Site Inspections of Event-Ready Destinations and Their Top Venues

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FLORIDA GUIDE • 2018

A Great State To Enjoy SPG Outdoor Activities Florida Sports Foundation Boosts State’s Sports Industry

13 Site InSpections of Event-Ready Destinations and Their Top Venues

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angela suggs President & CEO, Florida Sports Foundation

People love sports, either as an athlete or as a fan. But they love the sports experience, too – the fun and excitement surrounding the actual event.

So as you plan the logistics of your amateur or professional sporting adventure, you also want to create great memories for your athletes and fans.

Florida’s got what you need. When athletes compete or fans cheer them on, they’re focused on the event. Things need to work seamlessly. Twenty-eight sports commissions across Florida are ready to provide behind-the-scenes support to make your event a success. Thousands of world-class indoor FLORIDA’S and outdoor sporting venues dot the Sunshine State and even extend offshore, providing the perfect setting for your competition. And because of Florida’s ideal weather, your athletes can compete in a natural setting at any time of year. GOT

Florida’s got what you need. Your athletes and fans want attention before and after the game, as well. Because Florida WHAT is such a popular vacation destination, travel to the state is easy. Hotels and restaurants are well accustomed to serving guests from across the country and the world. YOU NEED Beaches line both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts for those who want to kick off their shoes and relax in the sun. State and national parks offer serene settings for those who want to hike, canoe, fish, or otherwise enjoy up-close-and-personal encounters with nature. Those seeking city life will embrace Florida’s music and cultural scene. History buffs will revel in the artifacts of our nation’s past. And, of course, for those seeking family fun, Florida is amusement park heaven.

So as you select the perfect setting for your next amateur or professional sporting adventure, remember:

Florida’s got what you need. See you in the Sunshine State!

Angela A. Suggs President & CEO, Florida Sports Foundation 2018 State TOC's_Layout 1 11/10/17 1:29 PM Page 125

FLORIDA 4 Sunshine State a Great Place to Enjoy Outdoor Activities 6 Florida Sports Foundation Bolsters State’s Sports Industry

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13 EMERALD COAST, FL 25 PASCO COUNTY, FL 26 PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL 30 ST. PETERSBURG, CLEARWATER, FL 13 GAINESVILLE, FL 32 TALLAHASSEE, FL 14 KISSIMMEE, FL 34 POLK COUNTY, CENTRAL FL 18 BRADENTON, FL 11 TREASURE COAST, FL 20 OCALA/MARION COUNTY, FL 17 ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER, FL SI ORLANDO NORTH, FL 22

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THE SUNSHINE STATE IS A GREAT

With optimal year-round weather and miles of coastline, Florida is a haven for nature lovers

hile Florida is loaded with spotlight-grabbing attractions like Bahia Honda State Park is a scenic destination on a virtually unin- Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, South Beach and habited island in the Florida Keys that encompasses more than 500 acres W Busch Gardens, there are countless outdoor jewels that also and provides some of the best snorkeling and kayaking in the country. add to the state’s allure. The park’s 2.5-mile natural white sand beach attracts swimmers of all skill One such example is Destin, a town that boasts the largest fishing level and kayakers and snorkelers can catch a glimpse of reef fish, rays, fleet in the state and has been nicknamed “the luckiest fishing village in barracuda and even small nurse sharks. Another locale that will appeal to the world.” Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast in the state’s panhandle, water enthusiasts is Molasses Reef, located in the Florida Keys National Destin provides world-class fishing and is a perfect location for anglers to Marine Sanctuary. The reef is a popular destination for scuba divers and catch snapper, king mackerel, grouper and triggerfish. As prosperous as snorkelers thanks to an area filled with remnants of sunken ships as well Destin’s waters are, it is merely one reason Florida has been dubbed the as a thriving ecosystem replete with eels, parrotfish and angelfish. fishing capital of the world. Caladesi Island State Park, located on Caladesi Island in the Gulf of Florida features more than 12,000 miles of rivers, streams and canals Mexico, is another fabulous snorkeling, boating and kayaking location. and more than 7,700 lakes covering 3 million total acres, many of those Formed in 1921 by a hurricane, the island is famed for its unspoiled beach spots brimming with fish. Thus, it is no surprise anglers spend almost 60 and provides visitors with pristine views of shore birds and sea turtles. million days fishing each year in the state and the sport is a $7.5 billion Another kayaking hotspot is Coldwater Creek in the Florida panhandle. business. This 19-mile paddling trail in Milton has been deemed the “Canoe Capi- Other superb angling spots include Islamorada, a village located on six tal of Florida” thanks to its spring-fed creek filled with clear, shallow water. of the Florida Keys that offers a diverse array of saltwater gamefish; The creek possesses some of the swiftest currents in the state (topping Clewiston, a city in Central Florida that features hefty largemouth bass; out at faster than 3 miles per hour), giving kayakers a vigorous workout. and Cedar Key, an enclave hidden on Florida’s Gulf Coast that is For a unique experience, paddlers can take part in a bioluminescence renowned for its redfish. kayaking tour on the glowing waters of the Indian River Lagoon. Located Clearly, Florida has a pre-eminent fishing scene, but its waters are also on the Atlantic Coast an hour from Orlando, it is the most biodiverse lagoon ideal for scads of other activities. Be it swimming, boating, snorkeling or ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere and is home to more than 10,000 kayaking, the state offers various sanguine locales that aren’t overrun. species of plants and animals. Also, it is one of the few points on the planet

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PLACE TO ENJOY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Florida is the country’s most popular golfing state as it boasts more than 1,100 golf courses, the most in the United States.

that offers bioluminescence in nature. Kayakers looking to witness one cycle trail that appeals to hardy mountain bikers. Sporting a variety of of nature’s most exclusive phenomenon can take evening tours on the wildlife, the forest features alligators, wild boar, bats, bobcats and the lagoon. As they paddle, visitors will get an eyeful of dinoflagellate plank- state’s highest concentration of the Florida black bear. ton and comb jellies that light up the waters with brilliant blue and green neon hues, better resembling a space odyssey than any earthly terrain. A GOLFING UTOPIA Those who prefer to remain landlocked will also find plenty of room to Florida is the country’s most popular golfing state as it boasts more stretch their legs as Florida offers more than 34 million acres of public than 1,100 golf courses, the most in the United States. Florida lays claim and private land, including 5.8 million acres of wildlife management areas. to an impressive array of golf facilities and hosts numerous championship One of the finest of these is the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, a golfing events, making it a key industry contributor to the state’s econ- 2,000-mile self-guided highway route that connects 510 birding and omy. With an economic impact of $16.5 billion per year and its golf in- wildlife viewing sites throughout the state. A birdwatching utopia, many of dustry employing more than 170,000 workers-the most of any state-the Florida’s 514 species can be found along the trail that stretches from the sport’s influence on Florida is colossal. coastline to the northernmost forests while the panhandle section extends With so many golfers taking up space on links, one might consider the from the Alabama border in Perdido Key to the Tallahassee area. task of finding an excellent golf course that isn’t teeming with humanity a Another striking territory is the 1,400-mile Florida Trail, which begins difficult one. In truth though, Florida is replete with underpublicized gems. at Big Cypress National preserve in Southwest Florida and ends at Fort For instance, Camp Creek Golf Club in Panama City Beach resides on an Pickens on Santa Rose Island in Northwest Florida. As one of only 11 Na- immaculate portion of North Florida land and is spotted with palm trees tional Scenic Trails in the country, the trek is teeming with swamps, and lush foliage, while RedTail Golf Club in Sorrento offers guests a spec- forests, prairies, springs and a host of wildlife including black bears, alli- tacular 18-hole course on 480 exquisite acres. Not to be outdone, Juliette gators, cattle, sea turtles and bald eagles. Ocala National Forest is an- Falls in Dunnellon, is one of the finest courses in the state, featuring man- other spectacular hiking locale, as it spans more than 607 square miles made ponds, waterfalls and rock formations on a naturally rolling terrain. of Central Florida and boasts a diverse terrain from sand pine flatlands Whether on land or in the water, Florida’s 67 counties, 282 cities, 109 to prairie wetlands. The forest is known for having more than 600 natu- towns and 19 villages offer a combination of sporting entertainment and ral lakes and ponds, numerous hiking trails and a challenging 22-mile bi- natural charm that is unrivaled. SPG

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FLORIDA SPORTS FOUNDATION BOLSTERS STATE’S SPORTS INDUSTRY Nonprofit organization helps bring sporting events, athletic competitions to its residents

ew states in the country can match Florida’s array of captivating lo- Major League Baseball franchises and more than 26 million fans have at- cales and notable sporting venues. The Florida Sports Founda- tended Florida spring training games since 2000. F tion’s mission is to ensure as many visitors as possible will relish With Florida sports creating more than $57 billion in economic impact these highlights. while providing more than 580,000 jobs and attracting 16 million out-of- The foundation, which was formed in 1992 and is located in Tallahas- state visitors every year, the state has deservingly earned the moniker see, is the official sports promotion and development organization for the “Sports Capital of the World.” The Florida Sports Foundation strives to state of Florida. A nonprofit organization, the foundation aims to bolster enhance that reputation by assisting Florida’s communities with secur- Florida’s sports industry and is dedicated to serving its athletics commu- ing, hosting and retaining sporting events that generate considerable eco- nity by endorsing the advancement of professional, amateur and recre- nomic impact through grant programs and legislative initiatives. ational sports. The grant programs were established in 1996 to assist communities Florida possesses a thriving outdoor athletics scene (fishing, boating, and host organizations in attracting sports events. Since July 1, 2013, the swimming, kayaking, biking and hiking, to name a few), some of the best foundation has awarded 486 grants, with awards totaling $11,383,100. golfing complexes in the country and is home to 10 professional sports These awards brought Florida an estimated 2,694,441 out-of-state visi- franchises in Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Associa- tors, which earned more than $2 billion in out-of-state economic impact tion, the National Football League, the National Hockey League and and created more than 31,000 hospitality-related jobs. Some high-profile Major League Soccer. The state is also the spring training home for 15 events that have received grants during that time include the 2017 NFL

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Pro Bowl in Orlando, the 2017 MLB All Star Game in Miami, the 2017 World Baseball Classic in Miami and the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship in Tampa. “Our goals are to continue the growth of sports tourism and development in the state of Florida through the promotion of outstanding events and opportunities that also bring jobs and foster a healthy lifestyle to and for all visitors, as well as residents of the state,” said Angela Adams Suggs, Florida Sports Foundation president and senior vice president of sports development for Enterprise Florida. Suggs was recently named the foundation’s president, arriving from Florida A&M University where she worked as the Senior Associate Athlet- ics Director for External Affairs and Senior Woman Administrator. She was also the athletics department’s primary liaison with campus direct support organizations, affinity and support groups, and community relations. Her mission as the Florida Sports Foundation president is to help the organization augment the impact it has on the state’s sporting culture. “We (are looking) to build upon the Florida Sports Foundation’s first 25 years while expanding the recruitment and retention of sporting events and sports related business opportunities,” Suggs said. “We look to continue generating a significant economic impact while supporting job creation through sports tourism and development. The Florida Sports Foundation works in support of continuing the success of the $57.4 billion impact here

The Florida Sports Foundation plays a key role in organizing the state’s in our state – through the promotion of amateur, professional and recre- Sunshine State Games (above) and bringing spring training baseball (below) to the state. ational sports and sporting opportunities throughout our footprint.” While offering grants is an important role the foundation provides, the organization, which is governed by a board of directors totaling 19 mem- bers, also takes pride in serving Florida’s residents in a myriad of other ways. The foundation serves as the state’s leading resource for sports tourism research and facts; it produces and distributes annual golf, fishing and boating, and baseball spring training guides; and assists in the promotion of targeted leisure sport industries. Perhaps the foundation’s most noteworthy accomplishment is organizing the annual Sunshine State Games, an Olympic-style festival for Floridians of all ages, and the annual Florida Senior Games, a multi- sport event program for adults 50 and older. The Sunshine State Games were created in 1980 to provide Florida’s residents with an Olympic-style festival program for amateur athletes of all ages and skill levels. It is the nation’s oldest state games and is the state’s largest and longest-standing multi-sport festival. These games provide Floridians with the chance to develop and display their physical talents and competitive abilities. Of the more than 200,000 participants since 1980, many have gone on to fulfill Olympic dreams while thousands more have achieved personal goals and victories. The Senior Games movement first began in Florida when the Golden Age Games were created in 1974 in Sanford, a city residing in the central region of the state. Shortly after, local and state senior games began appearing nationwide. In 1992, the first Florida Senior Games State Championships were held in Bradenton, a city located south of Tampa. Since then, the games have become a destination for top athletes across the world and have given the state’s seniors the chance to compete at the local, state and national level. “For 25 years the Florida Sports Foundation has served as the official sports promotion and development organization for the State of Florida,” Suggs said. “The one-of-a -kind industry opportunities in our state are supported by top notch industry leadership. Our board of directors and industry partners throughout the state continue to attract and produce major events and other unique opportunities at a level of excellence, greatly viewed and respected throughout the world.” SPG

SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 7 2018 SPG Features pp2_Layout 1 11/5/17 11:16 AM Page 10 10 ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR EFFECTIVE TOURNAMENT MANAGEMENT

By Bill Hanson

here are a number of character traits and skills that are attributed to good leadership, communications being one of them. At Sports T Planning Guide, we have provided a number of articles that em- phasize the organization and conduct of grassroots events and provide the tools to assist novice organizations in doing so. Internal communications is one of these tools. What we have here are 10 administrative items that will help an Event Manager become an awesome communicator and an efficient leader. Keeping the staff and volunteers of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) fully informed will do that. And from the manager’s side it keeps the potential myriad number of internal questions to a minimum. These 10 lists and forms provide a solid foundation for the LOC. They are all fea- tured in The A to Z Guide to Organizing a Sports Event that is available through Sports Planning Guide (http://sportsplanningguide.com/sports- event-planning-resources/).

1. EVENT COMMITTEE LIST One of the first items in the event organizing process, and one that needs to be constantly updated, is a list of event staff and key volunteers complete with their phone numbers, email addresses and event responsibility. The list may also include any vendors, suppliers, facility staff and other persons who are heavily involved in the event. This sounds like a 3. EVENT INFORMATION SHEET no-brainer, but many small events face the “how do I get in touch with …” This is a very simple one page sheet of Who, What, When and Where issue. For the event itself, the most important phone numbers should be of the event. It allows everyone involved with the LOC to answer simple included on a laminated phone card easily attached to a credential or fit- questions without having to call or email the Event Manager. The Who ting into a pocket. and What might describe the tournament format for particular age groups, how to register and the prizes to be awarded. Also, where the event is lo- 2. EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY LISTS cated, parking info and what amenities are available. The schedule of Every event process at San Antonio Sports began with my formatting events should be listed as well as any rain date, and phone numbers for these two lists. They helped me break down the different areas of re- event information and for volunteers if they are being recruited. It’s also sponsibility and identify the equipment and supplies needed for each a good place for some event sponsor recognition. area. The smallest items were listed, as it is those that cause a delay in the event, such as batteries, extension cord, plug adapter and water key. 4. EVENT SCHEDULE WITH LOGISTICS Such lists make it easy to account for acquiring the items, ensuring they The Event Schedule provides a complete picture of all functions and get to the venue and the correct area needed, and especially ensuring activities leading up to and supporting the event. I like to start with the they are recovered upon completion of the event. date and time of the very first competition and move backward to gate

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6. LOGISTICS FORM As fussy as I was about lists, this was one of my favorites. It’s a grid summary of all equipment and supplies needed in each physical area of the venue. It requires the input of the staff or key volunteer in each area so that accurate numbers of tables, chairs, coolers, lights, signs, trash- cans, cords, etc. can be procured. For venues with multiple areas requiring large numbers of tables and chairs, this form is a must. If area coordinators are to work efficiently, they must have the needed equipment and supplies.

7. SIGNAGE FORM Any event needs some signage, whether it’s directional, informative, decorative or sponsorship. A high attendance tournament in a large venue with hundreds of spectators needs a good amount of visible signage just to keep volunteers from being bombarded with “where is …” questions. Each project coordinator should be queried as to signage needed in their specific area, so this large number of signs will then need a method of ensuring they are correctly printed, delivered and displayed. The signage form is a summary of all signs needed, stating what each one reads, its size, the size and color of the letters, quantity and where and how it’s to be mounted. You can believe that print shops are happy to receive this form when ordering signs. One important note … fancy and/or clever signs quickly become souvenirs and they could disappear early during a multi-day tournament. Having some blanks on hand is helpful.

8. JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES This could be an “icing on the cake” item, and more likely to be developed over time for an event that takes place annually or semi-annually. The efficient Event Manager knows the various job descriptions and, in most cases, MSSA/Bigstock.com delivers them orally and at the event. The larger the event, the more bene- ficial these become. It helps greatly with volunteer recruiting when positions are accurately described, and even more helpful when volunteers may not be familiar with a certain position. A good example is Team Operations where volunteers might take care of bench areas and locker rooms for teams.

9. VENUE MAP This is a helpful tool for volunteers who will constantly be asked the location of restrooms, charging stations, concessions, merchandise

MSSA/Bigstock.com stands and first-aid stations. A map can aid in the installation of tents and

Organization is important when managing a placement of trailers, portable toilets and kiosks. Most importantly, it pro- tournament. Keeping an event committee list and vides that much more information to staff and volunteers for knowing all equipment and supply lists help planners keep track of what vendors, suppliers, facility staff and other there is to know about the event they’re conducting. people are involved with the event. 10. AFTER-ACTION SUMMARY icreative3d/Bigstock.com Whether the event is one time or ongoing, it’s very helpful to collect opening, volunteer call time, venue deliveries, equipment installations, as much feedback as possible, and it’s important to have people be hon- social events, etc. One then moves forward to following days’ activities est in their critique. The basic form should be a simple list of all areas of and times, awards ceremony and venue tear-down and cleanup. responsibility plus space for OTHER and THINGS TO IMPROVE. It should be distributed to staff and volunteers immediately following the 5. TIMELINE OF MAJOR PROJECTS event. Collecting feedback from single-shift volunteers can be done on Even the simplest and best organized event will have some last- a card when they check out. The purpose is not to collect complaints, minute issues that require immediate attention. Projects that should have but to identify issues and improve on them for the next event. already been completed may be affected if staff has to be diverted. Thus, Some folks will be saying these items are a lot of work for the Event the importance of early identification of major projects and determining Manager when, in actuality and properly done, they fully communicate all a completion deadline for each. A Timeline might start in increments of aspects of the event and can save loads of time by not having to explain 3-6 months out, one month out, competition days and post competition. details over and over. The fully informed staff will operate much more effi- It’s important to note that some projects such as a souvenir program and ciently. There is one major challenge and that is getting staff and volunteers event signage will require the input of several people, thus needing sev- to read them. Years of personal experience verifies that every meeting will eral deadlines. Event Managers should monitor this timeline as closely have someone asking the simplest questions about the event. BUT, if it’s as they monitor the budget. just one person, then the overall objective has been reached. SPG

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Florida’s Treasure Coast, as the TREASURE COAST, FL name suggests, is home to the crown jewels Sports Facilities Fit for Land and Water Competitions of nearly every type of sports facility.

1. First Data Field from all over train and play on any one of the four 72-hole premier Sports: Baseball courses — Wanamaker (7,045 yards), Ryder (7,000 yards), Dye and This gorgeous grass field is home to professionals and rookies St. Lucie Trail Golf Club Course (6,906 yards). Budding beginners alike, as the New York Mets train here during the spring. The High- can take their first swings at the PGA Village six-hole Family Short A St. Lucie Mets and Gulf Coast Mets rookie teams take to the Course, while all levels can perfect their skills at the impressive field during their respective seasons. First Data seats 7,160 people. 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance. 2. Sailfish Splash Water Park Fun and Games on the Treasure Coast Sports: Swimming Want a chance to wind down from the usual hustle and bustle You and your family don’t want to miss out on this magnificent that comes with competing? The Treasure Coast is the perfect two-acre water park. Stuart’s Sailfish Splash Water Park is every- venue because it offers spectators and athletes top-of-the line resort one’s dream, complete with a 1,000-foot lazy river, a zero-depth entry choices such as the Prestige Hotel Vero Beach, Disney’s Vero and a 7,326-square-foot interactive splash playground with slides, Beach Resort, and Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort. sprays, jets and a 317-gallon “Dump Bucket.” The water park also Treasure Coast also provides outstanding venues for horseback sports two four-story waterslides, including a 253-foot closed flume riding on the beach. You’ll find that Treasure Coast’s vast farms like called the “Speed Slide,” a competitive lap pool and a Wiggly Waters Al’s Fruit Farm, where you can sample the best citrus produce. cargo net walk-across. Guests can station themselves among 700 Another destination, the 11,500-acre Jonathan Dickinson State lounge and deck chairs, a shaded picnic area and private cabanas Park, is the perfect place for boating and biking. that can be rented. Families and friends can park, shop, dine — with access to the food pavilion for birthday parties — and use restrooms Planner Perspective onsite with free Wi Fi access. The Treasure Coast Sports Commission is truly a partner with the 3. Historic Dodgertown USSCMC helping us to promote sailing while bringing wonderful Sports: Baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, events to our community. These are events that generate much crew/rowing, rugby needed revenue for our area all the while generating customers for our local restaurants, hotels and retail stores. Historic Dodgertown in Vero Beach has four full fields, one —Alan Jenkinson, Executive Director, 100 x 130-yard sport field that is used for soccer, rugby, lacrosse and US Sailing Center of Martin County football, one half-field, four softball/youth baseball fields, eight indoor pitching tunnels, a 60-yard agility and warm-up area, mini-field for X Marks the Spot: How bunting practice and 32 mounds/home plates for individual practices. to Find the Treasure Coast 4. PGA Golf Club The Treasure Coast is situated conveniently by Interstate 95. I-95 Sports: Golf extends from Bridge Road in Hobe Sound to Fellsmere and the As you may have guessed given its notable reputation, PGA Golf Treasure Coast. Other popular routes include the Florida Turnpike Club is where you’ll find Florida’s best golf courses. PGA professionals and U.S. Highway 1. Melbourne International Airport (53 miles), Palm Beach Airport (69 miles), Orlando International Airport TREASURE COAST, FL (108 miles) and Miami International Airport (130 miles) are all options for accessing the Treasure Coast. Over 30 airlines service Rick Hatcher, Executive Director 772-871-5458 • [email protected] these airports. Private planes fly into Treasure Coast International TreasureCoastSports.org Airport, Martin County at Witham Field, Vero Beach Municipal Airport and Sebastian Municipal Airport.

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Parasailing, kiteboarding, surfing, waterskiing, FLORIDA’S sailing and snorkeling…between sporting EMERALD COAST events, you can do it all here or you can kick back and do nothing at all. Indoor & Outdoor Facilities to Fit Your Sporting Event

Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island make up the 2. Morgan Sports Complex heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast. An incredible range of indoor and Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Sand Volleyball, Soccer, Softball outdoor facilities, as well as brilliant emerald green waters and sugar The Morgan Sports Complex is located in Destin moment from white sand beaches, make the Emerald Coast a natural choice for the beach and offers four regulation softball fields, two little league many sporting events. Volleyball, kiteboarding, swimming, and sailing fields, and three soccer fields. The $3.7 million facility has already … Here, you can do it all or simply kick back and do nothing at all. played home to many national and regional events, including the 2016 Florida’s Emerald Coast is currently home to many annual sporting USSSA Road to the Beach Fast-pitch Baseball World Series. events. These include national cheer and dance competitions, the The complex also offers sand volleyball courts and a half basketball USSSA World Series, the Emerald Coast Classic Basketball court. Tournament, Paddle at the Porch stand up paddle board competition and a bi-annual sand volleyball competition, to name just a few. Many 3. Destin Sports Complex golf and fishing tournaments also take place throughout the year. Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Football, Soccer, Softball, Track & Field Surrounded by water, including the Gulf of Mexico, Just west of the Morgan Sports Complex is the Destin Sports Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound, the Emerald Coast Complex. This recreational center is ideal for a range of events, is perfect for water sports, such as racing and sailing. Boasting the including running and football as it provides a 400-meter rubberized country’s largest charter fishing fleet and known as the “World’s track and regulation football field. The complex also offers a full Luckiest Fishing Village”, the destination is also an ideal choice basketball court and fields, some lighted, designed specifically for for in-shore and deep sea fishing tournaments. baseball, softball and soccer. Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island also features ten beautiful golf courses, designed by top names in the business 4. Preston Hood Athletic Complex and featuring water views, bird sanctuaries and more to set your Sports: Baseball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Skateboarding tournament apart. In addition, the area offers several large-scale The Preston Hood Athletic Complex in Fort Walton Beach is recreation facilities, as well as 17 parks, with facilities ranging from an $8.5 million complex that opened in 2016. The complex is ideal multi-use fields to skate parks and an equestrian center, each for a range of sporting activities as it boasts 30,000 square feet of ideal for your next event. multi-use space, as well as ten fields; five baseball, three soccer, and two softball. In addition to the athletic fields, the recreational 1. Emerald Coast Convention Center center also includes a skate park and is home to the Emerald Coast Sports: Multi-use Lightning lacrosse team. The Emerald Coast Convention Center on Okaloosa Island provides 30,000 square feet of outdoor space, as well as nearly 35,000 square feet of indoor space, all of which can be customized Getting There to suit the needs of your event. Currently home to many cheer, dance Getting to the Emerald Coast of Florida has never been easier! and martial arts competitions, the convention center is a multi-use If driving, Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island are space ideal for a range of sporting activities. located along U.S. Highway 98 on the southern coastline, which can be easily accessed by Interstate 10 at several points. EMERALD COAST Planning to fly? Choose the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport CONVENTION & VISITOR’S BUREAU (VPS), currently offering flights through Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, and United. Direct flights are available from numerous cities 850-651-7647 • [email protected] EmeraldCoastFL.com throughout the country including Atlanta, Dallas, D.C., Memphis, Newark, St. Louis and many more.

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One big campus and plenty to do, GAINESVILLE, FL Gainesville is a Florida hotspot for sports A Bevy of Fabulous Facilities tournaments and large-scale events.

1. Champions Park of Newberry 4. Alachua County's Jonesville Park - Soccer, Tennis and Sports: Baseball, fast-pitch softball Baseball/Softball Complex The park is a 16-field state of the art complex with synthetic turf Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, flag football, ultimate, tennis, baseball, softball infields and natural grass out fields. The complex can host youth The Jonesville Soccer Complex has six natural-grass tournament baseball and fast-pitch softball with 220 ft. permanent fencing on fields with lights, as well as additional warm-up areas, parking, rest- each field. Champions Park features indoor tournament meeting rooms, concessions and a covered space for registration and award space, scoreboards and concessions. ceremonies. The fields have the ability to be manipulated into many different field specifications, depending on the tournament director’s 2. Easton Newberry Sports Complex- Archery of Excellence needs. Located in the same park, the Jonesville Tennis Center (JTC) Sports: Field archery, 3D archery, indoor archery, baseball, softball, features 14 lighted clay courts, 1 tournament standard show court, 2 basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, cross country, football, soccer, volleyball large pavilions, a pro-shop, and restrooms with shower facilities. The Easton Newberry Sports Complex has been designated Community Olympic Development Program status for archery by Fun times in a College Atmosphere the U.S. Olympic Committee. The 20,000-square-foot indoor facility When in Gainesville, a stop at the University of Florida is a must. is on a 100-acre multi-sport complex. Due to its extreme size, it can be The university campus features Neo-Gothic architecture which nicely used for local, state, regional, national and international competi- juxtaposes against its enthusiastic student body. Visitors are encour- tions. The indoor facility has fiber-optic cable, internet and video support, aged to tour the campus whenever they can, but a must-see spot is meeting space, concession stands, restrooms, and seating for 500. the Gators’ football stadium, nicknamed “The Swamp” on a Saturday afternoon. When the buzzer sounds on the basketball court or the 3. City of Alachua’s Legacy Park final whistle blows on the gridiron, players, coaches, and fans need Sports: Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, karate, baseball, softball, lacrosse, things to do in their spare time. Tourists can head over to Devils soccer, football, rugby Millhopper, a giant sinkhole with rainforest-like conditions. This Legacy Park is a 100-acre complex with a brand new 40,000- geological state park boasts hiking trails and beautiful scenery. square-foot indoor facility. The indoor portion showcases over 30,000 square feet of open space with floating high-performance Planner Perspective wood floors. There are four full-sized basketball courts and four The staff at the Easton Newberry Sports Complex and the Gainesville volleyball courts, including a championship court. The indoor facility Sports Commission are a pleasure to work with. They collaborate with a includes large meeting spaces and breakout rooms, internet and rights holder as if the event was one of their own. It is obvious they take video support, concessions and ample parking. The outdoor pride in customer service and putting on the best event possible. complex has four multi-purpose fields and is a part of the Hal Brady —Sheri Rhodes, National Events Manager, USA Archery Recreational Sports Complex. How to Get to Gainesville US Route 441 runs straight into the center of the city, while the main artery is Interstate 75. There are other highways as well, GAINESVILLE SPORTS COMMISSION including Highways 24 and 121, that can be useful when driving into Gainesville. The closest international airport is in Jacksonville, located Joleen Cacciatore Miller, Executive Director 352-338-9300 • [email protected] 81 miles to the northeast. Daytona International Airport is another GainesvilleSportsCommission.com option, though it is 101 miles from G-Ville. Those flying domestic can use Gainesville Regional Airport.

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Warm weather and sunshine invite year-round play, and KISSIMMEE, FL nearby attractions make Kissimmee a fun-filled escape for both athletes and spectators.

Versatile Facilities Accommodate 3. Austin-Tindall Regional Park Sports: Rugby, football, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, All Levels of Play Ultimate Frisbee, cheerleading Austin-Tindall Regional Park offers eight exceptional multi- 1. Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports purpose fields that welcome more than 30,000 professional and Sports: Football, basketball, karate, archery, baseball, amateur athletes annually, playing rugby, football, soccer, lacrosse softball, tennis, cross country, track & field and everything in between. It has previously hosted the American Located at Walt Disney World Resort, the 255-acre Disney’s Youth Football and Cheer National Championship and USL ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex hosts more than 350 Pro training. The facility features five lighted, regulation soccer events each year. With nine venues, the complex can host nearly fields, three practice soccer fields and bleacher seating for 1,500 every sport, from football and basketball to karate and archery. spectators. Expansion plans scheduled for next year will include The 9,500-seat Champion Stadium is the spring training home of additional lighting, concessions and stadium seating. the Atlanta Braves. The complex also includes two multipurpose arenas, HP Field House and Jostens Center, which offer seating 4. ChampionsGate Sports Field Complex capacity of 6,200; 17 multipurpose fields at Hess Sports Fields Sports: Soccer, lacrosse with four professional baseball fields and six fields at the softball Opened in 2014, these professionally maintained fields sit Diamondplex; 10 tennis courts at Centre Court Stadium; a cross adjacent to a AAA Four-Diamond Resort. ChampionsGate has country course; and a track and field complex designed with played host to the North American Caribbean Rugby Association professional specifications. The complex is planning on opening its and has been used for Major League Soccer pre-season training. doors to a new indoor venue space with seating capacity of around It includes eight regulation fields with electronic scoreboards, a 8,000 spectators. The space is expected to open early 2018. clubhouse with concessions and flexible bleacher options.

2. Osceola Heritage Park Complex 5. Osceola County Softball Complex Sports: Equestrian, rodeo, basketball, football, BMX, cheerleading, Sports: Softball gymnastics, volleyball The official Eastern training venue for America's Olympic The climate-controlled facility can accommodate a wide variety Gold Medal-winning Women's Softball team, Osceola County of events ranging from rodeo and horse shows to basketball, indoor Softball Complex is an award-winning facility, including recognition football, BMX, cheerleading, gymnastics and volleyball. The facility as Complex of the Year by the United States Specialty Sports has hosted the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo, Sunshine State Association. It features five lighted softball fields, all built to U.S. Basketball Championship and AAU Basketball. It seats 8,300 Softball regulations, two covered dugouts per field, electronic score- spectators and has the floor capacity for up to 3,500 additional seats. boards, eight-station batting cages and 500-seat bleachers per field.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 6. Lake Toho & Lakefront Park Sports: Fishing Home to some of the best bass fishing in the world, Lake Tohopekaliga, or “Lake Toho/Big Toho,” hosts world-class fishing tournaments throughout the year. The Fishing League Worldwide, Paralyzed Veterans of America Tour and Bass Southern Open have all been held there. The 18,800-acre lake includes a marina, event lawns, pavilions, open stage and fishing piers, with parking for 200 cars.

Leisure Options from Make Believe to Reality When you think of Kissimmee, the phrase “something for everyone” 1 definitely applies. The list of possibilities will surprise and thrill your sports team, as well as any family or friends along for the ride. If your crew loves theme parks, then you’re in luck; you’re super close to Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando. Cool off with a visit to one of the nearby water parks, including SeaWorld’s Aquatica, Wet n’ Wild Orlando and Disney World’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. This part of Florida isn’t just about fantasy worlds, but also features a number of natural wonders and historic attractions that focus on important times in America’s past. Journey into the far reaches of the galaxy at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex; enjoy a performance at the Osceola Center for the Arts; or discover the history of the area at the Osceola County Historical Society’s Pioneer Center. Nature lovers can step into Florida’s native lands where they can canoe under canopies 2 of towering cypress trees and explore the headwaters of the Florida Everglades on an airboat ride around the pristine lakes.

Kissimmee: In the Heart of it All Kissimmee, conveniently located in Central Florida, is minutes from Orlando. Located just off West U.S. Highway 192, the primary corridor of the area, Kissimmee is also accessible via the Florida Turnpike. With three airports serving the area, Kissimmee is incredibly easy to reach from nearly every part of the country. Most major airlines fly to Orlando International Airport, which is only 20 minutes from Kissimmee. Additional flights arrive at Orlando Sanford International Airport, less than an hour away, and Kissimmee Gateway Airport, the closest airport to the major theme parks and convention centers. 4 Planner Perspective “When it comes to tournament locations, world-class anglers on the Walmart FLW Tour demand world-class fishing and facilities. Kissimmee delivers both with Big Toho Marina and Kissimmee Lakefront Park on Lake Toho. There is no better tournament destination.” — Kathy Fennel, President of Operations, FLW

KISSIMMEE SPORTS COMMISSION John Poole, Director of Sports Marketing and Development 407-569-4838 • [email protected] KissimmeeSports.com 5

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2 ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER, FL This two-million-square-foot Orlando complex is perfect for your next tournament. A Great Place to Play in Orange County

1. West Building home to the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye. The 400-foot observation Sports: Volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, gymnastics, taekwondo, other wheel is the centerpiece of the complex, which also features a indoor sports dynamic mixture of restaurants, attractions, productions and shops. The Center’s West Building features tropical atriums, skylights Orlando is home to seven of the world’s top 20 theme parks, and intimate courtyards. The building is home to one million square which means there is no end to the fun visitors can have when they feet of exhibit space, the Valencia Ballroom, which is larger than a have an event at the Orange County Convention Center. Check football field and can hold up to 6,000 people at one time, and the out Universal’s Islands of Adventure™, SeaWorld or Disney’s newly remodeled Tangerine Ballroom. The West Building has four Magic Kingdom® for some great family entertainment. If theme pedestrian bridges that connect more than 5,000 guestrooms to the parks aren’t your thing, there’s plenty more to see and do: SEA LIFE facility, making it convenient for guests. Orlando Aquarium, K1 Speed Indoor Karting, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf and much more. 2. North/South Building Visitors can get their retail fix at the Orlando International Sports: Indoor sports Premium Outlets, which features nearly 200 popular shops or The addition of this building brought the total exhibition space Point Orlando for a mix of dining and shopping fun. of the convention center to 2.1 million square feet, including a 1,500-foot pedestrian bridge with moving sidewalks leading to Getting to Orange County the West Building. This building was designed for flexibility and functionality, and offers a range of options suitable for many different Orange County and the Orlando area are easily accessible for sporting events. most people all over the country. It’s within a few hours’ drive of many major cities in the southeastern portion of the U.S., offering an 3. Nearby Sports Venues and Facilities affordable transportation option for teams nearby. Both area airports— Sports: Basketball, hockey, football, indoor football, soccer Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Sanford Orlando If you need more space for your sports events, there are a few International Airport (SFB)—continue to get more non-stop routes other options nearby. The Amway Center is an indoor arena that and are served by most major airlines. Amtrak offers four trains was part of the Orlando Centroplex. Camping World Stadium through Orlando, connecting the city to many major cities along the and the Orlando City Soccer Stadium are located just west of the East Coast. Amway Center

Activities and Attractions in Orange County ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER Rodney Gutierrez, CMP, Director of Sales International Drive (or I-Drive) Resort Area, known as the tourism 407-685-5731 • [email protected] corridor, continues to be a top place to visit in Orange County. It OCCC.com recently welcomed I-Drive 360, an entertainment destination that’s

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To play where the pros play, train where Olympians train and BRADENTON, FL host a flawless sports tournament in a perfect vacation town, you need to go to Bradenton Area. Facilities Fit for Any Fan 3. Pirate City Sports: Baseball 1. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex As a part of the massive renovation, Pirate City - the workout Sports: Hockey, ice skating, roller skating and practice fields located five miles away - got a big facelift, too. Offering high-level recreational leagues on two NHL-sized ice Pirate City is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for sports planners. rinks, Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex offers a premier ice We’re talking dining halls, activity rooms with ping pong tables and sports experience. In addition to offering public skate times, the pool tables, computers, TVs, housing and, of course, professional- facility offers party rooms and private spaces for your team. The grade baseball fields for premier competition. roller skating floor can be rented out by the hour - a great activity for off days or long stretches between games. 4. Premier Sports Campus Sports: Soccer, football, lacrosse, Frisbee, rugby 2. LECOM Park Located on the east side of Manatee County, the massive Sports: Baseball Premier Sports Campus has 23 FIFA regulation-sized fields, Nestled on the edge of downtown Bradenton sits one of the all with real Bermuda grass. Eight fields have lights for night city’s biggest bragging rights, LECOM Park. It is the home of the games, and 65,000 square feet of underground irrigation ensure Pittsburgh Pirates during spring training. If you’re looking for a you’ll never be flooded out after heavy rains. Sitting on 140 acres, state-of-the-art baseball complex, your search can stop now. The Premier Sports Campus also a new 4,000 seat lighted stadium park underwent a $20-million renovation as part of a 30-year with concessions. lease with the city of Bradenton, beginning in 2008.

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5. IMG Academy Local history comes alive at Manatee Village Historical Park, Sports: Tennis, baseball, basketball, football, track and field, golf, soccer which includes an 1860 courthouse and 1887 church, plus a general IMG Academy is a world-class sports facility so it’s safe to say store, schoolhouse, settler’s home and Baldwin steam engine from they can provide everything you and your sports teams will need. It the early 1900s. De Soto National Memorial has exhibits, talks and boasts 20+ multi-sport fields, 50+ tennis courts, an 18-hole golf weapons demonstrations by park rangers who discuss the expedition course, a 5,000-seat stadium, four multi-court basketball gyms of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who landed in the area in and weight rooms with more than 10,000 square feet of space. 1539. The South Florida Museum, another Bradenton attraction, explores the region’s cultural and natural history. It includes Bishop 6. Manatee County Parks Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium, which is home to a Sports: Baseball, football, basketball, tennis, aquatics, golf, fitness, biking, second stage rehab center for injured manatees. volleyball, recreational Manatee County Park System comprises over 35 recreational parks with almost endless options. Walking trails, skate parks, dog How to Get There parks, open fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, bike trails, rowing One of the nation’s longest interstates, Highway 75, cuts right and fishing can all be accommodated in Manatee County Parks. through Bradenton, providing convenient north-south access. Cities within a day’s drive include Atlanta, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Activities in Bradenton Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Montgomery and Charleston. Bradenton When you plan to play in Bradenton, you’ve got a built-in vacation is a 45-minute drive on I-75 from Tampa International Airport, for your tournament. Beaches on 16 miles of sugar white sand and which is served by most major airlines. The Sarasota-Bradenton marinas, restaurants and an excess of entertainment options make International Airport offers flights through Air Canada, American this coastal town alluring for sports teams and their families. Nature Airlines, Delta, Elite Airways, Jet Blue and United Airlines. lovers will find plenty to see and hear in the nature preserves and city parks. The Riverwalk is an outdoor gathering place that overlooks the Manatee River and is home to many features such as a skate park, Mosaic Amphitheater and a Tidal Discovery Zone. Or for an experi- BRADENTON AREA SPORTS ence unlike anything you’ve done before, head over to BeachHorses, Sean Walter, Director of Sports where you can go horseback riding in the water. WaveSplash has jet 941-729-9177 x3951 • [email protected] skis and other watersports gear available. Plenty of championship BradentonGulfIslands.com golf courses add to the area’s recreational options.

Go from world-class facilities to world-class escape in no time.

It’s time to discover the new leader in Florida sports training, events and performance transformation. The Bradenton Area is where champions train, play and relax, all while taking the game to the next level with training facilities such as IMG Academy, the Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, and Pirate City, the winter home of the Pittsburgh Pirates. To book your event today, call Sean Walter (941) 742-4051. SPORT_140-141_Layout 1 11/7/17 2:22 PM Page 140

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Experience out-of-the-park success in Ocala/Marion County, Florida, where OCALA/MARION COUNTY, FL you’ll find impressive facilities and an unmatched natural environment.

Superior Facilities for Everything from has six girls’ softball fields with three indoor batting cages. Shocker Park hosts many district and state tournaments and hosted Golf to Equestrian Sports the 2013 Babe Ruth League State Softball Championships.

1. Ocala Rotary Sportsplex 4. Florida Horse Park Sports: Baseball, soccer Sports: Equestrian The 80-acre facility includes 11 lighted baseball fields, two The 500-acre facility is a celebrated venue for equestrian lighted and three unlighted soccer fields, one multi-use field and events, including international-level equine competitions as well as 13 batting cages (four indoor). In 2010 and 2013 it hosted the 10U adventure racing. The park features a newly constructed two-acre, Cal Ripken World Series as well as the 2014 Babe Ruth League 79,500-square-foot covered arena. It hosts competitions in 14U World Series. Each year, the Sportsplex plays host to district, virtually every equine discipline, from dressage to polo to versatility state and regional baseball and soccer tournaments. challenges, and is an official training site for the U.S. Olympic equestrian team. 2. Ocala Regional Sportsplex Sports: Softball, baseball, football, soccer, lacrosse 5. Southeastern Livestock Pavilion The Ocala Regional Sports Complex is an 80-acre park on Sports: Livestock shows, agricultural shows, horse shows, rodeos the west side of Ocala/Marion County. The park offers a variety An Ocala landmark since 1945, the Southeastern Livestock of fields including four adult softball, one baseball and four football/ Pavilion has the reputation of Marion County’s premier agricul- soccer/lacrosse. tural showplace. It features a covered arena, a grandstand with seating for more than 4,200, and an adjacent, indoor, air-condi- 3. Shocker Park tioned sales auditorium with theater-style seating for 800 and Sports: Softball 226 stalls with iron gates. Rental areas include a field events area, Shocker Park is a premier destination for tournaments due to an open arena, an air-conditioned reception hall, an exhibition its convenient location in East Central Ocala/Marion County. It building, a picnic pavilion with showers and plenty of event parking.

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6. Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club near and far with its iconic glass-bottom boats that provide views Sports: Golf, tennis, equestrian of fish, turtles and alligators as they glide over springs that are Designed by Ron Garl, this majestic course boasts a riveting 99.8 percent pure and as deep as 80 feet. Fans of motorsports 18-hole, 7,062-yard championship course and incorporates will enjoy exploring Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and eight masterfully recreated tribute holes from some of the world’s the competition at Bubba Raceway Park, which is Florida’s finest courses including Augusta, Royal Troon, Baltusrol, Muirfield oldest dirt track. Only an hour or so away are Walt Disney World, and St. Andrews. Golden Ocala Golf Club also offers a 10-acre Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando and other themed short game area, two practice holes and a driving range. Some attractions. Beaches on Florida’s west and east coasts are just events hosted here include LPGA Tour, National Collegiate an hour away from Marion County. Athletic Association (NCAA) Men’s Regional and American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). The Tennis Club at Golden In the Heart of Florida’s Horse Country Ocala serves up six Har-Tru Hydro-Grid courts—all lighted for Ocala/Marion County, located in Central Florida north of night play. The equestrian facility offers a full range of amenities Orlando, is an easy reach from anywhere along I-75. Here are including a 20-stall horse barn, covered round pen, large jumping driving times from major cities: Orlando and Tampa, 1.5 hours; arena with new footing and separate dressage arena, jumping ring, Jacksonville, two hours; Tallahassee, three hours; Miami, five large grass paddocks, climate-controlled tack room, kitchen and hours; Mobile and Atlanta, six hours. Ocala International Airport lounge. is a city-owned, public airport located five miles west of Ocala in Marion County and is the region’s premier general aviation airport Visitors Find Unlimited Downtime Options serving commercial, industrial and corporate needs. Another Kayakers and canoeists enjoy paddling on hundreds of fresh- option is Shady International Airport, located in Ocala. water springs, lakes and the Silver, Rainbow, Ocklawaha and Withlacoochee rivers. Hiking trails abound in Ocala National Forest and the area’s many parks. Driving through Ocala’s horse OCALA/MARION COUNTY country is another popular pastime, and tours of working Thor- SPORTS COMMISSION oughbred farms are available. For high-flying fun, Canyons Zip Corry Locke, Sports Marketing Specialist Line and Canopy Tours takes guests through a growth of oaks 352-438-2839 • [email protected] and pines and over lime rock quarries. Silver Springs State Park, Sports.OcalaMarion.com considered Florida’s original tourist attraction, draws guests from

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Theme parks, great restaurants, attractions, amazing ORLANDO NORTH, FL. sports complexes and plenty of sunshine… what more can a person ask for? Facilities are State of the Art 3. Seminole County Softball Complex 1. Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County Sports: Slow-pitch softball Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, football Those looking to host a softball tournament in the Orlando area Boombah Sports Complex is innovatively designed when it should look no further than Seminole County Softball Complex. comes to American baseball facilities. Boombah Sports Complex It has five lighted fields with 305-foot fences and covered dugouts. spans 100 acres and 3 batting cages, 15 playing fields, bullpen Players and coaches love the water fountains in the dugouts and space and state-of-the-art LED lighting. Nine of the fields consist the venue also features an 8,000-square-foot operations center. of artificial turf, while the other six are natural grass. The fences vary is distance from 315 to 385 feet, making this venue perfect for 4. Sanford Memorial Stadium tourneys geared towards just about any age group. The complex Sports: Baseball also has more than 900 parking spaces, a 1.2-mile recreational This recently-renovated, 2,000-seat stadium once hosted the trail, three concession stands and a playground. likes of Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson and Willie Mays. Built in 1951, it was once home to the New York Giants and the Boston 2. Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park Braves, certifying its importance in baseball history. Extensive Sports: Fast-pitch softball, youth baseball renovations were made to the stadium in 2001, including major Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park offers six lighted athletic fields, improvements to the grandstands, a new arc design roof, and new all of which are natural turf and have 220-foot fences. All the fields clubhouses for both teams. are build and designed to meet NCAA softball regulations. One field is designated as the Stadium Field, and boasts increased capacity and is used for championship games.

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5. Sylvan Lake Park FACILITY Sports: Soccer, tennis, football SPOTLIGHT Sylvan Lake Park is a go-to venue, especially when it comes to tennis and soccer. The complex boasts 11 tennis courts and six international-dimension soccer fields, four of which are equipped with lights. There are also locker rooms and 15,000 square feet of training space, ensuring that players will always have room to practice.

6. Sanlando Park Sports: Tennis, volleyball, racquetball, basketball, Wallyball Sanlando Park is massive and flexible in terms of the sports it services. There are 25 hard-surface tennis courts, one of which is equipped with a tennis ball system. Sanlando also has eight four-wall, 2 outdoor racquetball courts, two basketball courts, a sand volleyball court and four Wallyball courts.

Off Days are Fun Days At some point, players, coaches, and their families will step away from Orlando North’s amazing athletic facilities. That doesn’t mean their fun will end. Animal lovers will find more than 500 animal species, including the Southeast’s largest collection of venomous snakes and Non-venomous reptiles at Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Become one with nature while exploring the Wekiva River, one of only two National & Wild Scenic Rivers in the entire state of Florida. Want to see some gators? Take an airboat ride on Lake Jesup, a 100,000-year-old lake with one of the highest populations of alligators in Central Florida. Take a journey through time at the Museum of Seminole County History 3 and learn all there is to know about the history of Seminole County. Orlando is also home to Walt Disney World, which was founded in 1971 and welcomes more than 52 million visitors every year.

Planner Perspective Central Florida USSSA gives the highest recommendation for Seminole County. We host numerous events throughout the year, ranging from qualifiers to state/national events. Their professionalism and work ethic are top notch, thus surpassing their competitors. They are in constant communication with us from the planning stage to the finalization of every event which in return eliminates errors/confusion. Their fields and facilities are maintained to the highest degree by their highly trained staff. We look forward to our continued partnership. —Tonya Waters, USSSA State Director, Girls Fastpitch 4 How to get to Orlando North, Seminole County Interstates 4 cuts right through Orlando, running from Daytona to Tampa. Interstates 75 and 95 are also major routes that take you around the state, while Florida’s Turnpike goes north-south through Orlando. Located right in Orlando North, Orlando Sanford International Airport offers a range of domestic and international flights in the backyard of your final sports destination.

ORLANDO NORTH Danny Trosset, Director or Sports Tourism 407-665-2902 • [email protected] PlayOrlandoNorth.com 5

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Planning a sports event in the world’s epicenter of amusement? There’s an easier way to do Orlando PLAY like an all-star. Venture north for state-of-the-art sports facilities including the new Boombah ORLANDO Sports Complex at Seminole County, a professional support team and more a ordable hotels - all NORTH within a high-ﬁ ve of Orlando’s top attractions. .COM SPORT_146_Layout 1 11/8/17 9:14 AM Page 146

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Pasco County offers the ideal terrain PASCO COUNTY, FL for numerous sports events, from running Pasco County Offers Outstanding Facilities and cycling to lacrosse and golf.

1. Florida Hospital Center Ice 4. Saddlebrook Resort Sports: Ice hockey, roller hockey, ice skating, figure skating, basketball, Sports: Tennis, golf soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, wrestling Saddlebrook Resort’s 480 acres are home to two Arnold Palmer Florida Hospital Center Ice is the newest and largest state-of- signature golf courses and 45 tennis courts in all four Grand Slam the-art ice arena and multi-sports complex in Florida. Florida Hospital surfaces. The resort recently hosted the Fed Cup World Group 2017 Center Ice is a 150,500-square foot, five-rink complex with three semifinals between the United States and the Czech Republic. North American Standard NHL ice rinks (200’ x 85’), one Olympic/ Saddlebrook has also hosted many WTA events through the years, International standard ice rink (200’ x 100’), and one junior rink and continues to welcome tennis pros as well as enthusiasts who (80’ x 40’). The NHL rinks can also convert to a dry floor to accom- come for multi-day intense instructions. Tennis and golf are taken modate basketball, soccer, lacrosse and volleyball. seriously at Saddlebrook, shown by the resort’s home to Saddlebrook Preparatory School. 2. Wiregrass Multi-Sports Complex Sports: Basketball, soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading, What is there to do in Pasco County Florida? pickleball Whether you want your adventure in the air, land or sea, Pasco Coming Spring of 2019, this 98,000-square-foot multi-sports County has something for you. Hop in an air balloon at sunrise and arena will include 16 volleyball courts, eight basketball courts, checkout the beautiful views. Not adventurous enough? Take a a competition cheer studio, 16 pickleball courts, two indoor soccer plunge at 13,500 feet and accelerate to 120MPH over breathtaking surfaces, two indoor lacrosse surfaces, two cheer competition areas, Zephyrhills at Skydive City. When you're done, swing through the an athletic training center, meeting space, VIP observation area, largest Aerial Adventure Park in Central Florida. Treehoppers has educational lab, lounge area, concessions area, full-service kitchen, a total of eight different courses with over 100 unique elements. Hop and the Residence Inn by Marriot Hotel. on a jet ski or boat and explore the Gulf of Mexico, throw a tow rope on the back and grab your water skis; take a boat ride to enjoy 3. Little Everglades Ranch a relaxing day at the island of Anclote Key. You’ll experience Sports: Obstacle/mud racing, equestrian, cross country and cyclocross some of the unique treasures that Pasco County has to offer. You Little Everglades Ranch is a 2,050-acre working ranch specializing can take some time to go kayaking on its pristine coastline or on the in breeding top-notch Hanoverian performance horses, as well as Pithlachascotee River. You can also swim in its spring fed freshwater thoroughbred race horses. Little Everglades is also a host to many lake with white sandy beach at Sunwest Park or enjoy a fun day at athletic events. The ranch features beautiful scenery and a versatile its newly-opened wakeboard park. terrain with 500 groomed acres and 1,550 acres of fields, woods, lakes and wetlands perfect for many obstacle courses, runs and cyclocross events. How Do You Get to Pasco County Florida? Pasco County is located about 30 miles north of Tampa and roughly 50 miles west of Orlando. Both the Tampa Bay Interna- VISIT PASCO COUNTY tional Airport and the Orlando International Airport are served Consuelo Sanchez, Tourism Program Manager by most major airlines, and offer hundreds of daily flights from all 727-847-8129 • [email protected] corners of the country. Pasco is located north of Tampa off I-75 or the VisitPasco.net Suncoast Parkway. Visitors can easily access it by car from this major highway, or three others: I-275, U.S. 19 and U.S. 41.

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Bring your game to Palm Beach PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL County, Florida for an easy-to-plan, Elite Facilities for Everything from Baseball successful event combined with a and Football to Polo and Water Skiing sunny vacation.

1. Ballpark of the Palm Beaches 2. Roger Dean Stadium Sports: Baseball, soccer, field hockey, ultimate frisbee, lacrosse, rugby, Sports: Baseball flag football Roger Dean Stadium is the spring training home of the Miami Ballpark of the Palm Beaches is the new spring training home Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals. The 7,000 seat stadium features to the Washington Nationals and Houston Astros. Palm Beach luxury sky-box seating, permanent seating, parking and concessions County is the only Florida county with four MLB teams in two and 12 supplementary practice fields. This facility has played world-class training facilities. The complex features a stadium with host to USA Baseball National Team Championships and 6,400 fixed seats as well as an additional 1,000 seats in the outfield Perfect Game’s WWBA World Championship for over 10 years. berm, 6 luxury boxes, two (2) party decks, 12 supplementary practice fields with professional dimensions, and seven (7) multi- 3. International Polo Club purpose fields built to FIFA specifications for soccer, lacrosse, Sports: Polo, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, flag football, ultimate frisbee field hockey and a variety of other field sports. With the Ballpark The International Polo Club (IPC) was selected as of the Palm Beaches, Roger Dean Stadium, and the Santaluces “Florida’s Sports Venue of the Year” in 2016 by the Florida Athletic Complex, Palm Beach County has the ability to use Sports Foundation. IPC is the home to the world polo circuit, 30 MLB-quality diamonds. which culminates with the prestigious United States Open Polo

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Championship. Apart from polo, the International Polo Club hosted some of the nation’s largest sports events in 2016. IPC was home to FACILITY SPOTLIGHT the world’s largest field hockey tournament, one of the largest soccer events and several lacrosse tournaments.

4. Delray Tennis Center Sports: Tennis The Delray Beach Tennis Center is a full-service public tennis facility with 14 clay courts, 6 hard courts, and an 8,200 seat stadium located in the heart of Delray Beach, FL. The Delray Beach Tennis Center features an upstairs pavilion and conference room, pro-shop with locker rooms, racquet stringing, and merchandise. In addition, Delray Beach is home to the Delray Swim & Tennis Club, located on Jaeger Drive.

5. Florida Atlantic University Stadium 2 Sports: Football, soccer, lacrosse The 30,000-seat, multi-purpose stadium, the home of FAU football, is equipped with a press level, five (5) locker rooms and two (2) suite levels consisting of 24 suites. It has hosted the Olympic Gold Medal- winning women’s soccer team, the 2012 Major League Lacrosse All-Star Game and international soccer matches, including a FIFA match between Ecuador and Germany, the current World Cup champions.

6. Okeeheelee Park Sports: Water skiing, baseball, softball, soccer, golf, tennis, BMX/cycling Boasting the premier site in the United States for water skiing on five purpose-built lakes, Okeeheelee Park has hosted the sport’s world championships and regularly hosts the USA Water Ski National Championships. The park also has baseball, softball, soccer, golf and 3 tennis facilities in addition to a nationally-classified BMX track, which hosted an Olympic-qualifying series. Plenty to do When the Final Whistle Blows Between, before or after games, there is plenty to keep your group busy. Of course, you can always direct them to the beach, some of which feature sand volleyball courts, or enjoy big-time water rides at Rapids Water Park. A golfer’s haven, Palm Beach County has 170 golf courses. Lion Country Safari African Adventure offers a live safari experience—without requiring a passport. The drive-through park abounds with lions, wildebeests, zebras and other animals from Africa and South America. You can encounter even more exotic creatures at the Palm Beach Zoo or South Florida Science Center and Aquarium. For another wildlife adventure, consider a trip to the Everglades, the largest remaining subtropical wilderness in the nation and home to 4 alligators, manatees, snakes, sea turtles, rare birds and more than 600 species of fish. A Great Location on Florida’s Atlantic Coast Getting to Palm Beach by ground is a cinch via Interstate 95 or the Florida Turnpike. There is also the West Palm Beach station served by Amtrak passenger rail and Tri-Rail commuter rail service. Fly directly to the county into Palm Beach International Airport, serving over six million passengers each year.

PALM BEACH COUNTY Glen Allen, Director of Event Development 561-233-3174 • [email protected] PalmBeachSports.com 5

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This world-class destination has all the ST. PETE/ attractions – museums, sports complexes CLEARWATER, FL and beaches – to be a top event location

Facilities are Thriving in Sunny Florida 3. North Shore Aquatic Complex 1. Sand Key Park Sports: Swimming, spring board diving Sports: Various Beach Sports, Open Water Swimming, Paddling North Shore, located on the St. Petersburg waterfront, is one Visitors never get tired of taking in the immaculate scenery at of Florida’s premier locations for enjoying the water. Open year- Clearwater's Sand Key Park, where there are opportunities to lie round and a prime site for swim meets, it features a 50-meter on the beach, play a game of sand volleyball or take a stroll by the Olympic size pool with a diving board, a 25-yard training pool ocean. This peaceful paradise boasts beach cabanas, large with zero-depth entry, a play pool with a giant flume slide, a bathhouses, a dog park, a playground and seasonal lifeguards. splash pad and accessible zero- depth entry throughout. It is the perfect spot for a serene family vacation or maybe even a volleyball tournament. 4. Oldsmar Disc Golf Course Sports: Disc golf 2. Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex Looking for a venue that is new? A place that doesn’t have any Sports: Softball wear and tear? Look no further—Oldsmar Disc Golf Course The Eddie C. Moore Softball Complex boasts nine fields at held its grand opening on June 24, 2017, and has been growing three different locations, all of which are situated on Drew Street in popularity ever since. Designed by Trevor Toenjes, this and connected by the East-West Trail. There are five 200-foot championship-style course offers 18 holes that vary in difficulty, fields, two 250-feet fields and two 200-foot fields, along with with a mixture of open and heavily-wooded fairways. soft-toss areas for warm-ups.

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5. Long Center Sports: Swimming, spring board diving, basketball, volleyball, football, FACILITY running, soccer SPOTLIGHT Located in Clearwater, the Long Center contains a 50-meter Olympic size pool and a heated training pool. It also boasts a state- of-the-art gym and fitness center equipped with treadmills, elliptical machines, bikes, and a stair stepper. There are also football and soccer fields, paved paths and a playground.

6. Golf Courses Sports: Golf St. Pete/Clearwater boasts 52 courses with four major courses that tourists flock to, including the Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor. Innisbrook is home to four incredible golf courses: Copperhead Course, North Course, South Course and Island Course. Designed by 2 architect Lawrence Packard, all feature some of the most beautiful scenery you will find in the state of Florida. The highlight might be Copperhead Course, which hosts the world’s best players each March when the PGA TOUR holds the Valspar Championship. What Can We Do in St. Pete/Clearwater? The first checkpoint should be The Dali Museum, home to the largest collection of Spanish surrealist Salvador Dali’s works outside of Spain. Located in the heart of downtown St. Pete, this attraction plays a vital role in the cultural life of the community, inspiring and delighting visitors with the renowned artist’s greatest works. Those inclined to the arts might also consider stopping at the Morean Arts Center, which displays works by local, national and international artists, as well as The Chihuly Collection, boasting a stunning, permanent collection of 4 world-renowned glass blowing artist, Dale Chihuly’s unique artwork. Sunken Gardens is an awe-inspiring place boasting more than 60,000 tropical plants and flowers. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a rescue, rehabilitation and release center, specializing in dolphins, sea turtles, otters and more, is perfect for animal enthusiasts. Planner Perspective Since 2003 Oldsmar BMX and the St. Pete Clearwater Sports & Events team have been host to the annual USA BMX Gator Nationals, one of our most prestigious events. St. Pete Clearwater Sports & Events is unequivocally one of the best we work with year after year. It is their dedication to sport and BMX racing that has allowed to grow the event year after year, and we could not be happier to have them as one of our most valued partners. –John David, Chief Operating Officer, USA BMX 5 Getting to St. Petersburg/Clearwater The destination is connected to Tampa easterly by causeways and bridges, and to Bradenton in the south by Interstate 275. Other main arteries around St. Pete/Clearwater include Interstates 175 and 375. Besides St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, there’s Tampa International Airport, which is 20 miles from St. Pete/Clearwater. Sarasota-Bradenton Airport is around 31 miles away, while Orlando’s Airport is just a 90-minute drive.

ST. PETERSBURG Sarah Kirchberg Senior Business Development Manager 727-464-7242 • [email protected] SportsSPC.com 6

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Warm weather for year-round play and exceptional TALLAHASSEE, FL facilities make Tallahassee a premier destination Top-Flight Florida Facilities for your next competition.

1. Apalachee Regional Park plex includes two officials towers with air conditioning. All fields have Sports: Cross country, hiking, cycling, football, soccer, lacrosse operational scoreboards that can be controlled from field level or This multi-use park includes a rare site designed specifically for the officials tower, new shade shelters and ample parking. The cross country running and has hosted prestigious meets such as complex also features the state-of-the-art, 26,000-square-foot NCAA D1 South Regional Cross Country Championship, USATF Mike Blankenship Skate Park. Club Cross Country Championship and the Florida High School Athletic Association Cross Country State Championship. This 5. Lawson Center at Florida A&M University trail is a pristine, multi-surface course that can host small and large Sports: Basketball, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading, martial arts running events. The facility features numerous course/distance options The primary athletic facility for Florida A&M University houses through the rolling hills and pine forests. When the trail is not being four basketball/volleyball courts on the arena floor. The main arena used for a running event, it is available to the general public for hiking, features bleacher seating for 8,400 people, a video scoreboard and running and biking. a comprehensive arena sound system.

2. Donald L. Tucker Civic Center What to do in Tallahassee Sports: Basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, wrestling, martial arts The 1,600-acre Florida State University campus near downtown The home of FSU Seminoles basketball seats 12,600 spectators Tallahassee hosts group tours throughout the year, and your athletes and can accommodate groups with 54,000 square feet of meeting can watch a Seminoles football game at Doak Campbell Stadium and exhibition space. The arena’s wood court can be replaced with or a basketball game at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. Nearby carpet or turf surfaces to accommodate your competition’s needs. is the Florida Capitol Complex, which includes history museums, state government offices and the Capitol Building available for 3. Forestmeadows Park & Athletic Center touring. Here, your athletes can see the original state senate chambers, Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, football, tennis governor’s office and galleries that showcase local artists. Ten lighted soccer fields (six regulation-sized and four designed Groups looking for outdoor activities should consider St. Marks for 7 vs. 7 competition) welcome teams across all levels. The venue National Wildlife Refuge, a wintering home for migratory birds. is also recognized for its tennis facilities, which include 19 lighted The Tallahassee Museum showcases animals in their native habitats clay and hard courts, a racquetball court and a clubhouse with and features an in-air obstacle course and zip line. For more historic changing rooms. The USTA Tennis Challenger takes place here. reenactment, visit Mission San Luis, a reconstructed Spanish mission and host to costumed interpreters who discuss colonial Florida life. 4. James Messer Sports Complex For more information on things to see and do in Florida's Capital City Sports: Baseball, softball, skateboarding go to, www.VisitTallahassee.com The James Messer Sports Complex is a baseball/softball facility that includes 11 lighted fields and a Miracle League Field. The com- How to Get to Tallahassee The city’s main artery is Interstate 10, which runs from Jacksonville VISIT TALLAHASSEE and goes all the way to Los Angeles. Tallahassee is within six Amanda Heidecker, Director of Sports hours from New Orleans, Mobile, Orlando, Tampa and Atlanta. 850-606-2317 • [email protected] Tallahassee International Airport, served by American Airlines, VisitTallahassee.com Delta and Silver Airways, is less than 15 minutes from downtown.

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With year-round sunny, ideal weather and POLK COUNTY, state-of-the-art sports facilities, look no further than CENTRAL FLORIDA Central Florida for your next sporting event. Why choose Polk County? electronic scoreboard and seating for 1,000 spectators, the stadium field is great for larger games. Each field is manicured Central Florida's Polk County is an ideal place for sporting daily, and the premise provides two main concession stands with events with top-notch facilities, and provides visitors with a unique bathrooms, a meeting space for events and five pavilions throughout and enjoyable experience in their downtime. Central Florida Sports the soccer complex. The complex also provides nine baseball Marketing makes planning easy, and provides coaches and fields, including a main stadium field. visitors assistance every step of the way. Besides an abundance of tourist attractions in popular destinations throughout the region, 2. RP Funding Center Central Florida's Polk County also provides adventurous experiences Sports: Soccer, football, basketball, hockey, martial arts in its wonderful natural parks, preserves and trails. Since 1974, RP Funding Center in Lakeland has been the leading convention and entertainment complex in Polk County. Facilities Currently home to the Florida Tropics SC of the Major Arena Soccer League, the center will soon be home to Lakeland Magic, 1. Lake Myrtle Sports Complex the Orlando Magic’s affiliate in the NBA G League. With such Sports: Soccer, baseball, cross country, cycling household names, this multi-use complex provides sports teams Fully-equipped soccer and baseball fields and winding bike with a professional, big league experience. As the only multi- trails leading through Polk County’s historic downtowns make purpose facility in Polk County with four distinct venues, RP Funding this facility ideal for traveling sports teams. Lake Myrtle Sports Center includes the nearly 10,000-seat George Jenkins Arena, Complex’s 11 soccer fields are fully irrigated, lighted and sodded 2,296-seat Youkey Theatre, 28,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall and with type 419 Bermuda grass on playing surfaces. With an the 34,000-square-foot Conference Center.

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3. Winter Haven Fieldhouse FACILITY Sports: Basketball, volleyball, martial arts SPOTLIGHT The newly proposed field house located within Winter Haven’s Chain O’ Lakes Complex is expected to have a 2019 completion date, and will provide sports teams with a strategically renovated, state of the art sporting facility. The new field house will be approximately 99,900- square-feet, and include 12 volleyball and six basketball courts, which will presumably become the training space for Lakeland Magic, Polk County’s professional basketball team of the NBA G League.

4. Winter Haven DiamondPlex Softball Complex Sports: Softball, youth baseball Since 1998, DiamondPlex’s award-winning complex has been home to adult and youth amateur softball tournaments, with unique features 2 including red, crushed limestone warning tracks, modern lighting, bleachers seating 1,200 spectators and equipped scoreboards with game clocks. Permanently housing the Polk State College Women’s Softball Team, the facility includes four 300-foot fields and one 210-foot field, with batting cages, bullpens, locker rooms and showers.

5. Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium Sports: Baseball Known as the spring training home for the Detroit Tigers and the regular season home for the minor league affiliates Lakeland Flying Tigers and Gulf Coast Tigers, Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland underwent tremendous renovations before the 2017 season. It was recently deemed the winner in the third-annual Minor League Baseball Best of the Ballparks 2017 fan vote from Ballpark Digest. 3 A family-friendly atmosphere, the stadium seats 8,500 spectators, and has concession stands, restrooms and accessible wheelchair seating.

An abundance of attractions and activities If choosing one of Winter Haven’s sports complexes for your next event, a trip to Legoland Florida Resort is a must. The 150-acre interactive theme park features beautiful botanic gardens, more than 50 rides, shows, attractions restaurants and shops. Take a walk on the wild side at Safari Wilderness, located in Lakeland. If seeking an educational experience, the Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture collection at Florida Southern College was once voted by The Princeton Review as “The Most Beautiful Campus in the Nation,” and is a National Historic Landmark. To experience some of Polk County’s most breathtaking natural beauty, visit Lake Wales Ridge, Floodplain Swamps, Wet Prairie 4 and Scrubby Flatwoods.

How can my team get to Polk County? Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport are excellent ways to reach Central Florida's Polk County. If traveling by car, I-95 and I-75 both run north-south. From there, you'll have to use I-4, which travels East and West, to reach the various areas of the Central Florida's Polk County region.

POLK COUNTY, CENTRAL FL Marc Zimmerman, Senior Sales and Events Manager 863-551-4726 • [email protected] CentralFloridaSports.com

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