SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 12:28 PM Page 71 SPORT_71-78final_Layout 1 9/16/15 11:46 AM Page 72

ILLINOIS Site InSpections

78 ■ Rockford, IL 80 ■ Bloomington-Normal, IL 82 ■ Southland, IL 84 ■ Carbondale, IL 85 ■ Champaign County, IL 86 ■ Effingham, IL 87 ■ McHenry County, IL 88 ■ Williamson County, IL SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:53 AM Page 73

Illinois Invites You Cory M. Jobe, Director Illinois Office of Tourism

Greetings from Illinois!

On behalf of all of us here at the Illinois Office of Tourism, we look forward to welcoming you to the Land of Lincoln for your next event. As a lifelong Illinoisan, I’m no stranger to all of the amazing things there are to see and do in the state. Whether you’re a returning visitor coming back to the state for a tournament or you’re brand new to Illinois, there’s always something more to discover when you visit.

As the Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism I get the chance to invite people from all over the world to experience exactly what we have to offer here. For many, the first thing that comes to mind when they think of Illinois is Chicago, a world-class city with incredible restaurants, hotels, architecture, museums, attractions and more. Illinois is also home to rich presidential history in Spring- field, classic Americana along historic Route 66, incredible outdoor adventures and scenic beauty in the Shawnee National Forest, more than 100 wineries and so much more. Illinois offers a world- class experience from the moment you arrive and long after your team steps off the field.

With more than 1,200 sporting venues and state-of-the-art facilities, Illinois hosts everything from PGA tournaments and Olympic trials to college and high school sporting tournaments. Sporting events are an important part of the tourism industry in our state, and we continue to strive to be top of mind for sports associations and or- ganizations planning their next event.

To find a sporting facility and to learn more about holding your next event in Illinois, please visit Sportsillinois.com. You can plan the perfect extension to your trip to Illinois by visiting EnjoyIllinois.com.

Your friend in Illinois tourism,

Cory M. Jobe Director Illinois Office of Tourism SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:44 AM Page 74

A World-Class Experience On and Off the Field Awaits in Illinois

llinois’ sports tourism track record, its world-class facilities and an location for your next sporting event. Illinois is home to a variety of state- unparalleled drive market with global accessibility have laid the of-the-art facilities across the state and is committed to giving sports I foundation for Sports Illinois to establish itself as an industry organizations the perfect event that will accommodate all of their con- expert and thought leader in the travel and tourism industry. Throughout stituents, while supporting the local economies of the state. the state, Illinois offers a world-class experience from the moment your The State of Illinois has supported sport-related initiatives including spectators arrive and long after your teams step off the field. Choose from sponsorships, marketing/promotion, educational programming, partnered more than 1,200 sporting venues, home to everything from PGA tourna- sales missions and more. One such example is the Sports Illinois Hud- ments to Olympic Trials to smaller, more intimate events. Furthermore, dle. First held in 2009, this annual conference provides education, net- the state’s central location and diverse transportation infrastructure means working and business opportunities over three days to Convention and it’s easy to get to the Land of Lincoln from anywhere in the country. Visitor Bureaus throughout the state as well as interested event rights Along with the Illinois Office of Tourism, Sports Illinois is comprised holders and national governing bodies. Additionally, the Huddle offers op- of a consortium of Convention and Visitors Bureaus throughout the portunities to experience Illinois’ iconic professional sports venues. Past state that work together to provide resources and support event visits have been to Wrigley Field, U.S. Cellular Field, Soldier Field and planners in their efforts to bring sporting events to the state. The legendary Chicagoland Speedway. Also included are opportunities to meet iconic ballparks and stadiums of Chicago help make it an iconic global city professional sports athletes such as Hall of Fame Chicago Bear Dan with world-class attractions, impressive cultural offerings and a Hampton, Hall of Fame NASCAR driver Dale Jarrett and Hall of Fame storied sports heritage at both the professional and amateur level. How- slugger Frank Thomas, who attended past con- ever, Chicago is just one of a many offerings that make Illinois the perfect ferences. On the amateur side, opportunities exist prior to the conference for local site visits. Sports Illinois positions itself with a state-first frame of mind, with individual communities followed closely behind – a quality that

74 SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:45 AM Page 75

separates it from other competing states. This cohesive and forward- Sports tourism has a significant economic impact in communities thinking vision provides the rights holder a potential multitude of venue across the state as an investment in the tourism industry by supporting options across the state. Jeff Jarnecke, Director of Championships & local hotels, restaurants and retail establishments. Through collabora- Alliances for the NCAA, describes his relationship with Sports Illinois tions with the Illinois Council of Convention and Visitors Bureaus, as such: “Sports Illinois connotes a trusted, valued and professional the Land of Lincoln continues to promote itself as a sports tourism des- partner in the presentation of NCAA championships. From wonderful tination under the umbrella of Sports Illinois. This collaboration provides people to quality facilities, the team at Sports Illinois works tirelessly to premier host sites and services to event rights holders while increasing ensure each event is successfully executed in a way that leaves par- tourism, improving quality of life and enhancing sports opportunities for ticipants and fans with engaging experiences and fond memories.” all. In the past two years alone, Sports Illinois has contributed about Sports Illinois’ practice of sharing leads, experiences and best prac- $2.5 million to the state’s economy. tices is a paramount advantage to a rights holder interested in securing Our communities statewide continue to utilize sports tourism for youth an event in Illinois. Moreover, many of the local Convention and Visitors opportunities, new events, new tourism destinations, maximizing facility Bureaus offer a number of services within their communities to assist in use, building community relationships, as well as strengthening corporate the planning of sporting events such as site selection, securing hotel ac- support. As we move forward and stay ahead of the curve, sport tourism commodations, volunteer recruitment, publicity, vendor assistance, iden- will provide continued growth opportunities for Illinois and we want your tifying sponsors and providing visitor information. When referring to event to be a part of it. moving into the state’s market, Robin Baxter, Vice President of To learn more about Illinois destinations, to find a sporting Events for NXTsports, Inc. said, “The demographic, coupled with the fa- facility or to submit an RFP for cilities available throughout the state, the friendliness of the Sports Illinois local expertise, please visit team, and the easy access and location of Illinois, have enabled us to SportsIllinois.com. launch multiple successful events in Illinois.”

Toyota Park in south suburban Bridgeview is home to the Chicago Fire Soccer Club and can seat up to 20,000 fans.

75 SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:29 AM Page 76

Add Value To Your Illinois Event By Partnering With the Local Tourism Industry o matter the size of the tournament plenty of things to see and do for travelers of or the skill-level of the athletes, at- all ages to transform the trip into a truly mem- N tendees at out-of-town sporting orable vacation by adding a few extra hours events generally fall into two distinct cate- to see the nearby sights or a few extra days to gories – event participants and the spectators explore destinations across the state. that support them. For the participant, a week- The most well-known city in Illinois is end sporting tournament can be an adrena- Chicago, a destination known for its world- line-filled whirlwind that seems to pass in the class hotels, incredible museums and cul- blink of an eye. And yet for some spectators tural attractions, unique restaurants and (like pesky little brothers, for example), the more. While deep-dish pizza and Italian beef event can feel like an eternity, sitting through are two signature dishes, the Windy City is round after round of competition waiting for teeming with a plethora of dining options in- that brief moment in time when the participant fluenced by cultures from across the state, they came to support is the focus of all the country and world. The city’s rich, historical action. So how can event organizers help museums, beautiful beaches and parks address this paradox? By partnering with along the scenic Lake Michigan and the the local tourism industry and Convention & shopping mecca that is Michigan Avenue Visitors Bureau, organizers can provide are all great experiences to help turn a trip added value to their event, while also helping to the Chicago area for a tournament into a to expand the economic benefit their event fun family getaway. Just outside downtown, has on the local community. lively neighborhoods such as Hyde Park, Take Illinois, for example. Whether you’re Old Town, Wicker Park and Andersonville visiting for a one-day sporting event, or a reflect the true essence of what it means to multi-day regional tournament, there are be a Chicagoan. From vast arenas to historic theaters, cultural offerings play a leading role in Illinois tourism. Beyond Chicago, Illinois has plenty to offer – from presidential history, to quaint main streets, to sweeping state parks and classic Americana along the original Route 66. Mile for mile, Illinois offers more Route 66 historic sites and experiences than any other state. The range of offbeat roadside attractions, classic American diners and museums dedicated to preserving the heritage of the “Mother Road” make this 300-mile stretch of Illinois both a journey and a destination. A popular city to visit along Route 66 is Springfield, the state’s capital and home to a plethora of Abraham Lincoln historical sites, including the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol – where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech – and the Abraham Canoeists commune with nature Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. on a trip through the Cache River wetlands in . SPORT_71-78_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:26 AM Page 77

Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate, an elliptical, stainless steel sculpture known locally as the “Bean,” reflects Chicago’s skyline and the clouds above.

Route 66, however, is just one of many scenic drives in Illinois. In the lush forest. This is the perfect locale to enjoy an abundance of out- total, seven scenic byways meander through the state. The Great River door recreational activities like hiking, kayaking, swimming, horseback Road parallels the Mississippi River’s eastern bank and offers breath- riding and more. Southern Illinois is also home to the Shawnee Hills taking views of the river and charming historical towns along a 550-mile Wine Trail tucked in the rolling hills with more than a dozen wineries stretch. Galena, near the northern tip of the drive, strikes the perfect along a 30-mile stretch. balance between historical charm and modern-day style. Its quaint So whether you’re a planning professional looking to enhance the downtown features first-rate shopping and dining in elegant nineteenth- impact of your event, or if you’re already traveling to Illinois for a sport- century buildings. ing event and looking to extend your stay, there are plenty of ways to The Great River Road’s southern terminus in Illinois introduces make your time in the Land of Lincoln unforgettable. travelers to the Shawnee National Forest – an outdoor paradise wait- ing to be explored. To start planning a trip and to learn more about what to The Shawnee National Forest is home to Garden of the Gods, discover in Illinois, visit EnjoyIllinois.com or Facebook.com/ with rock outcroppings and formations that offer spectacular views of EnjoyIllinois. SPORT_78-79_Layout 1 9/15/15 9:06 AM Page 78

1

5 6

Rockford offers a range of high-quality ROCKFORD, IL facilities for your next big game.

national rugby finals and college rugby championships. It Superior Facilities in a Great Location includes indoor and outdoor concessions and picnic areas, indoor and outdoor dining at the Skybox overlooking the fields, a tourna- 1. Sportscore One ment staging area for pictures, a playground and ample parking. Sports: Soccer, , , lacrosse, Frisbee, rugby Expansion plans have begun and include: new synthetic turf Sportscore One’s 179-acre facility offers extensive, luxurious field, new lighting system (NCAA professional level), new pathways, grounds for a variety of sports. It offers eight premier soccer fields, a restroom building, upgrades to bleachers and a press box. nine regulation soccer fields and eight lighted softball or baseball diamonds. Sportscore is nationally recognized for hosting rugby, 4. Indoor Sports Center (ISC) ultimate Frisbee and other events. Beyond the fields themselves, Sports: Soccer, , volleyball, wheelchair sports concession stands, restrooms, locker facilities, boat ramps and Located on the Sportscore Two campus, ISC includes a two playgrounds are also available. Recreational activities such 60,000-square-foot indoor sports center with three indoor as running, biking, boating and fishing can all be enjoyed at multi-sport soccer fields, five volleyball/basketball courts, a sports Sportscore One. equipment store, Skybox restaurant and sports bar. This venue can also accommodate a variety of events, including conventions, 2. Sportscore Two trade shows, expos, weddings, receptions and festivals. ISC is Sports: Soccer, volleyball, rugby, pickleball, ultimate Frisbee, football, wheelchair-accessible and hosts various adaptive wheelchair adaptive wheelchair sports sports. Covering 124 acres in Loves Park, Sportscore Two is designed to host tournaments and events year round, with indoor and out- 5. Sportscore Downtown door multi-sport surfaces. In total, there are 33 regulation fields Sports: Indoor sports that can be used for any sport, from pickleball to soccer including This facility will be open and fully operational as of spring 2016. variations of sports adapted for players in wheelchairs. Plans for Located downtown, along Rockford’s riverfront, the facility covers further expansion include additional indoor and outdoor turf an expansive 105,000 square feet. Eight courts can be used for fields. basketball, 18 for volleyball (two of which are championship courts) and 42 for pickleball; 16 wrestling mats are available as 3. Wedgbury Stadium well. Up to 3,700 spectators can be accommodated. Five meeting This Sportscore Two facility, with seating for 2,000 spectators, rooms are available to visiting planners. The facility also has a has hosted state high school soccer finals, pro football games, riverfront boardwalk.

78 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_78-79_Layout 1 9/15/15 8:59 AM Page 79

ever discovered. Anderson Japanese Gardens offers an 6. Rock River exploration of another culture with gardens, a teahouse and gift Sports: Water sports shop. Rockford Art Deli shows local art and offers visitors The Rock River links 11 counties in Wisconsin and Illinois authentic Rockford souvenirs. over a course of 320 miles. The water trail is a delineated path on the river. The river is ideal for events and tournaments involving In the Heart of the Midwest water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, boating, fishing and Rockford is readily accessible via Interstates 90 and 39 or other water sports. The river has hosted the yearly Head of the U.S. Highway 20. Chicago is only an hour-and-a-half away, Rock Regatta, all the Rockford Ski Broncs Waterski Show Madison, Wisconsin one hour, Milwaukee one-and-a-half-hours, Team events and the Indmar Marine Engines Division One Indianapolis four hours, St. Louis four-and-a-half-hours, and Show Ski National Championships for eight years running. Minneapolis/St. Paul five hours. Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is an hour’s drive away from Rockford. Chicago Rockford Rockford Will Keep Your Group Entertained International Airport is within Rockford itself. Aviators Stadium, home to ’s Rockford Aviators, offers a great chance to enjoy a ballgame in style, with Planner Perspective VIP areas, group rates, and a Kid Zone with inflatables, speed “The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau in conjunc- pitch and a playground. For more excitement, check out Volcano tion with the Rockford Park District provided a first-class venue Falls Adventure Park for mini golf, laser tag, go-kart racing and and excellent support for our Division III College Championships. an arcade. The service provided along with the hospitality shown has made Alpine Hills Adventure Park has a five-hole youth or beginner Rockford one of our go-to places for future events.” golf course, practice range, zip line tree canopy tour, and paths — Byron Hicks, USA Ultimate Manager - Events for running, biking and hiking. During the winter, the park’s hills turn into the perfect place for tubing, tobogganing and snow- boarding. A permanent snow-making system is used to ensure these sports can go on all winter. Visitors can rent equipment for ROCKFORD AREA CVB Nick Povalitis, Sports Sales Manager all the winter sports and activities. 815-489-1652(direct) • 800-521-0849 (toll-free) Visit Midway Village Museum for a look at local history, [email protected] including the original sock monkey. The Burpee Museum of GoRockford.com Natural History boasts the most complete juvenile T-Rex skeleton

SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 79 SPORT_80-81_Layout 1 9/15/15 10:54 AM Page 80

6 5

2

Bloomington-Normal, a university community located in the heart of Illinois, BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL, IL offers small-town hospitality and facilities more typical of metropolitan areas. Facilities with a Pedigree of Hosting Championship Events

1. Champion Fields offers full concession and restrooms. Spectators and players will Sports: Softball appreciate the LED scoreboard and concert-style sound system. The home of ASA/USA Girls 10U A National Championship, The field also includes the Kaufman Football Building, which houses the 10-field softball complex offers fields of various sizes for different coaches offices and the ISU football locker room. It also features a age groups and abilities. Eight lighted fields make up the main large meeting room, training room and storage for equipment. The complex along with two more lighted fields just south of the campus. field is located on the ISU campus on Main Street in Normal. The fields are set for girls’ fast-pitch or adult slow-pitch softball. The complex features covered dugouts, a P.A. system and score- 4. Redbird Arena boards. Spectators can take in the games in the bleachers behind Sports: Basketball, volleyball home plate and along the foul lines. Parking is available south of the Located on the campus of Illinois State University, Redbird Arena main complex, which offers full concession and restrooms. is the state’s second largest collegiate arena. Seating 10,500, the stadium is home to both ISU’s men’s and women’s basketball and 2. The Corn Crib volleyball teams. Built in 1989, the facility offers locker rooms and Sports: Baseball, soccer training facilities for players and full concession and restrooms for Home of the ’s Normal CornBelters, the Corn spectators. The roof of the building is made of Teflon, giving it a Crib accommodates 7,000 spectators. Built in 2010, it is just off glowing look that inspires regulars to refer to it as the “crown jewel” Interstate 55 in northern Normal. Spectators can sit in the stadium of ISU facilities. The arena has hosted several tournaments along along the foul lines and behind home plate, or take in the game on with NCAA play and offers parking on the east side of the building. the lawn around the outfield or in the picnic area in right field. The stadium features full concession including the Leinenkugel 5. Shirk Center at Illinois Wesleyan University Lodge and Miller Lite Lounge, and also features a Little Jewels Sports: Basketball, volleyball, track & field, wrestling, gymnastics Kids Zone. The general parking lot is south of the stadium. Built in 1994, the Shirk Center is a 135,344-square-foot facility with seating for 2,680 visitors, plus a training room, locker rooms, 3. Hancock Stadium equipment storage and laundry facilities. The center has been Sports: Football, soccer home to the Illinois Wesleyan University men’s and women’s Hancock Stadium is home to the Illinois State University Redbirds basketball teams and offers full concession and restrooms for Division I Football team. Built in 1963, the stadium went through a guests. It is on the campus of IWU in Bloomington just a few $26-million renovation in 2013. It was the first collegiate football field minutes south of Interstate 55. Parking is available on the east in Illinois to feature artificial turf. The stadium seats 13,000 and side of the facility and across the street to the south.

80 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_80-81_Layout 1 9/15/15 10:46 AM Page 81

6. U.S. Cellular Coliseum summer months, visitors can cool off in Normal’s Anderson Park Sports: Basketball, volleyball, hockey, indoor football and Aquatic Center. The outdoor water park has three pools, two The multi-sports U.S. Cellular Coliseum is home to three waterslides, a diving board and a kiddie pool. professional sports teams and the Illinois State University NCAA hockey team. Along with collegiate hockey, the arena is A Central Location also home to the Bloomington Thunder professional hockey team, Bloomington Edge indoor football and Bloomington Flex Makes Getting Here a Breeze basketball team. Opened in 2006, the facility seats 5,600 for Immediately off Interstate 55, the Bloomington-Normal area is hockey and football, and up to 7,200 for basketball. The accessible from Chicago to the north and St. Louis to the south. arena features five concession stands with a variety of flavors Travelers from the east and west can come in via Interstate 74. including Italian, Mexican and barbecue. U.S. Cellular Coliseum Regional Airport on Bloomington’s east side is is located in the heart of Bloomington and offers parking in the served by Allegiant, American and Delta airlines. Other major garage and surrounding the facility. airports are in Chicago, Peoria and the Quad Cities. Normal also has an Amtrak Station. Bloomington-Normal Offers Planner Perspective Plenty of Free-Time Options “The BNACVB provided resources that allowed us to put on a Bloomington-Normal has vibrant downtown areas and a very successful race. We are looking forward to partnering with variety of things to do. The 1,200-seat Bloomington Center for the them again.” Performing Arts hosts more than 400 performances every year —Brandon Beehner, Race Director for the Bloomington Criterium in the city’s historical district. For Lincoln enthusiasts, check out the Cruisin’ with Lincoln on Route 66 visitor center, which includes ex- hibits on the “Mother Road” and how Lincoln lived in his home state. If your guests hope to get in some shopping in between BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL AREA CVB Matt Hawkins, Sports Marketing Manager games, they can visit downtown Bloomington to check out local 309-665-0033 • [email protected] boutiques housed in historical buildings. The walking tour map VisitBN.org features 17 places to eat along with 36 specialty shops. In the

SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 81 SPORT_82-83_Layout 1 9/15/15 9:18 AM Page 82

2

6

5

Choose Chicago Southland as your CHICAGO SOUTHLAND, IL next sports destination to guarantee smooth sailing for athletes, coaches and spectators. An Enviable Array of Facilities for Sports of All Kinds 1. Matteson Community Center 4. Standard Bank Stadium Sports: basketball, swimming, tennis, baseball, football, soccer, Sports: baseball, softball dance, track Host to the Windy City ThunderBolts of the Frontier League, The Matteson Community Center is a 73,000-square-foot Standard Bank Stadium in Crestwood is easily accessible to facility with a variety of venues, including two indoor basketball Interstate 294. Standard Bank Stadium boasts a seating capacity courts, two youth baseball diamonds, one soccer field and a of over 3,000, a brand new multi-use synthetic turf field and a HD football field with seating. LED video scoreboard.

2. Memorial Park Fields 5. Tinley Park Convention Center Sports: baseball, softball Sports: gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, martial arts The six-field complex at Memorial Park Fields in Midlothian is The Tinley Park Convention Center has 70,000 square feet in an offset wheel pattern. It features permanent restroom facilities of event space (58,000 contiguous) with up to 35-foot ceilings. and concessions, 300-foot fencing and plenty of parking. The size and flexibility of the space make it an ideal venue for many types of sporting events, including the 2016 STIHL® 3. Southland Center TIMBERSPORTS® US Pro & Collegiate Championships, Sports: baseball, basketball, football, soccer, martial arts, cheerleading, July 15th–16th, to be filmed for ABC and ESPN. dance, gymnastics, lacrosse, rugby 6. Toyota Park The newly renovated Southland Center in Lynwood offers up to 100,000 square feet of indoor space plus outdoor baseball Sports: soccer, football facilities. The facility features state-of-the-art Desso Turf, four Host of the Chicago Fire Soccer Club, Toyota Park in hardwood basketball courts, a full-service restaurant and a bar Bridgeview is a 469,000-square-foot venue with 20,000 seats with over 1,200 parking spaces. and a regulation-size soccer field. There are also regulation-size, natural-grass and turf fields. 82 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_82-83_Layout 1 9/15/15 9:09 AM Page 83

Teams and Families Will Enjoy Great tempting guests to come back for more. For specialty shopping in Chicago Southland, try Old Orland Attractions, Dining and Shopping Antique Shops and Historic Downtown Frankfort, both in Brookfield Zoo has a large spectrum of animals, from big cats 19th century neighborhoods. to dolphins to amphibians. The Tinley Park Park District’s White Water Canyon Water Park is five acres of water-filled fun, with a In the Very Heart of the Midwest lazy river, spray ground and drop slides. Odyssey Fun World in Seven different interstates (I-55, I-57, I-80, I-90, I-94, I-294 Tinley Park offers laser tag, go-karts, bumper boats and an and I-355) are woven throughout Chicago Southland, which is inflatable park. only 22 minutes from downtown Chicago. Chicago Southland Hollywood Park Family Fun Center in Crestwood has a is 300 miles or less from Indianapolis, Milwaukee and Detroit. Hollywood-themed speedway, arcade games, a rock wall and The metro area is served by Midway International and O’Hare Hollywood memorabilia. Haunted Trails Family Entertainment International airports. Center in Burbank features over 100 games and rides, plus a haunted house and trail in October. Planner Perspective Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center sits on 38 acres of team building atmosphere. With challenges like a high-ropes “It was a simple process for selecting Tinley Park in Chicago ® ® course, climbing wall and crate climbing, the emphasis is always Southland for hosting the 2016 STIHL TIMBERSPORTS US Pro on overcoming obstacles and developing the values of leader- & Collegiate Championships. They provide the perfect mix of being ship, team building and problem solving. a great partner, having amazing facilities, and pulling from truly With a multitude of railfan sights including double diamonds, engaged fans around the region. There will be no better home for the Original Extreme Sport in 2016.” Pullman National Monument and one of the only places to see — Brad Sorgen, STIHL, Inc. a double wye junction in the country, just minutes away from each other, it is easy to see why railfans love the Chicago Southland. There’s a restaurant for every craving in Chicago Southland. From Mexican and Italian to Thai and American, everyone’s taste CHICAGO SOUTHLAND CVB buds will be satisfied. Glenwood Oaks Rib and Chop House Joel Koester, Sports Sales Manager 708-895-8200 • [email protected] was recently voted best ribs in the Chicago area by Chicago PlayChicagoSouthland.com Magazine and has earned many other awards. Siam Marina introduces Chef Pham’s unique Thai sauces and seasonings,

This could be the perfect place for athletic events of all kinds. As a matter of fact, it is.

Dozens of sporting facilities of all kinds - from outdoor lighted fields to indoor courts - are here, a straight shot from anywhere in the Midwest, a short distance from either Chicago airport and just 30 minutes from Chicago’s Loop.

Every day, athletes and their families win with our services and incentives, affordable and comfortable hotels and family-friendly restaurants. It’s the perfect place for them - and for you.

Contact Joel Koester 888-895-3211 [email protected] PlayChicagoSouthland.com Sports Venue Guide SPORT_84_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:22 PM Page 84

CARBONDALE, IL With strong collegiate roots and world-class venues, Carbondale in Southern Illinois will punch your next tournament over the goal line. Fine Facilities Abound in This College Town 1. SuperBlock Multi-Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer This complex has bleacher seating at the Championship Soccer 2 field and all of the baseball and softball fields. It is handicapped-ac- cessible with full concession and restrooms. The complex has played host to Game Day USA youth baseball and the 3v3 Soccer Live soccer ball team. Concrete bowl seating offers fans an angle from behind Tour. The baseball and softball fields and the championship soccer field home plate, and there is picnic seating around the field. At Charlotte are equipped with lighting. The fields are part of the Carbondale High West Stadium, lighted for nighttime play, more than 500 fans can School and Carbondale Park District facilities. take in softball action from bleachers behind home plate. SIU Arena is home to the men’s and women’s basketball teams with stadium 2. Southern Illinois University Athletics seating for more than 8,000. The Saluki Swim Club competes at Sports: All the Natatorium, a 16-lane pool with seating for 500. Track and field Home of the Division I Salukis, SIU competes in the competitive events take place at the Lew Hartzog Complex, which includes a Missouri Valley Conference for a chance at national glory every 400-meter track. year. Itchy Jones Stadium is the artificial-turf home of the SIU base- 3. Southern Illinois Rec Sports Complex CARBONDALE TOURISM Sports: Rugby, soccer, flag football, lacrosse, softball, quidditch Cinnamon Wheeles-Smith, Executive Director The recreation center on the campus of Southern Illinois University 800-526-1500 • [email protected] hosts intramurals and is equipped with lighting and a scoreboard. CarbondaleTourism.org Jean Stehr Field has hosted international soccer championships. There’s Plenty to Do in Carbondale After the Buzzer Sounds Little Grassy Fish Hatchery hatches a variety of fish, offering a hands-on experience your guests won’t forget. Giant City State Park is right down the road and provides scenic bluffs as well as miles of trails for all hikers. For history buffs in your group, the area boasts one of the famous debate sites of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas. Located a few miles south of Carbondale in Jonesboro, a monument marks the third debate between our 16th president and his familiar foe from 1856. Carbondale offers dozens of places to eat, with fare ranging from barbeque to Mexican and Thai. After grabbing a bite, stroll past the shops in the downtown district. Check out the Science Center of Southern Illinois and its interactive exhibits. A Heartland Location in Southern Illinois If you are coming from St. Louis, you might come south on Route 3, the Great River Road. You might want to travel east on Interstate 64, and head south on Route 127. If you are coming from the north or south, you're probably planning to arrive via Interstate 57, so just jump off at Exit 54 for Carbondale. Many people arrive in Carbondale via Amtrak aboard our very own Saluki Express.

84 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_85_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:44 PM Page 85

What Can We Do Before and After the Game? Champaign’s downtown offers 40 places to eat and drink, plus 18 specialty shops. In the Museum of the Grand Prairie in Mahomet, visitors can check out the exhibit Champaign County’s Lincoln, which details the president’s life while he practiced law in the region. Visitors also can see what the University of Illinois has to offer athletically, artistically and academically, along with wineries and microbreweries for the adults in your group. Getting to Champaign County is a Breeze Interstates 57, 74 and 72 meet in Champaign County, making it an easy destination from all four directions. Willard Airport is just south of the university campus. General Wayne Downing Airport in Peoria, an hour away, is served by Delta, American, United and Allegiant airlines. Indianapolis CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL International Airport is two hours away. Champaign County has historic roots in football, basketball and baseball with the University of Illinois, VISIT CHAMPAIGN COUNTY and the vacation starts when the clock reads 0:00. Leah Longueville, Director of Sales 217-351-4133 • [email protected] Tournament-Ready University Facilities VisitChampaignCounty.org 1. Activities & Recreation Center Sports: Basketball, volleyball, racquetball, swimming One of the largest on-campus recreational centers in the country, the Activities & Recreation Center at the University of Illinois, nicknamed ARC, boasts 340,000 square feet of competitive space with its four gyms holding 13 basketball courts and 17 volleyball courts. The center also features 12 racquetball courts, two pools, nine multi-use spaces and a 150-seat auditorium.

2. Atkins Tennis Center & Khan Outdoor Complex Sports: Tennis Home of the Fighting Illini tennis team and site of the 2013 NCAA Division I Men's and Women’s Tennis Championships, the Atkins Tennis Center & Khan Outdoor Complex features eight championship courts with bleacher seating and lighting along with six indoor courts and a pro shop. There are also 12 additional newly refinished courts with lighting. For bigger tournaments, another 11 courts are just blocks away. The surfaces are hard courts.

3. Outdoor Center Fields Sports: Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis This facility is home to intramural activities at the University of Illinois, featuring four football fields, two soccer fields, three sand volleyball courts, six basketball courts and six tennis courts, all of which are equipped with lighting for play after dark.

SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 85 SPORT_86_Layout 1 9/15/15 11:58 PM Page 86

EFFINGHAM, IL Every day, Effingham, Illinois becomes an even better destination for sport events, from swimming to softball and beyond. Let’s Talk Facilities 1. Richard E. Workman Sports and Wellness Complex Sports: All indoor sports The brand new Richard E. Workman Sports and Wellness Complex offers a 25-meter, eight-lane swimming pool and indoor, 1 15,500-square-foot, multi-sport courts. It also will offer other amenities, from rentable party rooms to physical therapy services. 3. Community Park 2. Hendelmeyer Park Sports: Baseball, softball, disc golf, tennis, roller hockey, ice skating Sports: Baseball, softball, tennis Community Park is situated on 35 acres and features four The 20-acre park holds two lighted, slow-pitch diamonds and lighted baseball/softball diamonds, one unlighted baseball/softball one lighted, fast-pitch diamond—all with natural grass—plus four diamond, an 18-hole disc golf course that winds through hills and lighted tennis courts. That’s not even touching upon the more trees, four lighted tennis courts, a roller hockey rink and an outdoor leisurely park features, such as the playground areas, a gazebo, ice skating rink. Other amenities include a sand volleyball court, concession stand and skate park. three outdoor basketball courts, two concession stands, three play- ground areas, two restrooms, four pavilions and four picnic areas. EFFINGHAM CVB A Truly Central Location Jodi Thoele, Director of Tourism 678-297-2811 • [email protected] Effingham resides on a true crossroads, right in the middle VisitEffinghamIL.com of Illinois, where Interstate 57 meets Interstate 70. Access is also available via Routes 45, 40 or 32. Regional airports include Effingham County Memorial Airport and Shelby County Airport in Shelbyville, 33 miles away. The nearest major airport is in Decatur, 66 miles away. What Can You Do in Effingham? Effingham Performance Center has seen visits from well-known performers ranging from the Doobie Brothers to Bob Saget. For automobile enthusiasts, Mid America Motor Works & MY Garage Museum showcases a 1910 gas station, plenty of vintage Corvettes and Corvette memorabilia. TREC Recreation Trails and spots like Ballard Nature Center or Bliss Park lure outdoor enthusiasts. Firefly Grill is a favorite eatery devoted to locally grown ingredients and eco-friendly practices. Your group can find classic country cooking with fresh, delicious tastes all over town, from Iron Skillet to Country Pride Restaurant. Planner Perspective “I would say that the advantage for choosing Effingham, besides being so centrally located, is the community really gets behind and supports the events. We have such a variety of restaurants and hotels for people to choose from, and our shopping choices continue to expand. I feel fortunate to be able to host the event for its businesses and community”. — Jeff Schafer, Effingham High School Girls Basketball, Southern Illinois Basketball Circuit Director (SIBC)

86 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SPORT_87_Layout 1 9/16/15 12:53 AM Page 87

3

2 1

Stellar services and facilities make McHenry County, Illinois the McHENRY COUNTY, IL go-to place for sport events.

Find Fabulous Facilities for Your Big Event Leisure Activities for Every Taste 1. Crystal Ice House McHenry County residents are proud of their many attractions Sports: Hockey, skating, curling, broomball and welcome visitors to a wide variety of venues. The McHenry This ice rink, located in the town of Crystal Lake, hosts County Fairgrounds host the county fair for one week in August leagues and programs for hockey and figure skating, like the and other festivals, including a holiday celebration in winter. Crystal Lake Stingers and Yellowjackets. Three sheets of ice (one Richardson’s Adventure Farm boasts the largest corn maze in NHL-sized), locker rooms, concessions and a pro shop are the world, a zip line and other attractions. On the calmer side, among the amenities. visitors can enjoy the natural bounty of Royal Oak Farm Orchard and Gardens of Woodstock. Or delve into history at Dole 2. The Quarry Cable Park Mansion at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park, Illinois Railway Museum Sports: Wakeboarding and Volo Auto Museum. On the idyllic town square in Woodstock, This Crystal Lake park takes its name from its original function enjoy Jazz on the Square performances, world-class artists at the as a gravel mine. The former quarry was filled with water and Woodstock Opera House or the one-of-a-kind shops. turned into a park with an extensive cable course for wake- boarding that will open in the spring of 2016. The 32-acre lake has jumps and other features that make for a complete wakeboard Just a Short Trip from Chicago course. In addition to competitions, the Quarry offers lessons in McHenry County is located about 60 miles northwest of wakeboarding and tours of its cutting-edge facilities. The Quarry Chicago. Major roadways that go through McHenry County also has a volleyball court and the Bar and Grille restaurant with include I-90, Illinois 23, US 14, US 12 and US 120. McHenry indoor and outdoor dining areas. County is about 50 miles from O’Hare and Midway airports in Chicago, 67 miles from Milwaukee’s George Mitchell 3. McHenry County Fairgrounds International Airport. Sports: Indoor and outdoor sports When these Woodstock fairgrounds aren’t hosting the county fair or other festivals, they are available for rent by event planners. VISIT MCHENRY COUNTY The grounds cover 65 acres with outdoor grandstand seating for Tammy Townsend Kise, Sales and Marketing Manager 1,300 and 9,600 square feet of multipurpose, climate-controlled 815-893-6280 • [email protected] indoor space. Both indoor and outdoor spaces can be used for VisitMcHenryCounty.com diverse purposes, from BMX racing to polo to dog shows.

SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 87 SPORT_88_Layout 1 9/16/15 12:13 PM Page 88

Fabulous Facilities for Quality Competition 1. Crab Orchard Golf Club Sports: Golf Named in Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play, Crab Orchard in Carterville is a scenic, par-70 golf course featuring lush fairways winding through stands of mature oak trees. Water hazards come into play on half of the holes and the small greens have subtle breaks, which can make them difficult to read. The course is quite formidable from the championship tees, but the forward and middle tees make it approachable for all skill levels.

2. The Links at Kokopelli Golf Club 1 Sports: Golf Golf Week magazine in 2014 rated the 18-hole course in Marion as one of the best in Illinois. It features 7,154 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is WILLIAMSON COUNTY, IL 72.2, with a slope rating of 132. There are five sets of tees and 96 sprawling bunkers. Amenities include a pro shop, restaurant, Planning your next big golf tournament? Look no and a bar and grill. further than this Southern Illinois sporting haven. 3. Pine Lakes Golf Club Sports: Golf VISITSI Pine Lakes Golf Club in Herrin is an 18-hole course Shannon Johnson, CEO featuring 5,889 yards from the longest tees for a par of 67. Recent 800-433-7399 • sjohnson@V isitSI.com enhancements were made to the tee boxes, while greens were VisitSI.com enlarged or reshaped and more sand traps added. The course rating is 67, with a slope rating of 107. A clubhouse features a snack bar, full-service bar, game room, shuffleboard and big-screen TVs.

Fun Things for Your Free Time Being located in a rural area, it’s no surprise that many of Williamson County’s attractions involve enjoying Mother Nature. Arrowhead Lake Nature Trail and Campground offers peaceful hikes; leisurely strolls also can be had at Cannon Park and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. After working up an appetite from all that hiking, enjoy a hearty meal at places like the 20’s Hideout Steakhouse, Bennie’s Italian Food, Burger Nook and Casa Vieja. The , a Frontier League baseball team, plays at Marion’s Rent One Park.

Getting There is a Breeze IL 13 crosses Williamson County east to west, and Interstate 57 cuts right through Marion, going north and south. Route 24, south of Williamson, merges with 57 at the county border. The nearest airport is Williamson County Regional Airport in Marion. Barkley Regional Airport in Paducah, Kentucky is 58 miles away.

88 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG