North Carolina Sports Planning Guide 2024

www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

2024 GUIDE

NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina is an Esports Mecca The Tar Heel State continues to strive for esports greatness

Unlimited Adventure Awaits in North Carolina’s Great Outdoors No other state captures the essence of outdoor exploration and sport like North Carolina

NC

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.

Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah National Forest Photo courtesy of Visit NC

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.

ON THE COVER: Fire Mountain Trails Photo courtesy of Visit NC

We look forward to seeing you here soon.

Yours in Sports, The SportsNC Team https://www.sportsnc.com

Scan to discover more of what North Carolina offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Alligator River Photo courtesy of Visit NC 312 2

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@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

North Carolina is Becoming an Esports Mecca

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Unlimited Adventure Awaits in North Carolina’s Great Outdoors

SITE INSPECTIONS 10

Greensboro

14 Rocky Mount Event Center 16

Raleigh

18 Nash-Rocky Mount 20

Hickory

22

Winston-Salem

24

Greenville

26

Wilmington

28

Cabarrus

NORTH CAROLINA

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Ride Kanuga Bike Park in Hendersonville

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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 Sports Sales Manager cdillard@greenvillenc.gov

FNCS Invitational in Raleigh

NORTH CAROLINA IS BECOMING AN

ESPORTS MECCA North Carolina continues to strive for esports greatness as the industry continues its ascent to become a mainstream giant • By Christopher D. Silbernagel

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orth Carolina’s dedication to being at the top of the esports world is highlighted by the number of options available to the community and beyond, with development and connectivity available from grade school through to the professional level. Collegiate esports also thrive at multiple locations, with more continuing to emerge, bringing high-quality clubs and programs to students while also educating them on the potential career paths available when embarking on their unique journey.

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THE NC ESPORTS SPECTRUM

Multiple destinations across the state have become hotbeds for esports. Along with hosting a number of world-class tournaments over the past few years, such as the Rainbow Six Siege Raleigh Major at the Raleigh Convention Center, the City of Raleigh continually strives to be the best at not only hosting duties, but also in providing variety and its all-round reach within and outside of North Carolina. “[Annually], we strive to host

two or three major national or international events, two to four regional events and four to eight local events and programs,” said Loren Gold, executive vice president of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We’ve started to invest in becoming an esports educational hub for both the game publisher and production industry, and an advocate for destinations.” One of the top contributors to driving esports forward is Carolina Esports, which is directly linked to the Charlotte Phoenix @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

professional esports team. Carolina Esports is a hub with an all-inclusive mission to build a dynamic portfolio in esports and the gaming industry through strategic partnerships, investments and acquisitions. The hub consists of a complementary set of multi-level verticals that all feed one another, providing connectivity from grade school to college and beyond.

“Esports is a natural fit on the North Carolina travel landscape,” said Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit NC. “The affinity starts with our passion for sports at every level and gains momentum with the high-tech culture rooted in the presence of Lenovo, SAS, Red Hat, Epic Games and other companies based here. This all comes into play in destinations that rank high on travelers’ lists of great places to visit.”

UNIVERSITY ESPORTS IS THRIVING

At colleges like University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), esports are thriving with clubs, programs and even dedicated on-site arenas. With esports participation rapidly growing, UNCG opened its esports arena in 2022 to provide students a place to call their own and hold tournaments. Students have a number of options within the over 3,300-square-foot space, which houses 48 gaming PCs, 3 console bays and virtual reality headsets for variety.

UNCG also took esports a step further in 2023 with the launch of the UNCG Scholastic Esports Alliance (UNCG SEA).

As the United States’ first universityled, curriculum-focused statewide high school esports league, UNCG SEA has built a premier end-to-end talent development pipeline for high-tech and STEM-centered careers, delivering a Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway-aligned curriculum and sanctioning regional and state esports competitions.

Other universities like North Carolina State (NC State) out in Raleigh are also diving in. The University is currently building a $16 million esports arena which, when completed in 2024, is to be the largest of its kind in the United States.

“Our forthcoming esports production and performance center at NC State

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will be a major catalyst not only for the UNC System but for student internships, job training and additional engagement with the private esports sector,” said Loren Gold. “This will connect high school to two-year to four-year to private industry, not only for athletes but for event staff, production, broadcasting, game design and gaming related science and health.”

Of the total grant provided by North Carolina’s government, $4 million will go to a “mobile arena,” which will bring in additional competition and activities throughout the state and draw additional attention to the university’s esports and educational offerings.

LCS Finals 2023

DRIVING ESPORTS HOME

As esports continue to thrive in North Carolina at multiple levels, the state has come up with additional means of driving things forward.

Along with experiences at universities and convention centers, there are also esports bars like Bad Machines out in Durham, as well as an esports lounge at the expanding Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Along with tournaments being held at convention centers, dedicated esports and gaming conventions are also taking place at these enormous venues, such as the Carolina Games Summit and East Coast Game Conference (ECGC), the latter of which is the largest conference for game developers on the East Coast. ECGC is also a major player in giving back to the community with an initiative to raise money for the Child’s Play charity, which helps children’s hospitals and domestic violence shelters through the power of therapeutic play.

Not to sit back on its success, the Tar Heel State strives to bring in even more esports tournaments and events by offering incentives for would-be event runners. North Carolina’s esports incentive, a 25% rebate on qualifying esports expenses and purchases while in-state, demonstrates the state’s long-term commitment to the community and industry with a total of $5 million on offer per fiscal year funded through the NC Esports Industry Grant.

Raleigh Major

Halo competition

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UNLIMITED ADVENTURE

AWAITS IN NORTH CAROLINA’S GREAT OUTDOORS

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No other state captures the essence of outdoor exploration and sport like North Carolina • By Isabella Wilkes

o matter how you define adventure—whether that is biking through the rugged backcountry, kayaking through tumultuous whitewater rivers or soaking up a breathtaking view after ascending a jagged mountain top peak— North Carolina is the premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to make memories that will last a lifetime.

As seasoned explorers double- and triple-check their supplies, they might be interested to note some of their favorite items were made in North Carolina, which is home to some of the biggest outdoor gear manufacturers in the United States. Cashion Rods sells high quality fishing gear and LiquidLogic produces some of the best kayaks for rapids. You can find Farm to Feet merino wool hiking socks in any outdoor retailer throughout the state. Also, Eno Hammocks are in no short supply for those who wish to have a more relaxing vacation. Now that you have your gear, North Carolina is yours for exploring.

2023 was named “The Year of the Trail’’ by the Great Trails State Coalition. This coalition has promoted the safe and sustainable use of North Carolina’s trails to travelers and locals alike through events and educational programs.

With over 100 trails to choose from, there is an abundance of ways to take part in this year-long celebration. Looking Glass Rock Trail, Triple Falls Trail, Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls Trail are highly rated, easy-to-moderate difficulty hikes in the state. If you are looking for an easy day hike located near major metropolitan areas, check out Richmond Hill Park, located within Asheville city limits; Dorothea Dix Park, situated near downtown Raleigh; Freedom Park, a 98-acre urban oasis in Charlotte; and Quarry Park, a collection of scenic trails outside of Winston-Salem.

For the most skilled mountaineers, Hanging Rock State Park, Stone Mountain State Park and Grandfather Mountain State Park are home to the most challenging hikes in the state. But the most grueling hike by far is the Rocky Face Park Vertical Mile Challenge. Participants test their strength as they scale a rock face at a 20-to-30degree grade.

The fog-covered peaks of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains mark North Carolina’s Western Region. Most enjoy the mountains from the comfort of a scenic vista, but for the region’s mountain bikers, these slopes are a playground. Ride Kanuga park has mountain biking trails

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perfect for beginners and experts. Beech Mountain, the highest town in Eastern North America with an elevation of 5,506 feet, is home to Beech Mountain Resort and Emerald Outback biking trails. The views from the top of Sugar Mountain trails are breathtaking, but with the steep ascent to the top, it is a view you must earn.

For cyclists, North Carolina has routed a series of easyto-follow regional rides that cover a range of geography f rom the mountains to the coast. Ports of Call, North Line Trace and Cape Fear Run are just a few of many iconic mapped biking routes perfect for a customizable trips, with plenty of scenic views along the way.

A trip to North Carolina is incomplete without getting out to the beautiful coastal shoreline and inland waterways. Wilmington offers visitors the quintessential beach vacation with its beautiful beaches perfect for family fun: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach. These beaches are also known for their great surfing conditions. The Outer Banks feature great beaches along an impressive coastline and excellent trails including Nags Head Woods Preserve Trail, which has miles of trails for walking and hiking. Another popular spot is Jockey’s Ridge State Park, a massive dunes complex that is home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast.

North Carolina’s waterways are perfect arenas for water sports. Stand-up paddleboarding has been increasingly popular in recent years, and the water conditions in Paddle Creek, Oak Hollow

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Lake and Green River are perfect for both novice and expert paddleboarders. Kayakers and canoers will have the thrill of a lifetime battling the rapids on the Nantahala River. More serene experiences on calm waters can be found on the coast at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and Currituck National Wildlife Refuge.

With thousands of miles of streams and inland lakes, North Carolina is any fisher’s dream. The nation’s only fly-fishing trail, the Western North Carolina Fly-Fishing Trail, is a prime location to reel in trout. There are multiple piers along the coast that are perfect for casting a line, including Avalon Fishing Pier, Nags Head Fishing Pier and Seaview Fishing Pier.

Thanks to the state’s investment into sustainable infrastructure for outdoor adventure, North Carolina is the perfect venue for every outdoor sport.

The Intracoastal Waterway in Wilmington hosts the annual Swim the Loop race. Cycle North Carolina hosts three multi-day group cycling events throughout the year: the Coastal Ride, the Mountain Ride and the Mountains to Coast Ride.

North Carolina’s communities have also invested heavily into state-of-the-art outdoor sporting complexes, including the Althea Gibson Tennis Complex, the U.S. National Whitewater Center and the Cape Fear Regional Soccer Complex.

When it comes to sport and adventure, few places can compete with all North Carolina has to offer.

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Greensboro, NC

Scan to discover more of what Greensboro Area Convention & Visitors Bureau offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

WITH ITS FAMOUS GREENSBORO COLISEUM COMPLEX AND OTHER FACILITIES, GREENSBORO IS WILLING AND ABLE TO HOST ANY SPORTS TOURNAMENT THAT COMES ITS WAY

Greensboro Aquatic Center

The city of Greensboro started out as the most important Quaker settlement in North Carolina and has continued to be steeped in history ever since.

The city is also home to a variety of excellent sports facilities including the multifaceted Greensboro Coliseum Complex, the Greensboro Aquatic Center and Truist Stadium at NC A&T State University.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Greensboro Coliseum Complex

Basketball, gymnastics, figure skating, wrestling volleyball, roller derby, football The Greensboro Coliseum Complex is a multibuilding facility with eight different venues that offer the unique opportunity to host nearly any sporting event one could imagine. The main staple, the Greensboro Coliseum, can seat anywhere from 4,500 – 22,000 people depending on the need and has hosted NCAA and ACC Men’s and Women’s

basketball tournaments. Other venues within the complex include the Fieldhouse — a state-of-the-art structure that features a 30,000-square-foot, column-free area and currently houses the Greensboro Swarm NBA G League team—and the Special Events Center, a 167,000-square-foot space that include three exhibit halls.

The complex has hosted several ACC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments.

Additionally, it was the host of the AAU Junior Olympic Games and the USA Gymnastics American Cup. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Greensboro Aquatic Center

Swimming, synchronized swimming, diving and water polo The Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC) is a 105,323-square-foot facility with a long history of hosting national swimming meets.

Located in the Greensboro Coliseum Complex and only one minute from the Greensboro Visitor Center, it offers plenty of lodging and eating options in the surrounding area. The Aquatic Center has five, seven and 10-meter diving boards and a 25-yard pool that can be transformed into 10 different configurations based on event needs. A new pool was constructed and opened in August 2019 that provides 19 additional lanes making the GAC the largest indoor aquatic facility in the country. In the past, the GAC has hosted the U.S. Synchronized Swimming 2012 Olympic Team trials, the 2012 U.S. Masters Swimming Spring National Championships and the 2019 USA FINA Synchronized American Open.

Truist Stadium at NC A&T State University Track and field, javelin, shot put, hammer/discus throwing areas

POPULAR ACTIVITIES A&T State University previously played host to the track and field component to the AAU Junior Olympic Games. Home of the NC A&T Aggies and capable of seating 23,000 spectators, it is a Mondo Super X Performance track with eight lanes as well as javelin and discus throwing areas.

A newly constructed stadium press box offers state-of-the-art amenities.

▶ Experience a zoo, aquarium and museum all in one day at Greensboro Science Center.

▶ SKYWILD offers 60 different challenges aimed at giving you an inside look into animal movement and behavior among the trees.

Waddle, leap, brachiate and crawl through a variety of zip lines, bridges and climbs.

▶ Check out the 84-feet wide

tsunami waves at Wet n’ Wild

GREENSBORO AREA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Brian Ambuehl, Sports Sales Manager

Emerald Pointe, one of North Carolina’s largest water parks.

▶ Get a glimpse of the world’s

1-800-344-2282

largest china shop at

bambuehl@visitgreensboronc.com

Replacements Ltd.

www.VisitGreensboroNC.com Kayla Adams, Sports Sales Manager

▶ Step back in time to the forefront of the civil rights movement with

1-800-344-2282

a visit to the International Civil

kadams@visitgreensboronc.com

Rights Center and Museum.

www.VisitGreensboroNC.com

An IAAF-certified track, Truist Stadium at NC

Truist Stadium at NC A&T State University

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

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

— Sean Kilmartin, Governor, NC Amateur Athletic Union

Greensboro Coliseum Complex

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Rocky Mount Event Center THIS 165,000 SQUARE FOOT STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY OFFERS EXCITING AMENITIES SUCH AS EVENT SPACE, A FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER - GAME DAY ADVENTURE & ARCADE, AND THE FIELD HOUSE WHICH ACCOMMODATES A WIDE RANGE OF SPORTS AND CONCERTS

Located just an hour east of Raleigh, North Carolina is the southern-charmed city of Rocky Mount. Not only does this manufacturing hub offer beautiful parks and authentic attractions, but it is also home to Eastern North Carolina’s premier sports and entertainment venue – the Rocky Mount Event Center.

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A Top-Notch Facility

Basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, wrestling, pickleball Since opening in 2018, hundreds of sporting and social events, corporate meetings, concerts, and team-building activities have taken place at the Rocky Mount Event Center, which has brought in thousands of guests to the area.

These guests not only dine in at the local restaurants and shop at the retail stores, but they’re also driving business to local lodging.

This type of activity generated over $7 million

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in economic impact in the year 2021-2022 and already has generated over $14 million for the year 2022-2023.

With 75,000 square feet of uninterrupted playing space, the RMEC is equipped with 8 basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, and includes the option of a 50’ x 94’ master event space or championship court floor plan with seating to accommodate over 4,000 guests.

This same space has hosted a variety of entertainment shows such as the Harlem Globetrotters, Monster X Show, The Kings of Southern Soul, Reggae Fest, and others. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

The Rocky Mount Event Center coordinates countless basketball and volleyball tournaments, cheer and dance competitions, as well as gymnastics and brings competitors and their families in from across the country and other countries.

Rocky Mount Event Center, a Sports Facilities Companies-managed venue, plays host to amazing athletes and their families for exceptional sports competitions and tournaments.

But, the facility is not just designed to welcome guests from all over the country.

Residents of Rocky Mount benefit from the exceptional programs and events featured there.

With two flexible banquet rooms that can be configured for smaller breakouts or large gatherings, RMEC is the perfect place for a wide variety of events including weddings, milestone celebrations, award ceremonies, corporate meetings, holiday outings and more. Catered events here exceed any contrived expectation of subpar food.

Our talented onsite staff who can customize the exact dining experience you want your guests to have from delightful box lunches, specialty platters, buffet options or elegant

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plated dinners, Rocky Mount will go above and beyond to make sure meals are one of the best parts of the guest experience and our chefs will accommodate any special requests or dietary needs.

Events at RMEC also have the high-tech audio/visual equipment to ensure that the digital experience of attendees also flows smoothly.

The banquet rooms also play a key role during sporting events, as they can be transformed into an upscale Player’s Lounge, where players and their families can relax before and after their games.

No matter what brings you to the Rocky Mount Event Center, the possibilities for fun entertainment are endless and the staff will make sure you feel at home.

ABOUT ROCKY MOUNT EVENT CENTER

▶ A unique amenity the multi-use facility has is the 15,000-squarefoot family entertainment center, Game Day Adventure and Arcade. This exhilarating adventure center offers aerial ropes courses, over 17 themed climbing walls, an arcade, various games and a soft play area for the younger guests.

▶ This is a great spot for families and kids to spend their time while they’re waiting for their next game in their tournament or just enjoying the venue. Game Day also provides team-building opportunities for older guests,

ROCKY MOUNT EVENT CENTER

as well as birthday parties for younger guests. If you’re hungry,

Keorra Taylor

grab a bite to eat at Court Side

252-366-8521

Café, which offers a multitude of

rmeceventsales@sportsfacilities.com

options for everyone.

rockymountevents.com

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Raleigh, NC WITH A RICH HISTORY AND A VARIETY OF VENUES, RALEIGH WILL WOW YOU

WakeMed Soccer Park

Scan to discover more of what The Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

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

Raleigh Convention Center

Pullen Park

Raleigh is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. The city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage and visitors can explore a variety of historic neighborhoods and landmarks, including the North Carolina State Capitol, Historic Oakwood and the Joel Lane House. Raleigh is also home to numerous museums, including the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Triangle Aquatic Center The Triangle Aquatic Center is a state-of-theart facility in Cary, which is a part of the larger Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, commonly referred to as the Triangle. TAC, home to the No. 2-ranked TAC Titans, boasts a 102,000 squarefoot facility on a 21.5-acre campus. It features a new 50-meter outdoor pool, a 50-meter indoor competition pool, a fitness center, extensive dry-land areas, a kitchen and more. The center is undergoing a $2.4 million HVAC renovation to improve air circulation. It also features a

warm-water instructional pool and a therapy pool. These pools cater to a diverse range of activities, including swim lessons, water fitness classes, competitive swimming, diving, water polo, and synchronized swimming. In addition to its impressive pools, the Triangle Aquatic Center offers amenities such as spectator seating, locker rooms, a fitness center, and a pro shop. The facility is known for its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, providing adaptive aquatics programs for individuals with disabilities.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

WRAL Soccer Park 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, 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 lines for soccer and lacrosse.

Permanent lights are installed on all eight turf fields. The facility is home to North Carolina Football Club Youth and it regularly hosts matches for various leagues and tournaments.

ample parking.

Raleigh Convention Center The Raleigh Convention Center is a modern and versatile event venue located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Spanning over 500,000 square feet, the center offers ample space for a wide range of events, including sporting events, 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. The facility includes a grand ballroom, multiple breakout rooms, and pre-function spaces.

WakeMed Soccer Park WakeMed Soccer Park is a premier sports facility in Cary. It is one of the largest soccerspecific stadiums in the southeastern United States and serves as the home stadium for North Carolina FC, a professional soccer team, and the North Carolina Courage, a professional women’s soccer team. The park features a main stadium with a seating capacity of around 10,000 and boasts a natural grass playing surface and excellent amenities, including concession stands, restrooms, and

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POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ A popular indoor rock climbing gym in Raleigh, Triangle Rock

Club offers a variety of climbing walls and routes designed to challenge climbers at every level.

The gym features a diverse range of climbing terrain, including toprope walls, lead climbing walls, and bouldering areas.

▶ Pullen Park in Raleigh spans over 66 acres and features beautifully landscaped grounds featuring lush green spaces, scenic walking paths, and picturesque picnic areas. One of the main draws is its iconic carousel, which has been operating since 1911.

THE GREATER RALEIGH SPORTS ALLIANCE

▶ Rush Hour Karting is an indoor

Jocelyn O’Sullivan, Sports Sales

an exhilarating and adrenaline-

Manager

pumping experience for

919-645-2687

individuals of all ages. The facility

josullivan@raleighsports.org

features a professionally designed

raleighsports.org

track that spans over 1/3 of a mile.

go-kart racing facility that offers

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Nash-Rocky Mount, NC

Scan to discover more of what Rocky Mount Sports Complex, Rocky Mount Event Center, and Nash County Recreation & Senior Services offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

NASH–ROCKY MOUNT IS YOUR PREMIER DESTINATION FOR FIRST-CLASS SPORTS EVENTS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IN THE TAR HEEL STATE.

Rocky Mount Event Center

Rocky Mount Sports Complex

Nash-Rocky Mount is easily accessible by both land and air. If you’re flying in, Raleigh-Durham International Airport is located 60 miles to the west and primarily serves the Raleigh, Durham and the Research Triangle region of North Carolina. If you’re driving, Interstate-95 runs through the heart of the county to the west of Rocky Mount, while U.S. Route 64 runs east and west on the way to or from Raleigh.

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Nash County Miracle Park at Coopers

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Rocky Mount Sports Complex

Soccer, baseball, softball, disc golf, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, football Nash-Rocky Mount’s leading sports facility, Rocky Mount Sports Complex is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service by offering first-class facilities, outstanding staff and a professional level of maintenance. This 143-acre facility is home to an assortment of recreational programming. The complex includes six

youth baseball fields, four interchangeable baseball and softball fields, one championship baseball field, eight soccer/lacrosse fields, a football field, a professional disc golf course, two outdoor basketball courts, outdoor volleyball courts and a walking trail.

Rocky Mount Event Center

Cheerleading, dance, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, pickleball Located on Main Street in Downtown Rocky Mount, this 165,000 square feet state-ofthe-art facility is host to headlining sporting @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

events all year long. It features 8 basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, 4 locker rooms, an option of a 50’ x 94’ master event space, and spectator seating for 4,000+. The Event Center also houses the Gameday Adventure & Arcade, which includes climbing walls, an aerial ropes course, configurable banquet rooms, and in-house catering. In total, the Rocky Mount Event Center welcomes over 100,000 visitors and athletes per year.

Rocky Mount Athletic Stadium

of the art All Inclusive playground, two soccer fields, two basketball courts and a walking trail.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ The Imperial Center for Arts and Sciences gives you a close-up

look at alligator and crocodile skulls, while its galleries feature

ROCKY MOUNT SPORTS COMPLEX Lynn Driver Sports Complex Supervisor

more than 400 works or art from around North Carolina.

▶ Explore the region’s only beer

252-467-6483

incubator and tour seven on-

lynn.driver@rockymountnc.gov

campus breweries at Rocky

rockymountsportscomplex.com

Mount Mills.

▶ Catch a live show at The Rocky

Football

ROCKY MOUNT EVENT CENTER

Part of Rocky Mount Sports Complex, Rocky Mount Athletic Stadium seats more than 5,000 spectators and features a natural grass playing field, team field house, large press box and elevated coaching areas. It also has a private locker room.

Keorra Taylor

Mount Event Center or hike the

Event Coordinator

walking trails at City Lake on your

252-366-8521

quest to find an exotic waterfowl.

Nash County Miracle Park at Coopers

NASH COUNTY RECREATION & SENIOR SERVICES

Baseball, softball

Opened in 2021! It has two 225’ baseball fields and two 300’ softball fields spread across 46.5 acres. This park also has a state

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rmeceventsales@sportsfacilities.com www.rockymountevents.com www.sportadvisory.com

▶ All of your boating and fishing needs can be met with a trip to Tar River Reservoir.

Thomas Gillespie, Parks & Recreation Director, CPRP, CYSA 252-462-2685 Thomas.Gillespie@nashcountync.gov

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Hickory, NC

Scan to discover more of what Visit Hickory Metro offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

WITH A WORLD-FAMOUS RACING SHORT TRACK, PROFESSIONAL AND COLLEGIATE FACILITIES AND A GREAT HISTORY AND HERITAGE, HICKORY’S ROOTS RUN DEEP IN NORTH CAROLINA SPORTING LORE

Hickory Metro Convention Center

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Everybody loves it here, it’s beautiful.

It (Lake Hickory) is the perfect size for a competition such as this one. It offers a variety of fishing experiences depending on how the anglers prefer to fish.”

— Secret York, Co-founder of LBAA

Rock Barn Country Club & Spa

Henry Fork Regional Recreation Park

Hickory, NC is conveniently located off Interstate 40, which connects Knoxville to the west with Raleigh to the east.

If you’re flying in, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is around 42 miles away in Charlotte. Immerse yourself in the interactive opportunities presented at the SALT Block, which encompasses an entire city block filled with Science, Arts & Literature Together.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Hickory Metro Convention Center Multipurpose indoor

The Hickory Metro Convention Center, located in a premier destination within the southeast, is undergoing a major renovation & expansion. Renovating over 30,000 square feet and adding on 46,000 plus square feet of multipurpose sports space. This facility has been the home to a variety of indoor sports including: Bull riding, soccer clinics, martial arts, wrestling, gymnastics, dance, and more. With the newest addition the center will be a prime

location to welcome additional sports such as volleyball, basketball, pickleball, cheer and more.

Henry Fork Regional Recreation Park

Canoeing, running, soccer With nine soccer fields, an 8,000-squarefoot picnic shelter, picnic tables and grills, an alpine tower ropes course, two playgrounds, a concession stand, walking trail, canoe launch and horseshoe pits, this multiuse park is ideal for soccer, lacrosse, rugby and other sports. Two additional fields will be added in 2024-2025. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Lake Hickory (Catawba River) Boating, fishing, swimming

Take in the magisterial beauty of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains when you plan an outdoor tournament on Lake Hickory.

Fishing tournaments are popular here during the summer months, when the lake has an abundance of largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie and channel catfish. Lake Hickory hosted two Lady Bass Anglers Association Pro Tour events in the Spring of 2019 and 2021. Also, episodes of “Fishing University” were filmed in 2018, with another in 2022.

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

Catawba Meadows Park

Baseball, disc golf, multipurpose indoor, softball With the Catawba River Greenway serving as a border, this multipurpose park is an ideally located hotspot for tournament planners. The park features five lighted Little League baseball fields, four lighted youth and adult softball and baseball fields, a field house with concessions, a disc golf course with 18 holes, an umpires and coaches meeting room and much more.

▶ Downtown Hickory yields a fantastic community feel as you explore a bevy of local retail shops, booming foodie scene and breweries, entertainment options, theatrical pursuits and a newly renovated downtown, city walk, and social district.

▶ Explore outdoor adventures by taking to the trails (bike, hike, and more), Lake Hickory with over 100 miles of shoreline and 20+ miles of mountain bike trails.

Rock Barn Country Club & Spa

▶ The SALT Block is a cultural are

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 golf courses which have yielded praise from Golf Digest.

VISIT HICKORY METRO

complex that includes the historic Arts and Science Center, houses

Sarah Davis Jones, CMP, TMP

the Western Piedmont Symphony,

Director of Sales & Marketing

an Aquarium and Planetarium,

828-322-1335

as well as the Hickory Museum

sarah@hickorymetro.com

of Art.

www.visithickorymetro.com

New Spaces COMING TO

HICKORY, N.C.

Expanding

46,196 sq. ft. of additional space added! This space will contain basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts with 30 ft. ceilings.

Renovating

30,000 sq. ft. of the existing building is getting fully renovated.

Updated layouts, furnishings, and finishes.

Total Space Available

132,000 sq. ft. of usable space is available for you!

For more info, call 828.322.1335 or visit www.visitHICKORYmetro.com SportsPlanningGuide.com

Sports Planning Guide

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Winston-Salem, NC

Scan to discover more of what Visit Winston-Salem offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

WITH AN INCREDIBLE ARRAY OF SPORTS FACILITIES, WINSTON-SALEM IS A MUST-SEE DESTINATION OF THE SOUTH

JDL Fast Track

A modern destination with a unique past, Winston-Salem combines history and culture in fun ways. Whether you’re strolling through heirloom gardens, sampling Moravian cookies or relaxing with a glass of North Carolina wine, Winston-Salem will have you looking forward to your next trip back. WinstonSalem was designated a “Runner Friendly Community” by the Road Runners Club of America.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT RISE Indoor Sports

Basketball, volleyball, training, soccer, cheer, gymnastics 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 featuring 6,000-square-feet of fitness and cardio space, concessions with indoor and outdoor dining, and onsite meeting rooms.

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 await game day officials and coaches.

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

POPULAR ACTIVITIES Truist Sports Park

Lacrosse, soccer, field hockey, ultimate Truist Sports Park boasts 13 full-sized fields (11 lighted), including four artificial turf (450,000 total square feet). The field house provides concessions, office facilities and a multipurpose meeting room with multi-media, audiovisual and seating for 120. Spectators enjoy elevated viewing areas, including the 1,400-seat stadium field.

Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Annex and Education Buildings Hockey, wrestling, martial arts, gymnastics, archery

The Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Annex and Education Buildings encompass a roughly 70acre 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 WinstonSalem Fairgrounds Annex, home to the Carolina Thunderbirds, a minor league hockey team.

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

▶ Enjoy a stroll through the Old Winston-Salem 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 Deco-Turf II courts, the same court surface that is used at the US Open. The 64,000-square-foot indoor tennis center houses eight climate-controlled indirect-lighted Mondo-Ten tennis courts.

Salem Museums & Gardens to tour dozens of 18th and 19th-century restored buildings.

▶ Winston-Salem’s award-winning, walkable downtown boasts more than 100 restaurants, shops, art galleries, and nightlife options.

Find family-friendly fun at Roar,

Truist Stadium

a 42,000-square-foot dining,

Baseball

entertainment, and event complex

Truist Stadium is host to the Winston-Salem Dash, a Class-A advanced minor league affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. This downtown ballpark features 5,500 stadium-style seats, 16 luxurious suites on the Club Level, three concession stations, and a 200-foot LED outfield wall scoreboard with video and animation capabilities.

that recently opened in the Downtown Arts District.

▶ Tanglewood Park offers 1,100 acres of recreation space, complete with a BMX track, aquatic center, equine facilities, soft golf course, signature golf courses, gardens, and more than eight miles of mountain bike and multi-use trails.

▶ Tour the Reynolda Mile, a historic

VISIT WINSTON-SALEM Bonny Bernat, STS

stretch of homes, gardens, shops,

Senior Sports Development Manager

galleries and restaurants that

336-728-4215

comprise what was once the country

Bonny@VisitWinstonSalem.com

estate of tobacco magnate R.J.

visitwinstonsalem.com

Reynolds and his wife Katharine.

RISE Indoor Sports

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Visit Winston-Salem not only met our expectations but exceeded them. From the bid process, hotel and venue negotiations, pre-event planning to event execution, they were with us from beginning to end, assisting us with whatever we needed. A truly great experience.”

— Corinne Shigemoto, Director of Membership and Events, USA Judo

Wake Forest University Tennis Complex

Truist Stadium

SportsPlanningGuide.com

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Greenville, NC

Scan to discover more of what Play Greenville, NC Sports offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

SOUTHERN CHARM, A PASSION FOR SPORTS, AND A GROWING METROPOLITAN REGION MAKE THE EAST COAST’S EMERALD CITY A SPORTS PLANNER’S DELIGHT

Aaron Hines/City of Greenville, NC

Tar River View of Uptown Greenville

Greenville is mainly accessible from the east and west via Interstate 587 and easily accessible via I-95 from the north and south. About an hour and a half to the west of downtown Greenville is Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. For connections to and from Charlotte, local PittGreenville Airport offers flights via American Eagle.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

ECU’s North Recreational Complex Cross-country, disc golf, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, Ultimate Frisbee

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. The 18-hole disc golf course offers a unique layout, and the fields are a popular spot for Ultimate Frisbee, with invitational tournaments taking place throughout the year.

ECU Sports

Baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball East Carolina University’s facilities are stateof-the-art and home to some exceptional collegiate talent. These same venues are also @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

available for tournaments, meets, competitions, and other events that sports planners are putting together throughout the year. Be sure to check out the 50,000-seat, fully lit Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium, home to the Pirates’ football program; the 8,000-seat ECU Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum for both basketball and volleyball games; Clark LeClair Baseball Stadium with a capacity of 5,000; and the 1,000-seat Stewart Johnson Soccer Stadium.

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-square-foot 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, shuttle service, on-site catering, and much more with an additional 1,700 rooms within five minutes of the campus.

The Convention District is also convenient to lots of restaurants and retail shopping, and a just short drive to the Dptown and Dickinson Avenue Districts, as well as the Greenville Town Common on the beautiful Tar River.

ECU’s North Recreational Complex

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

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 is the current home of the Little League Softball® World Series. 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! While players have been stepping up to the plate here since the 1950s, the stadium itself was completely renovated in 2012, making for a state-of-the-art experience. There are 234 stadium seats, 400 right field bleacher seats, and additional space for lawn seating – in all the stadium can seat around 1,000 spectators.

▶ The new NC Museum of Natural

Sciences-Greenville campus offers STEM exhibits and activities for children and adults to explore nature, learn history and do science.

The onsite The Art Lab incubator also offers visitors a chance to visit and shop with local artists while they work.

▶ Knee Deep Adventures and

Riverside Recreation are watercraft outfitters who rent out kayaks and stand-up paddleboards so you can navigate the Tar River and explore the forests at a leisurely pace.

▶ For another peaceful getaway,

check out River Park North and the new Wildwood Park for a combined nearly 700 acres of hiking and biking trails, waterways to paddle,

PLAY GREENVILLE, NC SPORTS

and opportunities to observe nature

Ce’Nedra Dillard, STS

and wildlife!

Sports Sales Manager

▶ Treat your sweet tooth at Simply

252-329-4200 cdillard@greenvillenc.gov

Natural Creamery & Jersey Farm

www.visitgreenvillenc.com/sports

in Ayden where there are ice cream sundaes and cones galore.

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“Hosting the 2022 Little League Softball World Series at its new home in Greenville for the second year was truly an amazing experience both on and off the field, not only for all the participants and volunteers, but also for all the communities that made the trip to support their teams. We look forward to returning in 2023 as we continue to find new ways to provide life-long memories to girls.”

— Demiko Ervin, Director of Urban Initiative, Little League Baseball & Softball®

ECU Sports

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Tae Kwon Do at Greenville Convention Center

Sports Planning Guide

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WILMINGTON, NC

Scan to discover more of what Wilmington and Beaches CVB offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

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

Olsen Park Miracle Field

The major east/west interstate artery, I-40, leads to Wilmington and Beaches, which is located halfway between New York and Florida. The destination is also served by Highways 17, 74/76, 117 and 421. Interstate I-95 is 73 miles away.

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Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

Althea Gibson Tennis Complex at Empie Park Tennis

The Althea Gibson Tennis Complex has 24 lighted hard courts, a clubhouse and restrooms. Courts are open for public play, while the City of Wilmington offers recreational programs throughout the year, and the Greater Wilmington Tennis Association uses the courts for tournaments and league play.

nCino Sports Park

Soccer, lacrosse, running Offering seven full size soccer fields for challenge and classic soccer leagues, adult leagues and other soccer tournaments, nCino Sports Park is home to the Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC. This complex also offers the opportunity for other events such as lacrosse and other sporting events. The park is currently under construction with completion scheduled for 2024. When finished, the park will have 11 fullsized fields, one of which will be synthetic turf, and include outdoor lighting. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ Step back in time when you get

Legion Sports Complex

Olsen Park

With more than four acres of paved parking, this great complex includes Legion Stadium/Jurgenson-Gabriel Field (which hosts football and soccer matches on artificial turf), the Legion Back Field, Buck Hardee Field (baseball), four lit tennis court and the Robert Shipp Pool.

This city park has five lighted baseball/ softball fields along with concession stands and a picnic shelter, and the handicap accessible Miracle Field and Miracle Playground. It is used to host regional and state athletic tournaments.

Wilmington Convention Center

Baseball, football, soccer, tennis, skateboarding

Football, soccer, baseball, tennis

Baseball, softball

Cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, martial arts, badminton, volleyball The Wilmington Convention Center is the only convention center on the North Carolina coast. The convention center has a 30,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 12,000-square-foot ballroom, 5,784-squarefeet of meeting space, 15,000-squarefeet of pre-function space, ticket office, concessions and an attached parking deck.

onboard the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, a WWII-era vessel that faced fierce combat in the Pacific Theater.

▶ Climb along the Adventure Reef, witness an albino alligator, wonder at sea turtles

Ogden Park

Three lighted baseball fields, one youth football stadium with lights, one lighted softball field, three soccer/football fields with lights, nine lighted tennis courts, 10,000-square-foot concrete skatepark, shelters, a paved trail around the pond and an off-road trail through the woods.

WILMINGTON AND BEACHES CVB

and a family of otters or feel the smooth skin of a gliding stingray at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

▶ The Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park features water slides,

a wave pool, lazy river, rock climbing, go-karts and more awesome family fun.

▶ Get outdoors at Greenfield

Park, where biking and walking

Joel Smith, MPRTSM

trails, tennis courts, an outdoor

Senior Sales Manager

amphitheater and boat and

800-650-9064

kayak rentals all await your

JSmith@wilmingtonandbeaches.com

next workout.

SportsWilmington.com

Althea Gibson Tennis Complex

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. The CVB has grown along with [our events], 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 Convention Center

Ogden Park

SportsPlanningGuide.com

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Cabarrus County, NC

Scan to discover more of what Visit Cabarrus offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

ONE OF THE TOP MOTORSPORT DESTINATIONS IN THE COUNTRY, CABARRUS COUNTY ALSO FEATURES PLENTY OF GREAT RESTAURANTS, VENUES AND ATTRACTIONS

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE

“The Team at Cabarrus County CVB have been amazing to work with.

With each of our events in Cabarrus County, they have been more than helpful and accommodating from start to finish. Cabarrus County CVB is among the best support team we deal with in the country.”

— Kevin Williams, President

Cabarrus Arena

West Cabarrus Turf Complex

Cabarrus County is famous for its high-energy racing scene, but you don’t have to be a motorsports enthusiast to take advantage of all that this scenic region has to offer. Why not choose a destination for your next sports event or tournament in a place where you can make memories on and off the field?

POPULAR ACTIVITIES

▶ Cabarrus is home to the Charlotte

Motor Speedway and several NASCAR racing teams.

▶ Concord Mills Mall is where visitors can get plenty of shopping done with a number of popular brands and stores to choose from including Adidas, Aeropostale, Coach and Forever 21.

28 SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

West Cabarrus Turf Complex

Brand new and game-day ready West Cabarrus High School Turf Complex is home to three new turf fields including one stadium and two practice fields. Ready for competition, all fields feature T°Cool® evaporative cooling technology and are equipped with lights. These versatile fields are lined for soccer, football, and tic-marked for lacrosse. With three additional stadium fields, Cabarrus County offers a total of six turf fields. All include the same features and are located near each other as well as top attractions and hotels.

pickleball tournaments as it features seven full-size basketball courts and 17 possible pickleball courts.

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 wrestling events, badminton tournaments, taekwondo matches and even indoor volleyball tournaments. The facility has more than 140,000 square feet and hosts more than 150 events on nearly 300 event days each year.

Carolina Courts

Basketball, volleyball, pickleball Carolina Courts is Charlotte’s premier basketball, volleyball and pickleball facility.

This massive indoor facility features 48,000 square feet of available space for various sporting tournaments and event needs.

The facility can host large basketball and

VISIT CABARRUS Paul Sheehan Sales Manager 704-456-7972 PaulSheehan@explorecabarrus.com www.explorecabarrus.com @SportsPlanGuide Sports Planning Guide #SportsPG 339

UNTAPPED POTENTIAL:

TIPS & TRICKS FOR MANAGING VOLUNTEERS Maximize success: Why volunteers are the heartbeat of your event

By Paige Pennigar

SportsPlanningGuide.com

perceptions of the host destination.

As an event planner or coordinator, you understand that volunteers are the backbone of many successful events, especially in the world of sports. A well-organized and motivated volunteer team can make a significant difference in the overall experience of both participants and spectators.

Whether you’re an experienced coordinator or just starting out, it’s crucial to grasp the fundamental steps to make sure your volunteer program not only runs smoothly but also boosts the success of your sporting events.

Sports Planning Guide

iStock.com/ jaochainoi

B

ehind every successful sports tourism event lies an army of dedicated volunteers. From registration and ticketing to crowd control and security, these individuals play pivotal roles in coordinating various aspects of the event. Volunteers become the friendly faces that welcome participants and attendees, ensuring a positive and well-organized experience for all. Beyond the event itself, volunteers serve as ambassadors for their communities. As they interact with tourists and participants, they foster positive

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1.

Set the Stage with Clear Objectives

Every successful event begins with a clear understanding of its objectives. As an event planner or coordinator, your first task is to define what you want to achieve with the help of volunteers. Are you aiming to streamline logistical operations, enhance attendee satisfaction, or foster community engagement? Having well-defined objectives will guide your volunteer management strategy.

2.

Photo courtesy of Visit Sacramento

So, what steps can you take to prepare a successful volunteer program?

Recruit Volunteers Strategically

Identify your target audience. This will help you direct your energy to the right networks. Craft detailed job descriptions that not only outline roles and responsibilities but also emphasize the benefits of volunteering at your event. Leverage various channels such as social media, your event website, and local community networks to reach potential volunteers.

3.

Equip your Volunteers with Knowledge

A well-trained volunteer team is a confident and productive one. Host comprehensive orientation sessions before the event, covering event specifics, volunteer roles, and expectations. Provide training materials and resources to ensure your volunteers feel well-prepared for their roles.

4.

Communicate Effectively

Communication is key to any successful endeavor.

Establish a robust communication strategy to keep your volunteers informed and engaged. Utilize tools like email, SMS, and social media. Clear, consistent communication builds trust with your volunteers, further motivating them to invest in your mission.

5.

Craft a Seamless Schedule

Ensure that your volunteer schedule is well-structured, accounting for various shifts, breaks, and rotations.

Leverage scheduling features from volunteer management platforms to avoid overbooking or gaps in coverage. Volunteers should have access to their schedules well in advance for proper planning.

6.

Have a Plan for On-site Management

On the day of the event, effective on-site management is crucial. Designate a competent volunteer coordinator to oversee operations and handle any issues that may arise.

Provide clear identification for your volunteers, such as uniforms or badges, to distinguish them from event attendees.

7.

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Recognize and Appreciate Volunteers

California International Marathon hosted by the Sacramento Running Association

morale. Express gratitude through thank-you notes/ emails, certificates, or small tokens of appreciation.

Consider organizing a post-event celebration or gathering to show your volunteers how much you value their efforts.

8.

Gather Feedback for Continuous Improvement

Learning from each event is part of the event planning and coordination process. Collect feedback from your volunteers after the event to identify areas for improvement. Use this valuable input to refine your volunteer program for future events.

9.

Build Community Engagement

Highlight the positive impact of your volunteer program on the community. Share success stories and testimonials on your event website and social media channels. Encourage your volunteers to share their experiences, as this can attract new recruits and showcase your event’s community involvement.

Paige Pennigar is the director of business development at VolunteerLocal, a userfriendly volunteer management platform used by volunteer coordinators of all types.

Recognizing and appreciating your volunteers’ contributions is not just a nice gesture; it’s essential for

Sports Planning Guide

@SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

Effective Volunteer Management Systems — A Must-Have Tool

H

aving a volunteer management system (VMS) is crucial for several reasons, particularly in the context of sports tourism organizing and retaining valuable coordinators:

Efficient Resource Allocation: A volunteer management system helps you allocate volunteers efficiently. It enables you to match volunteers’ skills, interests, and availability with specific roles and tasks, ensuring that every volunteer contributes meaningfully to the event’s success.

Streamlined Communication: Coordinating with a large volunteer workforce can be daunting without a system. Such a system provides a centralized platform for communication, making it easier to disseminate information, updates, and instructions to volunteers.

Scheduling and Shift Management: Managing volunteer schedules and shifts can be a logistical nightmare without a system. A volunteer management system allows you to create, update, and communicate schedules effortlessly, reducing scheduling conflicts and no-shows.

Data Management: Storing and managing volunteer data, including contact information, preferences, and training records, is simplified with a management system.

It helps ensure data accuracy and compliance with privacy regulations.

Scaling Your Program: As your sports tourism events

Photo courtesy of P3R

grow, managing volunteers manually becomes increasingly

challenging. A management system scales with your needs, allowing you to handle larger and more complex events effectively.

Professionalism and Credibility: Utilizing a volunteer management system demonstrates professionalism to volunteers, sponsors, and participants. It instills confidence in your organization’s ability to execute events seamlessly, which can enhance your credibility and reputation.

Cost-Efficiency: While there may be initial costs associated with implementing a management system, the long-term benefits, including reduced administrative workload and improved volunteer retention, can lead to significant cost savings.

As you embark on your journey to harness the potential of volunteers, remember that you’re entering a new era of sports tourism organizing. Leverage the latest technology to enhance your volunteer management efforts. With the right strategies and a passionate volunteer team, you can take your events to new heights and leave a lasting impact on participants and communities alike. Volunteers’ enthusiasm for your events can lead to increased tourism, benefiting the local economy and promoting future events. Sports tourism can breathe new life into the communities that host events. Local volunteers in such locations are instrumental in showcasing their communities to a global audience. The genuine charm and warmth they exude leaves a lasting impression on athletes and fans, prompting them to return or explore other hidden gems.

There has never been a more important time to build community; with a strong volunteer base, everybody wins.

Pittsburgh Marathon volunteers handing out finisher medals.

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