Playbook - Summer 2023

SUMMER 2023

Welcome John David

Symposium Recap 4S Summit

Unlock Your Potential: Discover Educational Opportunities with Sports ETA

Shine The Spotlight In Your Direction!

Perspective is a funny thing.

Sports ETA Member wins

IT’S GEAUX TIME

Louisiana’s Capital City is the home of fierce competition. Whatever your sport and however you compete, Baton Rouge is brimming with professional and recreational venues that are ready to take your event to the next level.

Start planning at visitbatonrouge.com/sports.

National Headquarters

9624 Cincinnati Columbus Road, Suite 209

West Chester, OH 45241

Telephone (513) 281-3888

www.SportsETA.org

Staff

John David, President & CEO

Janis Breedlove, CMP, STS, VP Events & Experiences

Meagan Grau, Director of Marketing and Communications

Michelle Wessels, Director of Membership & Engagement

Rebecca Myles, Sponsorship and Advertising

Jennifer Stoll, Ph.D., STS, Research and Education

Carol Courtney, Special Projects Coordinator

Board of Directors Officers

Chair: Ray Palmer, President/CEO, Pensacola Sports

Vice Chair/Chair-Elect: Frank Lett, STS, President and Chief Tourism Officer , Visit Kingsport

Secretary: Matt Libber, Executive Director, Maryland SoccerPlex

Immediate Past Chair: Don Dukemineer, STS, CHSP, Director of Sports Development, Decatur Morgan County Tourism

Directors

Phil Andrews, Chief Executive Officer, USA Fencing

Rob Coggin, Director, League Operations, National Collegiate Roller Hockey Association

Cindy Cowart, STS, President, Coward Sports Events

Chad Culver, STS, Senior Director of Sports Commission, Visit Knoxville Sports Commission

Tammy Dunn, STS, Executive Director, Snohomish County Sports Commission

Jason Gewirtz, Vice President, Sports Division, Northstar Meetings Group, Executive Editor and Publisher, SportsTravel, Northstar Meetings Group/SportsTravel

Lawrence Hamm, Senior Director of Business Development, Sports and Entertainment Division, Events DC

Jerrine Lee, Vice President of Sales, Richmond Region Tourism

Chris O’Brien, Director of Sports Marketing & Special Events, Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.

Jonathan Paris, STS, Executive Director of Sports Tourism, Myrtle Beach Area CVB

Clay Partain, STS, Executive Director, Sports Salt Lake

Hank Pivarnik, STS, Global Accounts Director - Sports, Sonesta International

Scott Powers, STS, Executive Director, Experience Columbia SC Sports

Ryan Strickland, STS, Vice President, Treasure Coast Sports Commission

Melissa Thompson, Chief Community Officer, Indiana Sports Corp

Katy Tigchelaar, STS, Director of Marketing & Events, West Michigan Sports Commission

Sports ETA encourages members to share information with their peers. Contact

to learn more about how you can contribute to a future edition of the Sports ETA Playbook.

To include your news in our weekly Get in the Game eNews, send press releases and articles to info@sportseta.org

Distribution Date: Thursdays. Deadline for content: Wednesday at Noon ET before distribution date.

Letter from the President and CEO

Dear Sports ETA Members and Industry Professionals,

Welcome to the Summer edition of Sports ETA’s Playbook. I hope this finds you in the midst of hosting great events that create amazing economic impact for your community, but more importantly, building memories that will last a lifetime.

First, I would like to express my appreciation to my predecessor, Al Kidd, whose dedication and leadership have laid a solid foundation for Sports ETA’s continued growth and success. Al has been incredibly helpful throughout the transition. Thank you, Al! I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Sports ETA Board of Directors, our dedicated staff, and all of you who have entrusted me to lead our association. I have personally witnessed the transformative power of sports tourism in fostering economic growth, community engagement, and personal development. Now, it is my privilege to lead our collective efforts in advancing our industry and further elevating the impact of sports events and tourism across the globe.

At Sports ETA, we recognize the undeniable power and unifying force of sports. Our shared passion for sports events unites us, as we collaborate to enhance the experiences of athletes, spectators, and host communities alike. I firmly believe that adversity leads to innovation and new opportunities. The past few years have presented our industry with never-before-seen challenges, and we have witnessed the remarkable resilience and adaptability of our members who found creative ways to deliver exceptional sports experiences. The landscape has changed, and we must remain at the forefront of these changes. Now more than ever, it is critical that we continue to evolve and embrace change to ensure a successful future for our industry.

In the coming months and years, we are committed to further unifying our membership and exploring new opportunities for collaboration while prioritizing several key areas that will help us thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. We will focus on fostering communication and knowledge-sharing among our members, providing cutting-edge resources and educational opportunities, and developing needed topical research, industry insights, and thought leadership while advocating for the essential role of sports events in our society. With this collaborative spirit, we will leverage technology and innovation to enhance our event experiences, champion membership growth, and deliver exceptional tools that will allow our members to transcend the boundaries of sport and inspire generations to come.

As we move forward together, I encourage each of you to actively engage with Sports ETA and take advantage of the countless benefits that membership offers. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in sports events and tourism, our association is here to support you every step of the way. By sharing our expertise, ideas, and successes, we can collectively shape a brighter future for our industry and leave a lasting impact on the communities we serve.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, and I look forward to connecting with each of you in the months and years ahead. Together, let’s inspire, innovate, and redefine what it means to be a part of the Sports Events & Tourism Association.

John David President and CEO

Letter From Board Chair

Hello from the “Western Gate”

I can not begin to tell you all what an honor it is to have been selected by the membership of Sports ETA to serve as the Chairman of the Board for the 2023-2024 year. It is truly humbling, but also exciting as we begin the process of welcoming a new leader. Just coming out of our new Executive Committee’s first retreat and hearing John David’s vision, goals and pure excitement for our organization is infectious. Our third edition of leadership begins now!

I encourage you all to fully engage with the association to feel his passion. While participation in the events, education, and programming opportunities are critical to all of our professional development as we strive to get better at our jobs every day, the real game changer for me during my 20+ year career in this industry, has come from the relationships built by attending Symposium, 4S, the CE Summit and more. The fraternal nature of our industry and the willingness of our members to help each other is one of the most rewarding factors of our little niche industry. The friendships created are an integral part of my life every day and I encourage you all to join us.

While John and the great staff are building the plan and managing the operations, it is imperative YOU, the members and purpose of the association, provide the participation, support, and feedback for the maximum success we are striving for in the coming year and beyond. Ultimately, everything we do begins with the members.

Sports ETA’s future is bright, our challenges are great but our opportunities are greater. I am excited to have the opportunity to be the board chair working with a great board of directors to do my small part to support John and the staff as they lead us into the future.

Please join us!

Ray Palmer Sports ETA Board Chair

Member Services News & Updates

Help us welcome the organizations who have joined Sports ETA in 2023:

Destinations

• Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland / TEAM Maryland

• Arrowhead Multi Sport Complex

• Bill Noble Park

• Chesterfield County Administration

• City of Douglasville Parks and Recreation

• City of Florence Athletics/Sports Tourism

• Colorado Springs Sports Corp

• Columbus, IN Parks and Recreation

• County of Prince George

• Explore Newnan-Coweta, Inc.

• Green Bay Packers / Lambeau Field

• Greensboro Sports Foundation

• IMG Academy

• Iowa Travel Industry Partners

• Minnesota Sports and Events

• NRG Park Houston

• Plover Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

• Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources

• Seattle Sports Commission

• Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill

• Visit Overland Park

• Visit Pueblo

• Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau

• West Monroe Sports & Events

Rights Holder

• AAU Baseball

• Athletes Unlimited

• ETC Sport Group

• FUJI BJJ

• Golf Coaches Association of America

• Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

• H3 Athletix Sports Group

• Hoop It Up

• International Teqball Federation

• International University Sports/ World University Games

• Maccabi USA

• MLTT LLC

• National Baseball Congress

• National Crappie League

• National Cycling League, INc

• Official Strongman Games

• Players Way, LLC

• Powerlifting America

• Premier Lacrosse League

• Premier Ultimate League

• Prep Network (Prep Hoops, Prep Dig, Prep Girls Hoops, Prep Redzone, Prep Soccer)

• Professional Bowlers Association

• Prospect Select Baseball Inc

• Prospect Wire Baseball

• SportEra Events

• Stage 8 Dance

• Steel Sports

• Tier 1 Elite Hockey League

• Top of the Bay Sports

• USA Hockey, Inc.

• USA Patriots Athletics

• World Long Drive

Industry Partners

• Alison Strange & Associates, LLC

• AMI Graphics

• Byrne & Jones Sports Construction

• Candid Color Systems

• Choice Hotels International

• Competition Travel

• First Place Collectibles

• Hotel Engine

• Jetr Global Partners

• L5 Management and Consulting

• pc/nametag

• Sentral

• Sonder

• Southwest Sports Partners, LLC

• Success Awards

• VolunteerLocal

To learn more about these new member organizations, visit our Member Directory

Community Groups

Join the following community groups for their first virtual meeting of the new fiscal year. You can learn more about all of our community group online HERE

State Association Leaders

Monday, August 14 at 2:30 PM ET

Small to Mid-Market Destinations

Wednesday, August 16 at 3:30 PM ET

Industry Partners

Tuesday, September 19 at 2:00 PM ET

Member Shoutouts

Congratulations to all of our members who have been recently promoted or started a new job within the sports events and tourism industry! Your growth and achievements inspire us all. We are proud to have you as valuable members of our association and are thrilled to see you take this step in your career journey.

Promotions:

• Christina Fox, Senior Convention Sales Coordinator, VISIT Milwaukee

• Megan Husband, National Account & Tourism Sales Executive, VISIT Milwaukee

• Claire Koenig, Senior Director of Communications & Public Affairs, VISIT Milwaukee

• Jeremy Leifel, Assistant Managing Director, Sports, Hilton Worldwide

• Morgan Stanley, Sports & Events Specialist, Richmond Region Tourism

• Jonathan Walker, Director of Sports Sales, Rhode Island Sports Commission

New Role:

• Bonny Bernat, Senior Sports Development Manager, Visit Winston-Salem

• John Mark Freeze, Vice President of Sports Development, OneSpartanburg Inc.

• Mike Hill, Vice President of Sales & Business Development, GroupHousing

• Cole Lacey, Vice President of Venue Management, The Sports Facilities Companies

• Paul Sheehan, Sports Sales Manager, Cabarrus County CVB

If you’ve recently been promoted or changed jobs, make sure to update your membership profile or get in touch with member services at info@sportseta.org. This way, we can also give you a well-deserved shoutout!

Get to Know John David, our new President & CEO

John answered a few questions so you can get to know him better as a person and leader, not to mention his love for pickle ball and comfort food.

Q2: What changes would you like to bring into the sports events and tourism industry?

Q1: Why did you choose to get into the sports events tourism industry?

A: I have a philosophy that the best things in life typically happen without force, rather present themselves as opportunities created by hard work. For me, that is exactly how I found the sports tourism industry.

When I was a student at LSU, I was also working for the Baton Rouge Parks and Recreation Commission running their BMX track. After a few years of developing the facility and program, I set a goal to host a national event. My supervisor, realizing my obsession would not fade, coordinated a lunch for me with the CEO of the Baton Rouge Sports Foundation, Jerry Stovall. Coach Stovall explained his role and the role of a Sports Commission within a community. It was profound.

For ten years prior, I had competed somewhat in BMX but mostly in motocross on the national level. I understood the immense impact that sports events have on communities. However, it was at that lunch I began to understand the incredible collaboration between DMOs and rights holders that created the opportunity. For days, I replayed that meeting in my mind and could not stop contemplating the possibilities. From that moment on, I dreamed of having a career in our industry which would allow me to bring people together and create lifelong memories like those I experienced at the track.

A: One of my primary goals is to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation within the industry. I believe that by breaking down silos and encouraging open dialogue among stakeholders, we can uncover new opportunities and collectively address challenges. I also aim to leverage technology to enhance the efficacy of the association. By embracing change, staying ahead of trends, and being adaptable, we can ensure the continued growth and relevance of sports tourism.

Q3: How do you think the industry will change in the coming years?

A: The perils of the past few years truly created innovation at a pace we have not before seen. We will witness an even greater integration of technology, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, into event experiences, allowing fans and athletes to engage with sports in completely new ways. Furthermore, the rise of digital platforms and social media will continue to shape how we interact with sports events, creating new opportunities for engagement and participation.

Q4: What new ideas in the industry excite you?

A: The example of Visit Milwaukee’s Authenticated Experiences (AX) program utilizing NFTs to turn tourists into digital art collectors and offering exclusive real-life experiences and prizes through a scavenger hunt-like format, demonstrates the insane potential of Web3 and blockchain technology. This, along with AI integration, creates a future where technology application possibilities are only limited by imagination.

Q5: What are your goals for the company in the next 5 years?

A: Over the next five years, I aim to position the Sports Events & Tourism Association as the leading authority and the unwavering voice of the industry. I want to expand our membership base, diversify our offerings, and strengthen rights holder engagement to ensure we are providing the most valuable resources and meaningful connections for our members. Education will be a cornerstone of these efforts, with a focus on outstanding content for the 250 first-time attendees at Symposium, to “masters” level programming for 20-year veterans. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, we will empower our members to succeed despite our everchanging industry.

We just spoke of the transformative potential of technology. Bringing these possibilities to our members and teaching how technology can improve their business while improving both athlete and spectator experience will ensure that we grow with technology rather than watching it evolve around us. It is also imperative to strengthen the association’s position as a thought leader and advocate for the sports tourism industry, amplifying our voice and influence on critical issues. Finally, I am committed to fostering collaboration and strategic partnerships, both within the industry and with external stakeholders, to drive the growth and impact of the association.

Q6: What is the most important skill a CEO must have?

A: In my opinion, the most important skill a CEO must have is the ability to truly listen. To be an effective leader, create a winning strategy, and cultivate a culture of excellence within an association like Sports ETA, you must continuously and honestly listen to the wants and needs of staff, membership, and industry stakeholders.

Q7: Which Sports CEO do you most admire?

A: One of my all-time favorite Symposium keynote speakers was Greg Sankey, Commissioner of the Southeastern Conference. As he shared his lessons learned through the pandemic, it was crystal clear that he is an outstanding yet humble leader who is deeply passionate about collegiate athletics and the student-athlete. Despite the challenges in front of college sports from name,

image, and likeness to the transfer portal, Sankey has managed to expand the conference and grow attendance and prestige of SEC events while also solidifying a landmark television deal with ESPN. It is truly impressive and thrilling to watch and learn.

Q8: What’s the latest technology that you think can change our industry?

A: For our industry and virtually all industries, artificial intelligence will provide the most significant change since the inception of the internet. AI has the potential to transform various aspects of sports tourism, from data analytics and predictive modeling to enhancing personalization of athlete, spectator, and fan engagement. By leveraging AI, we can gain deeper insights into consumer behavior, optimize event operations, and deliver tailored experiences to individual attendees. AI-powered chatbots and voice assistants can also streamline communication and enhance the overall customer journey.

Q9: How do you stay informed about industry trends and developments?

A: I rely on a combination of methods to stay up to date. First and foremost, I focus on actively listening to our members through day-to-day communications, engagement at industry conferences and events, and networking with professionals in the field. I also make it a point to read sports tourism and general tourism industry publications, research reports, and subscribe to relevant newsletters and online platforms. Additionally, I seek out thought leaders and experts for their insights and perspectives, both through personal interactions and by following them through various channels.

Q10: Do you have any hobbies outside of work that help you become a better leader?

A: Absolutely! I am a firm believer that hobbies and personal interests play an important role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and feeding the soul. My wife and I love to hike, and fortunately, Arizona has phenomenal trails all over the state. It allows me to disconnect from the day-to-day and gain a fresh perspective, while the solitude of the outdoors provides a mental quiet time for reflection, creativity, and singular focus.

Additionally, I love to golf, which is always great for keeping one humble, and my wife and I have a newfound love for Pickleball. Playing doubles with her has taught me patience and teamwork, all of which complement leadership.

Q11: If you could trade places with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?

A: If I could trade places with anyone for a day, I would choose to be the head coach of a professional football team in the playoffs. The opportunity to step into their shoes and experience the strategic decision-making, leadership, and intense atmosphere first hand would be amazing. It would provide a unique perspective on managing a team, dealing with pressure, and making splitsecond decisions in a highly competitive environment. PS, I would always go for it on 4th and short.

Q12: What’s your go-to food for your favorite meal?

A: I’m all about comfort food. To me, there is no better feeling than walking into the house and being greeted by the aroma of pot roast. My wife is an amazing cook, and

while we split time in the kitchen, she is the true master of comfort food and the unbeatable crock pot meal.

Q13: What’s the most memorable vacation you’ve ever taken?

A: Without question, my honeymoon to Italy. Jennifer and I started in Venice, strolled the streets of Florence, tasted wine in Tuscany, and immersed ourselves in the history of Rome. Like most of our members, I love planning events, and my wife is happy to hand over those duties. This vacation came together perfectly and was one of those rare events where I would not have changed a thing.

Q14: What’s your favorite sports team?

A: While I love virtually all sports, I’m most passionate about college football. As such, without question, my favorite sports team is the LSU Tigers Football team. The spectacle that is Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge on a Saturday night is truly unlike anything in sports, and I do my best to attend at least one home game every year.

Geaux Tigers!

SAN JOSE, CA

Hosted by San Jose Sports Authority

PORTLAND, OR

Hosted by Travel Portland & Sport Oregon

April

CLEVELAND, OH

Hosted by Greater Cleveland Sports Commission

CHATTANOOGA, TN

Hosted by Chattanooga Tourism Co.

Photo courtesy of DJ Johnson on Unsplash

Photo courtesy of Chad Madden on Unsplash

Photo courtesy of Cole Keister on Unsplash

IT’S GEAUX TIME

Louisiana’s Capital City is the home of fierce competition. Whatever your sport and however you compete, Baton Rouge is brimming with professional and recreational venues that are ready to take your event to the next level.

When it’s time for your next event, Baton Rouge will transform your event into an unforgettable experience. Our dedicated team will work with local partners to get the best available rates and provide complimentary assistance from our destination experience department.

WHO PLAYS HERE

Baton Rouge is home to many annual sporting events that draw crowds from around the country.

• The Louisiana Marathon

• US Youth Soccer Southern Regional Championships

• Baton Rouge Block Party Volleyball Tournament

• Tiger-Rock Martial Arts World Championship

• United States Bowling Congress Women’s Championships

• USA Track and Field Masters Outdoor Championships

• Marucci World Series at Alex Box Stadium

• National Pro Fastpitch Softball Championship Series

• National Collegiate Waterski Championships

Whatever game you’re playing, you can find something to root for here in Baton Rouge!

FACILITIES

With numerous facilities that can accommodate sports ranging from baseball and soccer to waterskiing and golf, the Red Stick takes sports and recreation to the next level. With both indoor and outdoor facilities ready for competition, Baton Rouge is ready to play – no matter what your sport. In addition to professional venues, Baton Rouge offers several recreational options through various parks including skating, biking, boating, and kayaking, to name a few. With a number of restaurants, multi-functional event spaces and hotels — from boutique hotels to major brands you love — our city has the capacity to host all of your participants and ensure they’re getting the most out of their trip.

RACING

All year long, Baton Rouge hosts events for nationAL audiences; with multi-race courses that feature fast, flat, runner-friendly paths. The ease of our courses are ideal for all varieties of runners and races, including full marathons, 5Ks and fun runs. From the weekend-long Louisiana Marathon to the festive Mardi Gras Mambo and Turkey Trot, there’s no shortage of races for athletes in Baton Rouge.

EXPLORING THE CITY

Once the race is over, it’s time to #ExploreBatonRouge! Your guests will revel in the opportunity to discover all that the Red Stick has to offer, and there’s something for everyone. From history buffs to foodies, if visitors are staying downtown, they can easily walk to cultural attractions along the Mississippi River, including Louisiana’s Old State Capitol and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Just down the street from these popular treasures are bars and restaurants that locals love, serving up Louisiana fare like poboys and shrimp etouffee — perfect for fueling up before an event or celebrating a job well done.

WE’RE READY FOR YOU TO COME PLAY IN BATON ROUGE!

To learn more about hosting in Baton Rouge, get in touch with Visit Baton Rouge today! Head to VisitBatonRouge.com/sports, or contact Jason Suitt, Director of Sports Development, at jason@visitbatonrouge.com.

Sports ETA held Annual Symposium

in Kansas City from May 8-11 with 900 Sports Events and Tourism Leaders in attendance

Sports ETA hosted its largest event of the year from May 8-11, 2023 at the Kansas City Convention Center. More than 900 sports events and tourism industry leaders attended the Sports ETA Symposium, which offers dozens of continuing education programs and networking opportunities over the four days.

We thank Kansas City for hosting our annual Symposium where we convene our sports events and tourism industry leadership,” said John David, President & CEO of Sports Events & Tourism Association. “We enjoyed a productive week of meetings and programs to discuss best practices, new trends and business opportunities.”

Future Host Cities for the Sports ETA Symposium Announced

Additionally, Sports ETA announced future host cities for its Annual Symposium, and they include Salt Lake City, Utah, in 2027 and Cleveland, Ohio, in 2028. The Host Cities for future events were previously announced and include Portland, Oregon, in 2024; Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2025, and Las Vegas, Nevada, in 2026.

Sports Tourism Strategist Graduates Honored

More than 20 sports tourism professionals were honored at the Sports ETA Symposium for the completion of their STS certification program, which is the leading-edge education institute for the sports events and tourism industry offering topical content, in-depth, and industry-leading certification programs.

The 2023 Sports Tourism Strategist Graduates are:

· Dana Baldwin, STS, Louisville Tourism

· Evan Bauerle, STS, Sports Salt Lake

· Brandon Black, STS, Go Gaston

· Patrick Coit, STS, Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau

· Lynnette Davis, STS, Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau

· Brant Donlon, STS, Chattanooga

Sports

· Zach Ebarb, STS, HBC Event Services

· Lance Fite, STS, Visit Mesa

· Annie Goff, STS, Hilton Worldwide

· Ben Huggler, STS, Erie Sports Commission

· Christopher Lewis, STS, Lake Erie Shores & Islands CVB

· Elle Marks, STS, Elite Tournaments

· Rasheeda Martin, STS, Sport York

· Matt Minahan, STS, City of Bryan

Parks & Recreation

· Shelbey Morris, STS, Arkansas

Department of Parks and Tourism

· John Oney, STS, Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

· Andrea Perla, STS, St. Pete Clearwater

Sports & Events

· Lauren Rabb, STS, Shreveport-Bossier

Sports Commission

· Michael Rojas, STS, Visit Prince William

· Taylor Sellers, STS, Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

· Jonathan Walker, STS, Rhode Island

Sports Commission

Sports ETA congratulates these individuals who are actively advancing their knowledge and skills about the sports events and tourism industry with the Sports Tourism Strategist designation,” said David.

2023 Sports Legacy Fund raises money for Camp WIN in Kansas City to send 30 girls to camp

The 2023 Sports Legacy Fund beneficiary was Win For KC, which was honored at the Closing Luncheon of the Sports ETA Symposium with a donation of $9,100 from member contributions. Win for KC was established in 1994 to empower the lives of girls and women through advocating and promoting the lifetime value of sports, while providing opportunities for participation, leadership development and recognition. The contribution will support scholarships to offset registration costs to provide greater access to underserved communities and increase diversity, equity and inclusion.

Thank you to all members who contributed. The funds raised by the Sports ETA membership is being used for Camp WIN scholarships that covered the registration cost for more than 30 girls in Kansas City’s underserved communities.

Camp WIN is ensuring girls at every level have access to the all of the life skills development that come from sports participation. This “sport sampling” camp introduces girls ages 6-12 to a broad range of sport activities in a safe, positive and encouraging environment.

Woven into the daily lessons is our proprietary Live Active curriculum which focusses on specific life skills training. For their summer 2023 program Live Active focused on respect, dreams, determination and leadership.

Camp WIN also introduces middle school and high school girls to leadership and team building skills as they serve as junior captains and captains, leading the younger campers through their daily activities. Campers and captains alike are encouraged, coached and supported with positivity. Daily guest speakers share their personal stories about how sports impacted their lives, and even plant the seed that women can have lifetime careers in sports that go beyond the playing field. Campers and Captains come away more open to try new things, feeling fore confident, and understanding how important it is to give and receive positive support. These life skills are the foundation for building future leaders.

“We are so fortunate to have support from so many sport organizations,” said Ruth Feldblum, Director, WIN for KC, Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation. “Camp WIN could not operate without it! Collaboration and support come in a variety of ways and they provide opportunities for the recruitment of coaches, guest speakers, volunteers and even athletic training services.”

11 Sports ETA Members

Honored with Annual Awards

Sports ETA announced the honorees of its annual industry awards, recognizing 11 industry leaders and organizations. The 2023 Sports ETA Members Award Winners are:

EVENT OR PROGRAM IMPACT OF THE YEAR

Population Over 500,000

Louisville Sports Commission for The Louisville Active program

RISING STAR AWARD

Which recognizes those who are just starting their careers in sports tourism and are already making an impact.

Igor Bakovic from DuPage Sports Commission and Shelby Morris with Arkansas Tourism

EVENT OR PROGRAM IMPACT OF THE YEAR

Population Under 500,000

Tempe Tourism Office for its National Veterans Wheelchair Games

SPORTS COMMISSION OF THE YEAR

Population Over 500,000

Tulsa Sports Commission

SPORTS COMMISSION OF THE YEAR

Population Under 500,000

Erie Sports Commission

SUPERIOR SERVICE

An award that recognizes the work that sports events and tourism industry partners who support all aspects of sports tourism.

Gamechangers Consulting, for its work consulting on numerous event bids, site locations, venue projects and more

EVENT PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR

Population Over 500,000 West Michigan Sports Commission, Greater Lansing Sports Authority and Visit Muskegon, which combined to host the U.S. Bowling Congress’ 2022 Junior Gold Championships

EVENT PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR

Population Under 500,000 Visit Quad Cities for the Professional Disc Golf Association’s Tim Selinske U.S. Masters Championship

SPORTS TOURISM ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR

Population Over 500,000

The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority/ Visit Charlotte

SPORTS TOURISM ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR

Population Under 500,000 Warren County CVB

Four new members inducted into the Sports ETA Hall of Fame

Four leaders in the sports and events tourism industry were enshrined in the Sports ETA Hall of Fame at Symposium. The 2023 Hall of Fame Class includes:

The Sports ETA Hall of Fame is a lifetime achievement award recognizing long-standing and significant accomplishments in, and major contributions to, the industry trade association, Sports ETA, and the overall sports tourism industry. The Sports ETA Hall of Fame was launched in 2017, and there have been four induction classes with 14 honorees.

“Sports ETA is honored to welcome four new members into the association’s prestigious Hall of Fame,” said David. “Susan Blackwood, Rick Hatcher, Suzann Stewart and Steve Ducoff have all made major impacts in our industries and their respective communities that are celebrated and recognized by their induction into the Sports ETA Hall of Fame.

Susan Blackwood, former Executive Director of the San Antonio Sports Foundation

Rick Hatcher, President & CEO of Play Treasure Coast Sports Tourism

Suzann Stewart, founder of the Tulsa Sports Commission

Steve Ducoff, former President of Association of Chief Executives of Sport (ACES) was honored posthumously.

The “Capital of Route 66,” T-Town is rich with resources like unmatched venues, countless attractions, live music every night, plus a brimming dining scene including options for large groups to chic and unique. Home to the USA BMX Headquarters, BOK Center, ONEOK Field and tons of other facilities, Tulsa really is the city of everything you could ask for–and more.

Ready to see it for yourself? Plan your next sporting event with the Tulsa Sports Commission.

visittulsa.com/sports

Your Sports Tourism Connection to Northern Virginia

SportsNOVA is a regional sports tourism alliance between Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Stafford counties that markets Northern Virginia as a preferred destination for travel sports events.

Just minutes from Washington, D.C., our region features a diverse mix of premium indoor and outdoor sports facilities, hundreds of full- and select-service hotels representing multiple brands, two major airports (and another 45 minutes away), world-class attractions, and a spirited mix of history, culture, shopping, and diningall showcased collectively in our eclectic destinations.

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Patriot Park North Six-diamond, turf, lighted complex with adjustable fencing, portable mounds, scoreboards, press box, concessions.

The St. James Indoor megasportsplex featuring a FIFA turf field, four NBA courts, two NHL ice sheets, and a 50-meter Olympic pool.

Hal & Berni Hanson Regional Park

257-acre regional park featuring 11 rectangles, four diamonds, and many amenities.

ION International Training Center

90,000-sq.-ft. facility featuring two NHL ice sheets, a 3,500-seat arena, and 1,000 parking spots.

Prince William Stadium Complex Sportsplex with 400-ft. baseball stadium (4,000 seats), three 300-ft. softball diamonds, and BMX Track.

George Hellwig Park Sportsplex with six soccer fields (three turf, three grass), a 350-ft. baseball field, and three 225-ft. softball fields.

Embrey Mill Park Multi-sport complex with six synthetic, lighted rectangular fields; and two lighted grass fields.

Jeff Rouse Swim & Sports Center World-class, Olympic pool seating 800 people with an additional 25-yard warm-up pool.

FAIRFAX FAIRFAX LOUDOUN LOUDOUN

PRINCE WILLIAM

PRINCE WILLIAM STAFFORD STAFFORD

When you need a home base near home plate,

October 24 - 26, 2023 El Paso, TX

As the sixth largest city in Texas, El Paso is quickly becoming a southwest hotspot for travelers, families, and business people. With over 255 square miles (about the area of Austin, Texas) of high desert terrain, El Paso is a standout city widely known for its unique history, delicious cuisine, lively culture, and boundless sights and wonders. No matter what your agenda holds for your next visit to the Sun City, here are five of El Paso’s most impressive attractions you won’t want to miss!

Top 5 Must-See Attractions in El Paso

1. Scenic Drive

If you’re looking for the best view of El Paso, you’ll find it while cruising Scenic Drive, a winding two-mile road that skirts around the east side of the Franklin Mountains. Atop Scenic Drive, visitors can pull over along the mountain’s edge and overlook the stunning landscape of both El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. On weekends, the road is closed from the early morning hours through noon for joggers, cyclists, and walkers to take full advantage of the open road. To access Scenic Drive, turn onto Rim Rd. from either Mesa St. or Alabama St.

2. El Paso Streetcar

Serving as a connection between Downtown and Uptown El Paso, the El Paso Streetcars are a vintage mode of transportation that travel a 4.8-mile looped route. Passengers may enjoy a free ride throughout the streetcars’ route while enjoying AC, free Wi-Fi, bike racks, and other modern amenities. All six streetcars are the original cars used during the 1950s – 1970s but have each been restored to become a fascinating addition to El Paso’s list of attractions.

Hosted by

SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS

Tuesday, October 24

STS Certification Course (additional fees and registration)

Wednesday, October 25

Education Sessions & Workshops

Opening Party at SW University Park

Thursday, October 26

Roundtable Discussions & Education Sessions

Learn more & register today!

3. Plaza Theatre

Nearly a century old, the Plaza Theatre is a regal beauty and National Historic Building of Significance. Sitting in the heart of Downtown El Paso, the Plaza is one of the few remaining atmospheric theatres in the United States. Putting on an average of over 120 shows a year, the Plaza invites you to attend concerts, Broadway performances, comedy shows, and more any time you’re visiting. Notable past performances include Goo Goo Dolls, Interpol, Broadway’s The Lion King and Hamilton, and dozens more.

4. El Paso’s Historic Mission Trail

Located in El Paso’s Lower Valley, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Recently, the Mission Trail was named the 2023 Best Historical Site in Texas, recognized by the Texas Travel Awards. Sure to take your breath away, these three adobe structures are a living testament to the faith of our Spanish and Indian ancestors. The El Paso Mission Trail Association is dedicated to the education, promotion, and preservation of the missions at Ysleta, Socorro, and San Elizario Chapel. And to commemorate their history, all three missions were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

5. Franklin Mountains State Park

Franklin Mountains State Park, one of the largest urban state parks in the nation, boasts 27,000 acres of serene canyons, towering peaks, and scenic views — and it’s right in the center of El Paso. With mountain biking, cave exploration, mine tours, paragliding, and everything else under the sun, the Franklin Mountains will satisfy even the most adventurous of thrill-seekers. If you’re looking for a night under the stars, tent and RV campsites are available by reservation. Take on the 100+ miles of trail and be sure to bring a camera, because the view from 7,000 feet above sea level is spectacular.

Host Hotel

Hotel Paso del NorteMarriott Autograph Collection

Book your stay before September 29th to secure the exclusive Sports ETA discounted rate.

Photos courtesy of Destination El Paso

We are thrilled to launch the prestigious Sports ETA Member Awards program for the second time this year, where we’ll recognize our member’s outstanding achievements in marketing and branding.

Shine The Spotlight in Your Direction!

As we gear up for the 4S & Rights Holder Summit this fall, we’re focused on the 4 S’s of sports events and tourism: strategy, service, sales, and sponsorship. For all our marketing gurus out there, you know these 4 categories are the perfect recipe for a great marketing campaign. That’s why we saved the awards for exceptional marketing and branding efforts for the 4S Summit.

Award Categories

Member award activities and events must have occurred between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023.

EVENT MARKETING CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR

Population: Under 500,000

Population: 500,000 and above

Who is eligible to submit a nomination for this award:

Destination member organizations

View Description & Criteria

DESTINATION BRANDING & MARKETING CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR

Population: Under 500,000

Population: 500,000 and above

Who is eligible to submit a nomination for this award:

Destination member organizations

View Description & Criteria

Did you lead the efforts for an innovative event marketing campaign or your destination’s successful branding campaign? If you answered yes, you should enter an award submission!

Did you witness a teammate create and execute a stellar campaign? If you answered yes, you should enter an award submission!

Help us shine the spotlight in your direction. Submitting an entry is a breeze, whether you’re submitting on behalf of work you have done or your impressive marketing colleague.

The portal will remain open until Sunday, September 17 at 11:59 PM PT.

Award winners will be announced at the 2023 Sports ETA 4S & Rights Holder Summit in El Paso, TX.

The Value of Submitting An Award

Participating in our Awards Program offers numerous benefits beyond the chance to win prestigious recognition:

1. Increased Visibility: Gain exposure among industry peers and potential clients, putting your organization at the forefront of success stories.

2. Showcase Expertise: Demonstrate your team’s expertise and innovation in the sports events and tourism marketing space.

3. Boost Morale: Celebrate your team’s hard work and dedication, enhancing motivation and team spirit.

4. Networking Opportunities: Award winners will have the opportunity to present a breakout session at the 4S Summit to showcase their winning campaign. This allows you to connect with like-minded professionals, potential partners, and clients interested in collaborating or seeking your expertise. Read about the benefits of presenting a breakout session at the 4S Summit.

If you have any questions about the nomination process or specific award categories, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sports ETA Member Services at info@SportsETA.org.

The awards portal is officially open, so what are you waiting for?

SUBMIT MEMBER AWARD NOW

Unlock Your Potential: Discover Educational Opportunities with Sports ETA

Whether you are new to the sports events and tourism industry, or a seasoned veteran, the Sports Tourism Learning Institute’s (STLI) wide scope of education offerings will push your knowledge and skills to the next level. This leading educational platform offers a myriad of opportunities for individuals looking to pursue their dreams in the sports events and tourism industry. Take charge of your future and reach new heights in the world of sports!

We understand there is no one-size-fitsall approach to learning the ins and outs of sports tourism. That’s why we have curated a wide range of educational programs that cater to individuals with varying interests and aspirations.

Juggling a busy schedule can be challenging, but that shouldn’t hinder your educational pursuits. The STLI offers flexible learning to accommodate your work schedule. Whether you want to brush up on industry best practices, gain a deeper and more complex understanding of the sports events and tourism industry, or distinguish yourself by earning the Sports Tourism Strategist designation, we have a solution that fits your needs.

Certificate Playbook Courses

Sports Tourism Certificate Playbook courses are your source for in-depth knowledge on a range of essential industry topics presented by the most highly regarded experts in the field.

NEW COURSE!

Beyond Economic Impact - How to Leverage Sports Events and Tourism to Build Community Value

Join Dr. Jennifer Stoll as she provides a detailed overview of the role sports events and tourism plays in destinations, as well as simple ways to measure and communicate this impact to demonstrate value to local markets in terms they can understand.

Power Plays

These FREE Power Play sessions are perfect for on-the-go training for busy professionals. Each session will give you a quick insight into relevant topics in the sports events and tourism industry. This is an ever-expanding collection of sessions, so come back often to see what it new!

Hit two targets with a single shot!

The Sports Tourism Fundamentals Series is comprised of three STLI Certificate Playbook Courses: Introduction to Sports Tourism, Sports Tourism Business Strategy, and Know Your Numbers: Intro to Finance. Each course provides you with a solid foundation in fundamental industry concepts.

Complete the courses at your own pace. This series goes where you go and easily fits into your busy schedule. All courses are online and self-paced.

Upon completing this series, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive 12 STS credits. But what exactly does that mean for you? It opens up a world of possibilities: you could confidently cross the finish line and proudly earn your STS designation, or take a significant step forward, bringing you closer to your ultimate goal. Even if you’re just getting started, this series will help you achieve more than a third of the required STS credits, laying a strong foundation for your success.

Not only will you earn STS credits, but you’ll earn the Fundamentals Series Digital Badge. We encourage you to proudly share your accomplishment on all social media platforms, your resume, and your email signature!

Embark on a journey of excellence with Sports ETA and unlock your true potential in the sports events and tourism industry. Receive top-notch training, gain practical experience, and become a trailblazer in the world of sports. Don’t wait any longer; take the first step today and explore the full line-up of educational offerings. The world of sports events and tourism is waiting for you!

Unlock Your Potential Now

BIG GAME? BRING IT TO

With 14 unique communities and dozens of places to play, the Myrtle Beach area continues to be a leading destination for regional and national sporting events. When you add 60 miles of beautiful beaches, Southern hospitality and a huge array of attractions open year-round, it's clear why sports planners love The Beach.

The crown jewel of sports venues at The Beach is the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center. Opened in 2015, this $12.4 million facility has eight basketball courts and 16 volleyball courts, plus dedicated areas with the ability to host gymnastics, pickleball, table tennis and more. With over 10,000 square feet of event space, a massive multiscreen video scoreboard and seats for over 2,000 spectators, there's no better place for the big game.

From facilities to postgame fun, Myrtle Beach is the perfect spot to host your sporting event.

Gymnastics, John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center

Volleyball, John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center

Other Myrtle Beach area sports facilities include:

• Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium and Ashley Booth Field, which feature an NCAA-certified lighted track, Daktronics video board, a FieldTurf field, and press box and concessions.

• Grand Park Athletic Complex featuring nine lighted multi purpose FieldTurf fields, two natural-turf youth fields, a six-lane batting tunnel, complimentary live streaming, free parking and more, all just 1 mile from the Atlantic Ocean.

• Myrtle Beach Convention Center with 100,800 square feet of exhibit space, 250,000 total square feet of flexible space, a 17,000-square-foot ballroom and more.

• The Ripken Experience® Myrtle Beach with nine lighted, state-of-the-art, historic replicated pro FieldTurf fields, scoreboards, batting cages and more.

• Pelicans Ballpark, which plays home to the Chicago Cubs' Low-A Affiliate Myrtle Beach Pelicans, has 5,200 fixed seats, nine luxury suites, two clubhouses and was voted one of the top 10 minor league baseball stadium experiences for five straight years.

Whether we're talking high school, college or the pros, sports in Myrtle Beach are bigger than ever. The Myrtle Beach Bowl will bring football fans together for the fourth consecutive year and the Myrtle Beach Invitational will return for its fifth annual event showcasing exhilarating NCAA basketball. To cap it off, a PGA Tournament will come to Grand Dunes for the Myrtle Beach Classic starting in 2024.

Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium

Grande Dunes Resort Club

The Ripken Experience Myrtle Beach®

Perspective is a funny thing.

BY DR. JENNIFER STOLL, STOLL STRATEGIES

Perspective is a funny thing.

What exactly does it mean and how exactly do you get it ? Perhaps even more importantly, when you do have it, how do you keep it ?

A quick Chat GPT search yields a few different definitions (courtesy of Oxford Dictionaries), two of which are “a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something,” and “true understanding of the relative importance of things”.

I love that definition. Let it sink in.

“True understanding of the relative importance of things”.

From my experience I always gain the greatest perspective when I change environments. And of course, major life events also bring significant perspective like a tidal wave. In those times the new-found perspective seems so real, so permanent, even palpable.

But time passes. And our newly minted perspectives get shuffled in our brain’s internal filing cabinet.

It’s kind of like when your laundry first comes out of the dryer, and it smells so good.

Life happens and you go on, doing all the things. When we pull that shirt off the hanger a few weeks later, it just doesn’t smell quite the same.

But does it have to be?

It’s like reading a good nugget in a book. “I’m going to remember that!” we often say. Then I don’t.

Some people tattoo what gives them perspective on their bodies. Others have traditions and commemorative practices to refresh perspective. I use phone reminders and calendar appointments. And post-it notes. I have bunches of those!

But what if we could put it in a bottle? Wouldn’t that be fantastic? Our own little dose of perspective available at all the right times and ensuring that the freshness of our epiphanies never wanes!

And of course, there are other people’s perspectives as well. Unique. Different. Formative to what we internalize as our own perspective and how we shape the world around us.

I’m certainly no expert in perspective. But I do know that perspective is dynamic, it’s living, breathing, and ever-changing.

I also know that it’s important that we spend time reflecting on life’s circumstances that have shaped our current perspective. We must also spend time putting our own purpose into perspective. There is no greater time spent.

Perhaps it’s reflecting in a journal, standing in the surf at the ocean, or high atop a mountain (my preference!).

The point is, we need our perspective. We need to draw on it at just the right times. We need it as a dose of reality, as a charge of encouragement, and a grounding for the future.

No matter how you personally get perspective, embrace it, make it a tool in your toolbox, and use it! Happy

Sports ETA Member wins

US Club Lacrosse National Championship Selects Richmond Region for 2024 Event

America’s top youth lacrosse athletes will vie for national titles when the first-ever US Club Lacrosse National Championship comes to the Richmond Region next year.

The region will host the first-ever US Club Lacrosse National Championship on August 1-4 in 2024 at River City Sportsplex in Chesterfield County and Glover Park in Henrico County.

US Club Lacrosse, the go-to site for the lacrosse community to obtain information on tournaments, rankings, tryouts, clinics, and further details on Club teams, is partnering with Elite Tournaments to put on the event. The groups worked with Richmond Region Tourism and local partners to bring the championship to the region.

Elite Tournaments, a Maryland based event management firm, has been in the youth sports market for over 23 years. With expertise in soccer and lacrosse, they have executed over 500 events since the company’s inception.

Richmond Region Tourism is a private, not-for-profit dedicated to promoting the Region to meeting, convention and sports event planners, tour operators and leisure travelers. The organization represents the cities of Richmond and Colonial Heights, the town of Ashland and four counties: Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico and New Kent. Richmond Region Tourism operates Visitor

Centers at the Robinson House at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Richmond International Airport.

Organizers expect 192 teams to compete at the US Club Lacrosse National Championship. Approximately 7,000 athletes and families will travel to the Richmond Region for the event.

“We’re thrilled to host the first-ever US Club Lacrosse National Championship in the Richmond Region in 2024,” said Jerrine Lee, Vice President of Sales at Richmond Region Tourism. “Next August will be an exciting time as some of the best youth lacrosse athletes compete on the Richmond Region’s fields and explore our dynamic community. We can’t wait to work with Elite Tournaments to put on a memorable event and cheer on these US Club Lax teams as they compete for a National Championship.”

Qualifications for the championship are based on US Club Lacrosse season rankings. More than 10,000 club teams participate in an average lacrosse season in the U.S.

The top 16 teams across 12 age groups will earn spots to participate in the tournament.

“The US Club Lacrosse National Championship is bringing a new level of competitiveness to the world of men’s and women’s lacrosse,” said Caitlin Schmelz, Elite Tournament’s Director of Lacrosse. “We are proud to partner with US Club Lacrosse and Richmond Region Tourism to organize the 2024 event. We believe the upcoming tournament will be one of the best lacrosse events in the country.”

Qualifying rules for the US Club Lacrosse National Championship are available at www.usclublax.com

The Sports ETA Playbook editorial team would like to feature member “wins.” Share your stories with us at info@sportseta.org.