Volume 6 // Issue 2
Sports Tourism Business & Lifestyle 1
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Field Notes August has a certain electricity in our industry; summer-time energy collides with the final push before fall’s packed conference and event season. It’s a time when destinations are buzzing, professionals are juggling peak workloads, and the opportunities to connect, learn, and innovate are everywhere. Volume 6, Issue 2 of PUSH is built to keep you sharp, inspired, and ready for whatever the field throws your way. Here’s what we created for you: PUSH Marketing, Bridging the CEO vs. CMO Gap in Sports Tourism Why vision and marketing must speak the same language and how to make it happen. Conference Preview, Connect Sports 2025 The sessions, people, and strategies that will make your trip count. PUSH Travel, Surviving a Hot Beach Destination Conference Stay cool, stay focused, and still enjoy the sand. PUSH Health, Zinc + Magnesium: The Sports Tourism Pro’s Survival Duo Two minerals, one powerful travel shield for your health. PUSH Mindfulness, Managing Stress and Staying Centered Quick, practical ways to stay balanced on the go. Industry Confidential: The Current State of U.S. Border Policy What shifting rules mean for fans, teams, and destinations. Destination Spotlight, Anthony Terling, Auburn-Opelika Tourism Turning collegiate community spirit into a sports tourism powerhouse. Industry Spotlight, Jason Sands, Kemper Sports Building venues and experiences that keep creativity and revenues flowing. August is a month for momentum. When the choices we make today determine how we finish the year. As you read this issue, I hope you find both practical takeaways and the kind of inspiration that fuels your next big move. PUSH is here to be your companion in that journey: unfiltered, informed, and unapologetically passionate about sports tourism. See you in the field,
x Matt Dunn 3
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CONTENTS 6 14 18 22 26 32 38 42 44
Destination Spotlight Anthony Terling - Auburn-Opelika Tourism PUSH Marketing Bridging the CEO vs CMO Gap in Sports Tourism Conference Preview Connect Sports 2025 Savor the Flavor: Miami Spice Turns Up the Heat PUSH Travel Surviving a Warmer Climate Destination Conference Industry Spotlight Jason Sands - Kemper Sports PUSH Health Zinc & Magnesium: Sports Tourism Pro’s Survival Duo PUSH Mindfulness Managing Stress and Staying Centered Industry Confidential
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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
Anthony Terling How did you first break into the world of sports tourism, and what hooked you for good? Back in college as a sports management student, a mentor who still guides me today spoke to our class about volunteering for the Alabama State Games. I signed up without much thought, but that decision changed everything. Before I knew it, I had a full-time job lined up while finishing my undergraduate degree and starting graduate school. That experience opened my eyes to the power of creating something that touches so many lives. It impacts participants, their families, the venue staff, and the volunteers, and it can create real economic value for an entire community. What’s a recent project or event you’re especially proud of, and what made it stand out? We have worked with Auburn Athletics for years to host major NCAA and SEC Championship events. Those collaborations have helped 6
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elevate both our community and the university’s profile. In recent years, we have expanded that partnership by looking beyond traditional intercollegiate sports. The War Eagle Run Fest is a great example. It was one of the first events I played a key role in creating and executing with a company that knows the running industry and shares our long-term vision. The event brought a rights holder from outside the collegiate space into our market. It showcased the strength of collaboration between Auburn Athletics, the City of Auburn, and Auburn-Opelika Tourism. What made it stand out was the variety of benefits for the community. It inspired local participation, drew visitors from all over the country and beyond, and created an annual tradition that connects collegiate pride with broader sports tourism goals. We are fortunate to have venues that can host everything from championship-level collegiate events to community sports festivals. It reflects our shared vision to build events that strengthen Auburn’s brand while delivering lasting economic and cultural value to the community. How have you seen the sports tourism industry evolve, and what can we expect next? Sports tourism has grown beyond major collegiate and professional events to include youth, adult, senior, niche, and adaptive sports that keep destinations busy all year. We are seeing more public-private partnerships, more use of data to prove return on investment, and a greater focus on connecting events to community benefits like improved parks and recreation. The industry is also moving toward experience-driven destinations that pair sports with food, culture, and the unique parts of a community that make it stand out. Sports tourism is now recognized as a form of economic development. Local, state, and federal governments are seeing its value in attracting industry, creating jobs, and strengthening communities. Auburn-Opelika has a proven 8
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history of successfully hosting everything from collegiate championships to large-scale community races, which makes event rights holders confident in bringing their events here again and again. If you could fix one misconception people have about sports tourism, what would it be? It is just about the game or the athletes. Sports tourism is a powerful economic development tool. It drives lodging demand, boosts restaurant revenue, increases retail sales, generates tax dollars, and fuels community growth. From youth soccer and pickleball to adaptive sports and national championships, every event brings visitors who spend money and strengthen the local economy. It is one of the cleanest forms of economic development. What role does community impact play in your strategy when attracting sporting events? 10
We all know the term “heads in beds,” and it is an integral part of our work. We do want events that bring measurable visitor spending to local hotels, restaurants, and businesses, and that generate tax revenue which can be reinvested into public amenities, recreation facilities, and infrastructure. But for Auburn-Opelika Tourism, it is about more than just lodging. Community impact is at the center of our strategy. Sports tourism improves the quality of life by bringing in diverse events that lead to better facilities, parks, and infrastructure that residents enjoy year-round. These events foster pride, create volunteer opportunities, and offer family-friendly entertainment. They also boost our economy and showcase our unique mix of small-town charm and sports energy, making the area even more appealing for residents, visitors, and potential businesses.
One thing that sets us apart is how easy it is for visitors to get here and feel at home right away. Our hotels, restaurants, and attractions are all close to the action, and our hospitality is unmatched. People remember the way they are welcomed here just as much as the competition they came to see. What’s one sports moment that changed your life or career path? Every Christmas Day, my late father and I went to the Blue Gray Classic, an All-Star game for college football seniors. He worked in the press box while I roamed the sidelines with my field pass, feeling like I was part of the event staff. I met great college players and legendary NFL stars, but the moment that stuck with me most was meeting Tony Dorsett. Even though he was a Cowboy, I knew he was bigger than just that. I have never been starstruck by athletes, but what made a lasting impact was seeing the behindthe-scenes work that most people never notice. It gave me an early look at what it takes to pull off a major sporting event.
It would be right here. My love for sports and Auburn Athletics runs deep in my family. For 38 years, I have missed very few Auburn sporting events, and now I get to take my 8-year-old son to the same stadiums where I grew up cheering. In my dream scenario, we partner with Auburn Athletics to bring the biggest events in our community’s history, from a College Football Playoff game to major national and international competitions. We would showcase everything that makes an Auburn gameday special, from the eagle flight to rolling Toomer’s Corner. Off the field, we would give visitors the best of Auburn-Opelika — great local food, a walkable downtown, family-friendly attractions, and a community that cheers for you whether they know you or not. Visitors would leave with more than just game memories. They would go with an unforgettable Auburn-Opelika experience that keeps them coming back. Who’s someone in the sports world you’d love to grab coffee with, and what would you ask them?
Outside of work, what sport, team, or athlete do you enjoy following the most? Auburn University athletics, of course. For professional sports, it is the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins. My Terling family is from the Steel City. If you weren’t working in sports tourism, what would you be doing instead, and why? Landscaping or non-profit charity work. I came to Auburn University planning to get a degree in horticulture and landscape architecture. My wife loves to point out how much I spend on landscaping for our home. I also enjoy giving back and have worked for or served on the boards of several non-profits. Helping people is something I truly value. You’re hosting your dream event in your dream destination. Where are we going and what’s happening? 11
Bo Jackson or Frank Thomas. I would ask them what mindset or daily habits helped them perform at such a high level for so long, and how they have applied that same mindset to their post-athletic careers. What’s in your event day survival kit? Coffee. More coffee. A power bank for my phone, earbuds, zip ties, Liquid IVs, protein bars, Skittles, a water bottle, sunscreen, run-ofshow documents, pens, and a hat. What’s the most unexpected or hilarious thing that has happened at one of your events? When I worked for the Alabama State Games, I once went nearly 48 hours straight overseeing more than 20 sports across 30 venues over three days. I went from helping with the televised opening ceremony in the summer heat, to working late on our registration database, to showing up the next morning in a coat and tie
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for a live 7:30 a.m. TV interview. If sports tourism were an Olympic event, I’d take gold in: Seeing a bridge-building opportunity that does not exist yet. Finding untapped opportunities to build connections and partnerships that align with Auburn-Opelika Tourism’s values and strategy. Go-to hype song for a long event day? 80s and 90s rock like Bush, Fuel, Weezer, or Incubus. Or some Lil Wayne. If PUSH Magazine gave you a free Times Square billboard for a day, what would it say? Be A Better Human Today. Change Someone’s Tomorrow.
T h i s
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W I R E
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Meet the coolest college town in the South. And his hip older sister. aotourism.com
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marketing
Bridging the CEO vs. CMO Gap in Sports Tourism In sports tourism, the potential for measurable growth and engaged fans and visitors is immense. However, the divergence of goals between CEOs and CMOs often hinders this potential. By aligning their objectives, both destinations and event rights holders can unlock significant opportunities for success. In the past, a marketer’s job was clear: understanding the athlete, the team staff, and the visitor. Doing so then delivers the right message, converting them to register and book travel. But today’s sports tourism marketing landscape is far more unpredictable. They jump between social media, streaming, registration platforms, and ticketing and travel sites before deciding whether to register and attend an event. Trust in advertising alone isn’t enough; proof through authentic experiences, 14
peer reviews, brand loyalty, and content-rich storytelling is the new currency. In 2025, American households are more price-conscious and deal-driven than ever. Whether it’s a family considering the cost of a week-long baseball tournament or a fan deciding between a collegiate football game and the U.S. Open, the demand for more value from advertising spend is clear. This shift underscores the urgency and importance of delivering high-quality marketing campaigns. C-Suite Expansion This complexity has fueled the growth of specialized leadership roles on all sides of sports tourism, whether it be destinations, event rights holders, or industry partners. Newer positions, such as Chief Revenue Officers, Chief Experience Officers, and
Chief Digital Officers, are all claiming pieces of the visitor journey. For destinations, this means marketing becomes divided between visitor bureaus, sports commissions, facility operators, and team and event owners. For event rights holders, it’s split between athlete or team registration, ticketing, sponsorship, broadcast, and visitor experience. This division of labor has created a growing CEO vs. CMO gap. CEOs may feel they understand marketing today; however, many CMOs disagree that their CEOs truly get it. This disparity has been growing each year. In sports tourism, this often translates into under-leveraged campaigns, fragmented brand messaging, and missed opportunities to tie economic impact directly to marketing ROI. Do Not Sideline the CMO As in other sectors, sports tourism CMOs are finding themselves pulled away from strategic planning when they are not at the table during conversations around growth plans or event calendars. Without their voice, the athlete and visitor experience can easily be overlooked. This results in less cohesive branding, inconsistent messaging, and reduced repeat visitation. Mismatched Metrics Another blinding challenge is that marketing success in sports tourism is at the mercy of platform-specific KPIs. These include social media reach, ticket click rates, livestream engagement, or hotel booking conversions from a campaign or third-party platform. These, of course, are important, but they don’t always translate to the metrics a CEO and board prioritize, like net revenue, event-related hotel nights, or membership growth. So, what’s the result? CMOs are talking about sold-out youth soccer tournaments, while CEOs want to know how those tournaments moved the needle for the destination’s lodging occupancy. If they don’t see eye to eye, alignment is impossible. Closing the Gap Within the industry, the most successful destinations and rights holders put growth-oriented
CMOs in positions of actual influence. Over the decades, we’ve seen that when organizations unite under a single leader responsible for both revenue growth and visitor experience, they see climbing growth rates. In sports tourism, that leader is often the CMO, but only if they can bridge the gap between marketing metrics and outcomes. For instance, successful CMOs have implemented data-driven marketing strategies, collaborated closely with the finance team to calculate tourism marketing ROI, and actively participated in strategic planning meetings. To accomplish this success, it requires a solid partnership with the organization’s C-Suite. When finance teams endorse tourism marketing ROI calculations, marketing gains credibility at the board level. Insights into Action The CEO vs. CMO gap in sports tourism can diminish when approached strategically. CMOs must embrace roles as designers of growth, not just storytellers. CMOs should not only be responsible for crafting compelling narratives and engaging content, but also for designing and implementing strategies that drive revenue growth and improve the visitor experience. CEOs must welcome them into the earliest stages of organizational, event, and project planning, recognizing the value of their strategic insights and data-driven decision-making. For destinations, this means including your marketing team when bidding for events, so they can design the narrative that wins the rights holder’s vote and the athlete’s interest. For event owners, it means letting marketing support and help shape the athletes’ and spectators’ journeys from the first impression to the final whistle. When marketing strategy and business objectives align, engagement soars, economic impact grows, and both sides (destination and rights holder) win. This alignment can lead to increased event attendance, higher visitor satisfaction, and improved brand perception, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of the sports tourism industry.
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Get ready to take your sports tourism game to the next level as Connect Sports at Connect Marketplace lands in Miami this August. With a perfect blend of high-value networking, forward-thinking education, and unforgettable destination experiences, this is the premier event where destinations, rights holders, venues, and event suppliers con verge to make deals and shape the future of the industry.
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What’s on Tap? Elite General and Breakout Sessions From can’t miss keynotes to targeted breakout discussions, Connect Sports is packed with industry-specific programming designed to inspire action and innovation. General sessions will deliver big-picture insights from some of the most respected voices in sports tourism, while breakouts drill down into topics like securing bids for major events, leveraging economic impact data for funding, and maximizing fan engagement through digital and onsite experiences.
Interactive Q&A Forums ensure you walk away with not just ideas, but real strategies to implement back home.
One-on-One Appointments This is where deals happen. Powered by advanced AI matchmaking technology, Connect Sports signature pre-scheduled appointments pair sports event organizers with destinations, CVBs, sports commissions, venue operators, hotels, and service providers. Every meeting is tailored or alignment, ensuring that your time translates into tangible partnerships. Whether you’re booking a new annual tournament or filling a key weekend on your city’s event calendar, these face-to-face conversations turn introductions into signed contracts.
Trade Show Floor & Networking Buzz Step onto a trade show floor buzzing with over 200 exhibitors showcasing the latest event technology, tourism solutions, and service innovations. Discover new vendors, compare offerings, and explore tools that make hosting and managing sports events smoother and more profitable. The energy doesn’t stop when the floor closes. Receptions, happy hours, and exclusive networking events keep the momentum going long into the evening.
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Location Perk: Miami Like You’ve Never Experienced It Upscale Stay & Play Options Attendees will enjoy Miami’s finest lodging, from chic boutique hotels in South Beach to sprawling luxury resorts with direct ocean views. With the Miami Beach Convention Center just minutes away, you’ll have the perfect blend of business convenience and leisure indulgence. After a full day of meetings, retreat to rooftop pools, spa treatments, and award-winning restaurants right at your doorstep. Breezy Beaches & Crystal-Clear Waters Few conference destinations can rival the postcard-perfect setting of Miami Beach. Just steps from your hotel, you’ll find miles of soft sand, swaying palms, and water so clear you can see the ocean floor. Take an early morning jog on the boardwalk or an afternoon paddleboard session, Miami’s natural beauty is the ultimate mental refresh. Nightlife & Non-Stop Fun When the sessions wrap, Miami’s nightlife takes over. Experience legendary rooftop bars, live Latin music, craft cocktail lounges, and vibrant dance floors. For foodies, the city’s dining scene is a global tour, from fresh-caught seafood to award-winning Cuban cuisine. The only challenge? Deciding which spot to try first.
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Why the 2025 Connect Sports Stands Out Strategic Face Time: Targeted one-on-one meetings designed to create lasting, revenue generating partnerships. Focused Sports Edge: Every session is built for the needs of sports tourism pros, from securing bids to enhance fan experiences. Unmatched Locale: Miami’s combination of tropical scenery, upscale hospitality, and energetic culture sets the stage for both serious business and serious fun. Final Thoughts Connect Sports at Connect Marketplace isn’t just another conference; it’s a three-day immersion in deal-making, idea-sharing, and Miami Beach style living. Whether you’re sealing partnerships, learning from industry leaders, or simply soaking up the Atlantic breeze, this is where the business of sports tourism meets unforgettable moments. Pack your business cards, your best pitch, and your flip-flops. Miami is ready for you.
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Savor the Flavor: Miami Spice Turns Up the Heat Just as Connect Sports 2025 arrives in Miami, the city’s dining scene hits peak season with the return of Miami Spice Restaurant Months — running August 1 to September 30. This beloved culinary celebration dishes out threecourse, prix-fixe menus at over 200 of Miami’s top restaurants, all at 30% or more off regular prices. It’s your chance to taste the city’s rich cultural blend — from award-winning fine dining to hidden neighborhood gems. Fresh on the Scene: Jarana – Bold Peruvian flavors from the minds behind La Mar by Gastón Acurio. Uchi – Japanese dining reinvented with creative flair. Donna Mare Italian Chophouse – Coastal Italian cuisine with a Miami twist. Local Legends: Wyn Wyn – Fresh, local, and unmistakably Miami. Ghee Indian Kitchen – Farm-to-table Indian cooking that’s equal parts comfort and adventure. Whether you’re closing deals on the trade show floor or catching sunset on the beach, Miami Spice is your invitation to toast the city’s flavor, culture, and energy — Connect Sports style.
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travel
Surviving a Warmer Climate Destination Conference Attending a conference in a hot beach destination sounds like a dream, and in many ways, it is. Sparkling water, vibrant nightlife, and a little sand between meetings make for an unforgettable experience. But if you’re not used to extreme heat, your dream business trip can quickly turn into a sweaty, dehydrated struggle. Whether you’re flying in from a cooler climate or simply not accustomed to spending long days in high temperatures, preparation is the difference between a productive, enjoyable trip and one that leaves you drained. From staying hydrated to knowing what to pack, here’s how to make the most of your time without melting in the process.
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Respect the Heat If you’re coming from a region with mild summers, tropical heat, especially in coastal destinations, will feel different than what you’re used to. Temperatures can easily soar above 90°F (32°C), and when paired with high humidity, the air can feel heavy and stifling. Long conference days and post-event networking outdoors can quickly lead to overheating without warning. The key is to acknowledge the heat as a fundamental factor that affects your energy levels, hydration needs, and even your concentration. Awareness is your first line of defense. Hydration Is Your First Rule of Survival Dehydration is one of the most common and preventable issues travelers face in hot climates. You’ll be losing more water than you realize during sessions, walks between venues, and even casual strolls along the beach. Instead of trying to “catch up” by drinking large amounts of water once you’re thirsty, aim to sip
water steadily throughout the day so your body maintains a constant level of hydration. A reusable water bottle is essential, not only because it’s eco-friendly but also because most conference centers have refill stations that make it easy to top up. Be smart and include electrolytes in your hydration plan, whether through tablets, powdered mixes, or sports drinks, to replace the minerals lost through sweat. Travel with Medications for Dehydration and Heat-Related Symptoms Even if you prepare, the heat can still catch you off guard. Travelers prone to dehydration headaches, muscle cramps, or low blood pressure should pack oral rehydration salts or electrolyte chews for quick recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers help manage heat-triggered headaches, and any prescribed medications for chronic conditions that extreme temperatures can aggravate should be kept close at hand. Carry these in your day bag so
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you can access them quickly if needed, rather than having to return to your hotel room midday. Dress Professionally Without Overheating A hot climate doesn’t mean you can abandon professional standards, but it does call for strategic wardrobe choices. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking synthetics allow you to look polished while staying cool. Light colors reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, and unlined blazers or short-sleeve dress shirts provide structure without trapping heat.
While it’s tempting to enjoy the social scene to its fullest, late nights in warm, humid conditions, especially when alcohol is involved, can drain your energy for the next day’s sessions. You’ll be able to enjoy yourself more if you alternate alcoholic drinks with water, eat a balanced meal before going out, and keep track of how long you’re staying out. The goal is to network and have fun without spending the keynote speech wishing for another hour of sleep. What to Pack Packing for a hot climate conference requires a blend of practicality and professionalism. Your suitcase should include a reusable water bottle, lightweight professional clothing, comfortable walking shoes or sandals, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A portable mini fan or handheld mister can be a lifesaver when you’re standing outside in the sun, and a hat or visor provides additional shade during outdoor activities. Medications, hydration aids, aloe vera gel for sunburn relief, and skincare essentials will also earn their place in your luggage. Optional but handy items include a cooling towel for quick relief between sessions, travel-size baby powder or anti-chafing balm for long days on your feet, and a compact umbrella in case of sudden tropical downpours.
For footwear, professional sandals or breathable dress shoes are a clever compromise, but make sure they align with the conference dress code. If you know the venue will crank its air conditioning, slip a light cardigan or unlined jacket into your bag so you can layer up indoors without carrying a bulky coat. Balancing Nightlife in the Heat Hot beach destinations are often famous for their nightlife, and our sports tourism conferences host evening networking events outdoors. 28
On the other hand, you can skip packing heavy fabrics like wool, multiple pairs of formal shoes you likely won’t wear, and thick jackets unless you know the conference venue is notorious for excessive air conditioning. Prioritize Skincare in Extreme Heat The combination of intense sun and salty air can be hard on your skin. Applying sunscreen each morning should be as automatic as brushing your teeth, even if you expect to be indoors most of the day. UV rays can still cause damage during short walks between buildings or through glass windows. If you’re spending extended time outdoors, reapply every two hours. Moisturize at night to combat dryness from sun exposure and air conditioning, and don’t forget lip balm with SPF. Sunburned lips are
shade or air conditioning immediately and drink water with electrolytes. Don’t ignore the first signs of sunburn and cover up before it worsens. Keep caffeine intake moderate since it can contribute to dehydration, and if your destination is humid, remember that clothes may take longer to dry between wears, so pack accordingly. Final Thought A beach conference destination offers the best of both worlds: Professional growth and the atmosphere of a getaway.
one of the most overlooked and uncomfortable effects of tropical heat. Manage Your Energy and Pace Yourself Heat often saps energy faster than you anticipate, so think of your conference days like an endurance event. Instead of rushing from morning to night without breaks, pace your movement and activity levels to keep your energy consistent.
The secret is in the preparation: staying hydrated, dressing smart, pacing yourself, and protecting your skin will help you enjoy the trip to its fullest. With the right approach, you’ll leave with valuable industry connections, new insights, and maybe even a healthy sun-kissed glow. Just make sure it’s from careful sunscreen use and not a surprise sunburn.
Take shaded or air-conditioned routes when possible, and schedule short cool-down breaks before evening events. If you want to explore the destination or get in some beach time, do it early in the morning before the sun reaches its peak intensity. Wisely Embrace the Location One of the perks of a conference in a beach destination is the opportunity to blend work with leisure. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the beauty of the location without compromising your conference stamina. Consider starting your day with an early swim or beach walk, enjoying local cuisine at shaded or air-conditioned restaurants, and visiting attractions in the evening when the temperature dips slightly. Quick Safety Reminders The most important thing to remember is to listen to your body. If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or develop a pounding headache, seek 29
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INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
Jason Sands How did you first break into the world of sports tourism, and what hooked you for good? My first job in the sports tourism world was with the EVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour, where I helped the owner and his wife with all aspects from marketing to operations (setting up 50 nets at midnight on Chicago’s North Ave beach lol) to sponsor sales. It was such a fantastic experience for a 24-year-old sports nut that grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan – I was hooked! When we did an event in Lake County, Indiana, I met the Sports Tourism representative there and saw that he got to work on 20+ events in a year, consisting of everything from golf events to professional bowling events and youth tournaments – that’s when I was really hooked. I knew that’s where I needed to be! I jumped on with them, and here I am 20 years later, so grateful and appreciative of all the amazing people I’ve met along the way. 32
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What’s a recent project or event you’re especially proud of, and what made it stand out? I’m just proud of what me and my team accomplished in Fort Worth. We built Fort Worth into a force to be reckoned with in the sports tourism game, and we did it one relationship at a time – one event at a time. We focused on delivering for our clients, and we did it with integrity and good old-fashioned hard work. How have you seen the sports tourism industry evolve over the past few years, and where do you think it’s headed next? We all know the industry has been steadily growing the past 20 years, but the pandemic made city leaders step back and take notice. We are seeing communities starting to invest in nice sports facilities that their residents can enjoy and be proud of, but also facilities that will drive tourism and economic growth on the weekends. The strategy of investing in sports tourism has been proven out time and time again, and you are going to see more and more communities build these demand generators to kick start their local economies. If you could fix one misconception people have about sports tourism, what would it be? I don’t think most people understand how much work goes into executing a successful sporting event. There are 20+ different things you have to make sure are on point, from marketing plans, sponsorship sales, volunteer coordination, hotels, community engagement, and on and on. Often, the sports tourism department is one or two people responsible for all of that – for one event! If you multiply that times the 30+ events or so that most are hosting in a year, you start to get a better sense of the ground these professionals cover.
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What role does community impact play in your business development strategy? Incorporating the community into your sports tourism efforts is so important. We have the opportunity to have a profound impact on the communities we live in through the relationships we build and the events we bring in, and you have to make that connection when you can. We talk about leveraging the power of sports, and that goes beyond driving heads in beds. Sports can inspire kids to be great, and if we can help create that spark in a kid, that’s what it’s all about. What’s one sports moment (personal or professional) that changed your life or career path? I don’t know if I can choose one moment, but I know that sports were a big part of my childhood, and I think that helped shape me into who I am today. My dad was a huge sports fan – Notre Dame football, IU Basketball, and all Chicago sports teams (except the Cubs – go Sox!) – and he would take our whole family to games all the time, and it’s memories I’ll cherish forever. Outside of work, what sport, team, or athlete do you enjoy following the most? I was fortunate enough to grow up during the Jordan era in Chicago, so there is no debate in my mind who the GOAT is. MJ was just on another level, and those Bulls teams were so fun to watch. If you weren’t working in sports tourism, what would you be doing instead, and why? If you’re in sports tourism you are service-oriented, so I think I would be in the service business in some way, shape, or form. You’re working on a dream project within your dream destination. Where are we going and what’s happening? The great thing about my job today is I get to work with communities all over the country to help them build their dream facilities for their residents, and that’s extremely rewarding. We 36
know how much of an impact a nice sports facility can have on local kids and a city as a whole, so to be able to help our partners realize these dreams and build facilities that will change the trajectory of a community is something I take great pride in. Who’s someone in the sports world (living or legendary) you’d love to grab coffee (or a cold one) with, and what would you ask them? I wouldn’t mind spending some time with Tiger to see if he could help me with my golf game. What’s in your “event day survival kit”? (No judgment here… Energy drinks, lucky socks, secret Scooby snacks?) Caffeine – in all forms! What’s the most unexpected or hilarious thing that’s ever happened at one of your events? We used to manage a half-marathon on the shores of Lake Michigan, and part of the course was a 5-mile stretch of a very narrow running trail. As I was setting up at 4 am, I took the rental van down that trail and made the wise decision to try to turn around. I ended up getting the van stuck – completely blocking the trail! As you can imagine, I was FREAKING OUT! It took me about 45 minutes, but I finally got it out. I’ve never lived that down. If sports tourism were an Olympic event, I’d take gold in… Parking – you give me a grass lot and a thousand cars, and I can make magic happen! What’s your go-to hype song when you need to get pumped for a long day on-site at an event? Can’t go wrong with Rage Against the Machine.
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health Zinc + Magnesium: The Sports Tourism Pro’s Survival Duo If you work in sports tourism, your “office” is rarely the same from week to week. One day it is a hotel ballroom turned meeting space, the next it is a convention floor, a stadium suite, or a cross-country flight. It is a career that rewards stamina, adaptability, and connections, but it also takes a toll on your body. Constant travel pushes your immune system to its limits, disrupts your sleep, and challenges recovery between long days and late nights. That is where two underappreciated minerals, zinc and magnesium, can make a real difference. When taken smartly, they work together to keep you healthy on the road, help you sleep better in unfamiliar hotel beds, and recover faster from the physical grind of events. Why sports tourism pros need them most The sports tourism circuit is a marathon disguised as a sprint. You are up early, working late, on your feet for hours, shaking hands with hundreds of people, eating on the run, and catching flights at odd hours. Add in the crowds at airports, the recirculated air on planes, the time-zone shifts, and the unpredictable meal options, and you have a perfect storm for fatigue and illness. Zinc is a quiet powerhouse for your immune system. Zinc is involved in hundreds of cellular processes, helping your body heal, fight infections, and keep energy levels steady. Magnesium is a mineral that helps your muscles, nerves, and sleep cycles stay on track. These benefits are critical when your days are physically demanding, and your nights are short. Together, they address 38
the two most significant threats to your performance on the road: getting sick and running out of steam. The travel-specific health squeeze The environments sports tourism pros inhabit are a constant challenge. Airports, hotels, convention centers, and stadiums are high-traffic spaces where viruses can spread easily. The low humidity in aircraft cabins dries out nasal passages, leaving you more susceptible to respiratory bugs. Long-haul travel also means dehydration risks and disrupted circadian rhythms. While the handshakes and face-to-face time are great for business, they are also a fast track to accumulating germs. Maintaining normal zinc levels is crucial for your immune system to stay alert in these conditions. Zinc is a quiet powerhouse for your immune system. It is involved in hundreds of cellular processes, helping your body heal, fight infections, and keep energy levels steady. Magnesium plays a quieter but equally important role, helping you unwind and rest when your “wind down” is in a different bed every night. That kind of sleep support can be the difference between being sharp for a morning meeting and running on fumes. What the research shows Studies on zinc suggest that while it is not a magic bullet, adequate intake is essential for maintaining strong immune function. Some evidence even suggests zinc lozenges taken at the first sign of a cold may shorten its duration, which
is useful when you cannot afford to lose a day on site. Magnesium research points to its role in helping muscles relax and supporting deeper, more restorative sleep, especially in people under stress or with low magnesium intake from food. For the sports tourism professional, these are not abstract benefits. There are tangible advantages. Avoiding the mid-event crash, staying clear-headed through long schedules, and being able to push hard for the length of a conference or tournament without your body giving up early are all results that matter. Taking zinc and magnesium together Most travelers can take zinc and magnesium at the same time without trouble. However, it’s important to note that excessive zinc intake can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while high doses of magnesium can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your zinc intake in the recommended range, which is 10 to 15 milligrams daily for maintenance and up to 25 milligrams short-term during periods of high exposure. In that case, you can pair it with 100 to 300 milligrams of magnesium in the evening. If you push zinc closer to the safe upper limit of 30 milligrams, you should take it earlier in the day and magnesium at night to avoid possible absorption competition. Choose well-absorbed forms. Magnesium glycinate or citrate is easier on the stomach. Zinc picolinate, gluconate, or citrate are widely used and effective. Zinc is best taken with food to reduce nausea. Magnesium, thanks to its calming effect, works best in the evening and is perfect for the travel pro trying to quiet a busy mind before bed. The sports tourism travel routine Picture this. You are flying to a multi-day event with a packed schedule. On travel day, you hydrate, eat a balanced dinner, take your zinc with that meal, and your magnesium about an hour before lights out. During the event, you keep zinc at 15 to 25 milligrams daily to help fend off what
you are exposed to, and magnesium stays part of your nightly routine to help your body recover and your brain switch off. After a late networking night, you double down on hydration, skip the caffeine the next morning, and still take your magnesium before bed to ensure you get as much deep rest as possible. Once you are back home, zinc returns to its lower maintenance level, and magnesium continues to support regular, high-quality sleep. Re-entry days can be just as exhausting as the trip itself. Food first, supplements second Even with supplements in your bag, food matters. Sports tourism pros often live on grab-and-go meals, but small changes can help you meet your needs naturally. Zinc-rich foods include oysters, beef, turkey, yogurt, fortified cereals, and chickpeas. Magnesium is plentiful in pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, black beans, edamame, and oatmeal. Choosing a Greek yogurt with nuts at the airport, or a grain bowl with beans and greens at the venue, can go a long way toward keeping you topped up. Playing the long game Zinc and magnesium are not a replacement for the basics. The real win comes when they are part of a bigger plan that includes staying hydrated, keeping your immune system primed through nutrition and rest, washing hands frequently, and controlling your sleep environment as much as possible. They are small, they are carry-on friendly, and they work quietly in the background so you can stay at the top of your game, whether that means closing a sponsorship deal at a tournament, hosting clients at a stadium, or leading back-to-back site visits in different cities. For sports tourism professionals, performance is not just about showing up. It is about showing up healthy, alert, and ready to deliver, no matter the city or schedule. Zinc and magnesium may be small parts of the puzzle, but for those who live life on the move, they can be the difference between powering through the week or being forced to the sidelines. 39
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mindfulness
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Managing Stress and Staying Centered in the Sports Tourism Industry In the high-pressure world of sports tourism, where deadlines loom, travel schedules are unpredictable, and events demand peak performance, stress can often feel like a constant companion. But there’s a powerful tool that can offer relief. Mindfulness, with its ability to break the cycle of tension, can help you manage stress, stay grounded, and approach challenges with clarity, providing a much-needed respite from the rigors of the industry. Stress affects everyone differently, but in the sports tourism industry, it often shows up in the form of quick decision-making under pressure, juggling multiple tasks at once, and adjusting to last-minute changes. When a stressful moment hits, like a delayed flight or a venue challenge hours before kickoff, the body triggers a fightor-flight response. Adrenaline floods your system, your heart races, and your thoughts speed up. While this reaction is designed to prepare you for action, it can also cloud judgment and drain energy. Mindfulness interrupts that spiral. By bringing attention to the present moment, whether it’s focusing on your breath between meetings or noticing the sensations of your feet on the ground as you walk the venue, you can calm stress before it takes over. Even 60 seconds of conscious breathing can shift your mental state from frantic to focused. Chronic stress is more subtle but just as impactful. Long stretches of travel, back-to-back events, and constant connectivity can create a low-level tension that never fully lets up. Over time, this background stress can affect your mood, your relationships, and even your job satisfaction. Mindfulness helps here, too, by training your attention to return to what’s happening right now, instead of worrying about what’s next.
Sports Tourism professionals can weave mindfulness into daily routines, no matter how hectic. Start your morning by sitting quietly in your hotel room, taking five slow breaths before starting your day. During a fully scheduled day, you can pause to truly taste your lunch instead of eating rapidly. Between site visits, you might step outside, take in the local scenery, and notice the sounds around you without judgment. Mindfulness is not a quick fix; it’s a long-term solution that can transform your experience in the sports tourism industry. It’s not about ignoring problems; it’s about facing them with more awareness and less reactivity. When you’re fully present, you’re better able to listen to a colleague’s concern, adapt to unexpected changes, and make decisions from a place of composure. Over time, this approach not only reduces stress but also improves professional relationships, creative problem-solving, and your ability to enjoy the unique experiences that sports tourism offers. Small rituals can anchor your mindfulness practice on the road. Some professionals keep a short meditation app queued up for layovers, while others use a gratitude journal to reflect on the day’s wins before bed. Others find that walking the venue alone before the crowd arrives becomes a grounding moment of quiet. The key is consistency, finding micro-moments to pause, notice, and breathe, no matter where you are. Traveling for sports tourism responsibilities is a privilege, but it can also be a test of resilience. Mindfulness equips you with tools to navigate the highs and lows of the job without losing your sense of balance. By bringing more awareness into your work and travels, you can turn even the most hectic days into opportunities for focus, connection, and calm. 43
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 current state of affairs of the U.S. Border Policy Lately, it seems an awful lot like the United States wants the party, but won’t open the door. The United States is lining up the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics like they’re back-to-back Super Bowls for the global stage. The economic upside is massive. But the most significant risk isn’t stadium readiness or sponsor dollars, it’s whether international fans can get in. America’s visa and customs systems are slow, unpredictable, and in some cases downright unwelcoming. With expected warning lights at arrival gates, international travelers are already changing plans. Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel reports a 3.8% drop in arrivals for the first seven months of 2025, with July alone down 5.1%. The culprits: endless queues, staffing shortages, and a $250 visa integrity fee that feels more like a surcharge for frustration than a security measure. Instead of rolling out the red carpet, the U.S. is setting up hurdles. We’re seeing a trend in international visitors choosing Canada over California. Europe’s largest tour operators, including Tui, say travelers are bailing on U.S. trips entirely, opting for Canada, Asia, or Africa instead. Reasons range from marathon visa waits to hostile customs experiences, including detentions of travelers who had all 44
the proper paperwork. It’s not a good look, especially when the world’s most significant sports events are at stake. Unlike leisure vacations, sports tourism runs on hard deadlines. If you can’t get a visa before the knockout round, you’re not coming at all. The Club World Cup in the U.S. was a warning shot: fans detained at airports, visa bottlenecks everywhere, and a 10% drop in March arrivals compared to last year. Tourism Economics predicts a 9.4% overall decline in international visits for 2025—exactly when the numbers should be climbing. Visa interview wait times now top 330 days in India, Colombia, Peru, and Honduras. In some consulates, it’s over 850 days. Fans won’t know their match locations until late ticket sales, which means they’re gambling on travel they might not even be able to book in time. For the average supporter, the odds just aren’t worth it. Senator Ron Wyden warns that delays and drop-offs could cost the U.S. $9 billion in lost tourism spending. Houston’s World Cup organizers are dealing with the same uncertainty, compounded by year-long visa queues. Boston, which could see a $1.1 billion boost from its matches, knows bad headlines about detained fans or glacial customs lines could tank the mood and the turnout. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is staying upbeat, citing political commitments to welcome fans. But advocacy groups say inclusivity rings hollow if border policies keep ticket holders out. Add in security escalations, like National Guard deployments in protest-heavy host cities, and the optics get even messier. Lost ticket sales, empty hotels, half-full restaurants, and underperforming sponsorship activations are all real possibilities. And the U.S. is refusing to use a proven playbook: streamlined entry for verified ticket holders. Russia did it in 2018. Qatar did it in 2022. America hasn’t announced anything. Here are four hard truths: 1. An economic fallout is expected as billions in lost revenue are on the table 2. We have a reputation risk as a growing perception of being unwelcoming will stick 3. A logistical gridlock will occur as Visas and customs delays don’t mesh with sports tourism timelines 4. We’ll be at a tactical disadvantage as our competitors have streamlined entry, while the U.S. hasn’t. We need to play ball or risk losing the game. America is sitting on a historic sports tourism opportunity. But without decisive action, surging consular staff, modernizing visa systems, and properly staffing customs checkpoints, these opportunities could turn into the most red-tape-restricted global sports events in modern history. If the U.S. wants to host the most inclusive World Cup and Olympics ever, step one is making sure fans from around the world can get here. Right now, that’s not a sure thing. 45
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