Gem Mine and Rock Shop is in order. rockhoundridgegemmine.com
Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch on US 129 at Deals Gap. A favorite for motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, it is certainly exciting in the family car, too. With patches of pavement named Esses, Cattail Straight and the Dips, this is an easygoing drive. tailofthedragon.com
The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail features some of the best waters in the Smoky Mountains. If it is your first time casting a line, there are guides available to get you equipped, ready and casting. flyfishingtrail.com
Rights holders planning competitions anywhere in North Carolina should not hesitate recommending mountain destinations and attractions to your athletes and families. Stay up to date at visitnc.com/rediscover
Sports Events Never Skipped a Beat
There is no question that Hurricane Helene sent Western North Carolina scheduled competitions into turmoil. Venues, access, lodging all took a hit. Throughout the remainder of the state., SPORTS NC members stepped forward.
Working with rights-holders they immediately looked at statewide schedule shuffles and neutral-site swaps. The association became the round-robin support network. In the beginning venue sharing was paramount. The next step was to obtain officials and volunteers for the moved event.
The games happened, the competitors came and the rightsholders were pleased. The venues in Western North Carolina are reopening with generous donations from the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets and colleges throughout the state. There is still work to be done. Learn more about SPORTS NC at sportsnc.com
WILMINGTON, NC AND ISLAND BEACHES
From National Beach Wrestling and USA Weightlifting to soccer and cheer competitions, Wilmington and its island beaches have hosted many diverse events fi lled with good times and record-breaking participation. Our welcoming year-round weather, breathtaking beaches and bustling riverfront are fan favorites. There’s something for every athlete and outdoor enthusiast here to turn ordinary sporting events into memorable, transformative experiences. Our distinctive venues and facilities are suited for sporting events of all kinds – especially youth and amateur events.
ALTHEA GIBSON TENNIS COMPLEX AT EMPIRE PARK Tennis
The Althea Gibson Tennis Center has 24 lighted hard courts, a clubhouse and restrooms. The clubhouse has a concession stand and takes reservations for a nominal fee. The City of Wilmington offers recreational programs throughout the year and the venue hosts tournaments and league play.
NCINO SPORTS PARK Soccer, Lacrosse, Running, Rugby
Expanded in 2024, nCino
Sports Park features 11 fullsize fi elds for soccer and other fi eld sports including lacrosse and rugby. The complex includes one synthetic turf fi eld, fi ve lighted fi elds for evening play, and a support building with restrooms and amenities. Home to the Wilmington Hammerheads Youth Football Club, it regularly hosts practices, matches and tournaments.
Wilmington and its island beaches have become a sought-after destination for sports planners thanks to a variety of venues and plenty to see and do before and after the event.
LEGION SPORTS COMPLEX
Football, Soccer, Baseball, Tennis, Swimming
Legion Sports Complex is a multi-sport venue featuring Legion Stadium/JurgensonGabriel Field, Legion Back Field, Buck Hardee Baseball Field, the Robert Shipp Pool and four lighted tennis courts. With seating for 6,000 spectators and fully equipped concessions, the complex serves as a hub for football, soccer, baseball, tennis and swimming, hosting games, practices and community events year-round.
WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER
Cheerleading, Dance, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Badminton, Volleyball, Wrestling
The Wilmington Convention Center, the largest convention center on the North Carolina coast, is LEED-certifi ed for sustainable design. With a 30,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 12,000-square-foot ballroom, meeting and prefunction space, concessions, ticket offi ce and attached parking deck, it provides a versatile setting.
OLSEN PARK
Baseball, Softball, Volleyball
Olsen Park is a versatile complex with fi ve lighted baseball/softball fi elds, a volleyball court, restrooms, concession stands and picnic shelters. The park also features the handicap-accessible Miracle Field and Miracle Playground, designed for inclusive play. Hosting regional and state tournaments along with community events, it serves as a popular destination for baseball, softball and volleyball year-round.
Ogden Park is one of Wilmington’s most complete athletic complexes, featuring three baseball fi elds, a youth football stadium, a softball fi eld, three soccer/football fi elds and nine tennis courts, all equipped with lights. The park also includes a 10,000-squarefoot concrete skatepark with bowls, rails and street features, plus shelters for gatherings, tournaments and community recreation.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“Wilmington, N.C., and Island Beaches is growing, and so is the attraction to attend events on the Atlantic Ocean, in Historic Downtown Wilmington on the Cape Fear River and at the nearby beaches. When a city and community wrap their arms around events, participants and spectators see it and feel it and make it a staple for years to come. This creates sustainability for the events and for tourism. Since I moved to Wilmington in 2006, the Wilmington and Beaches CVB has grown along with us, creating ideas, supporting new venues, and assisting with marketing efforts encouraging out of town visitors to come here for the event and enjoy their entire experience.”
- Tom Clifford, Without Limits CEO (Wilmington NC Marathon; Battleship Half Marathon, 10K & 5K)
WILMINGTON AND BEACHES CVB
Molly Johnson, CMP-Fellow, Vice President of Sales & Services (800) 650- 9064 x113 vpsales@wilmingtonandbeaches.com WilmingtonNCSports.com
CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Just minutes northeast of Charlotte, Cabarrus County is home to many experienced hosts and venues for traditional and nontraditional sporting events. The area offers top-of-the-line indoor and outdoor venues for competitions of all kinds including several turf fields, state-of-the-art MONDO track and field facility, 5,000-seat arena, downtown baseball stadium and more.
Accommodations with a wide range of amenities and price points are available within minutes of the area’s outstanding venues. Choose from over 3,000 rooms at 30 hotels, including Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park resort, where hospitality experts work to ensure a seamless experience for all.
Before or after events, groups can explore everything from thrilling adventures to relaxed local shopping and dining in charming downtowns with attractions such as Charlotte Motor Speedway, NC Music Hall of Fame, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and the state’s largest outlet and value retail shopping center, Concord Mills.
The Cabarrus County CVB provides a dedicated services team that works to connect community partners and planners to successfully service events. Home to Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (USA), the destination is situated along I-85 with easy access to Charlotte Airport (CLT).
JAY M. ROBINSON MONDO TRACK & FIELD FACILITY
Track & Field
Featuring a turf field, as well as a MONDO Super X 720 Track and Field surface, the recommended surface of the World Athletics and Paralympics. The facility has a 400-meter equal quadrant design. It can host eight 42” lanes with 6’ of surface outside, and is able to run 100m, 200m and 4 x 100m in both directions. Permanent restrooms, concession stands, a field house and Wi-Fi.
CABARRUS ARENA & EVENTS CENTER
Consumer Shows, Sporting Events
Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord is one of the best places to host events in the county. This huge arena can host weddings, banquets, business meetings, the Cabarrus county fair, and plenty of shows and exhibitions. The facility has more than 150,000 square feet, 2.500 parking spots and hosts more than 150 events on nearly 300 event days each year.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“This is Mid-South Pop Warner 4th year working with Cabarrus County Visitors’ Bureau and the service has been nothing less than spectacular! The customer service and facilities are outstanding, This team has been a complete joy to work with!”
EXPLORE CABARRUS COUNTY NC
Paul Sheehan
paulsheehan@ explorecabarrus.com (704) 575-3738
ExploreCabarrus.com/Sports
WEST CABARRUS TURF COMPLEX
Brand New and Game-Day Ready
Home to three new turf fi elds including one stadium and two practice fi elds. Ready for competition, all fi elds feature T°Cool® evaporative cooling technology and are equipped with lights. These versatile fi elds are lined for soccer, football, and tic-marked for lacrosse. With three additional stadium fi elds, Cabarrus County offers a total of six turf fi elds. All include the same features and are located near each other as well as top attractions and hotels.
- Jeff Bolden, Sr., Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc., Mid-South Region Director
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
Greater Raleigh is your ultimate sports destination, offering premier venues and a dynamic atmosphere. From hosting top-tier tournaments to welcoming passionate fans, this destination is built for champions. Explore Raleigh’s world-class venues, vibrant sports culture and unbeatable energy that make it the perfect place for athletes and spectators alike. Whether you’re here to compete or cheer, Raleigh guarantees a winning experience every time.
“One of the things we’ve appreciated most about GRSA is how they’ve acted as a connector in the [region] — from quarterly meetings to Chamber of Commerce introductions, they’ve helped us feel truly plugged in. For organizers outside the market, that kind of access is invaluable. The local sports community is incredibly strong, and GRSA plays a key role in bringing it all together to support world-class events like TST.”
– George Alexander, SVP Events, The Soccer Tournament (TST)
2023
TRIANGLE AQUATIC CENTER
Swimming, Fitness
The TAC is a state-of-the-art facility in Cary, N.C. The TAC is a premier aquatics facility that provides a wide range of aquatic programs and services. The facility boasts a 50-meter Olympic-sized competition pool, which can be configured for various events and swim meets. It also features a warmwater instructional pool and a therapy pool. These pools cater to a diverse range of activities, including swim lessons and competitive swimming.
WRAL SOCCER PARK Soccer and Lacrosse
Home to 22 soccer fields, including 14 grass fields, eight full-sized turf fields, three restroom shelters, a clubhouse and an indoor fitness center, this 122-acre soccer park is one of the best soccer facilities in the South. The park, located in Raleigh, N.C., serves as a hub for soccer enthusiasts and hosts a variety of soccer events, tournaments and games throughout the year. The average field dimensions are 110 x 65 yards, and the fields are lined for soccer and lacrosse.
WAKEMED SOCCER PARK Soccer
WakeMed Soccer Park is a premier sports facility in Cary, N.C. It is one of the largest soccer-specific stadiums in the Southeast and serves as the home stadium for North Carolina Football Club. The park features a main stadium with a seating capacity of approx. 10,000 and boasts a natural grass playing surface and excellent amenities, including concession stands, restrooms and ample parking.
RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER
Sporting Events and Esports Events
The Raleigh Convention Center is a versatile event venue located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, N.C. Spanning over 500,000 square feet, the center offers ample space for a wide range of events, including conferences, conventions, trade shows, exhibitions and meetings. The center features a variety of flexible meeting rooms and exhibit halls that can accommodate gatherings of all sizes.
NHL Stadium Series, Carter–Finley Stadium
GREATER FAYETTEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
Conveniently located in the Sandhills in the western part of the Coastal Plain region, Fayetteville is a vibrant town known for incredible attractions and opportunities for outdoor adventure. From historic sites like the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum to high-flying journeys at ZipQuest, this Tar Heel State gem offers plenty of options for fun —and its state-of-the-art sports complexes make it the perfect destination for hosting events. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, adventure seeker, or lover of military history, Fayetteville has something for you. A visit to Segra Stadium to watch the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, the Houston Astros’ Low-A affiliate, is a necessity for baseball fans. This modern stadium provides an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere where fans can enjoy thrilling games and experience the excitement of Minor League Baseball. Beyond sports, Fayetteville is home to the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum, where visitors can explore the rich history and heroism of some of the U.S. military’s most courageous forces through interactive exhibits and immersive displays. Those seeking an adrenaline rush should head over to ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure, which features one of the most exceptional zipline experiences in the United States, with eight exhilarating zips that take you soaring over lush landscapes and stunning waterfalls. Nature lovers will likewise appreciate the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, a 77-acre oasis with scenic walking trails.
Ready for thrilling competition and unforgettable moments? Fayetteville, NC, is your ultimate sports destination! From youth soccer and AAU basketball to amateur boxing and softball, we offer top-tier tournaments for athletes of all levels. Let’s bring on the competition – Game on!
To get started, contact: Pernell Edwards Sports Sales Manager (910) 912-8920 pedwards@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com
DistiNCtlyFayettevilleNC.com
JORDAN SOCCER COMPLEX
Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football
Need field space? This facility has 1.5 acres of it and also has plenty of space for spectators to watch the games. Need a flexible venue that soccer, flag football, and lacrosse fans will appreciate? The Jordan Soccer Complex is your best option, with its eight fields and reputation as one of the finest facilities in the South. Coaches and athletes love Jordan, which is adjacent to Methodist University, features highquality grass fields, and has all the necessary elements for a successful sports tournament.
CROWN COMPLEX
Indoor Football, Basketball, Soccer, Hockey, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Wrestling
This top-of-the-line arena is versatile and wildly popular, catering annually to a variety of sports and entertainment events. It is a five-venue complex with 105,000 square feet of multi-purpose space, including a 10,000-seat coliseum, a renovated 4,500-seat vintage arena, a 2,400-seat intimate theatre, a 60,000-square-foot adaptable expo center, and a 9,000-square-foot ballroom. The logical question: What can’t be done in this sprawling event space?
FREEDOM COURTS SPORTSPLEX
Basketball, Gymnastics, Soccer, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Baseball, Softball Freedom Courts Sportsplex is a premier attraction in Fayetteville designed primarily for basketball, volleyball, and other court sports. Featuring multiple full-size courts, the sportsplex is ideal for hosting tournaments, leagues, and practices. It is equipped with high-quality flooring, 34-foot ceilings, showers, and ample seating, ensuring a top-notch experience for athletes and spectators alike.
SEGRA STADIUM Baseball, Events
Located in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, Segra Stadium offers 4,600 fixed seats and a total capacity of 9,000, making it an ideal venue for tournaments, championship games, and large-scale events. This ballpark features a professional-grade field, premium seating options, and ample amenities for athletes and fans alike. Whether hosting competitive sports or community celebrations, Segra Stadium delivers a bigleague experience in a vibrant setting.
Jordan Soccer Complex
GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
Greenville is widely recognized as the thriving cultural, educational, economic, and medical hub of Eastern North Carolina. Enjoy world-class events and East Carolina University and the Greenville Convention Center. The new Hilton Garden Inn in the heart of Downtown offers easy access to experience the vibrant art, live music, and culinary scene in our walkable Downtown Greenville and Dickinson Avenue Districts. Wildwood Park, a 364-acre park located minutes from Downtown Greenville, is one of the best places to enjoy the outdoors in Pitt County. There are a variety of things to do, from kayaking in the lake and on the Tar River, exploring the trails, or taking a lap around the BMX pump track or mountain bike trails. Sawyer’s Fun Park is the place for kids in Greenville! Kids of all ages can enjoy their trampoline park, laser tag arena, and arcade. Spend your day trying your hand at trampoline dodgeball and basketball.
“We are proud to host the Little League Softball® World Series in Greenville, North Carolina. We bring people from all over the world to celebrate the beautiful game of softball and this allows all those participants and their families to enjoy what Greenville truly has to offer.”
— Ashlea Miller, Director of Softball Development, Little League International
Play it up at one of our many parks, fields or facilities.
Live it up at a Town Common live concert. Eat it up in authentic Eastern North Carolina BBQ joints.
Find out what’s up at VISITGREENVILLENC.COM/SPORTS
Ce’Nedra Dillard, STS, SDLT Director of Sports Development CDillard@GreenvilleNC.gov
Just 10 minutes from the East Carolina University campus, you’ll find a selection of versatile playing fields, all surrounding a quaint lake that makes for the perfect backdrop to any event. The North Recreational Complex features eight multipurpose fields including one championship field, along with walking and jogging trails. This is the perfect setting for cross-country, where runners can follow any of the six trails or the 5k running route.
East Carolina University’s facilities are state-of-theart and home to some exceptional collegiate talent. These same venues are also available for tournaments, meets, competitions, and other events that sports planners are putting together throughout the year. Be sure to check out the 50,000seat, fully lit Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home to the Pirates’ football program.
GREENVILLE
CONVENTION CENTER Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Dance, Cheer, Cornhole
Situated on 32 sprawling acres, the Greenville Convention Center Campus features over 91,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including a 57,000-squarefoot convention center with 28-foot-high ceilings. Three on-site premiere hotels offer over 400 rooms, two restaurants and bars, indoor and outdoor pools, ample parking, on-site catering, and much more.
STALLINGS STADIUM
Baseball, Softball
Greenville has a strong connection to baseball, and in particular, Little League. Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park is a premier choice when planning an event in the region, and played host to the Little League Softball® World Series in 2021 for the first time and looks forward to being its new home through at least 2027! The stadium is also the permanent home to the Greenville Little League’s City Championship Series, and could be the site of your next big event!
Greenville, North Carolina
GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
Welcome to Tournament Town – Greensboro, North Carolina – where champions are made. With worldclass venues and a proven track record for hosting premier events, Greensboro rolls out the red carpet, making every tournament into an experience worth cheering for. But there’s more to Greensboro than the game. Savor the flavors of more than 500 local restaurants, offering a diverse range of dishes from Southern favorites to international cuisine. Unwind with a craft beer at one of our local breweries—often accompanied by live music that sets the perfect vibe. Head outdoors to explore more than 100 miles of trails and greenways, ideal for biking, hiking, or simply soaking in the scenery. Discover more than 150 public art pieces and murals throughout the city. Step into history at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum or the Greensboro History Museum. For family fun, visit the Greensboro Science Center—a one-of-a-kind destination combining a zoo, aquarium, and science museum.
GREENSBORO COMPLEX
Basketball, Gymnastics, Figure Skating, Wrestling Volleyball, Roller Derby, Pickleball
The Greensboro Complex is comprised of nine venues that can host nearly any sporting event. The main staple, First Horizon Coliseum, can seat anywhere from 4,500 – 22,000 people and has hosted NCAA and ACC basketball, ACC gymnastics, USA Pickleball Golden Ticket, and a variety of court and mat sports.
GREENSBORO AQUATIC CENTER
Swimming, Synchronized Swimming, Diving, and Water Polo
The Greensboro Aquatic Center is the largest indoor facility of its kind in the United States. The 105,323-square-foot facility houses four pools and seven diving spring boards and platforms. Its versatility offers Greensboro the opportunity to host high school and collegiate events and USA Swimming meets.
TRUIST STADIUM AT NC A&T STATE UNIVERSITY Track and Field, Javelin, Shot Put, Discus Throwing Areas
An IAAF-certified track, the Marcus T. Johnson Track at Truist Stadium at NC A&T State University is one of the country’s premier track and field facilities. Home to the NC A&T State University Aggies, the stadium can seat 23,000 spectators. It is a Mondo Super X Performance track with eight lanes as well as javelin and discus throwing areas.
BRYAN PARK TRUIST SOCCER COMPLEX Soccer
The Bryan Park Truist Soccer Complex includes 21 soccer fields, 20 full-sized and one designated 9v9. Of those fields, 19 are Bermuda grass and two have artificial turf. 11 fields have lights. Home of the NC Fusion – East, MacPherson Stadium is the crown jewel of the complex with a Europeanstyle roof, seating for 3,000, a press box, concessions, and parking for more than 1,900.
Greensboro Aquatic Center
GREENSBORO SPORTSPLEX
Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Hockey
The Greensboro Sportsplex is a 106,000-square-foot multi-sports facility featuring suspended hardwood floors on eight basketball and volleyball courts, four state-of-the-art indoor soccer fields, an inline roller hockey rink, a concession stand, and locker rooms.
J. SPENCER LOVE
TENNIS CENTER Tennis
The Spencer Love Tennis Center consists of 18 courts and five 10 & under tennis courts. A public/ private partnership will add an additional 12 courts, a new multipurpose athletic field, new parking, and a shelter with additional restrooms.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“As an officer with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and a longtime event host, I absolutely endorse Greensboro, North Carolina and Visit Greensboro, your choice for event operations and support. I have been hosting events in Greensboro for over a decade, and I found the facilities, the people, and the passion to be world class. My partners at Visit Greensboro have gone out of their way to ensure all of our events have been successful.
Over the years, AAU events have brought to the Greensboro area well in excess of $100 million in economic impact in the past decade. This would not have been possible without the insight, creativity, and vision of the hard-working teammates at Visit Greensboro.”
— Sean Kilmartin, Treasurer, Amateur Athletic Union
What do you get when you cross a conveniently located city with southern hospitality? A sportscentric destination where everyone can get in the game. Pristine college facilities, North Carolina’s only fully-dedicated indoor track & field facility, a 150,000-square-foot downtown convention center, and the region’s largest multi-sport complex are all part of the winning team in the Greater Winston-Salem area. Athletes of all ages and levels are welcome to events and competitions at our top-tier venues, where our inviting and friendly atmosphere feels like home turf. Visit Winston-Salem offers expert planning support, including venue selection, team lodging, group dining, and more. Our spirited energy + convenient location make sports Twice as nice...come on in.
JDL FAST TRACK
Indoor Track & Field
This premium 105,000-square-foot facility is no stranger to prestige. Sporting a 200-meter oval track made of Mondotrack FTX surfaces, this complex has held multiple national championships since opening in 2012. Teams also have access to a 100-meter training track and an athletic trainer room. Hospitality suites are ideal for game day officials and coaches.
Newly opened in 2021, RISE Indoor Sports is home to more than 123,000 square feet of flexible, programmable space including eight high school regulation basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, 28,000 square feet of sports indoor turf, performance and fitness training center, 6,000 square feet of fitness and cardio space.
TRUIST STADIUM Baseball
Home to the Winston-Salem Dash, the High-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, Truist Stadium is an award-winning, 5,500-seat ballpark. Located downtown, Truist Stadium features 16 Club Level luxury suites, the Flow Club, and accommodates 500+ guests, ideal for banquets and VIP events.
TRUIST SPORTS PARK
Lacrosse, Soccer, Field Hockey
This park contains 15 full-sized fields (14 lighted), including a 1,400-seat stadium field and four artificial turf fields. The field house provides concessions, office facilities, WiFi, and a 60-seat meeting space with multimedia and AV. Parking is available for 1,200+.
WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY
TENNIS COMPLEX
Tennis, Pickleball
Built as the home to the Wake Forest men’s and women’s tennis teams along with the ATP’s WinstonSalem Open, the Wake Forest Tennis Center opened in the summer of 2011 as one of the finest facilities in all of college tennis. The state-of-the-art complex features 13 DecoTurf II courts, the same court surface that is used at the US Open.
This complex encompass a roughly 70-acre property minutes from downtown. This multi-purpose complex features over 55,000 square feet of programmable event space, including a 4,000-seat arena at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Arena and Event Center, home to the Carolina Thunderbirds.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“USTA North Carolina has been blessed to work with Bonny Bernat and the Visit Winston-Salem team. The organization brings forth so many opportunities for us to bring events to Winston-Salem. Bonny is a leader in her field and does a wonderful job for the client allowing us to run the best event possible.”
Bonny Bernat, Senior Sports Development Manager
336-728-4215
bonny@visitwinstonsalem.com
www.visitwinstonsalem.com/sports
— Kelly Gaines, Executive Director. USTA North Carolina and NC Tennis Foundation
Bailey South, Winston-Salem
HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA
Hickory, North Carolina — where competition meets Carolina cool. Perfectly positioned along I-40 between Knoxville and Raleigh, Hickory is an easy win for tournaments, athletes, and adventure seekers alike.
With fields, courts, and venues that set the bar high, Hickory is built for champions — from youth tournaments to collegiate showdowns and everything in between. Our central location, top-notch facilities, and Southern hospitality make it easy for teams to play hard and unwind even harder.
Need a breather from the field? Head to Bakers Mountain Park, home to 189 acres of Chestnut Oak forest and nearly six miles of trails with unbeatable views.
Then, dive into Hickory’s creative side at the SALT Block, where Science, Arts & Literature Together fill an entire city block with hands-on inspiration. Or take a stroll (or victory lap) along the City Walk — over 10 miles of pedestrian-friendly trail connecting Downtown Hickory, Lenoir-Rhyne University, local shops, and crave-worthy restaurants all the way to Lake Hickory and the River Walk.
Catch a game with the hometown heroes — the Hickory Crawdads, the Texas Rangers’ High-A affiliate — at L.P. Frans Stadium, where the energy is high and the snacks are legendary.
And when it’s time to unwind, explore why we’re known as the Furniture Capital of the World. The iconic Hickory Furniture Mart draws more than 500,000 visitors a year looking for craftsmanship, comfort, and that just-right Carolina style.
From stadium lights to mountain heights — Hickory’s got your next sporting event covered.
HICKORY METRO CONVENTION CENTER
Multipurpose Indoor
Game on at the newly expanded Hickory Metro Convention Center. With more than 136,000 square feet of flexible space — including 35,000 square feet designed for action — this dynamic venue is built to play. Think eight volleyball courts, four basketball courts, or 12 pickleball courts ready for competition. The newly added 46,000 square feet makes room for even more.
HENRY FORK REGIONAL RECREATION PARK
Soccer, Lacrosse, Flag Football
With 12 fields (a mix of turf and natural grass), an 8,000-square-foot picnic shelter, and plenty of space to gather and celebrate, this multiuse park is built for competition and connection. It’s game-on for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, flag football, and more — plus there’s room to recharge with picnic tables, grills, a ropes course, two playgrounds, a concession stand, walking trails, a canoe launch, and even horseshoe pits.
ROCK BARN COUNTRY CLUB & SPA Golf, Tennis
With a foundation tracing back to the early 19th century, this gorgeous country club has a storied history, one which grew to include golf in 1966 when it added The Rock Barn Club of Golf to its grounds. Today the club features two championship 18-hole golf courses which have yielded praise from Golf Digest and were designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Downtown Hickory
Photo courtesy of Chad Austin, Inc.
HIGHLAND RECREATION CENTER & STANFORD PARK
Fitness, Softball
Inside, the gymnasium can host 2 full basketball or volleyball courts or 4 pickleball courts, plus a community room and game room for team meet-ups or downtime. Just outside at Stanford Park, there are 2 playgrounds, a picnic shelter, 3 softball fields, and even a skate park — giving athletes and families plenty of ways to stay active and have fun.
LENOIR-RHYNE UNIVERSITY
SPORTS COMPLEX
Football, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse
Lenoir-Rhyne University delivers a top-tier student-athlete experience in NCAA Division II — and it all starts with their state-of-the-art facilities. The recently opened Moretz Sports Athletic Campus puts Lenoir-Rhyne among the few Division II schools to designate and name an entire athletic campus. Teams compete and train in premier venues, including a full football stadium, a track and field facility, and a variety of other fields and courts.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“Hickory’s new space is great, as it gives [us] additional options. We will continue to host our events here!”
— Jeff W., North American Grappling Association – 2025 NAGA Charlotte Grappling Championship
VISIT HICKORY
Sarah Jones sarah@visithickorync.com (828) 322-1335
www.visithickorync.com
By Jon Schmieder
The Top 10 Trends Powering the Sports Tourism Boom in 2026
The sports tourism and events industry has never been stronger than it is today. For our 11th year of the Sports Planning Guide trends article, we will highlight some of the reasons why, and what we see coming in the New Year. We hope you enjoy this year’s edition of the top 10 trends in sports tourism.
1
Mega Events – Our country is about to host two of the largest events the sports world has to offer. The World Cup next year and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles will offer opportunities for destinations large and small to plug in.
2
Artificial Intelligence – The industry is just starting to sort out what AI can accomplish. While we are a bit skeptical of the overall (potentially negative) impact that may occur, this one is worth tracking and learning more about what this technology can and cannot do in our space.
3
Trade Show Relevance – The destinations and rights holders we serve are becoming more intentional in how they spend their time and resources. The normal speed dating model at the various trade shows that worked well 15 years ago is tired. More direct relationship bridge building between the relevant parties is becoming the norm. We recommend that everyone plug into our national association (SportsETA) and all that they offer throughout the year, and potentially one additional Fall show. Then augment that with additional biz dev technologies and in person outreach through FAMs and sales missions.
4
Intentional Use of Data – Our team at HUG is being asked more and more to chime in on the value of an event, from both the destination and event owner view. Today, there are more data sources that can help analyze a
sporting activity or event than in the past. We can geofence, track credit card and cell phone data, where those people came from and where they go. While DMOs have been mining this data for years, event owners are just now coming to the party. Leveraging these data pools is a major opportunity for destinations and rights holders alike.
5
DMOs Leading on Facilities – If the tourism leaders in a destination don’t take the lead on driving facility development, it’s likely nobody will. The top sports tourism communities we work with are leading the thought process, planning, funding, and programming for their venue “tool kit.” The proactive destinations on facilities will win in the long run.
6
Investment in “Silent Sports” –
Individual outdoor leisure sports did quite well during the pandemic - think canoe, kayak, paddleboard, golf, archery, trail running and cycling. All these sports grew during the pandemic and the destinations we serve are asking about how they keep that momentum rolling. How do we turn our trails into “competition” venues? What waterway access do we need to accommodate the leisure traveler and ALSO the competition level visitor? These questions come to our team on nearly every project we work on yet were not on the radar in most destinations five years ago.
7
Enhanced State Alliances – There are more state sports tourism alliances today than at any time in our industry’s history. The visit “insert city here” way of doing business has largely given way to come partner with “insert STATE name.” It’s a big shift, and a positive one for collaboration across the sports tourism community.
The last three are carryovers from last year.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
8
The Portal – The NCAA has launched its latest bid portal with new timelines. With facility development at the top of mind in many destinations we serve, who can get their venue offering to the finish line in time for this round (or the next round) of bids?
9
Statewide Alignment – Our team at HUG has seen a lot more intentional involvement in sports tourism from the state level across the country. There is more strategic thought and political influence around sports tourism than in the past. We are also seeing a much higher level of engagement from various state tourism offices. It seems like state tourism leaders have figured out that a majority of those they serve (DMOs
and CVBs) count sports tourism as a top priority. Good to see the higher ups leaning into our industry.
10
Highest Best Use – The three biggest parks/city trends we see across the country on the facility side are: (1) get pools off our books, (2) get golf courses off our books, and (3) convert tennis courts to pickleball. The theme here is what is our highest and best use of the real estate and facilities we have.
Thanks for all you do for your organizations and those you serve. Best wishes for an awesome 2026.
Yours in Sport, Jon
Jon Schmieder is the Founder of the Huddle Up Group LLC, a sports industry consulting company led by award winning executives. Schmieder has 29 years of experience in leading sports tourism and events organizations through strategic growth and increased community collaboration. The Huddle Up Group has worked with more than 400 sports organizations and destinations on over 150 strategic projects, facility feasibility studies, and business development. In 2017 and again in 2025, the Huddle Up Group was given the Superior Service Award, the highest honor a consulting firm can earn from the National Association of Sports Commissions (now SportsETA). We can be reached at Jon@HuddleUpGroup.com or 602.369.6955. To receive the weekly “Monday Huddle Up” visit www. HuddleUpGroup.com or sign up at https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/ forms/773696/110530520508532503/ share.
The United States is poised to host two of the largest events the sports world has to offer. The World Cup in 2026 and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
A championship-caliber destination where competition is only half the story. In Winston-Salem, it’s Twice as nice...come on in.
Championship Facilities
Ivey M. Redmon Sports Complex: 189-acre complex containing multiple linear and diamond fields, a crosscountry course, and the new Kernersville Recreation & Event Center with flexible indoor court spaces.
