Sports Planning Guide

PO Box 609, Palos Heights, IL 60463 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID Lebanon Junction, KY

Permit No. 414

A Premier Tourism Marketing publication • www.sportsdirectory.org

SEPTEMBER 2010

From our world-class sports facilities to our wonderful attractions, to our diverse dining and shopping to our comfortable hotels, there are many ways to have fun in Round Rock. So check us out for your next event, whether you’re looking for stadiums, courses, courts, fields, tracks, gyms or just plenty of open space to get your game on. With great weather, friendly people, and a ton of fun things to do, Round Rock is the perfect hat trick.

ASA Center

This Round Rock arena is the only inline hockey facility in Central Texas.

The facility was designed to accommodate any sport including volleyball, inline hockey, dodgeball, futsal / soccer, box lacrosse and floorball.

•

18,000 sq. ft. facility

•

Locker rooms Upper viewing deck Pro shop Arcade Full concession stand Inflatable bounce area Roller rink

• • • • • •

Old Settlers Park

They say everything is bigger in Texas and they’re right.

Competition surrounds you in this vast playing ground.

•

570 acre park 3 miles of trails Champion Fields at Old Settlers Park 2 football fields (both fields lit) 5 regulation-size soccer fields (1 field lit) 12 half-size soccer fields 12 tennis courts (all 12 courts lit) 2 sand volleyball courts 1 professionally-designed disc golf course 8 grills, 2 picnic shelters, 22 picnic tables and 7 playgrounds 5 concession facilities and 7 restrooms

•

Lake with fishing area

• • • • • • • • • •

Champion Fields at Old Settlers Park

Round Rock ISD Athletic Complex

Bring your game to this premier destination for recreation. Here, the team and the fans have plenty of room to enjoy themselves.

•

120 + acres softball / baseball complex

•

20 baseball fields (16 fields lit)

•

5 softball fields (all 5 fields lit)

•

39,000 sq. ft. of shaded spectator areas

•

18 lighted batting cages

•

3 tailgate islands with grills and picnic tables

•

5 covered playground

•

Ample warm-up areas outside of the fields

This impressive stadium is home to Round Rock high schools and covers 46 acres. Even when you’re a visitor you’ll be treated like the home team.

•

Field sized to accommodate football and soccer

•

Field is AstroPlay synthetic turf

•

Spacious locker rooms for both teams

•

Seats 11,000 spectators comfortably

•

Conference room

•

Four ticket buildings

®

•

Two-tier press box

•

2,750 parking spaces

Round Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau www.SportsCapitalofTexas.com

Line-Up Vol. 2, No. 1, September 2010

14

Columns 8

Kelly Metzger

Make It Happen In Your Back Yard

16

Volunteers: A Key Ingredient Bill Hanson

Jim McCurdy

12

The Importance of Background Screening

The Economic Impact of Sports Events

18

Don Schumacher

Budgeting for Sports Events Bill Hanson

Directory Resources 20 Alabama

30 Mississippi

20 Arizona

30 Missouri

20 Arkansas

31 Nebraska

22 California

31 Nevada

22 Colorado

31 New Mexico

22 Connecticut

31 New York

23 Dist. of Columbia

32 North Carolina

23 Florida

32 North Dakota

23 Georgia

32 Ohio

24 Illinois

34 Oregon

26 Indiana

34 Pennsylvania

26 Iowa

34 South Carolina

26 Kansas

34 Tennessee

28 Kentucky

34 Texas

28 Louisiana

35 Virginia

28 Maryland

36 Washington

28 Massachusetts

36 West Virginia

28 Michigan

36 Wisconsin

27

29

30 Minnesota Cover photo courtesy of ŠiStockphoto.com/Rich Vintage Photography

6

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

sportsdirectory.org

Jim McCurdy

Make It Happen in Your Back Yard E

very member of the sports community

to your event according to your budget and

should be asking “How can we make

make the most sense, and how do you go

it better?” Has the economy slowed your

about gathering this information? Are you

ability to find new opportunities as a DMO/

speaking the same language face-to-face

sports commission? Has your sports budget

and in your RFP’s? What other events are

been cut? Has there been talk about elimi-

going on in your area that could affect your

nating or reconsolidating your sports com-

participation?

mission and bringing it back under the CVB umbrella to cross-utilize manpower?

Important changes taking place in your back yard are affecting your future.

reference source. Along with our online directory, the full package connects buyers

meetings and conferences you attend.

with planners year-round. Our online

The annual Sports Planning Guide & Directory, coupled with our online resources, help planners and buyers make the right connections Sports Calendar of Events showcasing

ner the most exposure to the prospects

competitions across the country was de-

you want to bring to your area. The United

signed for planners and sports commis-

States Sports Congress is an excellent ex-

sions to use in their selection process to

ample. This annual get-together provides

help prevent overlaps.

numerous educational forums as well as

As a planner, let me know how I can

opportunities to speak with sports rights

help you find locations to hold your events.

holders and national governing bodies with

Email your needs/specs and bid sheets to

a 1:1 ratio. The National Association of

me, and I will do all possible to connect you

Sports Commissions (NASC) meeting is

to the right destinations. As a sports com-

another smart investment.

mission/DMO, let’s get all of your arenas

cle that will place your information directly

jeff@ptmgroups.com

Managing Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Contributing Writers Don Schumacher Bill Hanson Kelly Metzger

with the information for success. Our an-

DMOs have to be more selective in making

your area. Be selective and look at a vehi-

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk

my goal is to provide planners and buyers

future plans. A good place to start is the

Of course, there are other directions to

621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

ager for Sports Planning Guide & Directory,

nual print Sports Planning Guide is a great

consider for advertising what you have in

Editorial & Advertising Office

As the national marketing & sales man-

To ensure ROI, sports commissions and

View these gatherings as chances to gar-

Vol. 2, No. 1, September 2010

Director, Design & Production – Robert Wyszkowski rob@ptmgroups.com

Sports Marketing & Sales Manager – Jim McCurdy jim@ptmgroups.com

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos or manuscripts.

Sports Planning Guide & Directory (ISSN 2153-4179) is published annually by Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc., 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. Postage paid at Willowbrook, IL and Lebanon Junction, KY. The magazine is distributed free to sports events organizers. Single copies for all others is $9.95

Send Address Change to: Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc. P.O. Box 609, Palos Heights, IL 60463

and soccer, softball, baseball and football fields online.

Let’s work together to make it happen in your back yard.

A

publication

in the hands of rights holders and NGB’s who are the decision-makers.

Sincerely,

If you’re a rights holder or NGB, you

All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.

have to be efficient in choosing a site for your events. What sites/locations will cater 8

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Jim McCurdy sportsdirectory.org

Schedule Released for US Sports Congress Lee County Sports Authority to Host US Sports Congress

T

he US Sports Congress, entering its fifth year, attracts top-level deci-

or an Events Rights Holder, you may qualify for complimentary housing and

sion-makers from the world of amateur

registration. Your registration must be

sport. The attendees of this event are

completed no later than November 1.

senior-level executives who represent sports governing bodies, the destina-

,

tions who desire to host their events and other industry purveyors.

The US Sports Congress prides itself on providing insightful professional development sessions. Our presenters have included individuals from Major League Baseball, the Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid and the PGA. What our attendees excel at is the networking. We’ve created an environment that creates strong partnerships that drive successful events and create opportunities for those attending.

“Outstanding conference with dynamic speakers that were relevant to me and the sport. The sports conferences I have attended thus far do not compare to the US Sports Congress Conference. The Trade Show Receptions and the Congress After Hours were unforgettable with great friendships and contacts made.”

— Mark Lingle, Director, World Sport Stacking Association

Registration Registration information can be found at www.ussportscongress.com. If you are interested in attending the US Sports Congress, please contact our office, 608363-0873, to be added to our invitation list. Space is available on a limited basis.

If you are a National Governing Body

Thank you to our sponsors:

A few sponsorships remain.

If you are looking for exposure for your destination, product or service, allow us to customize a sponsorship to meet your budget. Contact our office for more details, 608-363-0873

2 01 0 • US SPOR TS C ONGRES S C ONFERENC E A GE NDA • 20 1 0

Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa is a state of mind.

Discover a serene waterscape overlooking Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 12, 2010 • PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION (Invitation–Only Event) Sponsored by Florida Sports Foundation

MONDAY DECEMBER 13, 2010 • RIGHTS HOLDERS BREAKFAST “Medaling Athletes” Educational Session (Rights Holders Only) • EXHIBITOR BREAKFAST “Getting The Most From The USSC Trade Show” Presentation • GOLF & SPA OUTINGS (Including Lunch) • ICE BREAKER RECEPTION On The Beach at Sanibel Harbour The golf outing is a great way to network with Rights Holders and Destinations.

TUESDAY DECEMBER 14, 2010 • BREAKFAST • KEYNOTE SPEAKER Rowdy Gaines, Olympic Swimming Gold Medalist & Broadcaster • GENERAL SESSION 1 “Background Checks,” Kelly Metzger, LexisNexis • LUNCH • PRO DISC GOLF DEMO, Brian Graham, Executive Director PDGA • BID WORKSHOP PART 1 “Communicating Through an RFP,”Jack Kelly • TRADE SHOW RECEPTION • OPEN NETWORKING DINNER • CONGRESS AFTER HOURS Networking opportunities abound at our receptions and trade show.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 15, 2010 • BREAKFAST • GENERAL SESSION 2 “Branding,” Al Oeter’s Center For Excellence • BID WORKSHOP PART 2 “Sponsorship & Event Logistics,” Jack Kelly • LUNCH • FENCING DEMO, Local Fencing Club • GENERAL SESSION 3 “Event Promotion,” Mike Veeck • TRADE SHOW RECEPTION • CLOSING RECEPTION Art of the Olympians Museum sportsdirectory.org

Thought-provoking education sessions are conducted by leaders in the industry.

Don Schumacher

The Economic Impact of Sports Events M

uch has been said about the

Some accommodation should be made

estimates as to amounts paid for hotel

economic impact of sports events.

for the rooms that would have been

rooms, food and beverages, retail pur-

“Keeping score” is an important element

occupied anyway. So the estimate of

chases, etc., must be acquired.

in competition, and it can be equally

room nights must be based upon a count

We must also constantly deal with a

important to those engaged in attracting

traceable to the event. This requires

recognized element in any professionally

events to a community. If an event has

some sort of system or survey.

produced study. This element is called a

developed a reputation for producing

The establishment of a system or sur-

multiplier. Economists are in agreement

large numbers of visitors, it will attract the

vey gets us closer to the central issues

that a dollar spent turns over in the local

interest of bidders. And, at the same

with the computation of economic impact

economy. Your restaurant purchase

time, the event owner begins to ask for more incentives from potential hosts.

Difficulties arise in estimating the potential impact of an event. Savvy hosts

Your organization must collect accurate data before estimates of an event’s impact can be released

are learning to determine the potential return on investment prior to bidding.

estimates. Information is needed before

employs people whose wages produce

Equally savvy event owners are empha-

estimates are produced. All too often

additional spending. To account for this,

sizing their ability to produce visitors. It is

no provision is made for data collection.

multipliers are applied after direct spend-

not unusual to learn that estimates vary

Surveys can be made at team registra-

ing estimates are complete.

depending on where you sit!

What can be done to make these estimates work for everyone? Perhaps the

tion or on check-in at the hotel. They can be completed during the event itself.

So, data collection becomes the

In the sports event industry multipliers can produce inflated estimates that morph into statements of fact. It seems

first and most important thing to remem-

most difficult hurdle. The most common

ber is the simple fact that all estimates

formula: the number of visitors, times

comes fact. It is no longer a case of “we

are flawed. It is never possible to predict

the number of nights, times the amount

estimate direct visitor spending as x dol-

with accuracy what might happen and

spent by a tourist each day.

just as difficult to estimate precisely what

The National Association of Sports

the larger the estimate the quicker it be-

lars.” It becomes instead a statement like “the total economic impact was y dollars.”

did happen. It comes down to one word:

Commissions (NASC) developed an

“estimate.” Why, then, are claims of eco-

Economic Impact Template to assist its

nomic benefit made as though they are

members in estimating what might take

how to deal with economic impact. Be

fact? The answer probably stems from

place or what did take place. Users can

consistent, whatever you decide to do.

a desire to believe the best no matter

plug in their own data or use median

And, explain how you arrived at a num-

where your interests may be.

numbers developed over more than

ber when it is released. Please keep

Some communities have begun keeping score in terms of room nights rather

20 event surveys.

Data collection and report preparation

It is recommended that policies be developed within your organization on

in mind the inability of experts to agree and use caution the next time you must

than spending realized. They feel this is

can be accomplished through profes-

announce a number because once it is

a more objective view, one less subject to

sionally conducted studies, employment

out there it cannot be retrieved.

differences of opinion. Comparisons are

of a team from a university under the

made from year to year or between the

direction of a faculty member, or by a

results in the month the event took place

team from the organizing committee. In

and the same month a year previously.

every situation the number of visitors,

This approach, too, has its weakness.

number of days spent in the market, and

12

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Don Schumacher has served since 1994 as executive director of the National Association of Sports Commissions, Cincinnati, Ohio. He is also president of his own sports marketing, management and consulting firm, Don Schumacher & Associates, Inc., of Cincinnati.

sportsdirectory.org

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE SPORTS FACILITIES GUIDE

1-888-205-7264 www.historicstcharles.com

Kelly Metzger

The Importance of Background Screening It’s a necessity, not an option

N

onprofits owe a lot to their volun-

background check was a manual

background screening affordable and

teers, the generous people who

process that was expensive and time-

accessible for nonprofits securely on

donate their precious time and energy

consuming, making it cost-prohibitive

the Internet.

to help the organization succeed. That

for most nonprofit organizations. Today,

alone is a big reason why nonprofits

industry-leading screening providers

should provide a safe, secure environ-

utilize advanced technology and sophis-

Key Areas of Risk Volunteer-related risk is often associ-

ment for their volunteers, as well as their

ticated nationwide databases to provide

ated with common compromises made

employees and the people they serve.

near-instant access to background

by nonprofits as they struggle to balance

information at a low cost, making

budgets with risk tolerance.

Background screening is an essential first step for creating that safe atmosphere.

Just as private-sector businesses carefully screen the people who interact with their customers, nonprofits must – at a bare minimum – screen the people who will have access to vulnerable populations such as children or the elderly.

Not screening volunteers and employees puts minors and other vulnerable populations at physical risk, and the nonprofit organization at financial and legal risk

Nonprofit Risk Nonprofit does not perform background checks on:

Consequence Persons with a criminal history gain inappropriate access to: Vulnerable populations Financial information ■ Organizational resources ■

Employees Volunteers ■ Neither employees nor volunteers ■ ■

should an undesirable employee- or

■

A Better Strategy Perform background checks on all employees and volunteers to identify risk—before individuals enter a nonprofit.

Increased negligent hiring liability (in which the average settlement is more than $800,000).

volunteer-related event occur.

Consider these numbers from a recent screening audit performed by LexisNexis® Screening Solutions. Out of more than 3.7 million volunteer back-

Nonprofit does not perform updated, annual background checks.

Evolving risk of: ■ Physical harm ■ Financial threat ■ Negligent hiring liability

Perform updated screening to detect new offenses that will disqualify individuals from continuing to work at the nonprofit.

Nonprofit only performs local background checks within the city, county or state where a volunteer reportedly resides.

Convicted sex offenders gain access to vulnerable populations since they can move without re-registering in a new state.

Perform a national criminal database search to detect criminal and sexual offender convictions throughout the U.S., regardless of where the applicant reportedly currently lives.

ground checks performed in a five-year period (2002-2007), more than 189,000 individuals with criminal records attempted to volunteer in the nonprofit sector. This includes:

■

3,900 sex-related convictions

■

2,500 registered sex offenders

■

37,400 drug-related convictions

■

651 murder convictions

Cost Is No Longer a Barrier

Persons with a criminal history outside the city/ state gain inappropriate access to: ■ Vulnerable populations ■ Financial information ■ Organizational resources

Several years ago, performing a 14

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

sportsdirectory.org

Position

Searches

Frequency

dresses an organization’s unique objectives and risk tolerance is no longer an

Base for all positions, including: ■ Administrative ■ Volunteer ■ Coach ■ Maintenance ■ Janitorial ■ Groundskeeper

FINANCIAL

■ ■ ■

PASTORAL TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT

option, it’s a requirement of doing busi■

■

National criminal database search County courthouse criminal check

ness. With a reliable screening program

INITIAL HIRE and ANNUALLY

their volunteers can confidently work together to efficiently pursue a common purpose and support impactful, longterm organizational success.

Base as listed above, PLUS ■ Employment verification ■ Credential verification ■ Credit report

Base as listed above, PLUS ■ Employment verification ■ Education verification

BUS/ VAN DRIVERS

Base as listed above, PLUS ■ Motor vehicle report

Best Practice Tips for Background Screening Background screening requirements

INITIAL HIRE: All components ANNUALLY: National criminal database search INITIAL HIRE: All components

INITIAL HIRE and ANNUALLY

ing scope outside the volunteer or job applicant’s current county or state of residence, and reduces reliance on

will vary depending on a nonprofit’s mis-

applicant-provided information by searching nationwide.

Below are a few general tips to consider when developing a program.

Screen all employees and volunteers

Kelly Metzger is the national account manager of LexisNexis® Screening Solutions. As a leading provider of background screening services to the nonprofit sector, LexisNexis® Screening Solutions helps nonprofits promote safety while protecting the reputation of the organization by mitigating risk associated with volunteers and employees. Each year the company processes more than 12 million background checks.

ANNUALLY: National criminal database search

sion and other organizational details.

■

in place, nonprofits, their employees and

It is highly recommended that organizations supplement a national criminal database search with a county court-

using a consistent background screening

house search. When combined, these

strategy. This protects organizations

two searches complement each other

from risk, while also reducing the poten-

and drastically enhance the effective-

tial for discrimination claims. One way to

ness of a background check, providing

do this is by using screening packages

nonprofits with the most comprehensive

to help promote consistency and better

information available.

tailor screening requirements to the position being filled. The table above offers examples of typical screening packages for common nonprofit positions.

Safety: The First Step to Success Regardless of their mission, nonprofits work hard to accomplish their goals.

Always, at a bare minimum,

Just one negative volunteer- or em-

perform a national criminal database

ployee-related incident can diminish

search on all employees and volunteers.

those efforts. Implementing a consistent

This search instantly expands screen-

background screening program that ad-

■

sportsdirectory.org

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

15

Bill Hanson

Volunteers: A Key Ingredient for a Successful Event V

olunteers are the foundation of

these? Perhaps, but don’t venture far

a clearly defined staff structure and lines

nearly every successful nonprofit

from the total list or you’ll be back to

of communication. Volunteers must

organization and competition organizing

square one.

committee. Outlined here are factors involved in organizing a volunteer program that will support a large-sized activity or

know to whom they report, especially in an emergency situation. If you’re organiz-

Put Together a Volunteer Services Plan Once the Volunteer Coordinator has

ing a large event that requires many volunteers over a period of days, then a

competition, and in maintaining it to sup-

been identified, work can begin to create

volunteer handbook becomes almost a

port future events and activities.

the Volunteer Services Plan. There are a

necessity. It would include information

But be forewarned—building and maintaining an effective and successful volunteer program is hard work and, like fundraising and public relations, requires a talented and committed person to accomplish it.

number of items that must be included in

about the event itself, venue information

the plan:

with a diagram showing key locations, a

■

What committees need volunteers

and how many are needed?

■

What will they be doing? Are job

descriptions available?

An effective volunteer program requires a solid plan and a special person to coordinate it

venue evacuation plan, event schedules, transportation schedules and key contact phone numbers. One very useful list would be Important Names to Know, so that a volunteer who came into contact with a VIP could be extra friendly. A list of Volunteer Policies and Procedures is essential and should emphasize dress code, conduct and shift information.

We’ll look at the process in three operational time periods: pre-event planning, event conduct and post-event communications.

The PRE-EVENT PLANNING phase starts with the hiring or recruitment of a Volunteer Coordinator. This person needs to possess a variety of skills and

■

Where will they need to be and how

do they get there?

■

When do you need them and for

how long?

■

What services/benefits/parking/

uniforms are available?

■

Fully define the recruiting process,

to include:

Local information in the handbook should include restaurants, entertainment, shopping areas, and modes of transportation, especially a taxi phone number.

Volunteer Training is most helpful when provided in advance of the event, especially a few days prior. An orientation not only provides important informa-

personality traits, and to settle for less

■

A volunteer registration form

will result in an ineffective program or

■

An established information bank/

committee leadership the opportunity

database

to motivate them and explain the impor-

Target markets for recruiting, i.e.

tance of their support. All of the basic

people, groups, businesses, etc.

information, uniforms, parking passes

a coordinator who quits. Your selected person should have excellent organiza-

■

tional skills and be attentive to detail.

Past experience tells me that your coor-

■

dinator should be all of the following: self-motivated, even-tempered, a good mediator/have good people skills, pa-

■

tion to volunteers but gives the organizing

Processing and screening of

and job descriptions can be distributed

applicants

at this orientation.

Contacting and verifying the selected volunteers

With all of the aforementioned accomplished, the event itself is a snap.

tient, able to see the big picture, able to

The organization that takes the time to

handle multiple projects simultaneously,

format a detailed Volunteer Services Plan

stations, do their jobs properly and

able to function with little sleep, and able

will find the second phase, EVENT CON-

leave. Staff members must do their jobs

to prioritize, maintain focus and delegate.

DUCT, that much easier.

by providing excellent supervision and,

Is it impossible to find someone fitting all 16

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Your organizing committee must have

Volunteers show up, report to their work

most important, giving the volunteers sportsdirectory.org

the support items needed to do

volunteers in an assessment

their jobs. While realizing that

process and provide them with a

large events are often challenged

channel for their suggestions.

to fill all volunteer positions, cre-

We have found a Volunteer Ac-

ating a contingency pool is rec-

tion Council to be very effective

ommended. Our organization has

and most helpful for developing

called these reserves the Fifth

policies and procedures.

Wheel or the Rapid Response

If this whole process sounds

Team, and they can be sent

complicated to you, it should.

quickly to a trouble spot.

There is nothing easy about managing an effective volunteer

Reward Your Volunteers Remember that whatever you provide

program and it requires a special with each one working a specific half-

in the way of volunteer services, it will al-

day each week, and we naturally have

ways be far less than what you’d pay for

a group of key volunteers who do vari-

comparable labor. Items such as T-shirts,

ous office projects. A Volunteer of the

caps, vests, pins, parking, a lounge area,

Year program is a great way to show

meals, snacks and beverages, and event

appreciation and generate interest in

tickets will all appeal to volunteers and

the organization.

make them feel appreciated.

Finally–it’s over! The participants have

Lastly, the best method of maintaining an efficient volunteer program is to include

person as you can see.

Bill Hanson is associate executive director, operations, of San Antonio Sports. He has event operations experience from the AAU Junior Olympic Games, the U.S. Olympic Festival and the State Games of Texas. In addition, Bill has organized individual competitions for the 1984 and 1996 Olympic Games, the Pan American Games, the Goodwill Games and numerous NGB and local youth competitions.

departed, the venue has been vacated, the event has been declared a success, and you’ve got hundreds, maybe thousands, of volunteers totally excited about staying involved. Whatever POSTEVENT COMMUNICATIONS projects you do or don’t do will affect both your organization’s future and theirs.

Before thinking about the future, however, finish up this event. Your volunteers need closure in the way of an appreciation letter, certificate or gift, and possibly a party.

Establishing an effective communications system should be a priority if you plan to utilize this group of volunteers again. Using emails is certainly the most economical means nowadays, but a direct-mail newsletter is just as effective.

Maintaining the email or direct-mail list becomes very important. If your organization maintains the ability to do some quick recruiting of volunteers, then you have an efficient volunteer program.

As for ongoing projects, our organization utilizes volunteer receptionists sportsdirectory.org

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

17

Bill Hanson

Budgeting for Sports Events W

hile wanting to conduct an athletic

Donations are another membership

event in support of an amateur or-

target no matter the size of the organiza-

on-site income opportunities in gate ticket sales, food & beverage conces-

ganization is admirable, getting a grip on

tion. A sports commission goes straight

sions, souvenir merchandise sales, sou-

the financial side must be the first priority.

to its own Board of Directors for dona-

venir program sales and parking fees.

Whether you represent a sports commission, a CVB or a local youth team, putting yourself or your organization in

tions while a small amateur group again

These line items must also be discussed

goes to its own parents or members.

with the management of your potential

Generating advance income through

competition venue because, in most

financial debt is no way to keep your job

team or individual entry fees is not only

or keep a good relationship with your

financially advantageous, but is also the

erning what you can and cannot do

fellow team parents.

primary factor in estimating many of your

during your event. If you don’t ask up

cases, there are policies in place gov-

So where do you start if this is your

expense items. This would be especially

front, you could find out the hard way,

first budget? Experienced event planners

true if entries were capped and you could

in the small print after signing the lease

will tell you that you’ve got to have a

generate a demand for entry into your

contract.

complete budget anyway, so it shouldn’t

event. First-time budget-makers should,

Your income likely will be either par-

matter whether you start with income or

however, be conservative when estimat-

ticipant-driven or spectator-driven, and

expenses. But because the list of income

ing their number of entries. We’ve all

you should be conservative with either

opportunities is far shorter than that of

heard the claims of “I know 50 teams

estimate. The easiest way to balance or

expenses we’ll start with income, and

that will participate, no problem.”

enhance a budget is by increasing entry

we’ll divide the income categories according to being event-generated and pre-event-generated.

The most common line items for

First-time budgetmakers should be conservative when estimating their number of entries.

income generated prior to an event are sponsorships, donations and entry fees.

Whatever your organization or the size of your event, if there is public

These become the famous last words of

fees or ticket sales, yet most planners

a wannabe event planner.

find that preferable to reducing expenses.

Pre-event income can also be gener-

Identifying your income opportunities

exposure, some businesses are willing

ated through advance ticket sales, sig-

is one thing, but putting the proper

to give you money in exchange for

nage, souvenir program advertising,

budget number to them is quite another.

visibility. For small events, these busi-

public address announcements, vendor

Estimating line item amounts certainly

nesses will likely be parent-owned and

fees and parking passes.

comes easier with experience, but to

generated through goodwill. The obvi-

There are a number of budget line

the relative novice, conservative thinking

ous target market for these sponsor-

items that generate income during the

ships is the immediate membership of

conduct of your event; some contingent

self. Researching similar events is the

your organization. A sports commission

upon your competition venue and its

most obvious and the quickest way. If

must think bigger and find local busi-

own policies, and others directly depend-

your organization is a member of the

nesses that will benefit from an associa-

ent upon the capabilities of your local

National Association of Sports Commis-

tion with your event. In addition to title,

organizing committee. The primary ob-

sions, you have many peers willing to

presenting and general event sponsor-

stacle to any event is the inability of the

assist you.

ships, there are items such as ticket-

event organizer to recruit capable work-

backs and lineup sheets that offer

ers or to delegate responsibility to these

sponsor exposure.

workers. Capable workers translate to

18

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

should prevail. Don’t try to do it all your-

Bill Hanson is associate executive director, operations, of San Antonio Sports.

sportsdirectory.org

alaBama

ariZona

Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n

Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

Alabama Gulf Coast CVB 23685 Perdido Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach AL 36561 800-982-8562 mruss@gulfshores.com www.alabamagulfcoastsports.com

Mesa CVB 120 N. Center Street Mesa AZ 85201 480-827-4700

d id yo u kno w ?

Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau 2200 Ninth Ave. N. Birmingham AL 35203 205-458-8000 dgalbaugh@birminghamal.org www.birminghamal.org

Mesa is Arizona’s third-largest city and boasts a wealth of sports and leisure pursuits in high demand by visitors - not to mention more than 300 days of sunshine each year. Mesa’s close proximity to two major airports offers a convenient choice for tournament and event planners.

Mesa offers the best choice for value-added, quality sporting events year-round.

Huntsville/Madison County CVB 500 Church St. N.W., Suite One Huntsville AL 35801 256-427-6748 dond@huntsville.org www.huntsville.org

Phoenix Regional Sports Commission 400 East Van Buren, Suite 600 Phoenix AZ 85004 602-258-6272 jon@phoenixsports.org www.phoenixsports.org

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The Rocket City hosts indoor and outdoor activities year round at outstanding facilities for sports enthusiast. The Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau is a comprehensive fullservice agency providing information on fields, parks, facilities, hotels, dining and all things FUN. Call today to plan your “Out-Of-This-World” event in the Rocket City.

Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 204 Mobile AL 36601 800-566-2453 linda-wehrle@mobile.org www.mobilebay.org

are na/fac ility Beard Eaves Memorial Coliseum 651 Roosevelt Dr., Rm. 2047 Auburn University Auburn AL 36849 334-844-4442 www.auburn.edu Boutwell Municipal Auditorium 1930 8th Ave. N. Birmingham AL 35203 205-254-2820 www.informationbirmingham.com Hank Aaron Stadium 755 Bolling Brothers Blvd.

Mobile AL 36606 251-479-2327 www.mobilebaybears.com Montgomery Civic Center 300 Bibb St., P.O. Box 4037 Montgomery AL 36104 334-241-2100 www.civic-center.ci.montogmery.al.us

20

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

US Airways Center 201 E. Jefferson St., P.O. Box 433 Phoenix AZ 85001 602-379-2000 www.americawestarena.com

d id yo u kno w ?

The mission of the PRSC is to “Enrich Our Community Through Sports” through three initiatives.

First, by representing the citizens of the Valley to bring national and international sporting events to the state. Second, to assist in the promotion of existing sporting events and our area sports teams.

And third, to support youth sports programs.

Tempe Convention and Visitors Bureau 51 W. Third St., Suite 105 Tempe AZ 85281 480-894-8157 brian@tempecvb.com www.tempecvb.com

are na/fac ility Maryvale Baseball Park 3600 N. 51st Ave. Phoenix AZ 85031 800-933-7890 www.cactusleague.com McKale Center 1 National Championship Dr., P.O. Box 210096 University of Arizona Athletics Tucson AZ 85721-0096 520-621-2200 www.arizonaathletics.com Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Ave. Peoria AZ 85382 623-773-8700 www.peoriaaz.com

arkanSaS Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Bentonville Convention & Visitors Bureau 104 E. Central Bentonville AR 72712 800-410-2535 blair@bentonville.org www.bentonville.org

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Our community loves sports! We have incredible facilities, and we are the home of Walmart Stores, Inc. Great moments in sports happen in Bentonville, AR! Little Rock CVB P.O. Box 3232 Little Rock AR 72203 800-844-4781 dobyrne@littlerock.com www.littlerock.com North Little Rock Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 5511 1 Eldor Johnson Drive North Little Rock AR 72119 501-758-1424 sharris@northlittlerock.org www.northlittlerock.org

are na/fac ility Alltel Arena One Alltel Arena Way North Little Rock AR 72114 501-340-5660 www.alltelarena.com Arkansas State University Convocation Center 217 Olympic Dr. Jonesboro AR 72401 870-972-3024 www.astate.edu Golden Lion Stadium 1200 N. University Dr. University of Arkansas Pine Bluff AR 71601 870-575-8675 www.uapb.edu

Scottsdale Stadium 7408 E. Osborn Rd. Scottsdale AZ 85251 480-312-2586 www.ci.scottsdale.az.us/stadium

John E. Tucker Coliseum 1604 Coliseum Dr. Arkansas Tech University Russellville AR 72801 479-968-0345 athletics.atu.edu

Tucson Electric Park 2500 East Ajo Way South Tucson AZ 85713 520-434-1000 www.kinosportscomplex.com

War Memorial Stadium 1 Stadium Dr., P.O. Box 250222 Little Rock AR 72225 501-663-0775 www.state.ar.us/wms

CALiFoRniA Spo RtS C o m m iSSio n Bakersfield Convention & Visitors Bureau 515 Truxtun Ave. Bakersfield CA 93301 661-852-7282 mbillingsley@visitbakersfield.com www.bakersfieldcvb.us Irvine Chamber of Commerce 2485 McCabe Way, Suite 150 Irvine CA 92614 877-478-4637 mcarlen@irvinechamber.com www.irvinecvb.org

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

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America's Safest Big City, Irvine embodies a true Southern California experience in the center of Orange County; offering recreational facilities and a premier aquatic complex.

LA Sports & Entertainment Commission 333 S. Hope St., 18th Floor Los Angeles CA 90071 213-482-6333 kschloessman@lasec.net www.lasec.net Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau 300 East Green St. Pasadena CA 91101 800-307-7977 jmarcy@visitpasadena.com www.visitpasadena.com

Off the Wall Soccer 700 Mathew St. Santa Clara CA 95050 408-988-6900 www.offthewallsoccer.com Peak Athletic Center 2710 Alpine Blvd.

Alpine CA 619-722-6353 www.alpinepac.com San Jose Municipal Stadium 588 E. Alma Ave. San Jose CA 95112 408-297-1435 www.sjgiants.com Sports City 6700 Stony Point Rd. Cotati CA 95403 707-285-4625 www.nbsportscity.com

CoLoRAdo Spo RtS C o m m iSSio n Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau 515 Cascade Ave. Colorado Springs CO 80903 800-888-4748, Ext. 142 cherylm@visitcos.com www.visitcos.com

Pasadena has played host to some of the world’s most noted sporting events including Super Bowls, Men’s World Cup and the U.S. National Diving Championships. Our storied history and first-rate facilities make the city a natural choice for indoor and outdoor sporting events of all sizes.

Metro Denver Sports Commission 444 Sherman St., Suite 300 Denver CO 80203 303-534-5517 kieann@denversports.org www.denversports.org

Placer Valley Tourism 2204 Plaza Drive, Suite 110 Rocklin CA 95765 916-773-5400 info@placertourism.com www.placertourism.com

Vail Valley Partnership, The Chamber & Tourism Bureau P.O. Box 1130 Vail CO 81658 970-476-1000 jstevens@visitvailvalley.com www.visitvailvalley.com

All Power Indoor Soccer Arena 517 Wilbur Drive Oakland CA 94612 510-452-1741 www.allpowersoccer.com Cabernet Indoor Sports 6474 Patterson Pass Rd. Livermore CA 94550 925-455-8300 www.cabernetindoorsports.com Escondido Sports Center 3315 Bear Valley Parkway Escondido CA 760-839-5425 www.ci.escondido.ca.us/sportscenter 22

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Bladium Sports Club 2400 Central Park Ave. Denver CO 303-320-3033 www.bladium.com Boulder Indoor Soccer 2845 28th St. Boulder CO 80301 303-440-0809 www.boulderindoorsoccer.com Colorado Springs World Arena 3185 Venetucci Blvd.

Colorado Springs CO 80906-4020 719-477-2100 www.worldarena.com Folsom Field 357 UCB University of Colorado-Boulder Boulder CO 80309 303-492-7931 www.colorado.edu Sky Sox Stadium 4385 Tutt Blvd.

Security Service Field Colorado Springs CO 80922 719-597-1449 www.skysox.com

ConneCtiCut Spo RtS C o m m iSSio n

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ARe nA/FAC iLity

ARe nA/FAC iLity

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Located in the heart of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, the Vail Valley offers unparalleled, year-round recreational and cultural opportunities.

With easy access and numerous direct flights to the Vail Valley, our central location ensures seamless travel for participants and attendees from across the country.

Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau 31 Pratt St. #4 Hartford CT 06103 860-882-1103 curtj@hartfordcvb.org www.enjoyhartford.com

ARe nA/FAC iLity O’Neill Center 181 White St. Western Connecticut State University Danbury CT 06810 203-837-9015 www.wcsu.edu Thomas J. Dodd Memorial Stadium Connecticut Defenders 14 Stott Ave. Norwich CT 06360 860-887-7962 www.ctdefenders.com University of Hartford Sports Center 200 Bloomfield Ave. West Hartford CT 06117 860-768-5050 uhaweb.hartford.edu/sportsctr

sportsdirectory.org

diSt. of ColumBiA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Destination D.C. 901 7th St., N.W. Washington D.C. 20001 202-789-7051 george@washington.org www.washington.org

Space Coast Stadium 5800 Stadium Pkwy., Suite 101 Melbourne FL 32940 321-633-9200 www.manateesbaseball.com Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center 505 West Pensacola St., P.O. Box 10604 Tallahassee FL 32301 850-487-1691 www.tlccc.org

floridA

GEorGiA

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

Greater Fort Lauderdale Sports Development 100 E. Broward Blvd., Suite 200 Fort Lauderdale FL 33301 954-767-2455 jowebb@broward.org www.sunny.org/sports

Albany CVB 112 Front St. Albany GA 31701 866-750-0840 lriddle@albanyga.com www.albanygacvb.com/index.htm

Lee County Sports Authority 2305 Broadway Fort Myers FL 33901 239-344-5201 gewen@leegov.com www.leecountysports.org

Sports lovers are fans of climate mild Albany, in southwest Georgia, for its large variety of sporting facilities that accommodate a wide range of events.

Palm Beach County Sports Commission 1555 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. Suite 1410 West Palm Beach FL 33401 561-233-3188 gbaron@palmbeachsports.com www.palmbeachsports.com Tampa Bay Sports Commission 401 E. Jackson St., Suite 2100 Tampa FL 33602 813-342-4075 rhiggins@visittampabay.com www.tampabaysports.org

ArE nA/fAC ility Alltel Stadium One Alltel Stadium Place Jacksonville FL 32202 (904) 633-6100 www.jaxevents.com Bragg Memorial Stadium 1500 Wahnish Way Florida A&M Dept of Athletics Tallahassee FL 32307 850-599-3868 www.famu.edu Disney’s Wide World of Sports P.O. Box 10000 Lake Buena Vista FL 32830-1000 407-828-3267 www.disneyworldsports.com

sportsdirectory.org

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Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau 178 S Main St., Suite 200 Alpharetta GA 30009 678-297-2811 anna@awesomealpharetta.com www.awesomealpharetta.com Calhoun/Gordon County CVB 300 S. Wall St. Calhoun GA 30707 800-887-3800 bgrubbs@gordonchamber.org www.gordonchamber.org

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Centrally located, easy access across Southeast, with up-to-date venues. On I-75, 45 min. south of Chattanooga, 60 min. north of Atlanta, 2 hrs. east of Birmingham.

Columbus, GA Sports Council P.O. Box 1519 Columbus GA 31902 706-660-1996 msherman@columbusga.org www.columbusgasports.com Greater Savannah Sports Council 101 East Bay St. Savannah GA 31401 912-644-6414 bwilder@savannahvisit.com www.savannahsportscouncil.com Gwinnett CVB 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Suite 200 Duluth GA 30097 888-494-6638 rpatton@gcvb.org www.gcvb.org Sports Planning Guide & Directory

23

GeorGia are na/fac ility Grayson Stadium 1401 E. Victory Dr. Savannah GA 31414 912-351-9150 www.sandgnats.com One-Touch Soccer 3200 Atlanta Industrial Parkway Atlanta GA 404-768-4182 www.onetouchsoccer.com

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

Score Indoor Sports 1245 Oakley Industrial Blvd.

Fairburn GA 30213 (770) 870-7943 www.scoreindoor.com

illinoiS Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Bloomington-Normal Area CVB 3201 CIRA Drive, Suite 201 Bloomington IL 61704 309-665-0033 matt@visitbn.org www.bloomingtonnormalcvb.org

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Our central location, state-of-the-art facilities, and over 3,000 hotel rooms prove that BloomingtonNormal is the ideal site for your next event!

We’re serious about sports!

Champaign County CVB Sports Division 1817 S. Neil St., Suite 201 Champaign IL 61820 800-369-6151 kipm@champaigncounty.org www.visitchampaigncounty.org

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Host of the Illinois Marathon, Champaign County’s world-class sports facilities deliver top-notch competition in an unbeatable micro-urban community.

Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau 2304 173rd St. Lansing IL 60438 888-895-8233 jay@visitchicagosouthland.com www.playchicagosouthland.com

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We’re the 62 south/southwest suburbs of Chicago.

Home to a variety of sports venues close to Chicago and easily accessible via airports and interstates.

Effingham CVB 201 E. Jefferson Ave. Effingham IL 62401 217-342-5305 www.visiteffinghamil.com 24

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Elgin Area CVB 77 Riverside Drive Elgin IL 60120 800-217-5362 krothaug@northernfoxrivervalley.com www.northernfoxrivervalley.com

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Chicagoland’s Northern Fox River Valley boasts superior athletic complexes and facilities for a plethora of sports that will ensure your next tournament is a success.

Joliet Visitors Bureau 150 W. Jefferson St. Joliet IL 60432 815-723-9045 bbenson@jolietcity.org www.visitjoliet.org Kankakee County CVB 1 Dearborn Square Ste. 1 Kankakee IL 60914 800-747-4837 info@visitkankakeecounty.com www.visitkankakeecounty.com

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Kankakee County welcomes athletes and fans, just one hour south of Chicago. With indoor and outdoor sports facilities located close to lodging, dining and shopping attractions Kankakee County offers a convenient and affordable destination for sports events.

Lake County CVB 5465 Grand Ave., Suite 100 Gurnee IL 60031 800-525-3669 www.sportslakecounty.com

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Lake County offers a wide variety of venues and sports complexes, softball and baseball fields including the new Fielders baseball stadium, soccer fields, public golf courses, tennis centers, skating arenas and many others.

Lisle Convention & Visitors Bureau 4746 Main St. Lisle IL 60532 630-769-1000 riccio@stayinlisle.com www.stayinlisle.com Peoria Area Convention and Visitor Bureau 456 Fulton St., Suite 300 Peoria IL 61602 309-676-0303 cruder@peoria.org www.peoria.org Quad Cities Sports Commission 1601 River Drive, Suite 110 Moline IL 61265 800-747-7800 lhunt@visitquadcities.com www.quadcitiessports.com

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Serving Western Illinois and Eastern Iowa on the Mississippi River, our reputation for excellence will deliver a great experience to your athletes and events.

St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau 311 N. Second St., Suite 100 St. Charles IL 60174 630-377-6161 jenny@visitstcharles.com www.visitstcharles.com

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The Greater St. Charles Area boasts a significant inventory of tournament-quality venues and is experienced in hosting sports events, with a ready pool of experienced volunteers and an awardwinning park district that currently works in conjunction with 16 different sport user groups.

Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau 1375 E. Woodfield Rd., Suite 120 Schaumburg IL 60173 800-847-4849 ddew@chicagonorthwest.com www.chicagonorthwest.com

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One of the Midwest’s premier destinations. Near O’Hare. Fields and sports facilities. Convention center. Free parking. Easy access to downtown.

Unsurpassed dining, shopping, attractions.

Extensive servicing menu.

are na/fac ility Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Rd. Rosemont IL 60018 847-635-6601 www.allstatearena.com Convocation Center: NIU 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy. Northern Illinois University Dekalb IL 60115 815-752-6800 www.convocenter.niu.edu I Wireless Center 1201 River Dr. Moline IL 61265 309-764-2001 www.themark.org K & L Arena 1600 N. 43rd St. Quincy IL 62305 217-228-0960 www.klquincy.com McCook Athletic & Exposition 4750 Vernon Ave. McCook IL 60525 708-485-9900 www.max-mccook.com Megaplex Center 15301 S. Bell Rd. Homer Glen IL 60441 708-645-5000 www.megaplexcenter.com/

lAKe COUNTy, illiNOis

L

ake County, Illinois, with its natural spaces and fun places, is the perfect destination for your sports event. Located halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, Lake County offers a wide variety of venues and sports complexes, softball and baseball fields including the new Fielders baseball stadium, soccer fields, public golf courses, tennis centers, skating arenas and more. we also offer many sports venues throughout our forest preserves, park districts and 75 inland lakes. Your participants are sure to enjoy Six Flags Great america and Hurricane Harbor, and our many other world-class attractions. The friendly Lake County Convention & Visitors Bureau staff will help gather proposals, arrange site inspections, and provide free information to your participants, including maps and visitor guides.

COme TO plAy Libertyville Sports Complex & Soccer Fields 168,000 square feet of indoor floor space with 8 full-size courts and 2 full-size indoor soccer fields, 20 outdoor soccer fields Vernon Hills Sports Complex and Vernon Hills High School 20 outdoor fields, 1 stadium field, full-size gym, indoor pool Waukegan Field House & Outdoor Complex 6 full-size indoor courts, 4 lighted softball/baseball fields, 13 outdoor natural turf fields, 1 lighted stadium turf field

rOAd Trip Located halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, and just 30 minutes north of O’Hare International Airport, Lake County is conveniently located on I-94.

• Chicago is less than an hour’s drive or train ride.

• Milwaukee is less than an hour’s drive or train ride.

• Indianapolis is a 4-hour drive or one-hour plane ride.

• St Louis is a 5½-hour drive or one-hour plane ride.

Lake County, Illinois is home to more than 60 lodging properties, ranging from full-service resorts, including the new keyLime Cove Indoor waterpark Resort to affordable group-friendly accommodations.

CONTACT Lake County, Illinois CVB Teresa Lewis 5465 Grand ave., Suite 100 Gurnee, IL 60031

Phone: 1-800-Lake-Now Email: Teresa@lakecounty.org www.sportslakecounty.com

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

illinoiS are na/fac ility

continued

Peoria Civic Center 201 SW Jefferson St. Peoria IL 61602 309-673-8900 www.peoriaciviccenter.com Robertson Memorial Field House 1612 W. Main St. Bradley University Peoria IL 61602 309-677-2625 www.bubraves.com Rockford Riverhawks 101 15th Ave. Rockford IL 61104 815-964-2255 www.rockfordriverhawks.com

indiana Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Hoosier Sports Corporation 2855 N. Walnut St. Bloomington IN 47404 812-355-7726 eric@visitbloomington.com www.hoosiersports.org

Indiana Sports Corporation 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 1200 Indianapolis IN 46225 317-237-5000 info@indianasportscorp.com www.indianasportscorp.com

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The amateur sports champion, stimulating economic growth, inspiring healthy kids and creating vibrant communities throughout Indiana. Indiana Sports Corp. was founded in 1979 as the nation’s first sports commission.

are na/fac ility Butler Athletics 510 W. 49th St. Butler University Indianapolis IN 46208 317-940-9375 www.butler.edu Joyce Athletic & Convocation Center C113 Joyce Center Notre Dame University Notre Dame IN 46556 574-631-5030 www.und.collegesports.com

ioWa Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Ames Area Sports Commission 1601 Golden Aspen Drive, Suite 110 Ames IA 50010 800-288-7470 seannd@amescvb.com www.visitames.com Sioux City Sports Authority P.O. Box 3183 Sioux City IA 51101 800-593-2228 arush@sioux-city.org www.visitsiouxcity.org

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Current and past events promoted by the Sioux City Sports Authority include the NAIA Women’s Division II Basketball National Championship, NAIA Volleyball Championship, CNOS Foundation Basketball Classic, Midwest Athletic Association of the Deaf Softball Tournament, and the USHL Fall Classic.

are na/fac ility Iowa State Center Scheman Building, Suite 4 Iowa State University Ames IA 50011-1113 515-294-3347 www.center.iastate.edu John O’Donnell Stadium 209 S. Gaines St. Davenport IA 52802 563-324-3000 www.riverbandits.com Kinnick Stadium 25 Stadium Dr. Iowa City IA 52242 319-335-9410 www.hawkeyesports.com

kanSaS Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Overland Park Sports Alliance 9001 W. 110th St., Suite 100 Overland Park KS 66210 800-262-7275 jstine@overlandparksportsalliance.com www.overlandparksportsalliance.com

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Overland Park has hosted a wide variety of regional and national competitions. Let us show you how OP makes events above and beyond.

By Design.

26

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

sportsdirectory.org

TOpeKa, KanSaS

A

great location, superb venues and friendly hometown atmosphere make Topeka, Kansas the best choice for you!

Visit Topeka and the Topeka Shawnee County Sports Council are a team that works together with a hands-on approach to every sports event we host, and we have hosted a lot! USA Women’s Olympic Softball Exhibition Games, USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals, Kansas Kids State Folkstyle, NHRA Summer O’Reilly Nationals, ASA National Youth Softball, Little League World Series baseball and Central Zone swimming, to name just a few.

Affordable, family-friendly and conveniently located in the Midwest, Topeka offers the modern sports amenities of a large city mixed with the charm and hospitality of a small Midwest community. We’re looking forward to the opportunity to work with you and your event.

COme TO play Hummer Sports Park A six-sport complex named as one of America’s finest facilities, offering a 6,000+-seat AstroPlay turf football stadium; all-weather eight-lane track; 2,000 seat AstroPlay soccer stadium; two 500-seat baseball and softball fields with covered dugouts, fenced bullpens and batting cages (both baseball and softball areas have seating capacity of 3,000); 1,000-seat natatorium with a 50-meter Olympic-sized pool, warm-up pool, swimmer crash area, locker rooms, concessions and meeting space.

Kansas Expocentre Landon Arena is climate-controlled and features computerized lighting, closed-circuit TV security, state-of-the-art sound system, 13-foot drive-in entrance and built-in ice capabilities. Landon Arena is home to the Topeka RoadRunners NAHL hockey team and Kansas Koyotes APFL football team. Kansas Expocentre is ideal for hockey, ice skating, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, rodeo and much more!

Sunflower Soccer Complex 108-acre facility with 11 full-size fields on 45 acres and 750 parking stalls. Home of the bi-annual Governor’s Cup Soccer Invitational.

Heartland Park Topeka Home to the best drag, road and dirt track events in the U.S. with permanent spectator seating, concessions and suites, hosting NHRA, PINKS All Out and the Dirt Track Series.

Lake Shawnee 410 acres of water for fishing, boating, rowing and sailing; first-class softball and baseball facilities; tennis courts and soccer fields; 18-hole golf course. The recently completed Lake Shawnee Baseball Complex features six lighted baseball fields and a sportsdirectory.org

lighted multi-purpose field. Lake Shawnee is also the site of the Great Plains Rowing event every year.

Iliff Commons A cross country course featuring several miles of fescue trails carved through prairie grass and woods.

Rueger Fields Four-diamond softball complex with 300-foot fences, concession/ restroom building with observation deck, automatic underground irrigation system.

fan friendly • Tour the beautiful Kansas Capitol building.

• Visit the Kansas Museum of History.

• Explore Old Prairie Town – an authentic pioneer village with cabin, mansion, general store and working soda fountain.

• Visit the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.

• Enjoy specialty boutique shopping and unique dining downtown and throughout the city.

rOad Trip Topeka is located in the heartland at the intersection of I-70 and I-335. Kansas City International Airport is within an hour.

Topeka is also an easy drive-in location for your events.

COnTaCT Visit Topeka Inc. Jennifer Muse 1275 SW Topeka Blvd.

Topeka, KS 66612

Phone: 800-235-1030 Email: Jennifer@visittopeka.com www.visittopeka.com

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

27

kanSaS Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n

are na/fac ility continued

Visit Salina-Salina Area Chamber of Commerce 120 W. Ash Salina KS 67401 785-827-9301 tbenien@salinakansas.org www.visitsalinaks.org

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D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

Right Place. Right Reason. Right Now! Salina is located in the center of the United States at the crossroads of Interstates 70 and 135. Salina is an ideal choice for sporting events!

Visit Topeka Inc. 1275 SW Topeka Blvd.

Topeka KS 66612 800-235-1030 jennifer@visittopeka.com www.visittopeka.com

d id yo u kno w ?

Affordable, family-friendly and conveniently located in the Midwest, Topeka offers the modern sports amenities of a large city mixed with the charm and hospitality of a small Midwest community.

are na/fac ility Bramlage Coliseum 1800 College Ave., Suite 133 Manhattan KS 66502 785-532-7600 www.k-state.edu/bramlage Memorial Stadium 1651 Naismith Dr., Allen Fieldhouse University of Kansas Lawrence KS 66045 785-864-4210 www.kuathletics.com Moore Bowl Stadium 1700 SW College Ave. Washburn University Topeka KS 66621 785-231-1010 www.washburn.edu

L.T. Smith Stadium 1 Big Red Way Western Kentucky University Bowling Green KY 42101 270-745-2984 www.wkusports.com Louisville Slugger Field 401 E. Main St. Louisville KY 40202 502-212-2287 www.batsbaseball.com Racer Arena 113 Sparks Hall Athletic Department Murray State University Murray KY 42071 270-762-6800, (800) 272-4678 www.murraystate.edu

louiSiana Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Shreveport Regional Sports Authority 839 Kings Hwy., Suite 200 Shreveport, LA 71104 318-429-0660 manntice@lasportsauthority.org www.lasportsauthority.org

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SRSA is a non-profit organization created to facilitate and/or sponsor major amateur sporting events in the region, bringing government, business, and hospitality leaders together.

are na/fac ility Alex Box Stadium Louisiana State University Athletic Department S. Stadium Dr. Baton Rouge LA 70803 225-334-4578 www.lsusports.net Thomas Assembly Center P.O. Box 3155 Louisiana Technological University Ruston LA 71272 318-257-4111 www.latechsports.com

kentucky Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Kentucky Sports Authority 500 Mero St., CPT 24th Floor Frankfort KY 40601 502-564-4270 kevin.nuss@ky.gov www.kysportsauthority.com

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Sports Planning Guide & Directory

maryland Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Maryland Office of Sports Marketing 401 E. Pratt St., Suite 1412 Baltimore MD 21202 410-767-1406 thasseltine@choosemaryland.org www.visitmaryland.org

are na/fac ility Maryland Sports Arena 2723 Pulaski Hwy. Edgewood MD 21040 410-538-5425 www.marylandsportsarena.com Maryland SportsPlex 3109 Arrowhead Farms Rd. Gambrills MD 410-721-9460 www.mdsportsplex.com

maSSacHuSettS Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau Two Copley Plaza, Suite 105 Boston MA 02116 617-867-8222 spappas@bostonusa.com www.bostonusa.com

are na/fac ility Edward Lelacheur Park 450 Aiken St. Home of the Lowell Spinners Lowell MA 01854 978-459-2255 www.lowellspinners.com Gosman Sports Center 415 South St. Brandeis University Waltham MA 02454-9110 781-736-4300 www.brandeis.edu

micHiGan Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Detroit Metro Sports Commission 211 W. Fort St., Suite 1000 Detroit MI 48226 800-225-5389 dbeachnau@visitdetroit.com Holland Area CVB 76 E. Eighth St. Holland MI 49423 800-506-1299 wendy@holland.org www.holland.org

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Just 3 hours from Chicago & Detroit, Holland is a favorite Michigan destination. Famous for beautiful beaches, historic downtown, & Dutch attractions, Holland plays host to small tournaments up to NCAA finals. sportsdirectory.org

ST. CHArleS, miSSOUri

L

ook no further for a top-notch spot to host your next sporting event. As an athletic director or coach, you want the best venue to accommodate your games, right? You’ll find sporting venues, big-city amenities and smalltown charm in Saint Charles, MO. Whether your sporting event features 10 or 1,000 participants, you’ll find our setting and price just right for your group. Saint Charles has a venue to host all sporting events from the Family Arena with 31,232 square feet of floor space to the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex for your next baseball tournament. The National Equestrian Center is a 24-acre center that meets the standards for all competitions. St. Peter’s Rec-Plex provides a venue for hockey, speed skating and figure skating events. The competition pool is perfect for swimming, diving or water polo.

For a smaller venue, Saint Charles offers city and county parks for baseball and softball.

High schools, colleges and universities offer fields, courts, tracks and indoor gymnasiums.

Our accommodations and casual-style restaurants are affordable and geared toward families. Saint Charles offers more than your group will have time for. Tour Missouri’s First Capitol, stroll the historic district featuring 125 shops, or try your luck at a casino. Saint Charles offers family amusement, museums and galleries. Our staff is eager to assist you with your sporting event.

COme TO plAy Family Arena A l0,000-plus-seat, multi-purpose facility which can host a variety of sporting events.

St. Peters Rec-Plex A 230,000-square-foot complex with 3 regulation ice rinks and a natatorium with an Olympic pool and diving tower.

St. Charles Convention Center The area’s newest full-service convention facility with 154,000 total square feet of space.

The National Equestrian Center The best equestrian showplace in the Midwest with 2 indoor and 1 outdoor arena and over 650 stalls.

T.R. Hughes Ballpark Minor league baseball stadium which seats over 5,500 and is home to the River City Rascals of the Frontier League.

Ozzie Smith Sports Complex 76-acre baseball and softball facility with seven full-size diamonds.

West James Courts Indoor tennis and racquetball facility with 6 tennis courts and 6 racquetball courts.

National Horseshoe Pitchers Association Hall of Fame Opened in 2007, the facility has 16 indoor and 16 outdoor courts for year-round tournaments for players of all skill levels.

rOAd Trip Located 10 minutes west of Lambert St. Louis International Airport and 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, St. Charles is conveniently located on Interstate 70 and a short drive from Interstates 64, 55 and 44.

CONTACT Greater St. Charles, Missouri CVB Greg Maxon Group Travel & Sports Sales Manager 230 S. Main St. St. Charles, MO 63301 Phone: 1-888-205-7264 Email: gmaxon@historicstcharles.com www.historicstcharles.com

St. Charles Soccer Complex Park 60-acre soccer complex with 16 fields (2 lighted) available for all age levels.

Tony Glavin Soccer Complex Home of the St. Louis Lions Soccer Club of the United Soccer League with 1 indoor and 5 outdoor fields. sportsdirectory.org

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D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

miCHiGAn Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

minnESotA continued

The Deltaplex Entertainment & Expo Center 2500 Turner Ave. NW Grand Rapids MI 49544 616-364-9000 www.deltaplex.com

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Greater Mankato Convention and Visitors Bureau 1 Civic Center Plaza Mankato MN 56001 507-385-6662 lmrozek@greatermankato.com www.greatermankato.com

ArE nA/fAC ility

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Homer Stryker Field 251 Mills St. Kalamazoo MI 49048 269-388-8326 www.kalamazookings.com

Nestled in the scenic Minnesota River Valley, Greater Mankato is an ideal spot for your tournament. Contact us today for a free Tournament Planning Guide!

Kellogg Arena One McCamly Square Battle Creek MI 49017 269-963-4800 www.kelloggarena.com

Visit Minneapolis North 6200 Shingle Creek Pkwy., Suite 248 Minneapolis MN 55430 763-252-1412 stephonie@visitminneapolisnorth.com www.visitminneapolisnorth.com

ArE nA/fAC ility Soccer World 380 Woodlake Dr. NW Rochester MN 55904 507-424-3018 www.soccerworldmn.com

Sports Pavilion 1925 University Ave. SE Minneapolis MN 55455 612-624-3514 www.gophersports.com

miSSiSSippi Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Ridgeland Tourism Commission 1000 Highland Colony Parkway Ridgeland MS 39157 800-468-6078 mina@visitridgeland.com www.visitridgeland.com

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Ridgeland has what you’re looking for—outstanding venues, great support and a city born for fun. Where the sportsman’s heaven, artisans’ haven and shopper’s paradise meet familyfriendly dining and surf to turf recreation.

ArE nA/fAC ility C.M. Tad Smith Coliseum P.O. Box 247 University of Mississippi Department of Athletics University MS 38677 (662) 915-7167 www.olemisssports.com Jack Spinks Stadium 1000 ASU Dr. #510 Alcorn State University Whitney Complex Lorman MS 39096 (601) 877-6500 www.alcornsports.com

miSSoUri

Worthy Competition

Your team works hard. Time to let them play hard in the city with the finest facilities, lodging, dining and more.

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Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB P.O. Box 1897 Branson MO 65615 theithaus@bransoncvb.com www.explorebranson.com

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Bring your next event to family-friendly Branson, Missouri; located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

Enjoy abundant outdoor recreation including three pristine lakes, championship golf and a state-ofthe-art, 42 acre sports & recreation complex.

Greater Springfield Sports Commission 815 E. Saint Louis St., #100 Springfield MO 65806 417-869-7529 jcitron@springfieldmo.org www.springfieldmosports.org

sportsdirectory.org

You’ll find sporting venues, big-city amenities and small-town charm in Saint Charles, MO. Whether your sporting event features 10 or 1,000 participants, you’ll find our setting and price just right for your group.

Independence, MO Tourism Department 111 E. Maple Ave. Independence MO 64050 816-325-7113 awiltse@indepmo.org www.visitindependence.com

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Venues include a new 5800-seat Events Center, home to CHL hockey and MISL soccer, an outdoor athletic complex and more. Facilities resource booklet available.

St. Louis Sports Commission 308 N. 21st St., Suite 500 St. Louis MO 63103 314-345-5121 fviverito@stlsports.org www.stlsports.org

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The St. Louis Sports Commission is the privately funded nonprofit organization that benefits St. Louis through sports, focusing on attracting, creating and managing major sporting events for the region.

are na/fac ility Hammons Student Center 661 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy.

Missouri State University Springfield MO 65807 417-836-5240 www.missouristate.edu Rickenbrode Stadium 800 University Dr. NW Missouri State University Maryville MO 64468 660-562-1562 www.nwmissouri.edu

Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Kearney Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 607 Kearney NE 68848 308-237-3494 kunick@visitkearney.org www.visitkearney.org

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Located in the Heart of America, Kearney offers small town charm with large amenities for every event planner’s need. Come experience the hospitality of the Heartland.

are na/fac ility Rosenblatt Stadium 1202 Bert Murphy Ave. Omaha NE 68107 402-734-2550 www.oroyals.com U.N.K. Sports Center University of Nebraska at Kearney Health and Sports Center Kearney NE 68849 308-865-8514 www.lopers.com

neVada Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n City of Henderson-Department of Cultural Arts & Tourism 200 S. Water St. Henderson NV 89015 702-267-2171 tim.haskell@cityofhenderson.com www.visithenderson.com

new meXico Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau 20 First Plaza N.W., Suite 601 Albuquerque NM 87102 800-733-9918 ballou@itsatrip.org www.itsatrip.org/sports

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With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, Albuquerque is the perfect locale for a wide range of sports events, from mainstream to outdoor specialty sports.

Las Cruces CVB 211 N. Water St. Las Cruces NM 88001 575-541-2216 ecarnathan@las-cruces.org www.mustseelc.com

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A mild climate, 350 days of sunshine, and a low average precipitation rate allows organizations to plan their event in Las Cruces with confidence.

New Mexico Sports Authority 800 Bradbury N.E., Suite 216 Albuquerque NM 87106 505-246-6020 brian.oneill@state.nm.us www.nmsportsauthority.com

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The New Mexico Sports Authority is the sports division of the Tourism Department. Helping to support and recruit youth and adult events throughout the State of New Mexico .

L I S T I N G

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neBraSka

are na/fac ility Eastern New Mexico University 1500 S. Ave. K, Station 17 Portales NM 88130 505-562-2153 www.enmu.edu Isotopes Park 1601 Avenida Cesar Chavez SE Albuquerque NM 87106 505-924-2255 www.albuquerquebaseball.com

D I R E C T O R Y

Greater St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau 230 S. Main St. St. Charles MO 63301 636-946-7776 gmaxon@historicstcharles.com www.historicstcharles.com

new york Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Greater Binghamton Convention and Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 995 Binghamton NY 13902 800-836-6740 judi@visitbinghamton.org www.visitbinghamton.org

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Greater Binghamton—a sports-friendly community waiting to welcome your group. Our CVB offers free services to event planners. We are the “Greater Place to Play!”

are na/fac ility Binghamton Mets Baseball Club 211 Henry St. Binghamton NY 13901 607-723-6387 www.bmets.com Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena 1 Stuart St. Binghamton NY 13901 607-778-1528 www.gobroomecounty.com

sportsdirectory.org

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new yorK Are nA/fAC iLity

continued

Christl Arena Howard Road, Bldg. 639 United States Military Academy West Point NY 10996 845-938-6332 www.usma.edu Olympic Center 2634 Main St. NYS Olympic Regional Development Authority Lake Placid NY 12946 518-523-1655 www.orda.org

Are nA/fAC iLity C.E. Gaines Complex 601 S Martin Luther King Dr. Winston-Salem State University Winston-Salem NC 27110 336-750-2141 www.wssu.edu Dreamsports Center 1016 Investment Blvd.

Apex NC 27502 919-387-2955 www.dreamsportscenter.com Fieldcrest Cannon Stadium 2888 Moose Rd. Kannapolis NC 28083 704-932-3267 www.intimidatorsbaseball.com

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nortH CAroLinA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Cabarrus County Convention & Visitors Bureau 3003 Dale Earnhardt Blvd.

Kannapolis NC 28083 800-848-3740 donna@visitcabarrus.com www.visitcabarrus.com Charlotte Regional Sports Commission 333 East Trade St. Charlotte NC 28202 704-688-8536 jbeaver@charlottesports.org www.charlottesports.org

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Since 1995, the Charlotte Sports Commission has continued to fulfill its mission to improve the quality of life through sports for the citizens of the Charlotte Region.

Fayetteville Area CVB 245 Person St. Fayetteville NC 28301 910-483-5311 cpowers@visitfayettevillenc.com www.visitfayettevillenc.com

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The Fayetteville region offers facilities for 25 types of sports; 5500+ hotel rooms; 600 restaurants; and lots to see & do. Learn more at www.visitfayettevillenc.com/sports-in-fayetteville Greater Raleigh CVB 421 Fayetteville St., Suite 1505 Raleigh NC 27601 919-645-2657 sdupree@raleighsports.org www.raleighsports.org Greensboro Area CVB 2200 Pinecroft Rd., Suite 200 Greensboro NC 27407 800-344-2282 bambuehl@visitgreensboronc.com www.visitgreensboronc.com 32

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

nortH DAKotA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Fargo-Moorhead Athletic Commission 2001 44th St. S. Fargo ND 58103 701-365-4563 steve@fargomoorhead.org www.fargomoorhead.org

Are nA/fAC iLity Bismarck Civic Center 315 S. Fifth St. Bismarck ND 58504 701-355-1370 www.bismarckciviccenter.com Fargodome 1800 N. University Dr. Fargo ND 58102 701-241-9100 www.fargodome.com

oHio Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Akron/Summit CVB 77 E. Mill St. Akron OH 44308 800-245-4254 jmahon@visitakron-summit.org www.visitakron-summit.org

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Cleveland County Sports Commission, Inc. 50 Public Square Cleveland OH 44113 216-621-0600 mjrhodes13@carolina.rr.com www.clevelandsports.org Clinton County CVB 13 N. South St. Wilmington OH 45177 877- 428-4748 dstamper@clintoncountyohio.com www.clintoncountyohio.com

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Located between Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton, in southwest Ohio; convenient, accessible and affordable. Premier facilities and service for an outstanding event.

Greene County Convention and Visitors Bureau 1221 Meadowbridge Drive, Suite A Beavercreek OH 45434 937-426-6770 jwilliamson@greenecountyohio.org www.greenecountyohio.org

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Minutes east of the I-70/I-75 crossroads, Greene County, Ohio has over 85 soccer fields, 60 baseball fields and a 12,000-seat arena. Free Sports Facility Guide.

Lake Erie Shores and Islands 4424 Milan Rd., Suite A Sandusky OH 44870 800-255-3743 amanda@shoresandislands.com www.shoresandislands.com

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Experience professional assistance and natural event venues surrounded by miles of beautiful shoreline and activities one can only find at the water’s edge!

Sports Ohio 77 E. Mill St. Akron OH 44308 800-245-4254 mtricaso@visitakron-summit.org www.sportsohio.travel

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In an increasingly competitive environment, we are committed to providing sports event organizers with service and attention to detail that allows us to distinguish ourselves from other destinations. Our team will provide the support and enthusiasm necessary to ensure your next visit with us will be one for the record books.

Akron, Canton, Kent and Medina Ohio have teamed up to assist you in discovering our array of sporting venues. Our 4-COUNTY team is here to support you in every way possible! With easy accessibility, flexible facilities and team-friendly accommodations, we welcome the opportunity to help you coordinate your next event.

sportsdirectory.org

Sp4rTS OhiO

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trategically located in the heart of northeast Ohio, the contiguous communities of Akron, Canton, Kent and Medina offer planners accessibility, affordability and flexibility, making the four-county region the perfect destination for your next sporting event. Our area plays host to a myriad of teams and individual athletes striving for peak performance. The diversity of our venues will offer the options you need to maximize attendance. Key venues include: Firestone Stadium, Canton Memorial Civic Center, Fawcett Stadium, Kent State University and the University of Akron. The region’s accommodations are equally diverse with a range of full-service and limited-service hotels and motels to meet every budget. Our major highway, interstate and turnpike systems make arriving by car or motorcoach easy and efficient. Additionally, the Akron-Canton Airport and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport are 10 miles and 30 miles from downtown Akron, respectively. Signature area spectator sporting events include: All American Soap Box Derby, Pro Football Hall of Fame Weekend & Inductions, Road Runner Akron Marathon & World Golf Championships Bridgestone Invitational. Call for our “new” Sports Venue Directory.

COme TO plAy The four-county area features more than 70 diverse sporting venues, 11 bowling centers and 70+ golf courses.

Canton Memorial Civic Center 24,000 sq. ft. with seating for 4,200 spectators – basketball, indoor football and wrestling.

Firestone Stadium 2 full-size softball fields – home to the Akron Racers – 2005 National Champs!

Hoover Little League Complex 8 regulation fields welcome players of America’s favorite pasttime.

Kent State University Venues include: Dix Stadium, Schoonover Stadium, Convocation Center & soccer/softball fields.

University of Akron Venues include: New! Infocision Stadium/Summa Field, Stile Athletics Field House, Rhodes Arena and baseball/soccer/softball fields.

North Coast Soccer Fields 27 large fields, 6 U8-U10 fields and 2 indoor fields

rOAd Trip The communities of Akron, Canton, Kent and Medina are located within less than a one-hour radius of each other, providing an accessible destination for your next sporting event. The AkronCanton Airport and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport are each within a 30-minute drive. Major interstates include: Rt. 77, Rt. 76, Rt. 8 and Rt. 271; the Ohio Turnpike also passes through the area (Rt. 80).

Mileage • Buffalo: 216 • Indianapolis: 259 • Pittsburgh: 110 • Detroit: 192 • Louisville: 320 The Sp4rts Ohio area boasts more than 8,000 guest rooms – with accommodations and amenities to match any budget.

CONTACT Akron/Summit CVB Mary Tricaso, Director of Sales 77 E. Mill St. Akron, OH 44308

Phone: 800-245-4254 Email: mtricaso@visitakron-summit.org www.visitakron-summit.org www.sportsohio.travel

Paul Brown Tiger Stadium Football at its finest in Canton – 17,000-seat stadium Pinnacle Sports Complex Soccer-Lacrosse-Volleyball-Basketball-Roller Hockey – 120,000 sq. ft. plus 2 regulation soccer fields sportsdirectory.org

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oHio ArE nA/fAC iLity James A. Rhodes Arena 373 Carroll St. University of Akron Kron OH 44325-5104 330-972-6920 www.gozips.com The Sports Dome 6060 W Canal Rd. Valley View OH 44125-3329 216-447-7878 www.thesportsdome.com

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Toledo Sports Arena One Main St. Toledo OH 43601 419-698-1598 www.toledosportsarena.com

orEGon

Philadelphia Sports Congress 1700 Market St., Suite 3000 Philadelphia PA 19103 215-636-3300 larryn@pcvb.org www.philadelphiasportscongress.org

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Attracting major events to the Philadelphia area, including the 2010 Army-Navy Game, 2011 NCAA Wrestling Championships, 2011 AT&T National and much more.

Visit Pittsburgh Regional Enterprise Tower 425 Sixth Ave., 30th Floor Pittsburgh PA 15219 412-281-7711 jennifer.hawkins@visitpittsburgh.com www.VisitPittsburgh.com

ArE nA/fAC iLity Farrell Stadium West Chester University West Chester PA 19383 610-436-1000 www.wcupagoldenrams.com

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Eugene, Cascades & Coast Travel Lane County 754 Olive St. Eugene OR 97401 800-547-5445 sue@travellanecounty.org www.travellanecounty.org

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Contact our sports team for assistance with your next event! Track, cycling, rowing, mountain biking, basketball, volleyball, whatever your sport - we play to win.

SoutH CAroLinA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Charleston Metro Sports Council 423 King St. Charleston SC 29403 843-805-3030 kcartland@charlestoncvb.com www.sportscouncil.org

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ArE nA/fAC iLity Cascade Indoor Soccer Center 20775 High Desert Lane Bend OR 97701 541-330-1183 www.cascadeindoorsoccer.com Chiles Center 5000 N. Willamette Blvd.

University of Portland Portland OR 97203-5798 503-943-8000 www.up.edu www.corvallissportspark.com

pEnnSyLVAniA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Central Pennsylvania CVB 800 E. Park Ave. State College PA 16803 800-358-5466 shirleys@visitpennstate.org www.centralpacvb.org 34

Sports Planning Guide & Directory

We provide a one-stop-shop for all your event planning needs and deliver the complete "Charleston Style" package, receiving notable honors for what we do best...and what your attendees will enjoy the most.

Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 1200 N. Oak St. Myrtle Beach SC 29577 843-916-7264 roy.edmondson@visitmyrtlebeach.com www.visitmyrtlebeach.com Rock Hill/York County Convention and Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 11377 Rock Hill SC 29731 888-702-1320 rthomas@visityorkcounty.com http://visityorkcounty.com/sports/

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Welcome to York County, SC — an accessible, affordable and authentically Southern experience.

An undiscovered destination, we offer big-city amenities in a warm, friendly environment known for its hospitality.

North Charleston Coliseum 5001 Coliseum Dr. North Charleston SC 29418 843-529-5000 www.coliseumpac.com Plex Indoor Sports 741 Fashion Dr. Columbia SC 29229 803-360-7300 www.plexindoorsports.com

tEnnESSEE Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau 151 E. Main St. Kingsport TN 37662 423-392-8831 flett@kcvb.org www.visitkingsport.org Knoxville Tourism and Sports Corporation 301 S. Gay St. Knoxville TN 37902 800-727-8045 jmorris@knoxville.org www.knoxville.org Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau 47 Union Ave. Memphis TN 38103 901-543-5300 mgipson@mcvb.org www.memphissportscouncil.com

ArE nA/fAC iLity Hooper Eblen Center Tennessee Tech University 1100 McGee Blvd, Box 5057 Cookeville TN 38505-0001 931-372-3940 www.tntech.edu Howard C. Gentry Complex 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd.

Nashville TN 37209 615-963-5000 www.tnstate.edu Hunter Wright Stadium 433 E. Center St. Kingsport TN 37662 423-378-3744 www.kmets.com

tEXAS Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau 325 N. Saint Paul St., Suite 700 Dallas TX 75201 214-571-1056 jolson@dallascvb.com www.dallascvb.com sportsdirectory.org

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The mission of the Greater Denton Sports Commission is to attract, stimulate, and promote sports entertainment events and activities in the greater Denton area.

Harris County - Houston Sports Authority Two Houston Center 909 Fannin St., Suite 3175 Houston TX 7010 713-308-5900 jschmees@houstonsports.org www.houstonsports.org

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The Sports Authority is the agency charged with maintaining three state-of-the-art professional sports stadiums and assisting in the negotiations of the new 22,000-seat, professional soccer stadium to open in 2012, as well as assisting in the sports marketing for Houston.

Civic Center Complex 701 Main St., P.O. Box 3827 Beaumont TX 77701 409-838-3435 www.beaumont-tx-complex.com Cohen Stadium 9700 Gateway North Blvd.

El Paso TX 79924 915-755-2000 www.diablos.com Cowtown Coliseum 121 E. Exchange Ave. Fort Worth TX 76164 817-625-1025 www.stockyardsrodeo.com Daniel-Meyer Coliseum 2900 Stadium Fort Worth TX 76129 817-257-7965 www.tcu.edu Frank Erwin Center 1701 Red River University of Texas-Austin Austin TX 78701 512- 471-7744 www.uterwincenter.com Freeman Coliseum 3201 E. Houston St. San Antonio TX 78219 210-226-1177 www.freemancoliseum.com

Plano Convention and Visitors Bureau 2000 E. Spring Creek Pkwy.

Plano TX 75086 972-941-5849 cissya@plano.gov www.planocvb.com

VirGinia Spo rtS c o m m iSSio n Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance 421 N. Boundary St. Williamsburg VA 23187 800-368-6511 skrabala@williamsburgcc.com www.williamsburgcc.com

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Williamsburg’s facilities, including state-of-theart sports complexes and natural venues, abundant lodging, and popular attractions, dining and shopping, make us the ideal spot for hosting sporting events.

WHERE EVERYONE WINS BIG.

Plano, Texas is 75 square miles of meticulously planned sport fields and facilities matched with seamless cooperation between park professionals and experienced event planners.

San Antonio Sports P.O. Box 830386 San Antonio TX 78283 210-820-2111 bhanson@sanantoniosports.org www.sanantoniosports.org

Imagine a place where you feel like a winner from the moment you pull into town. Welcome to Clinton County, a community of unspoiled natural beauty, uncommon hospitality, and some of the finest sporting venues you’ll find anywhere.

Conveniently located between Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati, Ohio—just a day’s drive for 60 percent of the U.S. population—we can accommodate almost any event with state-of-the-art facilities.

Round Rock CVB 231 E. Main St., Suite 150 Round Rock TX 78664 512-218-7023 nyawn@round-rock.tx.us www.sportscapitaloftexas.com

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Clinton County Convention & Visitors Bureau 1-877-4-A VISIT clintoncountyohio.com

sportsdirectory.org

PSA StarCenter 6500 Preston Meadow Dr. Plano TX 75024 972-208-5437 www.psaplano.org

Imagine a place…

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It’s game time. Welcome to the premier destination for amateur, youth and recreational sports.

Round Rock has it all. Stadiums. Fields. Tracks.

Gyms. Courses. Courts. They’re all waiting for you to prove what you've got, so bring your best game.

Game On Arena 251 Settlement Plaza Dr. Fort Worth TX 76108 817-367-7800 www.gameonarenasports.com

L I S T I N G

Greater Denton Sports Commission 2436 S. I-35 E., Suite 376-256 Denton TX 76205 888-598-1508 info@dentonsports.com www.dentonsports.com

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D I R E C T O R Y

El Paso Sports Commission 3411 N. Stanton El Paso TX 79902 915-740-1266 bkennedy@elpasosports.org www.elpasosports.org

VirGiniA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

continued

Norfolk CVB 232 E. Main St. Norfolk VA 23510 800-368-3097 jpayne@norfolkcvb.com www.visitnorfolktoday.com

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

Richmond Metropolitan CVB 401 N. Third St. Richmond VA 23219 804-285-9495 ahannah@richmondva.org www.visitrichmondva.com Virginia Tourism Corporation 901 E. Byrd St. Richmond VA 23219 804-545-5544 jjohnson@virginia.org www.sportsvirginia.org

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Sports Virginia, a statewide collaboration of local sports experts, is with you from start to finish.

For action-packed excitement, bring your game to Virginia.

wASHinGton

wiSConSin

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n

Seattle Sports Commission 701 Pike St., Suite 800 Seattle WA 98101 206-461-5800 rmorton@seattlesports.org www.seattlesports.org

Are nA/fAC ility Bellingham Sportsplex 1225 Civic Field Way Bellingham WA 98229 360-676-1919 www.bellinghamsportsplex.com Cheney Stadium 2502 S. Tyler St. Tacoma WA 98405 253-752-7707 web.minorleaguebaseball.com Yakima County Stadium 1301 Fair Ave. Yakima WA 509-457-5151 www.yakimabears.com

Are nA/fAC ility Cassell Coliseum Washington St. Virginia Technical University Blacksburg VA 24061 540-231-9963 www.hokiesports.com Scope Arena 201 E. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk VA 23510 757-664-6464 www.norfolkscope.com Scott Stadium UVA Athletic Dept., P.O. Box 400825 Charlottesville VA 22904-4825 434-982-5200 www.virginiasports.com Virginia Beach Sportsplex 2181 Landstown Rd. Virginia Beach VA 23456 757-427-2990 www.vbgov.com Walter J. Zable Stadium at Cary Field 100 Stadium Dr. College of William & Mary Williamsburg VA 23187 757-221-3400 www.tribeathletics.com

weSt VirGiniA Spo rtS C o m m iSSio n Greater Morgantown CVB 68 Donley St. Morgantown WV 26501 800-458-7373 dplevich@tourmorgantown.com www.sportsinmorgantown.com

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We are passionate and committed to hosting sporting events in Morgantown. We will ensure the success of your event from the start to the finish with unwavering commitment to service.

Jefferson County CVB 37 Washington Court Harpers Ferry WV 25425 866-435-5698 visitors@jeffersoncountycvb.com www.hello-wv.com

Are nA/fAC ility Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium P.O. Box 0877 West Virginia University Morgantown WV 26507 304-293-5621 www.msnsportsnet.com University of Charleston 2300 MacCorkle Ave. SE Charleston WV 25304 304-357-4800 www.ucwv.edu

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Sports Planning Guide & Directory

Chippewa Valley CVB 3625 Gateway Drive, Suite F Eau Claire WI 54701 888-523-3866 michael@chippewavalley.net www.chippewavalley.net Fond du Lac Area CVB 171 S. Pioneer Rd. Fond du Lac WI 54935 920-923-3010 lott@fdl.com www.fdl.com Greater Green Bay CVB P.O. Box 10596 1901 S. Oneida St. Green Bay WI 54304 888-867-3342 joel@greenbay.com www.greenbay.com VISIT Milwaukee 648 N. Plankinton Ave., Suite 425 Milwaukee WI 53203 414-273-3950 kpeiffer@milwaukee.org www.visitmilwaukee.org Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau P.O. Box 390 Wisconsin Dells WI 53965 608-254-7180 sales@wisdells.com www.wisdells.com

d id yo u kno w ?

Wisconsin Dells, “The Waterpark Capital of the World,� is the premier destination for sports.

Outstanding facilities, plus family-friendly fun keeps teams entertained on and off the court.

Wisconsin Sports Development Corporation P.O. Box 7788 Madison WI 53707 608-226-4780 rvincent@sportsinwisconsin.com www.sportsinwisconsin.com

Are nA/fAC ility Pioneer Field One University Plaza University of Wisconsin Platteville WI 53818 608-342-1567 www.uwplatt.edu U.S. Cellular Arena 400 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee WI 53203 414-908-6000 www.uscellulararena.com W.L. Zorn Arena 105 Garfield Ave., P.O. Box 4004 Eau Claire WI 54702-4004 715-836-2637 sportsdirectory.org

Instant Info Center Advertiser Name ❑ Clinton County CVB, OH

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