July is near, and with it comes the sizzle of summer—and not just the temps. It’s the peak season for sports tourism, where ballparks buzz with energy, coastlines become racecourses, and communities across the country light up with tournaments, camps, and championships.
We’re embracing the rhythm of the season with stories that reflect the energy, evolution, and everyday hustle of the sports tourism industry. Whether you’re running an event, recharging between site visits, or catching flights to your next bid city, our July issue is designed to inform, inspire, and make you laugh a little.
PUSH has always been focused on the power of movement, both the physical kind and the industry-shifting kind, and this month’s coverage taps into both. We recognize that momentum matters—and so does taking a breath. This issue presents a blend of practical tips, fresh perspectives, and candid insights from individuals who live and breathe this industry every day.
In this issue, we dive into these topics and so much more:
• PUSH Travel – How to Get a Bigger Hotel Room for Free — And What You Can (and Can’t) Take with You
• PUSH Mindfulness – Using Your Weekend to Recharge: Signs of Burnout and How to Cope.
• PUSH Health – 6 Ways to Feel Less Tired After a Long Workday
• PUSH Management – From Suits to Sweatshirts: The Changing Face of Workplace Style
• Industry Confidential – Earning Respect Through Leadership Integrity
We’re also spotlighting one of our industry’s MVPs behind the scenes—Destination Spotlight: George Linley, Palm Beach County Sports Commission. An in-depth look at how one of Florida’s top sports commissions continues to raise the bar on hosting excellence.
So, whether you are relaxing poolside between tournaments, finalizing budgets, making a bid presentation, or plotting your fall event calendar, consider this your warm-weather playbook for what’s shaping the sports tourism landscape right now—and a reminder to pause, reflect, and take care of yourself while you’re pushing forward. Thanks for being part of the journey.
Onward,
x Matt Dunn
8 16 19 24
32 34 36 40
Destination Spotlight
George Linley, Executive Director
Palm Beach County Sports Commission
PUSH Travel
How to get a bigger hotel room for free
Using Your Weekend to ReCharge
Conference Review
Florida Sports Foundation Annual Summit
PUSH Management
From suits to sweatshirts, the changing face of workplace style
PUSH Health
Six Ways to Feel Less Tired After a Long Work Day
PUSH Commentary
Florida Can’t Afford to Gut it’s Tourism Industry
Industry Confidential
George Linley Executive Director DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
What circumstances led you to begin working at the Palm Beach County Sports Commission?
I’ve been drawn to the sports business world since my college days. Back then, I made an unconventional move—I left a full-time accounting job in the financial sector, with a solid salary and benefits, to take an internship at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, the Spring Training home of the Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals. It was a leap of faith, but one I’ve never regretted.
That internship turned into a full-time role as a marketing and sales executive. A couple of years later, I joined the Palm Beach County Sports Commission as a sports event coordinator. Within a year, I was promoted to manager, and seven years after that, I applied for the executive director position. The search committee initially chose one of our talented board members, but
the full board ultimately reversed the decision, and I was privileged to step into the role. Fifteen years later, I’m still here, and I feel incredibly fortunate.
I feel truly blessed each day when I go to work. I was born and raised in Palm Beach County, so leading an organization that promotes and elevates this community through sports is extremely personal. There’s not a day that goes by that I take this job for granted.
What was the first thing you did when you learned you got the job?
After being awarded the leadership role, my first action was to reach out to three mentors who had been instrumental in shaping my career. The first was Graham Morris, former Director of Operations for the Sports Commission, and the person who originally hired me. His work ethic and leadership style left a lasting impression on me, and I learned a great deal under his guidance. I also called Rob Rabenecker, General Manager of Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, who played a pivotal role in my development as a sports business professional. His mentorship helped me grow professionally. Lastly, I made a heartfelt call to thank the late Jim Riordan, founder of the FAU MBA Sports Management Program. He laid the foundation for my journey. Each of these individuals contributed uniquely to my path, and I felt it was essential to express my gratitude for their faith in me and their profound impact on my growth.
Tell us about the “bread and butter” sports that the Palm Beach County Sports Commission caters to. Are these due to specific state-of-the-art facilities?
Palm Beach County’s wide-ranging array of sports facilities and infrastructure offers a competitive advantage in driving sports tourism. The comprehensive mix of public and private facilities throughout The Palm Beaches allowed our Sports Commission to host 44 different types of sports over 213 events in 2024. This underscores the County’s status as one of the nation’s top 5 sports destinations in attracting and hosting events, per the Sports Business Journal. Our
ability to host many different sports on a national and global level is one of our Sports Commission’s core strengths.
Palm Beach County does possess several core competencies within its sports landscape, most notably as Florida’s only destination with two Major League Baseball (MLB) Spring Training complexes, home to four MLB teams. In addition to Spring Training, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission annually hosts more than 30 amateur baseball tournaments, with both professional and amateur events collectively generating over 100,000 hotel room nights.
As Florida’s Golf Capital, The Palm Beaches leverages its unmatched golf assets to drive year-round visitation and hotel room night generation. With access to over 160 golf courses, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission strategically hosts a wide range of golf events at both the amateur and professional levels, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a premier golf destination.
Palm Beach County offers 1,400 tennis courts, an 8,000-seat tennis stadium, and an abundance of pickleball venues, which allows our Sports Commission to host the premier professional and amateur tennis and pickleball events in Florida.
Palm Beach County hosts America’s premier equestrian show jumping competitions and worldclass polo events, generating record-setting tourism impacts. Additionally, the National Polo Center features five polo pitches, which can be converted into 40 contiguous multipurpose fields, enabling us to secure bids for some of the nation’s largest events for soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, and rugby.
Soccer has become a cornerstone sport in our community, thanks to the development of The Gardens North County District Park—home to some of the finest soccer pitches in Florida. This reputation is backed by five MLS teams and numerous international clubs that train at the facility. Most notably, Real Madrid recently selected the park as its base camp for the FIFA Club World Cup, further validating its world-class status. Finally, some of the nation’s premier soccer tournaments have chosen
The Palm Beaches as their home.
The Palm Beaches have emerged as a premier destination for Olympic-related events. Over the past year, our Sports Commission has successfully hosted national events from a wide range of national governing bodies, including USA BMX, USA Swimming, USA Fencing, USA Shooting, U.S. Soccer, the United States Equestrian Federation, the United States Tennis Association, the United States Golf Association, and USA Gymnastics. This reflects our commitment to excellence in sports development and event hosting.
How does seasonality affect your annual book of business?
Visitation and hotel occupancy rates in The Palm Beaches typically rise after Christmas and peak between February and March. During this period, lodging rates are at their highest.
Our Sports Commission hosts events yearround, with a strategic focus on developing sports tourism during the summer, fall, and early winter—key periods of high demand for hotel occupancy. Sports consistently outperform other tourism products during the summer. On an annual basis, we target sports with active summer calendars.
Youth sports are especially prominent during the summer, as families are more likely to travel during school breaks. Additionally, we prioritize partnerships with Florida state associations to attract the drive market, which is strong during the summer and is more resilient to economic fluctuations. From the sports tourism perspective, the Palm Beaches are balanced well throughout the entire calendar year.
Describe why Palm Beach County Sports Commission events are so meaningful to you.
I’m fortunate to be part of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, where I promote a product I love and deeply believe in—sports. Our portfolio of events not only drives economic growth and tourism but also enhances com-
munity pride and resident sentiment. Whether it’s the PGA TOUR or the ATP TOUR, we’re not only attracting sports enthusiasts from across the region, but we’re also creating unforgettable experiences for families right here in The Palm Beaches.
When we organize national and international events, we create jobs within Palm Beach County’s hospitality industry and open doors for local youth teams to compete on a nationwide or global stage. I’ve had parents express heartfelt gratitude because their child had the chance to play against a team from Nebraska or the Dominican Republic, creating a unique sports experience right in their own backyard. We bring the nation or globe to our local community and local teams.
Moments like these remind me of the powerful impact sports can have on lives. My passion for sports continues to grow each year, as does my appreciation for being part of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission.
George, you have been identified as a colleague in the industry who is not only successful in bringing in sporting events to your community, but someone who also “talks the talk” and “walks the walk” throughout your various endeavors. In what ways has your passion for the sports tourism industry helped to drive your career forward?
At the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, our mission is to champion the Palm Beaches as the ultimate destination for sports and tourism. Our Sports Commission plays a vital role in strengthening our hospitality industry and local economy. In the past year alone, our portfolio of sporting events generated 452,361 room nights, contributing to 2 million room nights across the county. Sports events account for nearly one in every five room nights in Palm Beach County. Our efforts also resulted in a net gain of over $2 million in bed tax revenue. This impact fuels my motivation every day.
I have a deep belief in the product we promote. Through the events we organize and host, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission encourages active, healthy lifestyles and fosters sports participation across all age groups—from youth to seniors. Sports have shaped my life, and I am confident that
our work has a positive influence on the lives of others. That purpose drives me every morning. And I am inspired that we are building a stronger economy and enriching the community.
Our Sports Commission owns and operates events that truly celebrate the power of sports and inspire participation across The Palm Beaches. From the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame, which honors outstanding athletes, coaches, and contributors of sports, to the Kids Fitness Festival of The Palm Beaches, where thousands of children (ages 5-12) are introduced to more than 30 different sports each year, our work is rooted in impact. We know our efforts are making a difference in people’s lives, and that is the ultimate motivation. I am inspired by the fact that we are building a stronger economy and enriching the community.
As the Executive Director of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, how do you juggle your organization’s workload?
I cannot overstate the magnitude of the workload
our Sports Commission takes on, nor can I overstate the exceptional talent and dedication of my colleagues. The demands placed on our Sports Commission are substantial, yet my teammates consistently rise to the occasion with remarkable skill, commitment, and professionalism. Our operations span days, nights, weekends, and holidays, an intensity sustained by the passion and expertise of our championship development, event management, marketing, and finance teams. I’m truly fortunate to work alongside such an extraordinary group of individuals who share a commitment to excellence in sports tourism. Because of my teammates, we can handle significant demands.
What was the most significant moment you experienced thus far as the sports tourism leader for Palm Beach County?
This is a difficult question to answer, as I have experienced many significant moments and continue to have game-changing experiences while serving the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. One particularly memorable moment involves Major League Baseball (MLB) Spring Training.
Since the opening of Roger Dean Stadium in 1998, Palm Beach County has been home to Florida’s only destination to own a two-team MLB Spring Training complex. Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, which opened in 1998 in Jupiter (home to the Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals). By 2012, however, the east coast of Florida faced the real risk of losing its MLB Spring Training presence entirely, as teams began relocating to the state’s west coast. Both the Marlins and Cardinals were considering relocation, which could have left not only Palm Beach County but the entire East Coast without Spring Training.
At this critical juncture, our Sports Commission, in partnership with County officials, met with the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals to explore developing a new MLB Spring Training facility in West Palm Beach. Despite opposition and resistance from various stakeholders, including our partners at the CVB and segments of the business community, who were reluctant to support additional stadium investments, our Sports Commission envisioned a larger opportunity.
We emphasized Palm Beach County’s potential to emerge as a national leader in both Spring Training and year-round amateur baseball events. The baseball tournaments would particularly happen during off-peak travel periods. We presented this vision multiple times to the business community, the City of West Palm Beach, and ultimately to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners. As a result, Cacti Park of The Palm Beaches became a reality and opened in 2017.
Today, Palm Beach County owns two MLB Spring Training venues, featuring 26 diamonds and two stadiums, and is home to 1 out of every 4 Spring Training games in Florida. Combined, our spring training venues host over 30 amateur baseball tournaments annually. In the past year alone, our two spring training facilities generated 117,964 room nights, with amateur baseball tournaments slightly outpacing MLB in lodging impact. Combined, these facilities generated an economic impact of $99.7 million, driven by year-round activity. I believe our Sports Com-
mission not only saved Spring Training in The Palm Beaches, but also saved it for Florida’s east coast.
In what way, or ways, are you a different person today because of your experience working in Palm Beach County for the past 20 years)??
Working in Palm Beach County’s sports industry for over 20 years has been both a professional journey and a genuinely personal one. Palm Beach County is not just where I work, it’s where I’m deep-rooted. Over the years, I’ve become a more strategic thinker, a more collaborative leader, and a more grateful resident. I’ve learned the importance of persistence, negotiation, and ingenuity. The experience has shaped my leadership skills.
What advice would you give to others who find themselves in a situation like yours?
Embrace the long game. Victories don’t come quickly. Whether it’s recruiting events or pursuing a specific goal. Focus on developing trust and credibility, and you will win.
What would “today George” share with “first day on the job George?”
When I first arrived at the Sports Commission, I saw this role as an opportunity to continue my growth in the sports industry and assumed I would advance to a greater role in a few years. I almost left for other organizations, many of which would take me outside of Palm Beach County.
I would tell myself, ‘You have no idea how transformative the Sports Commission will be.’ I know you have a timeline and are planning to leave; however, be patient. This journey will exceed anything you imagined.
You’ll help lead the Commission through record-breaking events in both participation and attendance. You’ll help bring an Olympic Qualifier to Florida, where Team USA secures home field advantage and wins a berth into the Olympic Games—and for the first time in over 60 years, Cuba’s national baseball team will compete on Florida soil.
You’ll help create an annual community event that introduces over 100,000 children—and counting—to more than 50 different sports. You’ll be part of creating a college football bowl game, and your Sports Commission will belong to one of the nation’s most popular sports video games.
You’ll gain the trust of local Mayors and County Commissioners, and together with your team, build an unrivaled sports destination. You will also influence state legislators and meet with multiple Governors to advance sports tourism. And yes, you’ll even shake hands with a President of the United States— all because of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. I would tell myself: this Sports Commission will not just build your career. It will change your life.
What goals do you have personally and for Palm Beach County in the second half of 2025?
Sports-related room nights in The Palm Beaches have grown 32% over the past five years and 8%
in the last year. We aim to increase attendance significantly and room nights by another 12% by the end of 2025, boosting bed tax revenues in the process.
We are committed to bringing the FIFA World Cup to The Palm Beaches. This road will be through the team Base Camps. Two sites are already qualified as FIFA Team Base Camps, and we’ve been awarded a base camp for the Club World Cup—hosting global powerhouses Real Madrid and Manchester City. We will do everything possible to make sure we have multiple Team Base Camps in 2026 as well.
Finally, it’s more critical than ever for our Sports Commission to expand alternative revenue streams beyond bed tax funding. We have set goals to increase sponsorship revenue, enhance profits from Sports Commission-owned events, and launch an ambassador program to further support our mission.
How to Get a Bigger Hotel Room for Free — And What You Can (and Can’t) Take With You
Travelers are always on the lookout for ways to stretch their vacation dollars. From scoring upgrades to taking advantage of complimentary amenities, finding smart, budget-friendly travel hacks can make a trip more enjoyable and affordable.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to gain more space at no additional cost is to request a corner room. Due to typical hotel layouts, corner rooms are often larger than standard ones, even though they aren’t officially classified as upgraded or premium suites. These rooms typically offer extra space and, in some cases, better views without any additional cost. And since you’re not requesting a formal upgrade, it’s a polite and reasonable ask at check-in, as long as the hotel isn’t fully booked.
While enjoying your stay, it’s also common to want to take home a small souvenir or keepsake from the experience. Many guests take advantage of the complimentary items provided in the room, like shampoo, bar soap, and disposable slippers. These are generally considered acceptable to take, as they’re single-use or intended for guest use during the stay.
However, not everything in the room is fair game. Items such as towels, sheets, pillows, and even books or magazines provided for reading during the stay are typically not intended for guests to take. More substantial items, such as hairdryers, steam irons, or decorative pieces, can sometimes go missing, but removing them is considered theft. In extreme cases, guests have taken things like shower heads or tiles—actions that can result in criminal charges or bans from the hotel.
Theft from hotel rooms, even small items, adds up to significant costs across the industry, re-
portedly hundreds of millions of dollars each year. Many hotels now maintain internal records of guests who have taken items improperly, and some even share this information with other properties.
To avoid any misunderstanding or unintended consequences, travelers are encouraged to ask hotel staff if they’re unsure whether an item is complimentary. A simple question at the front desk can help ensure you leave with good memories, not a bill or a ban.
PUSH mindfulness
Using Your Weekend to Recharge:
Signs of Burnout and How to Cope
Feeling tired, stressed, or overwhelmed by work is all too common, and weekends are often seen as a crucial opportunity to rest and recover.
However, the way you approach your weekend may actually reflect deeper issues with burnout rather than being part of the solution.
A pattern of living for the weekend and dreading the weekdays can be a subtle indicator that something is off.
Pop culture often highlights this with jokes about hating Mondays or eagerly anticipating Fridays. Whether it’s comic characters who dread the start of the week or movie scenes poking fun at the Monday blues, these cultural references reflect real-life attitudes that may indicate dissatisfaction with work.
Many people express similar feelings in everyday life — counting down to Friday by midweek or enthusiastically celebrating the weekend’s arrival. While this might seem harmless, consistently splitting the week into “bad” workdays and “good” weekends can take a psychological toll, reinforcing the idea that most of your time is unpleasant.
This mindset often contributes to a phenomenon known as the “Sunday Scaries” — a wave of anxiety or dread that sets in as the weekend comes to a close. The emotional
crash that comes with the end of a short-lived escape can heighten stress and make the upcoming workweek feel even more daunting.
Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy your weekends while also creating a more balanced mindset throughout the week. Here are several practical strategies to consider:
1. Be Present
Instead of letting your mind race toward Monday, focus on what’s happening at the moment. Grounding yourself in the present can help ease anxious thoughts about the future and allow you to enjoy your time off more fully.
2. Integrate Joy into Weekdays
Look for small pleasures during the workweek — whether it’s visiting a favorite café, reading during lunch, or catching up with a friend. Bringing pieces of the weekend into your weekdays makes the week feel less like a grind.
3. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Spend time with people who uplift your mood. Whether it’s supportive coworkers or nonwork friends who help you decompress, strong social connections play a key role in keeping stress at bay.
4. Pursue Personal Interests
Hobbies, creative outlets, or side projects can give you a sense of fulfillment beyond your job. Engaging in activities that challenge and interest you helps reenergize your mind and boost your mood.
5. Disconnect from Devices
Stepping away from screens, especially work-related communication and social media, allows your mind to truly rest. Creating digital boundaries over the weekend helps prevent work stress from spilling into your downtime.
6. Prioritize Sleep Throughout the Week
Instead of relying on the weekend to catch up on sleep, aim for consistent rest throughout the week. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can enhance energy levels, improve focus, and boost emotional resilience.
7. Prepare for the week ahead
Use part of your Sunday to plan and organize. Laying out clothes, prepping meals, or writing a to-do list can ease the Monday transition and reduce feelings of overwhelm as the week begins.
Additionally, taking a carefully planned vacation can provide a more significant reset. Time away from work — when used mindfully — can help you return with more clarity, energy, and motivation.
Key Highlights:
Peer-to-Peer Business Meetings
Two extensive one-on-one meeting sessions enabled destinations and rights holders to connect directly, share proposals, and lay the groundwork for future events throughout Florida. These structured sessions, spanning nearly five hours each, were cited as a central value of the Summit.
STS Certification Course
Led by industry experts John David (Sports ETA) and Adam Stoker (Brand Revolt), the Summit included an educational component focused on best practices in sports tourism strategy, event marketing, and destination branding. Attendees walked away with actionable insights and a stronger foundation for long-term success.
The Gold Rush Games
Part networking, part team building, and all fun—the Gold Rush Games returned as a crowd favorite. Set in a spirit of fun, the event brought together participants in a friendly competition that encouraged collaboration, creativity, and camaraderie outside of the meeting rooms.
Recognizing Excellence: The Larry Pendleton Partner Awards
The Summit’s second night was capped by the Larry Pendleton Partner Awards Dinner, which honored the achievements of individuals and organizations advancing Florida’s sports tourism ecosystem.
Photos courtesy: Florida Sports Foundation
Top Honors Included:
2025 Small Market Award Winners
Best Awarded Event
Game Day New Years Baseball Festival 2024, Visit Panama City Beach
Best Hosted Event:
2025 Visit Panama City Beach College Baseball Classic, Visit Panama City Beach
Best Sports Tourism Venue
The US Sailing Center of Martin County, Play Treasure Coast Sports Tourism
2025 Mid-Market Award Winners
Best Awarded Event
2024 US Rowing Youth National Championships, Sarasota Sports Commission
Best Hosted Event
2025 World Masters Athletic Indoor Championships, Gainesville Sports Commission
Best Sports Tourism Venue
Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training, Ocala/Marion County CVB
2025 Large Market Award Winners
Best Awarded Event
2025 Banana Ball World Tour, Tampa Bay Sports
Best Hosted Event
2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four, Tampa Bay Sports
Best Sports Tourism Venue
Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Visit Central Florida Sports
2025 Individual Award Winners
Florida Sports Tourism Professional
This award is presented to a Florida peer in the industry that has created the most value to their organization, team, and community during the previous year.
Winner: Mathew Ratner, Greater Miami CVB
Emerging Leader of the Year
This award is for a Florida peer who is in their early years of employment with their organization and has created the most value to their organization, team, and community during the previous year.
Winner: Ryan Strickland, Play Treasure Coast Sports
MVP Partner
Winner: Steve Lackey, Experience Kissimmee
Larry Pendleton Award Winner for Excellence in Sports Tourism
Awarded to an outstanding executive in the Florida sports community who has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills during the award year.
Winner: Rick Hatcher, Play Treasure Coast Sports Tourism
These awards recognized both long-standing leadership and innovative, high-impact events that showcased Florida as a world-class sports destination.
Feedback from attendees reflected a strong appreciation for the Summit’s mix of value-driven content and casual, coastal atmosphere.
“It was a great meeting that underscored the strength of our partnerships…” — Maicel Green, CEO, Florida Sports Foundation.
Participants praised the balance of formal programming and informal connections, noting that the environment allowed for both authentic relationship-building and strategic discussions.
A fantastic selection by the Treasure Coast Sports Commission, the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa offered a fitting mix of relaxation and professionalism. Attendees praised the clean, modern facilities and the scenic setting, which made for a perfect mid-year reset.
The 2025 Summit reinforced key themes shaping the sports tourism landscape in Florida.
First, momentum was high as Florida continued to lead through collaboration, creativity, and data-driven planning.
Second, continuing education via the Sports ETA STS certification and panel insights provided clear takeaways for evolving industry standards.
Finally, a continuing sense of community, fostered through activities such as the Gold Rush Games, partner dinners, and museum visits, emphasized the personal connections that fuel professional progress.
For veterans and newcomers alike, the Florida Sports Foundation Annual Summit remains a must-attend event for anyone committed to the growth of sports tourism in the Sunshine State. With a powerful blend of education, recognition, and connection, the 2025 gathering offered a high-impact snapshot of where the industry is—and where it’s heading next.
From Suits to Sweatshirts: The Changing Face of Workplace Style management
As office environments evolve, so do the expectations around what we wear to work.
The traditional office dress code is undergoing a transformation. As more companies shift toward flexible work environments, formal attire is no longer the default expectation. The result is a broader acceptance of casual dress in professional settings, especially as remote and hybrid work arrangements continue to influence workplace norms.
Over time, workplace fashion has consistently moved in a more relaxed direction. This trend accelerated when remote work became widespread, blurring the lines between professional and personal attire. Even with the return to in-person work for many, the days of mandatory suits and dress shoes are fading.
Rather than imposing strict guidelines, many employers now allow employees to dress in a manner that aligns with their comfort and job duties. This flexibility can promote productivity and help create a more inclusive environment. For example, individuals facing health considerations or different cultural expectations may feel more at ease in clothing that suits their personal needs.
Work attire still holds significance, however. What people choose to wear continues to send signals about professionalism, preparedness, and intent. In response, some com-
panies have adopted flexible dress codes that allow employees to dress according to their daily schedules. If a client meeting is on the calendar, a more polished outfit is expected. On quieter days, casual wear is generally acceptable.
Even in the absence of formal rules, unspoken dress norms persist. Employees often observe what their colleagues and leaders wear and follow suit, creating unofficial dress codes that can still reflect status and hierarchy. This subtle guidance influences decisions, whether consciously or not.
In some sectors, a shared casual uniform has emerged—standardized enough to offer guidance yet relaxed enough to feel comfortable. This phenomenon suggests that while the business suit may no longer be required, a new kind of uniformity is taking shape based on shared values and workplace culture.
Clothing remains a form of expression and can reflect a person’s role, seniority, or even social standing, regardless of how informal it may appear. The shift away from traditional business attire doesn’t eliminate workplace expectations—it simply changes how those expectations are communicated.
As some companies call for a full-time return to office work, there may be renewed interest in formal clothing. However, any resurgence of traditional workwear is likely to be temporary. The long-term direction favors adaptability and personal choice over rigid standards.
Outside the workplace, this shift has created an unexpected reversal: social events are now where people dress up more. While office attire is becoming increasingly relaxed, going out has become the new occasion for wearing more formal or fashionable clothing.
Though the office dress code may no longer be enforced in the same way, clothing will always carry meaning. What we wear—whether to a meeting, a video call, or a night out—continues to reflect who we are and how we navigate the expectations around us.
6 Ways to Feel Less Tired After a Long Workday health
Even if your job isn’t physically demanding, it can still leave you feeling drained. The mental focus, social interaction, and constant decision-making required throughout the day can lead to severe fatigue. While it’s normal to feel a dip in energy after work, consistently pushing through exhaustion can snowball into chronic fatigue or burnout.
The good news? There are low-effort, research-supported strategies that can help you feel more refreshed before, during, and after your workday. Here are six practical ways to manage your energy more effectively and bounce back from work-related tiredness.
1. Power Down with Purpose
Establishing a clear boundary between your work and personal time can help you mentally disconnect and recover. A consistent end-of-day ritual—such as changing your clothes, taking a short walk, or journaling—acts as a signal to your brain that it’s time to shift gears. Over time, this routine can help lower stress and support better relaxation in the evenings.
2. Pause to Recharge
Frequent, short breaks throughout the day can do more for your energy levels than one long lunch. Even five minutes away from your screen or taking a quick walk outside can refresh your mind. Setting a reminder to pause regularly helps regulate your energy output and can lead to improved focus throughout the day.
As a dedicated tourism and sports tourism professional who has spent three decades building Florida’s reputation as a premier global destination, I am both disheartened and deeply concerned by the Florida Legislature’s recent attempts to unravel the very mechanisms that drive our state’s most powerful economic engine: tourism.
Over the past few months, a series of bills proposed in the Florida House have taken aim at Tourist Development Taxes (TDT) and Tourist Development Councils (TDCs)—institutions that have successfully marketed our communities, supported world-class events and built the infrastructure that welcomes over 130 million visitors each year. These proposals would not only send the TDT back to a public referendum but also expand its uses far beyond its intended purpose and, in some cases, aim to redirect those funds to “buy down” property taxes.
Let’s be honest: the math doesn’t work. The average homeowner would see only a negligible reduction in annual property taxes. In many counties, it would amount to less than $100 per household per year. The revenue gained for individual taxpayers is a drop in the bucket—hardly worth dismantling an industry that supports more than 1.7 million jobs and brings in over $100 billion in economic impact annually.
Destroying the Engine That Drives Florida Tourism isn’t just a “nice to have” in Florida. It’s the number one industry in the state, touching everything from hospitality and sports to retail and transportation. The TDT is the bedrock funding mechanism that allows us to market Florida to the world. It funds vital advertising campaigns, sports commissions, cultural events, beach restoration, and visitor services that make our destinations not just appealing—but competitive on a global scale.
Eliminating or diluting these resources means communities lose the ability to attract major sporting events, conventions, lei-
sure travelers, and international tourists. It’s not hyperbole to say that if you destroy the TDT, you destroy Florida’s ability to compete. These aren’t just marketing dollars—they’re catalysts for economic development, community investment, and job creation. Without them, we fall behind faster than we can recover.
Sports Tourism Will Suffer—and So Will Local Economies
As someone who works closely with event rights holders, sports commissions, and CVBs across the state, I can tell you that this is not a theoretical concern. If we can’t support events through destination marketing, facility funding, and services—all powered by TDT revenues—those events will go elsewhere.
That means local hotels go empty, restaurants lose business, transportation services dry up, and jobs—thousands of them—disappear. The ripple effect across communities, particularly those that rely heavily on seasonal tourism and youth or amateur sports events, will be devastating. In small and mid-sized markets, primarily, sports tourism often represents the majority of overnight stays during the shoulder seasons. Lose that, and you lose year-round economic stability for many Florida communities.
And let’s be clear—this isn’t just about the bigname events. This is about regional soccer tournaments, cheer competitions, softball showcases, and youth sports camps that fill hotels and drive business into our small towns and beach cities. Without tourism councils and dedicated funding, these events lose their home base.
A Short-Term Fix with Long-Term Consequences
Redirecting the TDT to offset property taxes is a political soundbite, not a sustainable solution. These bills, if passed, would provide only temporary relief to homeowners while causing permanent damage to our tourism infrastructure and our economy.
It would take years—possibly decades—for Florida to recover. Destination brands that took generations to build would lose visibility. Our
workforce—bartenders, event planners, hotel staff, tour guides, and marketers—would be displaced. And the sales, gas, and even tourism taxes that help fund local services would plummet, leaving local governments scrambling to make up the difference elsewhere.
Once the damage is done, rebuilding trust, relevance, and reputation on the world stage won’t come easy—or cheap.
Our State Deserves Better.
This isn’t a partisan issue. This is an economic issue. And more importantly, it’s a community issue.
We in the tourism and sports events industry aren’t asking for special treatment. We’re asking for the tools to do our jobs. We’re asking lawmakers to recognize the difference between a revenue-generating investment and a political gimmick. We’re asking for the right to continue building a better, more vibrant, and economically resilient Florida.
The message is clear: don’t fix what isn’t broken. Strengthen it. Support it. Let it continue to
work for every corner of our state. Because when tourism thrives, Florida thrives.
Prepare Now for What’s Next
This year’s legislative attacks on Florida’s tourism infrastructure may have stalled, but make no mistake—they’ll be back. These bills are likely to return in the next session, repackaged and rebranded, but with the same destructive intent. That’s why tourism professionals across the state must organize now. Begin conversations with your local elected officials, educate your stakeholders, and collaborate with your tourism development corporations (TDCs), destination marketing organizations (DMOs), sports commissions, and chambers of commerce to unify your voice.
Build grassroots coalitions, track proposed legislation early, and be ready to show up—at the Capitol, in committee meetings, and in the media. The future of Florida’s tourism economy depends on our collective vigilance, advocacy, and resolve. We cannot afford to be reactive— we must be proactive, united, and loud. The next legislative session starts sooner than you think. Be ready.
Industry Confidential
Check in every issue for the unfiltered thoughts of our guest writers and contributors as they discuss the hottest topics in sports tourism.
In this issue, our guest writer discusses the subject of learning to lead, and earn respect.
Strong leadership is rooted not only in vision and expertise but also in the ability to earn respect from others. In moments of uncertainty or challenge, respect becomes a powerful source of influence. It enables leaders to guide their teams with confidence and clarity, even when facing difficult choices.
Respect is not automatic—it must be built through consistent actions and behaviors that others find trustworthy and admirable.
Four essential qualities play a vital role in cultivating this respect:
Empathy
Empathy enables leaders to understand the perspectives of others, fostering stronger connections and more inclusive decision-making. By genuinely considering how others feel and think, leaders can navigate complex situations with greater emotional intelligence and relational strength.
Courage
Leaders who earn respect are those who are unafraid to take a stand. Courage involves making difficult decisions, confronting uncomfortable truths, and accepting that popularity is not always attainable when doing what’s right. It’s about conviction, not convenience.
Fairness
Respectable leaders treat others with fairness and impartiality, avoiding favoritism and self-interest. Fairness requires considering the broader perspective and acting in a manner that serves the greater good, rather than just personal interests. It promotes trust and loyalty across teams and departments.
Consistency
Consistency helps to eliminate uncertainty. When a leader’s behavior is stable and values-driven, others know what to expect and feel more confident in their guidance. This reliability strengthens credibility and reduces second-guessing or confusion.
Why Respect Isn’t Always Easy to Achieve
Leaders often struggle with the natural human desire to be liked. While this is a natural impulse, it can hinder sound decision-making. Leading effectively sometimes means disappointing people or confronting issues directly—actions that aren’t always met with approval but are necessary for growth and direction.
The key is to develop a strong personal foundation: knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to be remembered. This self-awareness guides leaders through difficult decisions and helps them remain grounded in their values, even when faced with competing pressures.
Earning respect also depends on how decisions are communicated. Transparency and honesty go a long way in showing integrity. When people see that decisions are made thoughtfully and for the right reasons—not out of self-interest or convenience—they are more likely to respect the outcome, even if they disagree with it.
In the end, leadership isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about acting with integrity, clarity, and courage. Those who lead with these principles often find that respect follows naturally.
