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The best sports events are organized by planners who think outside the gym. What will the teams do during their downtime? Where will they stay? Can local restaurants accommodate big groups of athletes? All these additional components come together to form an unspoken event planning rule: sports events are only as good as the city in which they’re hosted. It can be hard for event planners like yourself to find the perfect city when there are so many options vying for your attention but, luckily for you, is chock full of charming towns and bustling metropolises that can’t wait to help you make your tournament or race a smashing success. Find Your Between its collection of cities and towns, Georgia has hosted Super Bowls, World Series and even the Summer Olympics, giving the Peach State a formidable sports history that puts it well above other Perfect potential destinations. In addition to successfully pulling off events on a global scale, Georgia is the well-loved home of the Falcons, the Sports Fit Braves and the Hawks. While your athletes might not be pros (yet!), rest assured Georgia will treat them with the same caliber. With more than 19 major sports cities and 1,850 hotels to choose from, Georgia in Georgia makes picking a host city an enjoyable experience that will leave you anxiously awaiting your upcoming event.

Outside the gym and off the field, your athletes will never run out of things to see and do during their trip. Whether they’re touring Civil War mansions after the sun has set, shooting down waterslides at Six Flags or conquering the bountiful scenic wonders the Peach State’s natural side has to offer, your teams will enjoy their stay from start to finish no matter what Georgia city they’re visiting.

Ready to find your perfect sports fit? Head to georgia-sports.com. SPORTS

GEORGIA Site InSpections

102 ■ Savannah, GA 104 ■ Alpharetta, GA 106 ■ Cobb County, GA 108 ■ ’s Dekalb, GA 109 ■ Perry, GA 110 ■ LaGrange, GA 112 ■ Lake Lanier, GA 114 ■ Gwinnett County, GA

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Interactive exhibits entice visitors to the Center for Civil and Human Rights (left), located between the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta.

Save with CityPASS in the nation’s ninth largest

f planning to explore Georgia, all roads lead to Atlanta. If planning to film Moments of Happiness is a must-see, and who doesn’t want to have explore Atlanta, then take a look at the Atlanta CityPASS. Available for a picture taken with the iconic Coca-Cola polar bear? He’s right near the Ipurchase online, this admission-ticket booklet saves visitors more Vault of the Secret Formula. See the actual bottling process at the Bottle than 40 percent off regular ticket prices on five of the area’s popular at- Works and learn the history of the Coca-Cola Company at Milestones of tractions. At most attractions you can skip the ticket line and go directly to Refreshment. Level 2 has two theaters. The Perfect Pauses Theater is a the entrance, saving time as well as money. visit through the company’s commercials. The Live Positively® Portrait More than 10 million gallons of fresh and marine water fill the seven Wall and Pop Culture Gallery share the impact of the brand. Search for galleries at the Georgia Aquarium. Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery your favorite among the 100 flavors from throughout the world in Taste It! Zone is a fun educational adventure with a series of challenges that allow The Coca-Cola Store makes a perfect end to your visit. families to learn about aquatic life. Cold Water Quest features ocean fish The Inside CNN Studio Tour is an up-close look at the global news and marine mammals, while a theater film brings features the beauty of leader. Every 10 minutes a guided walking tour departs for a 50-minute dolphins. Visitors can walk through an acrylic tunnel to view whale sharks journey through CNN headquarters. You’ll visit the working studios of CNN and manta rays, and one gallery showcases the diversity of animals found and HLN. You’ll hear and witness live broadcasts and do a live read your- in the world’s rivers. Tropical coral reefs and their inhabitants also dazzle self while seeing your face on the big screen in Studio 7E. The special Georgia Aquarium guests. Morning Express Tour, available Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. by reservation, There’s only one place to learn the story of the world’s best-known visits the HLN Morning Express set with Robin Meade. Atlanta CityPASS beverage—The World of Coca-Cola at Pemberton Place®. Level 1 be- holders can upgrade to the VIP Tour with expanded inside access for gins with The Loft and artifacts that tell the rich heritage of the brand. The smaller groups. This in-depth tour goes three times daily and does not

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College Football Hall of Fame

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Inside CNN Studio Tour metropolitan area, a treasure chest of family fun

permit children under 12. All Inside CNN Studio Tours should have a 24- tion: The Global Human Rights Movement. hour reservation to ensure your place. The last choice is an experience at the Fernbank Museum of Now it’s time to choose between the Zoo Atlanta and Center for Natural History or the College Football Hall of Fame. Housing the Civil and Human Rights. One of the city’s most cherished attractions, world’s largest dinosaurs, Argentinosaurus, and Atlanta’s biggest IMAX, Zoo Atlanta shares more than 1,400 animals. You’ll see birds, mammals, there’s a world of family fun and adventure at Fernbank. Eight perma- reptiles, amphibians and the Carnivorous Plant Bog garden. Highlights nent exhibitions, many with hands-on activities, explore cultures of the include giant pandas and the nation’s largest gorilla and orangutan col- world. Regularly scheduled special exhibitions bring new discoveries to lection. There are interactive wildlife shows, keeper talks, a petting zoo, Fernbank. Zoo train rides and playgrounds. The College Football Hall of Fame’s Chick-Fil-A Fan Experience is The Center for Civil and Human Rights is located adjacent to the the most interactive attraction in Atlanta. Show your skills on the 45-yard World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta. The replica field in the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone. Join the ESPN center is one of the few places that bridges the American civil rights College GameDay Desk built by The Home Depot crew, Chris Fowler movement and today’s global human rights movements. Three major and Desmond Howard. Test your broadcast skills and call a legendary galleries are at the heart of the Center. The Voices to the Voiceless college football play in the Call the Play booth. Ten galleries and exhibits, gallery features a rotating exhibition of Martin Luther King, Jr. items from including Game Day Theater, immerse the visitor in the passion of col- the Morehouse College collection. Rolls Down Like Water: The American lege football. Civil Rights Movement engulfs visitors in the momentous 1950s and Begin your metro Atlanta vacation experience online at city- 1960s. Visitors gain a connection to human rights in Spark of Convic- pass.com/Atlanta.

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Sets the Georgia Stage for Big Events Georgia’s Southern charm, coastal location and subtropical climate make it a top choice for high-caliber sports events to take place year round on land or sea. Here are seven events that prove Georgia is more than capable of ensuring any kind of sports event will go off without a hitch.

TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola DeKalb County 1 The TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola is held annually at Atlanta’s renowned East Lake Golf Club in DeKalb County, the formative home of the legendary Bobby Jones. In 2004, East Lake was named the permanent home to the TOUR Championship by Coca Cola, the FedExCup Playoff Finale and the season-ending event for the PGA TOUR. With this year’s event taking place September 24-27, players compete for an $8,250,000 purse at the oldest golf club in Atlanta. The tournament primarily benefits the East Lake Foundation and First Tee. The club serves as the driving force behind the effort to revitalize the surrounding neighborhood. All profits from the club, as well as charita - ble donations from the club’s corporate membership, support the East Lake Foundation and its remarkable redevelopment project. The top 30 players in FedExCup points (after the BMW Championship) qualify for the TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola at the FedExCup Play- off Finale. FedExCup points are reset prior to the TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola, ensuring a real shootout as all 30 players in the field will have a mathematical chance of winning the FedExCup with a victory at the event.

Mitsubishi Electric Classic Gwinnett County 2 Formerly known as the Greater Gwinnett Championship, this PGA Savannah’s famous Tour’s Champions Tour is held in Gwinnett County annually at the TPC historic district is the setting for the Rock ̓n’ Sugarloaf in Duluth, which spans 1,200 acres of Georgia countryside Roll Savannah Marathon within the gated community of Sugarloaf Country Club. With an expected & Half Marathon. 40,000 spectators, the event will generate an anticipated $10 million in economic impact. The 54-hole tournament features 81 Champions Tour professionals competing for a $1.8 million purse. The 2016 event will take place April 11-17 with all three official rounds nationally televised on the Golf Channel. It will benefit charities through the Gwinnett Champi- onship Foundation, Inc.; and has raised more than $520,000 for area charities in its first three years through all tournament-related activities. "Playing the Champions Tour event in Gwinnett County at TPC Sug- arloaf was an easy decision. The history of the Bellsouth Classic proved to us the need to continue professional golf in Gwinnett—great golf course, great community support and a location that we know players enjoy. And to partner with the Gwinnett Sports Commission was icing on the cake," said Miller Brady, Champions Tour senior vice president and chief of operations. 100 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_95-101_Layout 1 9/15/15 7:19 AM Page 101

2018 Dragon Boat Supra Boats IronKids World Championships Pro Wakeboard Tour Alpharetta Lake Lanier 3 and Pro Wakesurf Tour 5 Alpharetta 7 The 2018 Dragon Boat World Championships Cobb County The IronKids Alpharetta event is held at Wills Park in will take place at Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. It was The Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour and Pro Alpharetta, Georgia annually and is the largest youth bid on by Gainesville Hall County 96 to be held at the Wakesurf Tour returns to Cobb annually at Dallas triathlon in the US with more than 1,300 athletes compet- Lake Lanier Olympic Venue in the summer of 2018 Landing Park on Lake Allatoona in Acworth. The ing in a swim, bike and run competition. The race includes and expects 4,000 spectators, 3,000 players and $6 event features watersports action as well as food three divisions: Junior for ages 6 to 8, Intermediate for ages million in projected economic impact. and music, athlete autograph signings, prizes and 9 to 11 and Senior for ages 12 to 15. “The bid from Gainesville Hall 96 was accepted drawings, and shopping for equipment including "The community of Alpharetta plays the per fect host by the International Canoe Federation despite hav- boats, wakeboards, wakeskates, sunglasses and the for the largest IronKids Triathlon in the country each ing received numerous bids from countries around latest in wakeboarding and surfing fashions. More September," stated Race Director Bill Burke. the world. The Lake Lanier Olympic Venue offers the than 5,000 spectators and 250 boats line the beach most fair and most beautiful course in the world. We and course line to watch the world’s top profes- believe that the world will see just how hospitable sional wakeboarders compete. This family-oriented and accommodating Gainesville and Hall County can event generates an estimated $1.1 million in eco- be when these elite athletes arrive here at the Lake nomic impact on the community. Lanier Olympic Venue,” said Morgan House, venue “Few tour cities roll out the red carpet to wel- manager at Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. come the pros like return city Acworth, Georgia, just north of Atlanta. Dallas Landing on Lake Alla- toona is another ‘land or sea’ venue that keeps the Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah 4 party going, with over 250 boats drawn to this leg- Marathon & Half Marathon endary competition course. After the contest, the Savannah party continues at downtown Acworth’s Pro T our The Rock ’n’ Roll Savannah Marathon & Half Street Party,” says a Supra Pro Wakeboard Tour Marathon takes place in Savannah’s beautiful, oak- press release. lined historic district, drawing 26,000 participants and spectators to the city . As one of Savannah’s Georgia largest events, the marathon generates nearly $34 National Rodeo million in economic impact and more than 19,000 Perry 6 The Lake Lanier Olympic Venue awaits dragon boat action in 2018. room nights annually. This year, participants will rel- Georgia National Rodeo, taking place Febru- ish a taste of the city as they enjoy several race-week- ary 18-20, 2016 at in Perr y, is end events November 6-9. With a full marathon, half expected to host 800 riders and 15,000 specta- marathon, relay, 5K, one-miler and kids’ run, the tors, generating an estimated $1,942,263.75 in weekend will be fun for all ages and skill sets. In economic impact. The event is officially sanc- 2014, Rock ’n’ Roll Savannah runners also helped tioned by the PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys raise more than $400,000 for its charity partners. Association) and features specialty acts plus cow- "Savannah is a beautiful city and great destina- boys and cowgirls from across the country com- tion, so naturally it was a great fit for our Series, peting in seven categories: saddle bronc riding, which strives to give runners a full weekend expe- bareback riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, rience. Race participants can expect historic sites, team roping, bull riding and barrel racing. Points stunning scenery and true Southern hospitality both earned at the Georgia National Rodeo qualify rid- on and off our marathon and half marathon ers for the National Finals held every December in courses,” said Director of Public Relations Dan Las Vegas. Cruz. “This year will be our fifth in Savannah and we are grateful for our partners at Savannah Sports Council for helping us put on a successful event each year.” The Georgia National Rodeo features the best in the business.

The Mitsubishi Electric Classic at TPC Sugarloaf in Duluth draws about 40,000 spectators.

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Host your next tournament in Savannah, Georgia and see why SAVANNAH, GA visitors can’t stop gushing about this iconic Southern city.

A Wide Spectrum of Great Facilities for Hosting Great Sports Events

1. Savannah International Trade and Convention Center 3. Historic Grayson Stadium Sports: Volleyball, indoor tennis, badminton, cheer, dance, gymnastics Sports: Baseball With 100,000 square feet of adaptable floor space, Savannah’s Historic Grayson Stadium offers free parking, multiple convention center is the perfect facility to accommodate cheer, concession stands and one state-of-the-art professional dance, gymnastics and any other indoor exhibition sport that requires baseball field. The stadium seats 4,000 people and has been large amounts of space. Additionally, the convention center can open since 1926, making it a Savannah landmark. host volleyball, indoor tennis, badminton and other gymnasium sports like dodgeball. 4. Armstrong State University Sports: Volleyball, swimming, soccer, baseball, softball, basketball 2. Savannah Civic Center The university is home to several sports facilities that can host Sports: Cheer, dance, gymnastics your event. The Aquatics and Recreation Center (ARC) holds a Savannah Civic Center plays host to well over 500 events per six-lane, 25-yard indoor pool as well as room for two regulation- year, a large number of which are tournaments and competitions size volleyball courts or five badminton courts. ARC also offers like the PINK Gymnastics Invitational. The center’s 20,000- bleacher seating for about 1,000 people. Armstrong Soccer Field square-foot Martin Luther King Arena can hold as many as offers seating for 300 and a concession stand. The university 7,000 spectators and is the perfect location to host cheer, dance also has a baseball/softball field, a two-lane indoor track and a or gymnastics. Concession stands are available. basketball court.

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FACILITY 5. Savannah College of Art and Design: SCAD Athletic Complex SPOTLIGHT Sports: Soccer, lacrosse This small college is home to the SCAD Athletic Complex, a set of fields where the school’s lacrosse and soccer teams practice and compete. Both of these fields are lighted and come with bleacher seating and ample parking space nearby.

6. Savannah State University Sports: Baseball, softball, tennis, football, track and field, basketball, volleyball, swimming Savannah State offers one baseball field, one softball field and eight outdoor tennis courts. Additionally, the school offers one football field that’s surrounded by a six-lane track and two basketball courts. Recent additions to Savannah State’s campus include a volleyball complex and a pool.

What Can Savannah Offer My Teams in Their Downtime? Savannah gives visitors an almost endless array of attractions, experiences and history with its own little twist on each of them. Touring Civil War mansions becomes terrifying and exhilarating when you embark on your journey after the sun sets and the ghosts begin to haunt the properties. Going out for Southern breakfast morphs into a delicious and creative activity when you eat at Funky Brunch Cafe, where you design your own pancakes. Savannah exploration gets taken up a notch when a riverboat is your mode of transportation, and even more so when your cruise departs under the light of the moon. With over 15,000 hotel rooms available in the greater Savannah area, your teams are guaranteed to be well-rested in addition to being entertained, ready to play their hearts out at the tournament.

A Convenient Coastal Location Only four hours southeast of Atlanta, Savannah sits directly on the Atlantic Coast and is easily accessible via Interstates 16 and 95. Major cities under eight hours away include Jacksonville, Florida; Charleston, South Carolina; Charlotte, North Carolina; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Montgomery, Alabama. Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is just under 20 minutes northwest of the city center. Major airlines that fly there include Allegiant, American, Delta, JetBlue and United.

Planner Perspective “Savannah is a great place for a family sports vacation. The history of downtown Savannah and its beach culture on Tybee Island makes it a destination for beach volleyball athletes and their family. EVP Tour is excited to return for our seventh year in a row May 8-9, 2016.” — Ross Balling, EVP Tour Commissioner

SAVANNAH SPORTS COUNCIL Ben Wilder, Director, CSEE 912-644-6414 • [email protected] SavannahSportsCouncil.com

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With year-round sunshine, modern and affordable hotels, ALPHARETTA, GA well-maintained facilities and professional partnerships, planning a sports event in Alpharetta, Georgia is as Facilities Range from sweet as the peaches the state is known for. Ball Fields to Ice Arenas 1. North Park 3. Wills Park Sports: Football, softball, tennis, soccer, baseball Sports: Baseball, tennis, disc golf This sprawling park is perfect for a variety of sports and tourna- Home to the Alpharetta Youth Baseball Association, this ment-friendly competition with its clusters of fields. Its facilities 110-acre park is a tournament planner’s dream. The park includes include seven lighted tennis courts, two multipurpose synthetic seven grass baseball fields, one synthetic turf baseball field and turf fields and eight lighted softball fields. Families can enjoy meals two tee ball fields. Families and team siblings can enjoy its five in its two picnic pavilions and kids can choose from two playgrounds. picnic pavilions and Wacky World Playground. It also offers a Visitors to the park can also enjoy its Adult Activity Center, Arts disc golf course, six lighted tennis courts and a 1.8-mile walking Building, Rotary Reflection Garden and 3.1-mile walking trail. trail where walkers can view the scenic Alpharetta Community Garden and Alpharetta Arboretum. 2. The Cooler Sports: Ice hockey, figure skating, volleyball, roller hockey, 4. Windward Lake Club martial arts, yoga, wrestling Sports: Tennis One of Georgia’s largest skating facilities, the Cooler has two Windward Lake Club is a private tennis facility nestled 85-by-200-foot ice arenas and one 85-by-185-foot roller arena. amongst the pines in the heart of Alpharetta. WLC features Courts are available for basketball and volleyball, and are adapt- 30 courts including 20 hard courts, two Har-Tru clay courts, able for other sports. Four party rooms can be used for team six kids’ courts (36-foot courts for 8&U) and two platform/paddle gatherings and celebrations. tennis courts.

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Downtime Options Abound for American Girl Boutique and Bistro in Georgia, an innovative Players and Families LEGO Store, and AMC North Point Mall 12 to see the latest Hollywood flicks while reclining in style. The Walk of Memories Every good sports event planner knows there is more to plan- at American Legion Post 201 and Veteran’s Field honors all ning an event than just the games and tournaments. The safety those who have bravely served our country with a brick-paved of the players and a family-oriented atmosphere for downtime is path memorial honoring our fallen heroes; a collection of military crucial to success. Alpharetta was recently named America’s equipment and monuments adds to this moving tribute. 7th friendliest city by Forbes and offers a wide variety of family- friendly activities perfect for the young and young at heart. Finding Alpharetta is Easy Kids and adults can have a night out on the town together at Perfectly positioned between the Mountains Main Event Entertainment, where they can eat, play laser tag and the international city of Atlanta, Alpharetta is easily accessible and bowl; or at Topgolf Alpharetta, where they can engage in from all major interstates in North Georgia and the metro Atlanta friendly-competition with a point-scoring golf game over dinner area. Located only 22 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta is a breeze and drinks. Families can enjoy picnics, fresh air and perform- to access off of Georgia 400. Visitors can also access Alpharetta ances at one of three outdoor music venues: Verizon Wireless via Georgia Route 19, Hwy 120 or Hwy 92, connecting to major Amphitheater, Chukkar Farm or Matilda’s Under the Pines. highways such as I-85 and I-75. Alpharetta is surrounded by five Take in a scenic outdoor walk on the Big Creek Greenway or at airports in the metro area—Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, one of Alpharetta’s five arboretums. Release your inner daredevil DeKalb Peachtree Airport, Mathis Airport, Gwinnett County during a rider training class at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Airport and Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport. In the heart of historic downtown Alpharetta, you’ll find boutique shops, a self-guided history walk and locally-owned restaurants offering delicious food. For a more luxurious experience, Avalon ALPHARETTA CVB offers 86 lush acres of upscale shopping, chef-driven dining, Adam Berrios, Sports Sales Manager resort-level hospitality and family entertainment at Regal Cinemas 678-297-2811 • [email protected] or on the Plaza lawn. North Point Mall and the surrounding area AwesomeAlpharetta.com is home to more than 100 major retailers, including the only

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Cobb County, Georgia is full of facilities to make your COBB COUNTY, GA sports event one for the books.

A Wealth of Facilities Makes the Planner’s Job Easy

1. Kennesaw State University Sports and Recreation Park 3. Lost Mountain Park Sports: Rugby, lacrosse, soccer, football, track Sports: Softball, baseball, football, soccer, tennis, track, fishing, basketball Kennesaw State University Sports and Recreation Park Lost Mountain Park has eight softball fields, one baseball features two state-of-the-art, synthetic-turf fields and a 16,000- field, two football or soccer fields, 12 tennis courts and a square-foot Owls Nest indoor training facility. This 88-acre complex track. On top of that, it has three concession areas, two accommodates field sports such as rugby, lacrosse, soccer and playgrounds, three picnic pavilions, batting cages and two fishing football. There are also a track and nearby lake. ponds. The GRPA championship tournament for youth basketball teams is held here. 2. Al Bishop Softball Complex Sports: Softball 4. McEachern High School’s Cantrell Stadium Al Bishop Softball Complex is the hub of league and tournament Sports: Football events for softball in Georgia. Sponsored by the Cobb Parks High school football is extremely competitive in Georgia, and Recreation Department, this nationally recognized facility especially in Cobb County. McEachern High School’s Cantrell has hosted around 2,500 annual tournaments since 1979. It also Stadium has held the Corky Kell Classic, a Georgia high school hosts 2,000 league games a year on one of its five fields. A few football event that benefits the Kell Foundation to help fund events that come back year after year are CAM Sports Youth Fast- scholarships for students. With a capacity of up to 12,500 people, Pitch Tournament, Japanese Chamber of Commerce Tournament, Cantrell Stadium is perfect for those participating in a large Metro Girls Fast-Pitch Tournament and NSA Youth Fast-Pitch football event. Tournament.

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5. Wild Horse Creek Park minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta. Hartsfield-Jackson Sports: Softball, baseball, soccer, football, BMX, Atlanta International Airport boasts close to 50 million flights equestrian, fishing, tennis a year. Wild Horse Creek Park has six softball fields, a baseball field, a field used for both soccer and football, a BMX track, an equestrian facility, a fishing pond and four tennis courts. It COBB SPORTS ALLIANCE also has concession buildings, a picnic pavilion and playgrounds. Rachel Rogers, Sports Sales & Services Manager 678-303-2630 • [email protected] 6. Noonday Park TravelCobb.org Sports: Soccer, football, BMX, lacrosse Noonday Park offers 12 soccer fields, two soccer practice fields, two football fields and a BMX track. A picnic pavilion, playground and concession building are also available.

Free-Time Activities to Keep Your Group Entertained Test your bravery on the first drop of Six Flags Over Georgia's 10-story Dare Devil Dive roller coaster. Relax on the Lazy River or slide down one of the world's tallest water free-falls at Six Flags White Water. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the most visited Civil War site in the U.S., offers hiking, biking and picnicking on its 2,923 acres. Cobb County also is the location of the greatest spy story in American history, the Great Locomotive Chase. Visit the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, a Smithsonian Affiliate, to learn more about this military raid during the Civil War. Cobb County is a shopper's fantasy come true. For the skilled shoppers on your team, its boutiques, retail stores, thrift shops and antique markets will exceed their expectations. Regularly featured on the Food Network, Cobb County has nationally recognized restaurants such as Henry’s Louisiana Grill and Marietta Diner. Your team's visit to the area wouldn't be complete without experiencing the variety of live entertainment. Beginning in 2017, your team can catch a professional baseball game at SunTrust Park, future home of the Atlanta Braves.

A Quick Drive from Atlanta A short distance away from the largest airport hub in the country, Cobb County is in an excellent location for smooth traveling. Not only can you experience all the wonders Cobb has to offer, but the surrounding area of Atlanta as well. Cobb County is only 10

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Fields of Dreams 1. Southeast Athletic Complex Sports: Soccer, softball, football, lacrosse This complex has hosted countless local tournaments and offers ample parking for 300 visitors as well as a concession area. Its 80 acres consist of five soccer fields (one lighted), four softball fields (two lighted), a women’s fast-pitch field and three multi-use fields.

2. Henderson Park Sports: Tennis, soccer In addition to a stunning lake and waterfall, Henderson Park provides four tennis courts, six soccer fields and both paved and natural walking trails. The park is home to Triumph Youth Soccer ATLANTA’S DEKALB, GA Association, the largest youth sports association As far as hosting sports events is concerned, in all of DeKalb County. Atlanta’s DeKalb County is the MVP. 3. Atlanta Silverbacks Park Sports: Soccer Home to Atlanta’s professional men’s soccer team, DISCOVER DEKALB Silverbacks Park features four full-size soccer fields, Dan Bell, Sports Marketing Manager one of which is nestled in a 5,000-seat stadium. 770-492-5010 • [email protected] AtlantasDeKalb.com DeKalb County Offers Lots to Do off the Field If your teams are interested in exploring natural Georgia, look no farther than the scenic trails and spectacular views of Stone Mountain Park or the millions of years of history preserved in the archeo- logical digs at Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. Whether it’s on bikes, horses or your own two feet, exploring the peaks and valleys of DeKalb County is sure to be an unforgettable experience for athletes, coaches, families and spectators. Want to beat the heat? Bring your teams to Stone Mountain Park, where Geyser Towers is full of spontaneous water eruptions that let you cool off in the summer or dart across suspended rope bridges and crawl through a maze of tunnels at SkyHike. If you aren’t in the mood to get wet, try shopping around the Decatur Square or at one of the county’s upscale shopping malls. Just Minutes from Atlanta Only six miles east of downtown Atlanta, DeKalb County is easily accessible via I-20. Cities that are less than eight hours away from DeKalb include Savannah, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Memphis; Jacksonville, Florida; New Orleans; and Louisville. Interstates 85, 75, 675 and 285 all access DeKalb. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is only 20 minutes from DeKalb County and is serviced by American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit and United airlines.

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1 PERRY, GA This Georgia town warmly welcomes visiting athletes and teams to its wide variety of sports facilities.

Ideal Venues for Equestrian Events, Enjoy Big-Time Entertainment and Golf and Fishing Small-town Hospitality 1. Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter Visitors can learn about the town’s historic side through the Perry Sports: Equestrian, livestock shows Area Historical Museum or the Historical Walking Tour and When the grounds aren’t hosting the Georgia Sam Nunn Museum. Local festivals include the Georgia National National Fair for 11 days in October, the buildings are open for Rodeo, and Perry Dogwood Festival. other events. This agricenter fills 1,100 acres with two 480-stall For fun shopping, visit the welcome center’s Georgia Artisan Center horse barns, two arenas, four exhibit halls, a variety of conference and take home a piece of Georgia. Also check out the Carroll Street rooms and livestock barns, four ponds and parking for as many as Boutique District. 13,000 vehicles. Banquet hall space is rentable as well. The “Crossroads of Georgia” is Easy to 2. Cherokee Pines Golf and Fitness Club Sports: Golf Access from Any Direction This club offers a 6,465-yard, par-71, 18-hole golf course. Interstate 75 runs through Perry north to south. US routes 341 There are four sets of tees for varying skill levels. With pretty even and 129 connect Perry to the rest of the state in the Northwest terrain and elevation throughout the park, walking the course is and Southeast regions. The nearest airport is the Perry Houston easy, but electric golf carts, each equipped with a GPS device, are County Airport in Perry. Middle Georgia Regional Airport, available. Cherokee Pines also offers a pool, exercise studio, 20 miles north of Perry, offers flights to Atlanta. banquet hall and restaurant.

3. Flat Creek Fishing and Archery Area Sports: Fishing, archery This 102-acre public fishing lake offers excellent fishing for PERRY SPORTS COUNCIL bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and largemouth bass. The Sandi Smeltzer, Executive Director lake can be accessed by bank or boat and is extensively managed 478-988-8000 • [email protected] to maximize fishing success. Facilities include a concrete boat ramp, PerrySportsCouncil.com restrooms, picnic tables and fish cleaning station.

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With its natural beauty and warm climate, LaGrange and Troup LAGRANGE, GA County provide an excellent location for your next tournament, and the adventure continues after a winner is decided. Superb Sporting Facilities to Match Your Tournament 3. Pyne Road Park on West Point Lake Sports: Cross country, fishing, triathlon, water sports, biking, 1. Harris and Shuford Baseball/Softball Complexes extreme sports Sports: Baseball, softball On the northern banks of the scenic West Point Lake, planners Fourteen fields comprise the Harris and Shuford complexes, will find a four-mile trail for running and biking with a pavilion located across the street from each other on the east side of for athletes to gather before and after the race. Swimmers, runners LaGrange. The fields come in various sizes for different age levels and cyclists will perform at the top level as they compete amid the and abilities. Parking lines the west edge of the eight-field Harris wooded scenery. Bathrooms are on-site and parking is available baseball complex and also on the southeast corner of the six- around the park. On the south side is the Mega pavilion available softball-field Shuford complex. Spectators can watch the game for rent, along with boat launches and access to the water. The from bleacher seating or stand or sit picnic-style alongside the facility has hosted the Bassmaster Elite and state championship foul lines. fishing tournaments, Bicycle Ride Across Georgia and West Point Lake Olympic Triathlons. 2. McCluskey Tennis Center Sports: Tennis 4. Mike Daniel Recreation Center The Ann and Doc McCluskey Tennis Center offers 10 hydro Sports: Basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, swimming, indoor soccer soft courts and six plexipave courts, all with lighting for after-dark The hub of the Troup County Recreation Department, the play. Players will enjoy the fully loaded pro shop for last-minute Mike Daniel Recreation Center offers a dynamic location for repairs and equipment. Parking is available surrounding the facility several indoor sports. The 75,000-square-foot center offers two and spectators can watch the match from bleacher seats. The basketball courts, an indoor soccer/floor hockey rink and a skate complex is located in the center of town near LaGrange High park. Swimmers will also enjoy the 25-yard, six-lane swimming School. It is the home of several leagues and U. S. Tennis pool. The facility includes meeting space, a snack bar, restrooms Association state championship tournaments. The facility is and locker rooms. It is located on the east side of LaGrange near several shopping centers and restaurants, and is a short and has a parking lot in front of the entrance. drive from the downtown area and lodging locations.

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5. Callaway Stadium Getting to LaGrange Sports: Football, soccer, track and field Home of the LaGrange College Panthers football team, Interstate 85 runs through LaGrange, and nearby cities Callaway Stadium offers the seating, playing surface and extras Hogansville and West Point, coming from the northeast from a tournament planner needs. Also the home of local high school Atlanta and stretching southwest to Montgomery. Interstate 185 teams, Callaway Stadium features a FieldTurf playing surface offers access to nearby Columbus. LaGrange Callaway Airport and full concession, restrooms and locker rooms. The stadium is has two runways for local air traffic. Just an hour away is Atlanta’s located on the south end of campus with parking around the field. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, which is served LaGrange College is in the heart of the city. domestically by American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit and United airlines. There’s Plenty to Do After the Game Planner Perspective LaGrange has the variety of attractions and activities you’re “Troup County Parks and Recreation Department is one of the looking for in a tournament destination. See the historic downtown best in Georgia. Their professional staff has always impressed area on a walking tour, and view the city’s true soul on the 3.6-mile me with their commitment to ensuring excellence for every tour- loop. Starting at the Legacy Museum, visitors will learn about nament. Working together, the entire community has always done the city’s growth from its founding in 1828. a magnificent job during the Dixie Youth World Series, Georgia After visiting downtown LaGrange, your participants can see a state and district tournaments.” number of mansions, estates and other historical sites in the —Jerry Holmes, Georgia Dixie Youth Baseball State Director area. Stonewall Jackson Cemetery is the resting place of more than 300 Confederate soldiers from the Civil War, as well as the Horace King Gravesite. Visitors can also tour the Hills and Dales LAGRANGE-TROUP COUNTY Estate and the 1835 Bellevue mansion. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Enjoy some first-class shopping in LaGrange’s downtown area Dave Marler, Director of Tourism at boutiques, coffee shops, and other retailers. There’s also great 706-884-8671 • [email protected] VisitLagrange.com shopping in nearby West Point and Hogansville.

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Lake Lanier, Georgia is a high-octane field of dreams for land and water LAKE LANIER, GA sports enthusiasts.

Facilities Fit for Water Sports and Other Athletic Competitions

1. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue four-lane instructional pool with indoor stadium seating for up Sports: Kayaking, rowing to 300 spectators. The outdoor portion of the facility offers a kid- As home of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, this canoe/ friendly water playground with slides and sprinklers. There are kayak/rowing venue plays hosts to elite athletes from across the on-site concessions, locker rooms and a sundeck for relaxing. globe year round. Upcoming events include the Pan American Sprint Kayak Championships (May 2016) and Dragon Boat 3. Road Atlanta Motorsports Center World Championships (2017). Located at Clarks Bridge Park, Sports: Cycling, running the venue offers rental facilities and stadium seating for up to With 750 acres of pristine land, the center 2,000 guests. Each facility is equipped with its own restroom, and hosts a wide variety of professional, world-class motorsports events, the Boathouse is currently expanding to host additional guests. including the Petit Le Mans (150,000+ spectators). It includes a 2.54-mile, 12-turn road course, which is perfect for a cycling, 2. Frances Meadows Aquatic Center running and other road-related sporting events. In 2006 the family- Sports: Swimming friendly center underwent major renovations to include private This 34,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor center is located rental spaces. The Podium Club offers private viewing decks, in Gainesville. After a $12-million renovation, the center now catering services and VIP parking. There are electric and water includes a 4,400 square foot fitness center and meeting space. hookups for in-field camping and designated parking areas with Equipped to host both leisurely swim outings and competitive shuttle service for spectators. The track includes multiple restrooms tournaments, the facility has a 10-lane competition pool and and concession stands.

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4. Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center Lake Lanier is a Vacation Haven Sports: Rodeos, archery Lake Lanier and surrounding cities like Gainesville offer a Situated on 66 acres, the multipurpose complex facilitates perfect mixture of Southern charm and comfort that is sure equestrian and animal expositions, along with archery compe- to hit a home run in the hearts of your athletes and their families. titions, circuses, rodeo shows, and other community and corpo- Besides fun on the water, the area offers plenty of convenient rate events. It offers bleacher seating, restrooms, concessions shopping locations, lodging and group dining options, and and free parking. There are 51 RV hookups reserved for vendor exciting family-friendly activities to help make them feel right at camping, large animal holding areas and indoor meeting facilities. home. Gainesville proved its hospitality to thousands of spectators 5. Allen Creek Soccer Complex by hosting the 1996 Centennial Olympic flatwater competitions. Sports: Lacrosse The complex features nine youth and adult soccer and Making Your Way to Lake Lanier lacrosse fields that are perfect for practice, tournament and league Gainesville is among the many hospitable Georgia cities play. The venue is located amid 54 acres of well-manicured located along the Lake Lanier shoreline. It is located roughly playing fields and includes stadium seating for up to 2,500 people. 45 minutes north of Atlanta. Gainesville is easily accessible The grounds include over 800 parking spaces, restrooms and from GA-369 E/W and I-985 N/S. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta concessions. International Airport receives flights from most major cities, and Greyhound provides shuttle service to and from Gainesville. 6. Lanier Islands Resort Locally, there is Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport. Located on 1,500 acres by Lake Lanier, the resort includes several individual lodges and conference centers. It hosts a num- ber of family-friendly activities and sporting events, including triathlons, adventure races, canopy tours, golf tournaments, cycling, swimming, boating and horseback riding. The main lodge offers pet-friendly luxury, and there are camping accommo- LAKE LANIER CVB Renee Carden, Sales Manager dations. The resort has many team dining options and daily parking 770-536-5209 • [email protected] passes for vacationers and sporting event guests. Resort features DiscoverLakeLanier.com include a family-friendly beach, water park, boathouse, eques- trian center and over 20 miles of walking trails along the lake.

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County Parks & Recreation was named the nation’s top parks and GWINNETT COUNTY, GA recreation department by the National Recreation & Park Association Sporting events are a breeze when planners choose Georgia’s in 2008 and was recently voted the #1 Parks and Recreation Gwinnett County, a premier location for competition and fun. Department by the Georgia Recreation and Park Association. 5. Coolray Field Top-of-the-line Facilities Sports: Baseball 1. Suwanee Sports Academy Coolray Field is home to the Atlanta Braves AAA affiliate, the Sports: Basketball, volleyball Gwinnett Braves. The stadium has over 10,000 seats and includes The Suwanee Sports Academy has over 100,000 square feet a state-of-the-art Diamond Vision screen. It offers full-service catering, of space, including seven NBA-regulation basketball courts and multiple bars and restaurants, and a wide variety of visual and audio 11 regulation volleyball courts. Entire national competitions are equipment. It also has indoor batting cages that include a viewing held here, all under one roof in a clean, safe and climate-controlled area for those watching. Coolray Field has a variety of suites, the environment. This multipurpose facility offers flexibility to any event smallest of which comfortably holds 25 people. There are multiple planner, utilizing a pick-and-choose system of options where a group outdoor decks that are ideal for parties or activities. can tailor-make its configuration (i.e. set-up, concessions or bleachers). Much to See and Do in Greater Atlanta 2. The Arena at Gwinnett Center One of the best parts about Gwinnett County is that it is an easy Sports: Gymnastics, wrestling, basketball, volleyball, hockey drive from Atlanta and many other cities. Shoppers in the family will The Arena can accommodate groups from 3,500 to 13,000 for a love Mall of Georgia, Georgia’s largest shopping mall. Attend a variety of sporting events. The beautifully landscaped environment Gwinnett Braves game (the Atlanta Braves AAA affiliate) or and state-of-the-art lighting and acoustics guarantee an enjoyable head down to Aurora Theater to catch a show or concert. Kids can event. The house reduction system allows staff to scale back seating explore one of the towns’ local parks and then get competitive at with the touch of a button. The Arena is the Southeast’s venue of Dave & Busters. The 16 cities of Gwinnett also offer a variety of choice for regional and national events, including the 2010, 2013 and restaurants and other attractions, including the Arena at Gwinnett 2014 SEC Women’s Basketball Championships; 2012 and 2015 Center, a concert venue. SEC Gymnastics Championships; 2012 NCAA Women's Visitors can also explore the sights of downtown Atlanta. See the Gymnastics Championship; and Georgia High School state fish at the Georgia Aquarium and enjoy a fizzy soda at the World wrestling and basketball championships. of Coca-Cola. Learn about college football legends at the College 3. Gwinnett Convention Center Football Hall of Fame, and walk in the footsteps of those who have made history at the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Sports: All The Gwinnett Center is made up of 50,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 21,600-square-foot Grand Ballroom and 23 versatile Getting to Gwinnett County meeting rooms equipped with retractable air walls. The exhibit hall Gwinnett County is located off of I-85, just 30 minutes north of can easily host a variety of sporting events. With three partitions, this downtown Atlanta. Teams flying into Gwinnett County can choose facility can be configured to accommodate events requiring 10,000 from County Airport or Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport. to 50,000 square feet.

4. Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation GWINNETT SPORTS COMMISSION Sports: All Leigh Hooten, Sales Manager With over 40 parks throughout the county, event organizers will 770-814-6051 • [email protected] find a park that accommodates their needs. Facilities include swimming GwinnettSportsCommission.com pools, tennis courts, disc golf courses and sports fields. Gwinnett

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