2020 PENNSYLVANIA GUIDE
Pennsylvania isthePlacetoPlay A can-do attitude, rich resources and outstanding venues separate Pennsylvania from the pack 13 Member Profiles Featuring Event-Ready Destinations SPG A Premier Travel Media publication www.SportsPlanningGuide.com Carrie Fischer Lepore Deputy Secretary, Marketing, Tourism, & Film
Greetings!
On behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we’d like to welcome you to the Keystone State for your next sporting event. Tourism, and sport tourism in particular, plays an important role in our vibrant Pennsylvania economy. According to a recent study by Tourism Economics, Pennsylvania hosted 5.5 million visits related to sports, and generated nearly $438 million in direct spending in the analyzed year of 2015.
Life in the Keystone State is invigorating, fulfilling, and downright happy, and is home to many modern, cutting-edge facilities equipped with the latest technology that are perfect for your next event. From sandy shores and rugged peaks to tranquil forests and roaring rivers, Pennsylvania provides endless opportunities to pursue your happiness throughout all four seasons. Our diverse market – which includes youth and adult amateur, college, and professional sporting events – attracts out-of-town and out-of-state visitors to an array of destinations and attractions across the state.
PA Sports is an organization comprising 13 member destinations throughout Pennsylvania that are home to some of the top attractions for sports tourism in the country. These highly trained professionals understand that success in host- ing events is a team effort. From Erie and Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and the PA Lehigh Valley — and everywhere in between — Pennsylvania has just what you and your colleagues are looking for. To learn more about our sports facilities across the state or to book your next sporting event, visit SportsinPA.com. To start planning your next trip to one of Pennsylvania’s cultural, historic, and greater-than-great outdoor destinations, head over to visitPA.com. We hope to see you soon!
Yours in Happiness,
Carrie Fischer Lepore Deputy Secretary, Marketing, Tourism. & Film PA Department of Community & Economic Development
rom Allentown to Erie, Wilkes-Barre to Zelienople, and every rugged woodlands and a lush countryside, there are endless options to destination in between, no event is too big or too small for PA explore. Extending tourism beyond the events is a significant part of the Sports members. PA Sports mission. Athletes, their families, coaches, and officials all Marking its 17th year as an organization in 2020, PA Sports hasn’t contribute to Pennsylvania’s local and state economies. Fwavered from its mission: showcase Pennsylvania as a viable sports PA Sports has 13 members and the experience to handle every event. event destination by attracting and hosting international, national, When that experience is coupled with nearby vacation possibilities, regional, and local sporting events. planners have a winning combination for their event. “PA Sports is a one-stop shop in a sports-centric state,” said R. Ron Philadelphia’s PHL Sports has a history of handling big time events. Sertz, chairman for PA Sports. Sertz describes the group as dedicated, The city has hosted the annual Army-Navy game 86 times. Philadelphia talented, and continuously growing in expertise. Rights holders and has the space, including a Sports Complex that houses three world-class event organizers have come to depend on the individual members’ venues that have attracted the NFL Draft, NHL Winter Classic, NCAA expertise and experience in hosting successful events. Championships and others. Any competitor traveling to Philadelphia The outline for partnership between the original six members actually should extend their stay with a visit to Independence Hall, the National began in 2003 on a napkin. Those in attendance wanted to open up Constitution Center and so many other attractions tied to America’s collaboration with one another to find the perfect fit for events. They Birthplace. wanted to make sure events would stay in Pennsylvania, helping to When a new eSports event became available, Hershey Harrisburg enhance the economic impact of events held in the state. The Pennsyl- Sports and Events Authority was the first choice. The Hershey-Har- vania Department of Tourism, as well as state and local legislators from risburg region hosted the U.S. Junior Nationals Hershey Showcase, with across the state, recognized the importance of sports tourism. teams from 15 states accounting for more than 4,500 room nights. For For Pennsylvania, that economic impact from sports tourism has the seventh year the event sold out with more than 132 teams competing. value that extends beyond the actual competition. The state is fortunate There’s family fun at Chocolate Town U.S.A. featuring Hershey Park® to be a 12-month vacation destination and has long been a popular and Hershey’s Chocolate World. travel destination. From sleek cityscapes and charming small towns to Just a few years ago, SportsPITTSBURGH won the rights to host 13 Member Destinations Make Pennsylvania
PA Sports members have a “We can do that” A dedicated cycling scene powers Pennsylvania by luring a Premier Host in top-notch competitors with its world-class facilities. attitude. They provide a wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities, a commitment to service at the highest level and a cornucopia of leisure activities in their communities
4 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG more NCAA events than any other destination in the United States. Outstanding venues ensure Valley Forge Sports has the right facility Pittsburg’s facilities are legendary. The David L. Lawrence Convention for numerous field and indoor events. The newly renovated Greater Center (DLCC) has hosted the USA Karate National Championship, Philadelphia Expo Center features 240,000 square feet of uninterrupted the annual East Coast Volleyball Championship, the annual Hoop space. Nine outdoors lighted and one indoors turf field are available for Group Pittsburg Jam Fest, and many others at both the PPG Paints soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. Competitive Edge Sports is a premier Arena and Robert Morris University Island Center. The Pittsburgh Zoo volleyball and basketball facility with five hardwood floors. Nearby Valley & PPG Aquarium are visitor favorites. Forge is a history lesson all Americans should experience. With a central location to three major cities and state of the art Less than two hours from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Sport York facilities, Erie Sports has been the National Sports Commission of offers exceptional facilities. York Expo Center’s Utz Arena is perfect for the Year in 2014 and 2016. The downtown Erie Insurance Arena is gymnastics, wrestling, and cheerleading, while the 72-acre Memorial multipurpose and hosts NCAA Women’s Division II Basketball Elite Park Softball Complex accommodates softball on an eight-field complex Eight, as well as wrestling and ice hockey championships. Presque Isle with batting cages and Hoffman Stadium, plus beach volleyball and a State Park boasts seven miles of shore and 25 miles of recreational skate park. Check out one of the three Harley-Davidson factory tours in trails. The Bayfront Convention Center has hosted everything from the York Vehicle Operations Plant. cheerleading competitions to dog trials. Fishing and hiking in the Erie Visit Johnstown has a far-reaching history of hosting big-time sports National Wildlife Refuge, or a stop at any area vineyard are well worth events. 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial has been extending your stay. home to wrestling, basketball, cheer, and volleyball events. Stonycreek With Penn State University right down the street, The Happy Valley River with 15 rapids in four miles is ideal for kayaking and canoeing com- Adventure Bureau has access to top-of-the-line facilities. Bryce Jordan petitions. The 140 miles of trails in Rock Run Recreation Area is a prime Center has hosted multiple NCAA-Big 10 and PIAA Championships. destination for ATV, UTV, and OHV. Put the Johnstown Flood Museum Pegula Ice Arena has the best amenities college hockey offers. Penn on your to-do list. State’s wildly popular Berkey Creamery and a nearby tourist coal mine Located in the foothills of the Pocono mountains, Visit Luzerne are must sees when away from the competition. County is less than two hours from Philadelphia and New York City. The Only 20 miles north of Pittsburgh, the Butler County Sports Mohegan Sun Arena continues to host PA Junior Wrestlers tournaments. Commission provides more than 50 indoor and outdoor venues. The Hockey tournaments are regularly drawn to the Toyota Sports Arena. The UPMC Lemieux Sports Center is the primary practice and training Wyoming Sports Dome with its 67-foot ceilings is popular with numerous facility for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Slippery Rock University has venues soccer, lacrosse, and volleyball tournaments. There are fun attractions both for all imaginable sports. Cooper’s Lake features a variety of terrains. indoors and outdoors in the Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, and Pittson area. More than a dozen area attractions have made Butler a visitor favorite. Let your games begin at sportsinpa.com. SPG Just 20 minutes east of Pittsburgh, VM Sports Monroeville Sports Tourism features multiple venues. Monroeville Convention center has hosted Tyrant Wrestling, Pittsburgh Fitness expo and others. Ten soccer fields at CNX Sports Complex at Turner Valley have all the amenities. Four newly turfed fields are found at Monroeville Baseball Park. With Pittsburgh so close, visitors will have no difficulty filling their day. Chester County’s Brandywine Valley is located near Philadelphia in Pennsylvania’s southeast. Ice Line Quad Rinks features four rinks and a restaurant on site. United Sports is a multi-sports complex, ideal for tournaments. Westtown School features space for tennis, cross- country, basketball and wrestling competitions. Take time to visit the Best Botanical Garden in the U.S. Longwood Gardens. The Valley Preferred Cycling Center is home to cycling events for Discover Lehigh Valley Sports. The Velodrome and the Trexlertown roads are known around the world as best in class. In your leisure time the former ArtsQuest at Steel Stacks always has events and celebrations, concerts and festivals.
SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 5 13 Regions Butler County THIS COUNTY’S MOST IMPRESSIVE FEATURE IS ITS 201 Unique Venues WIDE VARIETY OF SPORTS FACILITIES, MAKING IT POSSIBLE FOR NUMEROUS PLANNERS TO HOST THEIR 759 Events Annually TOURNAMENTS AT ONCE.
The mission of Pennsylvania Sports is to attract Moraine State Park and host international, national, regional, and local sporting events, and showcase Pennsylvania as a viable sports event destination for professional, collegiate, interscholastic, amateur, and youth sporting ventures, which will foster economic development and enrich the quality of life in the Commonwealth, making it a better place to visit, live, work, and play.
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Moraine State Park Sports: Biking, disc golf, running, mountain biking, snowshoeing, fishing, cross-country skiing SportsInPA.com Moraine State Park is 16,800 acres of beautiful outdoor space. During the summer, athletes can mountain bike for a challenging six miles or hike along 38 miles of trails. The disc golf course weaves through the woods and has hosted tournaments. Winter brings the opportunity to ski or snowmobile for 26 miles. Test your endurance at the park's Mighty Moraine Man Triathlon or Glacier Ridge Trail Ultra-marathon (pictured above). The 3,225-acre Lake Arthur has 10 boat launch areas for kayaking, fishing, windsurfing, and more. 2. Slippery Rock University Sports: Baseball, basketball, field hockey, football, soccer, lacrosse, softball, track and field, volleyball, disc golf Known as one of Western Pennsylvania’s largest college campuses, Slippery Rock University covers 611 acres and houses 17 varsity sports in several modern facilities. These include, a baseball stadium with 1,800+ seats, a stadium that can host multiple sports, including football, lacrosse, soccer, field hockey, and track & field. 3. UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex Sports: Hockey The UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex is the primary practice and training facility for the Pittsburgh Penguins as well as a comprehensive outpatient facility for UPMC Sports Medicine. This multi-use facility is a destination for athletes of all ages and skill levels seeking sports medicine, performance, and rehabilitation expertise as well as hockey-specific skills and performance training. The UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex prepares athletes of all levels and hosts various tournaments, such as the United States Hockey League.
PA Sports Butler County Sports Commission R. Ron Sertz Brianna Kaiser Chairman Sports Sales & Event Manager 814-392-1599 724-234-4619 [email protected] [email protected] www.SportsInPA.com www.VisitButlerCounty.com
6 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Chester County Erie A MULTITUDE OF SPORTS FACILITIES IN HISTORIC THE LAKEFRONT CITY OF ERIE IS A PREMIER CHESTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA MAKES IT A DESTINATION FOR SPORTS PLANNERS WHO SEEK WINNING DESTINATION. QUALITY FACILITIES AND A COMMUNITY DEDICATED TO SPORTS.
West Chester University Presque Isle State Park
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. United Sports 1. Presque Isle State Park/Presque Isle Bay Sports: Basketball, field hockey, flag football, gymnastics, Sports: Running, bicycle, fishing, beach sports, triathlon lacrosse, pickleball, soccer, softball, volleyball Presque Isle State Park, a forested peninsula arching into Lake The world-class United Sports, the region’s largest sports facility Erie, is perfect for all of your outdoor pursuits. Across 3,200 acres, with both indoor and outdoor surfaces, emerged from an old airport you will find seven miles of sandy beaches, multiple boat launch using $15 million in private funds to become a top contender for areas, and flat trails that are ideal for cycling, running, triathlon, your event. These 60 acres of outdoor fields and 127,000 square and beach sports events. The peninsula creates Presque Isle Bay, feet of indoor space are located in Downingtown. This facility and provides calm waters protected from Lake Erie, primed for has 11 premier fields adjacent the indoor complex with synthetic some of the best and most competitive bass fishing in the country. field turf. Ten-thousand square feet of parking is also available. 2. ERIEBANK Sports Park 2. Iceline Ice Rink Sports: Hockey, basketball, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, Sports: Ice hockey, figure skating, ice skating flag football The rush to goal starts on one of four NHL-regulation ice surfaces With 43 acres of multi-sport space in the heart of Erie's busy at Ice Line Quad Rinks in West Chester, each with seating capacity Peach Street hotel and entertainment district, ERIEBANK Sports of 500. Take pride presenting your event at this state-of-the-art Park is an ideal destination for tournaments and events. The park facility, be it ice skating, figure skating, or hockey. Three university completed a $9.1 million renovation in 2018, which saw the installa- teams and junior hockey teams call Iceline home with dozens of tournaments year-round in hockey, figure skating, and ice skating. tion of two new NHL regulation-size ice rinks and construction of eight locker rooms. Other features include a four-court gymnasium, 3. West Chester University 10 grass fields, and a four-season training dome. Sports: Football, track and field, basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, rugby, field hockey, lacrosse, swimming 3. Bayfront Convention Center John A. Farrell Stadium contains 7,500 seats for football and Gymnastics, fitness/physique, cheerleading track & field and Serpico Stadium features 1,000 bleacher seats Need space for your next event? The Bayfront Convention for baseball fans. Hollinger Field House seats 2,500 for basketball Center is made to host your group in style. The 100,000-square- and can also host volleyball events. John A. Rockwell Field is a foot facility regularly hosts some of the largest gymnastics and soccer facility with artificial field turf and two adjacent natural billiards tournaments in the state, and the staff is well-versed in grass practice fields. West Chester University Softball Field has a accommodating a variety of events. Treat your spectators to easy dirt and clay infield mix and a natural grass outfield. Graham access with nearly 500 free parking spaces and two adjoining Natatorium can host swimming, diving and water polo events. hotels that are perfect for hosting athletes and spectators.
Chester County Conference Erie Sports Commission and Visitors Bureau Mark Jeanneret, CSEE Travis Geiser, Sports & Events Sales Manager Executive Director Phone: 484-840-7216 814-454-1000 [email protected] [email protected] www.BrandyWineValley.com/sports www.ErieSportsCommission.com
SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 7 Greater Johnstown Happy Valley NESTLED IN THE ALLEGHENY MOUNTAINS OF HOME TO A MAJOR UNIVERSITY WITH A STRONG PENNSYLVANIA, VISITORS COME FOR THE SPORTS AND SPORTS HISTORY, THE HAPPY VALLEY AREA ALLOWS STAY FOR THE SCENIC BEAUTY AND WEALTH OF SPORTS PLANNERS TO DREAM BIG. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.
Sargent’s Stadium at the Point Beaver Stadium
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial 1. Bryce Jordan Center Sports: Hockey, basketball, cheerleading, Sports: Basketball, hockey, multipurpose skating, wrestling Home to the nationally acclaimed Penn State men’s and As one of the premier sports facilities in Cambria County, the women’s basketball teams and the site of major events such as 1st Summit Arena has become a go-to for sports planners looking university commencement, this 16,000-seat arena sees hundreds for top quality amenities and event planning assistance. This of thousands of fans come and go each year. It offers players and 4,000-seat arena has hosted tournaments, games, concerts, and fans state-of-the-art facilities, locker rooms, sound systems, and more! Home to both a local junior and university hockey team, concessions. 1st Summit Arena caters to both players and fans, offering plenty of parking options, concessions, restrooms, and player facilities. 2. Beaver Stadium Sports: Football 2. Sargent’s Stadium at the Point It’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting for football. Sports: Baseball, football Situated on the edge of the Penn State campus is a stadium of For a top-notch baseball facility right in downtown Johnstown, epic proportions. In fact, with a seating capacity of more than check out Sargent’s Stadium at the Point. Named for its position 106,000, Beaver Stadium is the second-largest stadium in the at the confluence of the three rivers, the park is both scenic and Western Hemisphere and the third-largest in the world. Inside you practical. It is home to the annual All-American Amateur Baseball will find all that you would expect in a world-class facility, and Association (AAABA) national tournament and is also used for local planning your next event here is sure to impress even the most high school football games. For those looking to plan an event in devoted sports fans. the heart of Johnstown, Sargent’s Stadium is not to be missed. 3. Toftrees Golf Resort Sports: Golf 3. Rock Run Recreation Area Toftrees Golf Resort is more than just a course – it’s truly an Sports: ATV, dirt biking experience for players and visitors alike. Nestled among a scenic There are over 140 miles of trails within the Rock Run Recreation 1500-acre forest in a serene setting, Toftrees has attracted top Area just waiting to be explored, and the area has become a national talent, and the adjoining Resort & Conference Center is popular weekend getaway for ATV, dirt bike, OHV, and side-by-side regularly recognized by Golf Digest for its comfort and amenities. enthusiasts! Events such as Rock Run’s Summer Blast and Rally Located just three miles from the PSU campus, the resort offers at the Rock are just a couple examples of ways in which sports free parking and over 100 hotel rooms to accommodate large lovers make the most of the Allegheny Mountain trails. events.
Visit Johnstown The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau Nicole Waligora Dave Gerdes Sports Travel Program Coordinator Vice President of Sales & Marketing 800-237-8590 ext. 30 814-231-9684 [email protected] [email protected] www.VisitJohnstownPA.com www.VisitPennState.org
8 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Hershey Harrisburg Lehigh Valley WITH DOZENS OF SPORTS TOURNAMENTS WORLD;CLASS SPORTS AMENITIES AND ELITE SUCCESSFULLY PLANNED AND EXECUTED EACH YEAR, ATTRACTIONS COMBINED WITH A CONVENIENT LOCATION HERSHEY HARRISBURG IS QUICKLY SOARING TO THE MAKE LEHIGH VALLEY THE PRIME SPOT FOR SPORTS TOP OF THE SPORTS WORLD. EVENTS.
Pennsylvania Farm Show Valley Preferred Cycling Center Complex & Expo Center
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center 1. PPL Center Sports: Archery, basketball, fencing, indoor soccer, Sports: Hockey, figure skating, wrestling, basketball, martial arts, volleyball, wrestling volleyball, indoor racing, indoor football The multipurpose Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Located in downtown Allentown, PA, the PPL Center is a Center hosts a variety of exciting sports events, highlighted by the state-of-the-art arena. It’s home to the Phantoms, an AHL affiliate USJN Hershey Showcase and four Keystone Regional Volleyball of the NHL Philadelphia Flyers. The sports venue also plays host Association events. The USJN Hershey Showcase is a four-day girls to several regional events, from hockey leagues and figure skating basketball event drawing more than 200 teams to compete on 20 competitions. The arena features on-site food, parking, and seating courts. The KRVA events each use up to 29 courts for both boys for 8,500 for hockey games. and girls tournaments. The complex is home to the Harrisburg Heat pro indoor soccer team, which plays its home games in the 7,300- 2. Valley Preferred Cycling Center seat New Holland Arena. Sports: Track cycling 2. Giant Center This renowned sports venue, commonly referred to as “T-Town,” Sports: Basketball,℠ cheer, ice sports, wrestling is the Bicycle Racing Capital of the World. The Valley Preferred This state-of-the-art, 10,500-seat arena hosts ice shows, concerts, Cycling Center is at the heart of the 103-acre Bob Rodale Cycling state high school championships (wrestling, competitive cheer, and and Fitness Park. The Velodrome is a 333.3-meter outdoor track basketball), graduations, and more. The U.S. Figure Skating Eastern with a concrete surface, 12.5-degree banked straightaways, and Sectional Synchronized Skating Championships have been held 30-degree banked turns. It has hosted several UCI World Cups here on several occasions. In 2016, the facility invested $4.7 million and National Championships, and it’s the home of the World Series for a new scoreboard, LED electronics, and a production system. of Bicycling. 3. FNB Field 3. Coca-Cola Park Sports: Baseball, soccer Sports: Baseball, softball FNB Field is home to the Harrisburg Senators, the Washington The Coca-Cola Park is the home of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Nationals’ AA affiliate. In 2009, FNB Field underwent a major $45 million renovation project. The stadium now houses luxury seating, the AAA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Beyond the manicured a high-definition field lighting system, a “Midway” activities center field, the facility boasts the ability to host banquets, corporate for families and children, and 20 suites with skyline views. FNB Field events, meetings, and more – all in a venue designed to be is the main attraction on the 62-acre City Island, which also features universally accessible. The venue has a total seating capacity of a multipurpose grass field, riverside park, launching site for river 10,100 and offers use of a hi-def video board as well as on-site food cruises, miniature golf and more. and parking.
Hershey Harrisburg Discover Lehigh Valley Sports Sports & Events Authority Bree Nidds Gregg Cook, Executive Director Vice President of Sales 717-231-2996 610-973-3830 [email protected] [email protected] www.HHSportsandEvents.com www.DiscoverLehighValley.com/sports
SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 9 Luzerne County Monroeville LOCATED IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE POCONO MOUNTAINS A COMBINATION OF CONVENIENCE, AFFORDABILITY, OF NORTHEAST PENNSYLVANIA, LUZERNE COUNTY IS ENTERTAINMENT, AND TOP;NOTCH ATHLETIC FACILITIES DEDICATED TO CREATING MEMORABLE SPORTS EVENTS MAKES MONROEVILLE YOUR SPORTING PLACE. FOR PLANNERS, ATHLETES, AND SPECTATORS.
Mohegan Sun Arena Monroeville Baseball Park
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Mohegan Sun Arena 1. Monroeville Convention Center
Sports: Basketball, boxing, bowling, rodeo, Sports: Wrestling, cheerleading, dance, boxing Located 12 miles east of downtown Pittsburgh, the table tennis, lacrosse With a convenient location right off of Highway Interstate I-81 Monroeville Convention Center is right in the heart of the
and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, Mohegan Sun Arena is a 10,000- action. It’s near great dining, shopping, and entertainment, and seat multipurpose venue that is consistently ranked amongst offers convenient lodging for all tournament attendees at the
the top venues in the world according to Billboard Magazine. DoubleTree by Hilton. The 100,000-square-foot facility offers
Previously home to NCAA Division 1 and professional basketball flexible space to accommodate a variety of sports, including
tournaments and games, the arena also has 30,000 available the Tyrant Wrestling event. square feet of indoor meeting space and over 245,000 square feet of outdoor meeting space. 2. Monroeville Baseball Park 2. Toyota SportsPlex Sports: Baseball, softball Sports: Hockey, curling, figure skating Part of Monroeville parks and recreation, the Monroeville Baseball Park hosts several baseball and softball events. It’s Serving as the official practice facility for the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins and the Wilkes-Barre Junior Pens, Toyota home to Atlantic Coast Baseball games as well as regional and
SportsPlex is Luzerne County’s go-to complex for winter sports. local tournaments. It features four baseball fields with new turf,
The facility offers programming for adult and youth teams of all concessions, restrooms and pavilions.
ages and skill levels. The figure skating program features coaches who were all once competitive skaters, and the facility’s camps and 3. Pro Sports clinics offer instruction from current and former professional players. Sports: Baseball, basketball, flag football, futsal, 3. Luzerne County Sports Complex indoor training, volleyball Boasting bright blue courts and fun party spaces, Pro Sports is Sports: Soccer, softball the ideal venue for youth groups looking to train or compete. This Deemed one of the finest outdoor sporting facilities in north- group-friendly facility customizes sports packages for planners eastern Pennsylvania, Luzerne County Sports Complex in Mountain who are organizing a full day of activities. Here, your team can Top is a youth activity center holding some of the area’s most play on easily convertible courts. Each comes with its own netting prestigious tournaments, leagues, clinics, camps and other outdoor sporting events. This 30-acre facility is idyllically-located along the and seating for families and fans. Afterward, celebrate your victory
banks of the Susquehanna River, adjacent to several hiking and at the venue's spacious event rooms, which can be rented with biking trails overlooking the river. The complex’s softball and court space for an affordable price. Delicious options, such as soccer fields can be rented by the day, week, month, or season. pizza, hot dogs, and veggie plates are available.
Visit Luzerne County-Northeast PA VM Sports Theodore B. Wampole, Jr. Amy Capcara Executive Director Sales and Marketing Manager H 570-819-1877 ext 6331 412-856-7422 [email protected] [email protected] www.VisitLuzerneCounty.com VisitMonroeville.com/vm-sports
10 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Philadelphia Pittsburgh HOME TO NINE PROFESSIONAL SPORTS TEAMS, NEARLY WITH A LEGENDARY SPORTS HISTORY AND 100 COLLEGIATE INSTITUTIONS AND COUNTLESS SPORTS WORLD;CLASS FACILITIES, PITTSBURGH HAS STAKED ORGANIZATIONS, PHILADELPHIA IS A WORLD;CLASS ITS CLAIM AS THE DEFINITIVE DESTINATION FOR SPORTS DESTINATION. ICONIC SPORTS EXPERIENCES.
Citizens Bank Park PPG Paints Arena Matt Shuck Matt FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. Lincoln Financial Field 1. David L. Lawrence Convention Center Sports: Football, Soccer, lacrosse Sports: All With a seating capacity of 69,176, “The Linc” recently completed a $125 million renovation. It serves as home to both the Philadelphia The David L. Lawrence Convention Center features 313,400 Eagles and Temple Owls football teams while hosting the square feet of flexible exhibit space, of which 236,900 square feet classic Army-Navy game and numerous NCAA Men’s Lacrosse is column-free with a 125-foot ceiling height. The center features Championships. Other events include the FIFA Women’s World Cup, four floors with 53 meeting rooms, the Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom Gold Cup, Copa America, and U.S. Men’s National Team competitions. at 31,610 square feet, and pre-function space included at every Lincoln Financial Field hosted the USWNT vs Portugal in a Victory concourse. Recently, the convention center hosted Hoop Group Tour Match. This game set a new attendance record for the largest ever Pitt Jam Fest and East Coast Volleyball Championships. standalone friendly game with over 49,500 fans. Lincoln Financial Field will host the 2020 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Championships in May. 2. PPG Paints Arena Sports: Basketball, Gymnastics, Hockey, Figure Skating, 2. Wells Fargo Center Wrestling, Volleyball Sports: Basketball, hockey, wrestling Home of the National Hockey League’s Philadelphia Flyers PPG Paints Arena is home to the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins. and the National Basketball Association’s Philadelphia 76ers. The The arena boasts a seating capacity of 18,087 fans for hockey arena has hosted many NCAA events, including basketball, hockey and 19,100 for basketball. With a total field space of 29,095 square (Frozen Four) and wrestling championships, multiple WWE feet, the arena is equipped for various event setups. PPG Paints premier events, the 2016 Democratic National Convention, and Arena previously hosted the 2019 NCAA Division I Wrestling the 2002 NBA All-Star Game. The Wells Fargo Center seats 20,478 Championships and the 2019 NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball and is currently going through a three-phase $265 Million Championship. renovation that will be completed by 2021. 3. Highmark Stadium 3. Citizens Bank Park Sports: Soccer, Archery, Football, Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee Sports: Baseball, hockey, races Highmark Stadium is home to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC Citizens Bank Park is the home park of Major League Baseball’s Philadelphia Phillies. Opened in 2004, the 43,000-seat ballpark professional soccer team. With a seating capacity of 5,000 people includes Ashburn Alley and All-Star Walk, which pays tribute to and a 4,000-square-foot banquet area, the stadium’s FIFA-certi- Phillies players that have played in the MLB All-Star Game. In 2012, fied synthetic turf overlooks the city’s downtown skyline, features the stadium hosted the NHL’s Winter Classic on New Year’s Day, a high-definition score board, press box, and 2 locker rooms. as well as a number of Spartan Races and other events. Citizens Highmark Stadium previously hosted the 2018 NCAA Division II Bank Park was awarded the 2026 MLB All Star Game during the National Championships Festival and the 2019 NCAA Division II US Semiquincentennial. Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships.
PHL SPORTS SportsPITTSBURGH Brea Webster Stanko Dana Kramer Director of Business Development & Senior Development Manager Sports Marketing 412-325-0292 215-636-3319, [email protected] [email protected] www.PHLSports.com www.SportsPITTSBURGH.com
SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 11 Valley Forge York THIS HISTORIC REGION NEAR THE HEART OF MAKE YOUR YORK SPORTS EVENT STAND OUT WITH PENNSYLVANIA HARBORS SEVERAL FIRST;RATE SPORTS TOP;NOTCH FACILITIES, CHEER;WORTHY ATTRACTIONS VENUES. AND A CONVENIENT LOCATION EVERYONE WILL APPRECIATE.
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Memorial Park Softball Complex FACILITY SPOTLIGHT FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 1. The Proving Grounds 1. Memorial Park Softball Complex Sports: Field hockey, lacrosse, soccer Sports: Baseball, pickleball, kickball, The Proving Grounds houses Villanova University’s premier sand volleyball, softball hockey stadium. This multipurpose facility accommodates a A multi-sport venue, Memorial Park Softball Complex has variety of sports tournaments, including the upcoming Pro Football hosted several events for USA Softball, the Pennsylvania State Hall of Fame World Youth Championship Regional Championship Championships, and USA Softball Eastern Nationals. The 72-acre Series—Mid-Atlantic Region from November to December. State- park features an eight-field softball complex, which includes Hoffman Stadium. Four of the fields are lighted. The facility also of-the-art amenities, including striped tournament-approved has four sand volleyball courts, batting cages, miniature golf, a artificial fields with surrounding lights, make competing skate park, picnic areas, and spectator seating for 1,100. even easier. 2. York Expo Center 2. Greater Philadelphia Expo Center Sports: Wrestling, volleyball, basketball, floor hockey, Sports: Basketball, billiards, futsal, martial arts, cheerleading, gymnastics weightlifting, wrestling With indoor and outdoor facilities, the 120-acre York Expo Center The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center has seen many national offers versatile space that allows it to serve a wide range of sports sports tournaments, such as USA Weightlifting’s Junior National events. The venue consists of the 74,000-square-foot York Expo Championships. Known as one of the East’s largest indoor sports Arena with a capacity of 5,500, the 58,000-square-foot Memorial Hall complexes, the center boasts about 240,000 square feet of single- with a capacity of 4,000, and the 10,000-capacity Grandstand. It floor exhibition space, perfect for martial arts and wrestling has welcomed events like the Tyrant Wrestling’s Columbus Day competitions. Duals, the USA Wrestling Cadet Duals, the MLK Kickoff Classic, the MAPL Girls Volleyball Tournament, the Blue Ribbon Brawl Volleyball 3. Valley Forge Casino Resort Event Center Tournament, and the Keystone State Games Floor Hockey. Sports: Billiards, fencing, martial arts, 3. Graham Aquatic Center weightlifting, wresting Sports: Swimming The Valley Forge Resort’s Event Center has had a busy season The Graham Aquatic Center features 33,000 square feet of as the most recent host of the USA Weightlifting Nike American flexible indoor and outdoor space. It has hosted the PSAC Open Series in July 2018. With about 50,000 square feet of multi- Swimming Championships, MAC Swimming Championships, and purpose facility space, the event center is the perfect venue for the Middle Atlantic JO Swimming Championships. The complex indoor sports competitions and national tournaments. can be adjusted for 16 25-yard lanes or eight 25-meter lanes inside and four 25-meter lanes outside.
Valley Forge Sports/Valley Forge Sport York Tourism & Convention Board Rasheeda Martin Brendon Fitzsimons Sport Sales and Services Manager Sports Sales Manager 717-852-9675 x114 610-834-7994, [email protected] [email protected] www.ValleyForge.org/sports www.SportYork.org
12 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG JON SCHMIEDER Sports Industry Trends for 2020
t is that time of year to chime in on the teams/athletes participating. There are several true with golf courses and aquatics facilities top trends we are seeing out in the sports new sports that will be contested next year in that are owned by municipalities. If a venue tourismI trenches. The arms race in our indus- Tokyo that bear watching. We think freestyle has a negative cash flow, cities and counties try is at an all-time high and the competition BMX and skateboarding are naturals to gain are looking to get those assets off their has never been greater. From larger markets momentum. balance sheets one way or another. battling to host high-profile mega events to the smaller markets investing significantly in Tourism-Driving Facilities – More Non-Traditional CEOs – More and tourism-driving facilities, there doesn’t seem to 2 tourism related dollars are being 4more tourism organizations today are be an end in sight. The top sports tourism des- invested into venue development than ever being led by people with entrepreneurial busi- tinations are laser focused and allocate their before. Communities are allocating bed-tax ness backgrounds than those with experience resources efficiently to compete. If there ever money, restaurant taxes and tourism-improve- in the hospitality sector. This not only applies was a time to recalibrate what your organiza- ment-district funds directly into facilities that to convention & visitor bureaus (CVBs) but tion has always done, now is that time. will drive economic development back to their also sports organizations. New leaders at Since this is a look ahead to 2020, it only destinations. Unlike years past, if you are not USA Swimming, USA Cycling and USA Gym- goes to reason that we would offer up a vision leading the discussion on planning and fund- nastics all come from the private sector. Max for the future, a crystal ball if you will. We hope ing tourism-driving sports facilities in your Siegel at USA Track and Field came from you enjoy this year’s list. destination, you are in the minority today. Nike and NASCAR. The USOC’s new CEO came from a golf and media background. New Olympic Sports – Nearly every Retrofit Projects – Golf courses turned One of the founding father sports commis- 1time a new sport debuts on the Olympic 3into soccer complexes. Big-box retail sions in our country is led by a person with a program, that sport sees a significant bump in stores becoming hardwood sports venues. background in politics. In addition, several exposure. That interest usually manifests itself Tennis courts converted to pickleball. Pools CVBs have tapped into the sports profession in more kids wanting to try that sport, which retrofitted into skate parks. If there is a facility to lead their organizations – Monroe, Tulsa, leads to more membership with the National that isn’t pulling its financial weight, it is ripe Quad Cities, Butler County and Cleveland, to Governing Body (NGB), and often times more for a change. We are finding this especially name only a few. Freebird7977/Bigstock.com
SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 13 Measurement – We are often asked, he last few trends for 2020 are holdovers Oversight – Non-profit organiza- 5 “How do you keep score beyond room from last year that are worth monitoring. 10 tions are being looked upon more nights and economic impact?” It is a good T and more scrupulously on how they operate, question and one that we are addressing Expanding Roles – One trend from last and specifically, how they spend the funds with a tool we created called the Sports 8year that we are keeping our eye on is that are given to them. This includes conven- Tourism Index™. We surveyed the top event the expanding of mission and purpose of tion and visitor bureaus, sports commissions, professionals in our industry to ask them many sports tourism organizations across the NGBs and others in our industry. Whoever what was important to them in a host desti- country. The skill it takes to successfully exe- manages the various funding pipelines to your nation. These leaders helped us shape a cute a sporting event is quite similar to the skill organization are becoming more interested in measurement tool that numerically evaluates it would take to produce a music festival, how those funds are allocated. With C-level a host destination across four areas including Harley rally or chicken festival (yes, you read professionals having lost their jobs over 1,900 different metrics. Add to this the in- that right, we have a client that runs a chicken spending practices, today’s leaders need to creased focus on primary research by our festival). Many of our clients are adding spe- be overly transparent in this area. national association, and it’s evident that an cial events to their sports staff’s plate. If it uses added emphasis on identifying and measur- the same event production skills and drives Safety – A closely related issue to ing success is critical for our industry going overnight stays, why not expand from just 11 oversight, athlete safety continues forward. sports to sports and events? to serve as a high-profile issue on multiple fronts. The discussion on football concus- Participation (or lack thereof) – Re- sions has escalated to the highest levels, 6 search by the Aspen Institute, the driv- “If you are not and additional sports are joining the fray. ers of Project Play, indicates that a majority Athlete safety in several Olympic sports has of youth stop playing sports at age 11. Three intentionally spawned the creation of Safe Sport, an years ago the average age was 14. This trend leading the charge independent investigative organization cre- is not only bad for sports tourism, it is bad for ated to protect athletes and those involved our nation. Sedentary kids playing video in building relationship in the Olympic movement. Safe Sport, and games all day is not a pathway to success bridges with your in some cases full background checks, are on several fronts. Sports teaches kids so now mandated by numerous sports organi- many valuable life lessons that a video game stakeholders, zations across the country, and it doesn’t console cannot. We are losing this battle and sustainable success stop with coaches. Officials, board mem- if the tide doesn’t turn, the sports tourism bers, event volunteers and others are now industry will take the brunt of the hit in the will be a challenge.” very likely to be required to complete a back- future. ground check and the Safe Sport training program. Where the merry-go-round stops, Relationships – More and more, our Creating Owned Events – Another re- nobody knows. 7team at the Huddle Up Group is asked 9 peat from years past, our destination Leaders in our industry have a lot of hard to not only consult on strategic planning for clients are more and more opting to invest work ahead of them. While these challenges destinations, but to also referee relationship their resources in created events. This is now may seem daunting, that is what we love about issues between CVBs/sports commissions especially true in small and mid-tier markets our industry. Every day we get the chance to and their local stakeholders. Specifically, the that don’t have the resources to compete with lace ‘em up and go out into the sports tourism issue nearly always includes a rift between the big boys. If you can create an event with and events market and compete. No matter our client and the local parks and recreation your local partners (or enhance/replicate how challenging the tasks that lie in front of us, department and/or elected officials. As in most ones that already exist), those are assets that we are all blessed to go to work every day and industries, relationships are key in opening up you don’t have to bid for against your well- call sports our profession. SPG doors for success. No matter your position, if funded competitors. This doesn’t just apply to you are not intentionally leading the charge in the traditional sports either. CVBs and sports ABOUT THE AUTHOR: building relationship bridges with your stake- commissions across the country are devel- Jon Schmieder is the Founder + CEO of the Huddle Up Group LLC, an award-winning sports tourism industry consulting firm based in holders, sustainable success will be a chal- oping new events in many of the emerging Phoenix, AZ. Jon can be reached at [email protected]. For weekly best practice articles, sign up for the Monday Morning Huddle lenge. sports noted above. Up at www.tinyletter.com/JonSchmieder.
14 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG Our Indu ustry’ss Platft orm
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