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Hoosiers, Hoops and Great Sports Traditions 8 Event-Ready Destinations A Premier Travel Media publication For Your Next Event www.SportsPlanningGuide.com SPORT_264_Layout 1 10/18/16 8:40 PM Page 264

Let me be the first to invite you to Indiana!

I love my job and am so proud of the Hoosier State. Our warm people and welcoming places are what set us apart. Everywhere you go in Indiana, you’ll encounter a unique brand of hospitality that we proudly call Hoosier Hospitality. Of course, sports traditions run deep in Indiana, too. The Hoosier State has been referred to as the birthplace of contemporary sport Mark Newman tourism, the Amateur Sports Capital of the World, home to the greatest Executive Director spectacle in racing and more recently the Family Sports Capital of the World. Our venues span the spectrum, from historic to state-of-the-art. Indiana communities are experts at hosting events. They have successfully hosted hundreds of major national, international and world championships over the years. They possess that one invaluable resource—dedicated volunteers who cater to the needs of every participant and fan. We embrace youth sport, too, and are proud of our track record for staging events that have positively impacted the lives of able-bodied and impaired athletes alike. Indiana communities have made a commitment to being sports destinations and they understand that success in staging events is a team effort. Their understanding dates back to the 1970’s when established the world’s first municipal sports commission and modern sports tourism was born. Now, communities across Indiana and the world are benefitting from Indy’s original playbook. If the Indiana Office of Tourism Development or I personally can assist you as you move through your decision-making process, please do not hesitate to call on us. I can be reached at MNewman@VisitIndi- ana.com. I hope you will consider Indiana as the place for your next sporting event so we can share a little Hoosier Hospitality and give your fans and participants the experience of a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Mark Newman, Executive Director Indiana Office of Tourism Development IN SPORT_265_Layout 1 10/14/16 10:55 AM Page 265 SPORT_266_Layout 1 10/17/16 7:10 AM Page 266 INDIANA 268 Hoosiers, Hoops and Great Sports Traditions 270 Get IN the Game with Sports Indiana

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274 Hamilton County 284 Terre Haute 276 Grand Park 286 South Shore 278 Evansville 289 South Bend Mishawaka 281 Indiana Sports Corp 290 Columbus SI 282 Fort Wayne

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he word “Hoosier” has been used to describe a is home to towns that have long cultivated sports, towns built on resident of Indiana since the 1830s. It’ s an iconic the backs of hard-working Midwesterners who found time between term passed down through the generations, a harvesting the cornfields to shoot hoops or toss around a . treasured trademark of the 19th U.S. state. You can’t talk about Indiana sports without mentioning . No state so proudly associates with, or can be And what movie better epitomizes the state than Hoosiers, the true T so easily described by, one word. “Hoosier”— story of a small-town high school basketball team that shocks just about farming, basketball and proud Midwestern values. Indiana knows these everyone on its way to the state finals. things better than Colorado knows the Rocky Mountains; better than Hoosiers was released in 1986—but let’s go back a little further, to Louisiana knows Mardi Gras. But there is one detail no one seems to March 16, 1894. On this date, the state of Indiana met one of its first be sure of: How did “Hoosier” originate? true loves, the game of basketball. Indeed, it was on the second floor The answer is complicated because there’s a range of viable theo- of the Terminal Building in freezing-cold Crawfordsville that a group of ries. Some claim the term came from a contractor named Hoosier who young men first played basketball. The sport dreamed up by James was employed on the Louisville and Portland Canal. Others believe it Naismith and brought to central Indiana by one of his disciples, derived from “hoosa,” the Indian word for corn. And then there are those Nicholas McKay, was a massive hit. who say it mimics Indiana pioneers who were known to yell, “Who’s They played on ice rinks in Madison, on the fields of Martinsville, in yere?” when someone knocked on the cabin door. the lumber yards in Carmel. Basketball was accessible—all you needed In truth, any of these could be right. The real question is, how did was a ball and a basket—and could be played with only one person. Indiana become an athletic powerhouse with such an unparalleled Today, the Indiana University men’ s basketball team dominates sports tradition? attention, as proud alumni and hoops fans alike flock to watch their The answer lies in dissecting both the past and the present. Indiana young Hoosier men every March in the NCAA tournament. But the

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college hoops tradition doesn’t end in Bloomington. Butler University, Midwest’s best high school and collegiate athletic competition and a a small school in Indianapolis, saw its men’s basketball team make a number of exceptional venues. There’s also Terre Haute, home of Cinderella run to the NCAA title game in 2010, not unlike the young Lavern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course, one of the few men from Hoosiers. The University of Notre Dame women’s basketball purpose-built cross country courses in the world; the site has hosted has won the Athletic Coast Conference in each of the past three multiple NCAA Championships. seasons, including NCAA runner-up finishes in 2014 and 2015. And In the northern part of the state sits South Bend, Indiana, a historic of course no one has hosted more NCAA Final Fours than Indianapo- city that features Notre Dame athletics and a whole lot more. The lis in the modern era of basketball. University of Notre Dame has a storied football tradition—just watch Celebrating its 100th year in 2016, the Indianapolis 500 is the most the movie Rudy. Whispers of greatness and echoes of roaring crowds famous car-racing phenomenon on the planet. It is held annually at from decades ago course through the halls of Notre Dame Stadium. the storied grounds of Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The event sits At the direction of legendary coach Knute Rockne, the football field atop any sports fanatic’s bucket list. Every Memorial Day weekend, was built in 1930 in just 60 days. Recently, the university approved a 300,000 people jam the stands—it’s the most attended single-day $400-million renovation project, with completion set for 2017. sporting event on earth—to witness 500 miles of pure, engine-revving, During summer months in Indiana, attention turns to baseball. The gasoline-scented exhilaration. country’s first professional baseball game was played in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis has been called the “Amateur Sports Capital of the when on May 4, 1871 the Fort Wayne Kekiongas shut out Forest City World,” and for good reason. Both the NCAA and the National Feder- of Cleveland. The American pastime had found its first beginnings in ation of State High School Associations have their headquarters in the the Hoosier State. Baseball tradition has continued in Indiana ever city. The NCAA moved to Indy in 1997 from Johnson County, Kansas. since. Today minor league parks draw crowds in South Bend, Fort The organization simply couldn’t turn down the bid of Indianapolis, with Wayne, Gary and Indianapolis, while massive youth complexes its central location and 50,000-seat (since-demolished) RCA Dome. cater to amateur baseball tournaments. For example, Grand Park in Today, visitors can enjoy all 24 NCAA sports at the Hall of Champions Hamilton County spans 400 acres and features 26 baseball/softball which sits alongside NCAA headquarters. There are interactive ex- diamonds (and 31 multi-purpose fields). hibits, trivia challenges and artifacts from colleges around the nation. Indiana has sports history like no other state in the country , along The Hoosier State also has many other cities that boast a rich with a plethora of small towns and major cities boasting venues that sports tradition. One example is located on the southern tip of the never fail to impress fans across a wide spectrum of ages and back- state—Evansville. Indiana’s third-largest city features some of the grounds. SPG

Sporting events in Indiana run the gamut from Big Ten basketball to cross country

Phil Ellsworth/ESPN Images meets to Indy car racing.

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GET IN THE GAME

Sports Indiana continues to grow and diversify by welcoming tournament planners to their membership ranks

ports can have an exciting and inspiring impact on and governing bodies. Together they are stronger, and the results have our lives and bring us together in a time when a positive ripple effect throughout local communities. other aspects of life seem to be pulling us apart. Sporting events can have a powerful impact on a region’s economy. Baseball doesn’t care who you voted for. Basket- Guests eat in restaurants, shop in stores, stay in hotels and tour the ball doesn’t worry about the certifications you have local attractions. Becoming a destination for a tournament can help a S obtained. Football doesn’t stress over what coun- municipality come together to provide a unique and exciting experience try your ancestors came from. Sports have an undeniable power which for visitors while getting a chance to promote their local businesses. can used to help boost not just your organization or city , but an entire Being a destination where people come back year after year com- state’s stature. This is one reason why state-based organizations have pounds those experiences and at times creates something so special become a beacon for organization and promotion for rights holders the whole nation stops to watch.

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Why join Sports Indiana? How will Sports Indiana help promote In the Crossroads of America, Sports Indiana strives to do just that and support my events? for its members and their communities. The organization works to Members are treated to a plethora of other benefits from the mo- bring tournament professionals together to learn about the dynamic ment they sign up, including access to Sports Indiana’s Members field of sports event planning and grow sports tourism in Indiana. Only website, which offers contact lists, presentations from education Founded in 2008, Sports Indiana started out with 15 members repre- sessions, appointment lists, and information on the tradeshow rebate senting sports commissions and convention and visitors bureaus offered to members. The organization features a digital distribution across Indiana with the simple idea that by building connections in platform to send out members’ information in a monthly e-newsletter the industry, members could recommend to 1,500 contacts, highlighting new members, events to other communities that didn’t work “Sports Indiana is a vibrant promoting events and celebrating success in In- out in their own back yard. In 2014, Sports organization comprising event diana sports tourism. Sports Indiana also helps Indiana’s board of directors voted to expand professionals from throughout promote its members through its social media membership to rights holders and allied the state who share a passion presence on Facebook and Twitter. members. Currently they have 12 of those For those who need financial assistance in members representing event planners, tour- for sports and sports tourism. landing a tournament, Sports Indiana is there to nament housing services, parks & recreation One of the lend a hand securing grants. As a fiduciary of departments and 21 different communities throughout most satisfying funds for the Indiana Office of Tourism Development, the Indiana . organization created the Grant Committee of Sports aspects of “Sports Indiana is a vibrant organization com- Indiana to review grant applications and award those prising event professionals from throughout the hosting events dollars throughout the state. Since its inception in 201 1, state who share a passion for sports and 94 grants have been awarded totaling $476,400 across tourism,” said Arlene McDonald, event director for and Indiana is the state of Indiana, supporting a diverse group of events Indiana Swimming. “One of the most satisfying the robust spirit including youth tournaments, adaptive sports, collegiate aspects of hosting events in Indianapolis and Indi- championships, and amateur events in 20 communities. ana is the robust spirit of collaboration and support of collaboration “The state of Indiana is fortunate to have an organiza- among leaders across all sports, guaranteeing that and support tion like Sports Indiana – advocating for sports tourism tourists have the best possible experience during among leaders events on behalf of their members in every corner of the their stay in the Hoosier State. Sports Indiana is the across all state,” said Don Flynn, VP business development, Game leader in building and perpetuating those invaluable sports, Day USA. “As a longtime travel baseball tournament host partnerships.” it was an easy decision for Game Day USA to become a To foster these relationships between members, guaranteeing Sports Indiana member to support their mission and to Sports Indiana hosts a number of professional that tourists also support the CVB and sports commission members development events during the year. These events have the we do business with throughout Indiana. Event organizers span from topics like Sports Event Housing—which best possible should definitely check with Sports Indiana if looking for a included a Q&A session with a panel of CVB, hotel, experience great location for their next sporting event.” third party housing and event organizing representa- As the sports tourism industry continues to grow , tives—to one based entirely on NCAA bids. Here, during their organizations like Sports Indiana are establishing them- members meet with top collegiate athletic leaders stay in the selves as valuable resources for promotion, networking, who offer a firsthand look at the process of Hoosier State. and education in the ever-changing landscape of accepting bids and what they look for. tournament planning. Joining an organization like Sports Indiana is also able to conduct sur- Sports Indiana is the leader in Sports Indiana can give planning professionals a veys to identify industry trends, which can building and perpetuating those leg up in this vast field and bring them together then be used to draft new education ses- invaluable partnerships.” with other leaders in the industry. From the small- sions the following year. —Arlene McDonald est t-ball tournament to the largest professional Sports Indiana also hosts networking Event Director for Indiana Swimming and collegiate games in the country, Sports Indi- events for its members in a number of dif- ana is there to offer a helping hand to help lead- ferent settings. During the formal educational settings, the organi- ers identify best practices, establish contacts, and secure victory. zation sets aside time for members to mingle and foster new Those interested in learning more about Sports Indiana can visit relationships. Bi-monthly board meetings also provide members an their membership web page at SportsIndiana.org/membership. There opportunity to meet their peers and discuss trends in the sports prospective members will find the different membership categories, tourism industry. Other events are more casual, like the Member the organization’s bylaws, a list of membership benefits and a mem- Meet-Ups, where individuals gather for lunch to discuss the chal- bership application. If you have questions regarding membership with lenges and successes of their operations in an open and inviting Sports Indiana, or wish to submit a completed application, please send setting. them to [email protected]. SPG

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HAMILTON COUNTY Hamilton County goes above and beyond in offering IN services and support for your next event – from pre-planning to the award ceremony.

Facilities for Champions Forest Park Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming, diving This outdoor heated, 50-meter pool offers 10 lanes, a separate 25-yard diving well with 1-meter and 3-meter spring boards, 5-, 7- and 10-meter platforms, a water slide, toddler pool, locker rooms, concessions, lights and PA system.

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2. Best Choice Fieldhouse The Fun Doesn’t End at the Final Whistle Sports: Basketball From symphonies to plays, the Center for the Performing Arts Best Choice Fieldhouse, a premier basketball facility in the and Klipsch Music Center are sure to entertain. Located in the heart Midwest, features six courts in a 53,000-square-foot facility. of old town Carmel, Indiana, the Carmel Arts & Design District Additional amenities include an arcade and eating area. Best Choice is the Midwest’s premier arts and design destination and home to Fieldhouse draws nationally recognized events and over 800,000 interior designers, art galleries, showrooms at the Indiana Design players and spectators annually. Center, restaurants, antique stores and a variety of specialty retail 3. Billericay Park shops. Surf the waves, rock climb and enjoy your own private cabana at Sports: Baseball, softball the Waterpark at the Monon Community Center. The kids in your Billericay Park features eight diamonds in a 29-acre park. group will never want to leave Conner Prairie’s five themed areas, The diamond’s dimensions accommodate 13-and-under age groups. helium balloon voyage and new treehouse outpost. The diamonds feature grass infields, and additional amenities After working up a big appetite post-game, try Bub’s Burgers & include lights, a press box, concession stand and restrooms. Ice Cream or Big Hoffa’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que. The bakery 4. Bobby A Mills Field of Dreams at Rosie’s Place is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. For those with a little extra downtime, try any of the over 50 restaurants on the Sport: Baseball Tenderloin Trail and indulge in a Hoosier tradition. Bobby A Mills Field of Dreams offers eight fully functioning baseball diamonds, all with turf infields and grass outfields. A featured field with top-notch amenities can host the most Finding Your Way to Hamilton County, IN prestigious of championship games or events. Located just minutes northeast of Indianapolis, Hamilton County's communities of Carmel, Fishers, Westfield and No- 5. The Fuel Tank blesville are easily accessible from Highways 31, 32, 37 and 38 Sports: , ice skating, figure skating as well as I-69 and the Indianapolis beltway I-465. Hamilton County The Fuel Tank features full-size rinks suitable for skating, is 45 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport, which is figure skating and hockey. The facility also includes a concession/ serviced by Air Canada, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, eating area, arcade and a pro shop. Southwest, OneJet, United and Vacation Express. 6. Olio Fields Planner Perspective Sports: Softball, baseball “Hamilton County was an exceptional host to the 2012 & 2016 Olio Fields spans an 18-acre park near the Hamilton BMW Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Club. The support Southeastern High School campus. It features six softball fields and enthusiasm from the county, community members and local and one baseball field, all of which have lights. The park also businesses is second-to-none, and an event of this magnitude features a pavilion with restrooms, a concession stand and a could not run successfully without all of these parties coming nearby playground. together.” — Sally White, Championship Manager at Western Golf Association

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GRAND PARK Increasingly a host to a variety of sports, IN Hamilton County’s Grand Park continues to develop its 400 acres for tournaments and visiting teams.

An Impressive Lineup of Facilities Grand Park Events Center Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, football, rugby, field hockey, lacrosse, basketball This 335,000-square-foot facility houses three full-size professional fields (115 by 75 yards each), a 45,000-square-foot warm-up area, a 30,000- square-foot mezzanine concourse for spectator viewing, 5,000 square feet of meeting space and food and beverage services.

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2. Baseball/Softball Diamonds stands. Each stand is equipped with a second level that offers a Sports: Baseball, softball 360-degree view of the complex and space for meetings, book- Grand Park features 26 diamonds total. Eight of these keeping and scouting. For seating, each diamond has two sets of diamonds – labeled D1 through D8 – have college dimensions; four permanent stands with a capacity of 30 per stand. are grass and four are synthetic. Five of these eight diamonds offer An administration building is located on each side of the facility lights (four synthetic and one grass). D1’s dimensions are 330 feet and offers space for officials and teams. Both buildings are down the lines and 400 feet to center. D2-D8’s dimensions are 320 identical in design with one large conference room that can be feet down the lines and 390 feet to center. broken into two smaller breakout rooms and one small conference In addition to these eight diamonds, Grand Park offers four room. There are restrooms and locker room facilities in both of the grass Flex Diamonds for 13U-14U level of play. D9, D10 and buildings as well. D12 dimensions are 275 feet down the lines and 350 feet to center. D11 dimensions are 300 feet to left, 290 feet to center and 235 feet to right. Convenient Central Indiana Location There are six softball diamonds with skinned infields. Portable Grand Park is less than an hour’s drive from Indianapolis mounds can be used for 12U and below (grass). D21-D26’s International Airport and about a half-hour from the city of dimensions are 200 feet down the lines and 215 feet to center. Indianapolis. The sports complex is easily accessible via many highways, including US-31 and I-465 East and West. 3. Soccer/Multi-purpose Fields Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, football, flag football, Frisbee Grand Park features 31 multi-purpose fields – seven synthetic Planner Perspectives and 24 engineered Kentucky bluegrass. All seven synthetic fields “We were impressed with the facility’s overall look; clean, open and one championship grass field (F1) have lights. The playing fields that are well-maintained, good parking, easy to find location, surface dimensions for all fields are: 360 feet by 270 feet. good management team, close proximity to hotels and restaurants with a variety of price points and easy access to the Indianapolis 4. Jonathan Byrd’s Fieldhouse airport.” Sports: Basketball, volleyball — Sheri Rhodes, National Events Manager at USA Archery Grand Park recently added an 88,000-square-foot basketball facility, officially opened in January 2016. Jonathan Byrd’s “Grand Park is one of the most impressive baseball venues I Fieldhouse features eight full-size basketball courts, including one have been to in the country.The design of the park makes it easy to NBA regulation-size. There are three HD cameras on every court run multiple baseball tournaments of all age groups.The staff at and 12 Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the facility. Grand Park was very helpful and willing to help out with whatever I A mezzanine level is available for viewing and a full-service needed throughout the tournament. I highly recommend attending a restaurant is provided by Jonathan Byrd’s catering. Additional baseball tournament at this facility, you will be impressed.” amenities include four shoot-a-way machines and sponsorship — Justin Hlubeck, Western Tournament Director/Scouting opportunities on every court. The fieldhouse is currently home to Coordinator at Perfect Game USA the semi-pro basketball team, Indy Juniors Volleyball Club and George Hill Rising Stars, Inc.

Additional Amenities HAMILTON COUNTY Nine parking lots with 3,117 asphalt parking spaces are spread SPORTS AUTHORITY throughout Grand Park, designed in a way so visitors are never Scott Spillman, Sports Development Manager farther than a two-field walk from their lots. Additionally, there are 317-660-4040 • [email protected] roughly 1,100 grass/gravel parking spaces. HamiltonCountySports.com Players, coaches, referees and fans enjoy seven concession

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Right in the middle of the country, Indiana’s third-largest city offers great EVANSVILLE, IN attractions and premier sports venues. Evansville’s Lineup of First-Class Venues

1. amphitheater with staging area can be used for presentations or Sports: Basketball, hockey events. Free Wi-Fi, wireless scoreboards, and batting/pitching Located in the heart of , the Ford Center is cages are also part of the design of this state-of-the-art $16M an 11,000-seat multi-purpose arena that serves as the region’s facility. The amenities are in addition to a qualified, professional epicenter for sports and entertainment. The 290,000-square-foot staff to manage and maintain the park to the highest standard. arena opened in 2011 and is home to the men’s basketball team and the professional ice hockey team, the 3. . It has hosted a variety of events ranging Sports: Soccer from concerts to the 2014 & 2015 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Goebel Soccer Complex offers 10 Olympic-size fields—two Elite Eight, the 2013 & 2014 Great Lakes Valley Conference fescue, seven Bermuda grass and one synthetic turf. Six of Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship, and Small College the fields are equipped with sports lighting. Events hosted include Basketball Hall of Fame Classic. preliminary rounds of the Indiana Soccer State Cup, Presidents Cup and Challenge Cup. 2. Deaconess Sports Park Sports: Baseball, softball 4. Angel Mounds All of the eight fields in the complex are lighted with shaded Sports: Cross country, archery spectator seating and covered dugouts. Other comforts Occupied by Native Americans more than 1,000 years ago, throughout the park include two playgrounds, two full-service Angel Mounds provides a uniquely historic backdrop to competitive concession areas, two spray parks, a separate building for running. The fast/flat course, open layout and great sightlines tournament directors and an umpire locker room. A large are the main reasons events like the 2016 Cross County Coaches’

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT National Youth Championship, 2014-2016 NCAA Division II Cross Country Midwest Regional, the 2017 NCAA DII Cross Country National Championship have chosen Angel Mounds.

5. BMX Track Sports: BMX Burdette Park BMX is one of the oldest BMX tracks in the country still in its original location. Unlike any other BMX track, Burdette is nearly 1,500 feet long with five straights and its famous S turn. It is known as one of the fastest downhill tracks around. Burdette Park BMX has hosted the NBL Grand Nationals, more than 20 BMX Nationals and the BMX Pre-Worlds. 2

6. Victoria National Sports: Golf Victoria National Golf Club is a premier golf club set on 418 acres of reclaimed mining land. Designed by Tom Fazio, the elite golf club opened in 1998 and has been host to prestigious golf tournaments like the 2015 & 2016 Big 10 Men’s Golf Championships and the 2012-2016 PGA Web.com Tour United Leasing & Finance Championship. In addition, Victoria National has earned some impressive awards, including being chosen as Best New Private Course of 1999, #45 in Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses and #69 in Golfweek's Top 100 Modern Courses.

The Evansville Sports Corporation 4 When it comes to making sure your event has the local support it needs to be successful and grow, there is no better partner to have than the Evansville Sports Corporation. Created in 2010, the ESC has experienced staff and board members who can assist you with event volunteer recruitment and training, sponsorship, ticket sales, marketing, operations, logistics and much more. They work hand-in-hand with the Evansville CVB, which manages its very own online housing system so your event can have the most streamlined and efficient lodging experience possible. When it’s all said and done, the infrastructure and support is in place for your event to thrive in Evansville, IN.

A Midwestern Gem on the Ohio River Centrally located less than 2.5 hours away from Indianapolis, 5 Louisville, Nashville and St. Louis, Evansville fits the Indiana billing as the ‘Crossroads of America’. The Evansville Regional Airport is served by American, Delta and United airlines with frequent flights to six major hub cities—Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit and Orlando.

EVANSVILLE SPORTS CORPORATION Jason Sands, Executive Director 812-434-7699 • [email protected] Ashley Vezzoso, Director of Sales 800-433-3025 • [email protected] EvansvilleSports.org 6

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All About Connections: Indiana Sports INDIANA SPORTS CORP Corp is the Winning Link.

When tournament planners are seeking Indiana is a sports-centric state and has been for years. Indiana sports venues or facilities for a top-notch Sports Corp strives to maintain that status and continue attracting “world-class sporting events.” Their mission is to not only enhance event, Indiana Sports Corp provides a the communities and drive economic growth but also bring in events connection that brings the two elements that provide opportunities for Indiana youth. Indiana Sports Corp provides many opportunities for young people. together. It offers clinics, curriculum, athlete appearances and programming in connection with sports events. When the Big Ten Women’s ndiana Sports Corp (ISC), founded in 1979, is the first sports Basketball Championship came to town, ISC held basketball and commission in the country and a powerful force in bringing elite life skills training for young women ages nine to 13. Recently, the Inational and international events to Indianapolis. Some notable 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Diving was in Indianapolis, and events that may sound familiar are Super Bowl XLVI in 2012, the 25 young athletes were taught the basics of diving. NCAA Men’s Final Four (seven times), NCAA Women’s Final Apart from drawing elite tournaments to Indiana, ISC also operates Four (three times), all Big Ten Football Championship Games its own unique events. The annual Corporate Challenge brings since 2011, 18 U.S. Olympic Team Trials and many more. 8,000 employees from 165 Indiana companies to participate in sports Organizers of athletic tournaments can connect with a variety of challenges over two weekends. The Indy Ultimate is an urban venues through the help of Indiana Sports Corp, which is there to adventure race that makes stops at iconic sports, culture and military facilitate the planning process. It works closely with public safety, heritage sights in downtown Indianapolis. hotels, transportation and tourism organizations to help organize and Indiana Sports Corp also provides sports organizers with information execute successful sports events. ISC is a great contact to have for on the city of Indianapolis and the many reasons why it’s a great place any sports planner. For those interested in hosting an event outside to host an event. The city is incredibly convenient for sports planners, of Indianapolis, ISC has, in cooperation with the State of Indiana, with more than 7,100 hotel rooms close to Lucas Oil Stadium and developed Sports Indiana, which is an organization designed to Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Indiana Convention Center and bring sport events and programming to areas across the state. Circle Center Mall are situated nearby and are connected by enclosed walkways. In addition, there are a number of great attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo and other tourist favorites in downtown’s INDIANA SPORTS CORP White River State Park. 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 1200 Sports organizers and venues have a useful resource in the Indiana 317-237-5000 • [email protected] Sports Corp. It’s there to connect planners with facilities that meet their IndianaSportsCorp.org needs and work with venues and cities to help create a successful event that brings vibrancy to the community and boosts the economy.

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Trying to schedule a sports tournament and looking for the FORT WAYNE, IN perfect city? Look no further— Fort Wayne, Indiana boasts indoor and outdoor venues that cater to your needs. Facilities Fit for Any Competition 1. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum 3. SportONE Parkview Fieldhouse Sports: Hockey, basketball, volleyball, wrestling Sports: Basketball, volleyball, futsal This multi-purpose arena located near Johnny Appleseed Park Covering a whopping 57,000 square feet, the Parkview in Fort Wayne was recently renovated and can now hold up to Fieldhouse is a principal indoor sports facility for tournaments 13,000 people. Opened in 1952, War Memorial Coliseum was and camps in the Midwest. Here are some main features: six revamped in 2002, raising the roof 40 feet to add seats and high school regulation basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, modernize the building. With a new Conference Center constructed four smooth fine sand courts and 21 restrooms. The fieldhouse in 2015 and added to the south end of the massive Expo Center, makes it simple to host a big event, too, with easy parking and the Memorial Coliseum totals over one million square feet of space on-site storage. for a variety of activities including sports, arts and culture, and family entertainment. 4. SportONE Parkview Icehouse Sports: Hockey, ice skating, curling 2. Spiece Fieldhouse Just like Parkview Fieldhouse, SportONE’s Icehouse is Sports: Basketball, volleyball state-of-the-art and useful for a wide variety of functions. Containing The fieldhouse offers eights full-sized courts, a high-tech fitness three NHL-sized ice rinks, the complex is the only three-sheet center and a full-service spa. Since 2000, Spiece Fieldhouse has facility in Indiana. Home to youth and adult hockey leagues been Fort Wayne’s premier basketball location. The facility hosts and figure skating programs for all skill levels, in addition to public prestigious year-round tournaments, clinics, camps, leagues and skating sessions, Parkview Icehouse provides Fort Wayne instruction seminars. Hundreds of America’s top prep basketball with one of the premier “frozen” event locations in the stars have competed inside the wall of Spiece Fieldhouse, which Midwest. is conveniently located off Interstate 69, and next to several restaurants, hotels and entertainment choices.

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5. Plex Soccer Complex FACILITY Sports: Soccer, football, softball, golf SPOTLIGHT The Plex has two main locations: The Plex North and The Plex South. Indoor sports opportunities are maximized at each spot on both sides of Fort Wayne, as both North and South offer tournaments and leagues for a range of different sports. The Plex North consists of two indoor and 19 outdoor soccer fields, where kids enjoy soccer tourneys and flag football games. Meanwhile in south Fort Wayne, the second Plex facility boasts a soccer field, a second-level driving range and a sports equipment room. The Plex South boasts a massive dome, and there is now a “mini-dome” equipped with a turf field and indoor batting cages. 6. Plassman Athletic Center at Turnstone 6 Sports: Wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, power soccer, sled hockey, boccia, goal ball Opened in 2015, the new Plassman Athletic Center aids people 4 with disabilities like no other sports complex in the area. The 120,000-square-foot building contains an enormous fieldhouse with a 230-meter track and four basketball courts, a health and wellness center, specially-designed changing areas and easily-accessible parking. While the fitness center is impressive, Turnstone also provided this location with a warm-water pool that stays at a constant temperature of 90 degrees and features a zero-depth wheelchair ramp. As it applies to become a National Paralympic Training Site, the Plassman Athletic Center has become Turnstone’s most advanced and attractive location. Fort Wayne is a Haven for Fun The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has thrilled kids and adults alike since 1921 with its 200 species of animals. Other attractions include scenic Headwaters Park and the 605-acre Fox Island Country Park, where seven miles of marked trails wind through a gorgeous landscape. Science Central, housed in a former electrical power plant, offers hands- on science fun for visitors of all ages. Fort Wayne also boasts over 90 miles of trails to hike, bike, canoe or kayak, two destination malls (Glenbrook Square and Jefferson Pointe) and over 500 restaurants. Making Your Way to Fort Wayne Interstate 69, which runs through six states from Rosenberg, Texas to Port Huron, Michigan, makes entrance to the city easy from the north and south. The city is also on Indiana 469, a freeway that touches the far east side of town and other major highways like US 24, US 27 and US 30. Fort Wayne International Airport offers daily direct flights to 2 a variety of American cities. With sufficient parking and free internet, the airport has been called “the nation’s friendliest airport” by USA Today. Planner Perspective “Visit Fort Wayne was a tremendous help with making State Wars a great success. They were essential in helping me out for a city and site visit, and they helped put us in touch with the right people at local busi- nesses who would benefit from the event.” —Tim McManus, United States State Wars Hockey

VISIT FORT WAYNE Stephanie Coleman, Group Sales Manager, Sports 260-424-3700 • [email protected] VisitFortWayne.com

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This small town on the Indiana/Illinois border offers TERRE HAUTE, IN parks, museums and some top-notch venues.

Top-of-the-Line Venues installation of a FieldTurf infield, new locker room and coaches’ offices, the construction of a new seating area with both chairback 1. LaVern Gibson Cross Country Course and bleacher seats, and a larger press box and parking lot. The Sport: Cross Country FieldTurf infield and natural grass outfield prevent delays when This world-class, 240-acre course, located just east of harsh weather conditions would force other facilities to stop play. downtown Terre Haute at the Wabash Valley Family Sports Center, has the distinction of being one of the few purpose-built cross 3. Terre Haute Action Track country courses in the world, as well as one of the most spectator- Sport: Racing friendly distance running courses. It has been home to the NCAA For over 60 years, the Terre Haute Action Track has been a Division I Great Lakes Regional, Division III Regional and Men’s destination for race fans across the U.S. Fans and drivers are and Women’s NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships. treated to extremely high speeds and some great events every year. It has also hosted the Indiana State High School Championship The staple divisions come from USAC, which runs its Amsoil Meet, Nike Cross Nationals Midwest Regional Meet, and numerous National Sprint Cars and Silver Crown Series cars at this site. invitational and championship meets. A fan favorite is the Sprint Week event, which occurs during the Vigo County Fair. Terre Haute Action Track is located at the 2. Bob Warn Field at Sycamore Stadium Vigo County, Indiana fairgrounds on US Route 41 on the south Sport: Baseball side of Terre Haute. Notable drivers who have competed at the Sycamore Stadium is the home of the Indiana State University track include A.J. Foyt, Jeff Gordon, Parnelli Jones and Sycamores baseball team and host to Division I NCAA and Tony Stewart. The track has held events sanctioned by USAC, its Missouri Valley Conference baseball. The site has undergone a predecessor American Automobile Association (AAA) and the number of changes over the past several years, including the World of Outlaws.

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4. Hulman Mini-Speedway FACILITY Sport: Racing SPOTLIGHT The Terre Haute Quarter Midget Association (THQMA) is based at the Hulman Mini-Speedway. Quarter Midget Racing is a family-oriented sport that involves racing that is designed specifically for kids aged five to 16. Racing is divided into many different classes based on age, skill level and motor type. A Quarter Midget car is approximately ¼ scale of an actual midget racer. The track is approximately 1/20 of a mile.

5. Springhill Soccer Complex Sport: Soccer The Springhill Soccer Complex features 45 soccer fields for varying ages from four to 13 years of age. It is home to the Vigo County 2 Youth Soccer Association and host of the Midwest Soccer Classic.

6. Vigo County Aquatic Center Sport: Swimming The Vigo County Aquatic Center, opened in 2016, is a 50-meter-by- 25-yard competition and teaching pool. It is an Olympic-sized pool that has 10- and 50-meter training lanes. The 10-by-15-foot video board can show live competition. The center can seat up to 500 people for major events and is the home to three Vigo County High School swim teams, as well as the Terre Haute Torpedos, a local swim club. The facility hosts County Championships, competitive swim club invitationals, Indiana State University meets and IHSAA swim sectionals.

Exciting To-Dos in Terre Haute 3 An abundance of museums makes it a great town in which to learn and explore—venture over to the Terre Haute Children’s Museum or check out the military memorabilia on display at the Veterans Memorial Museum. Ready to head outdoors? This Hoosier State gem boasts a multitude of parks where children can play and adults can spend some time relaxing in the sun. Collett Park features a horse- shoe court, picnic shelters, a playground and tennis courts. 177-acre Deming Park has miniature trains for children to ride, fields for softball and disc golf and a ADA-certified playground.

How to Get There Terre Haute is right off Interstate 70. State Highway 46 also takes you to the location. Indianapolis International Airport is only an hour away, while Chicago’s Midway and O’Hare airports are roughly four 5 hours from Terre Haute. There is also Terre Haute Regional Airport.

Planner Perspective “It would not be possible to provide the many soccer programs and events without the support of the many volunteers, soccer families, local businesses, colleges, universities and especially the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau.” —Jim Wilkey, VCYSA Tournament Director and Past President

TERRE HAUTE CVB David Patterson, Executive Director 812-234-5565 • [email protected] TerreHaute.com 6

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With scenic views, sandy beaches and state-of- the-art facilities, the South Shore in Northwest Indiana SOUTH SHORE, IN boasts a diverse selection of activities. Tournament Planners Find First-Rate Venues in Abundance

1. Legacy Fields at Crown Point Sportsplex 3. Dowling Park Sports: Baseball, soccer, lacrosse, football, softball Sports: Soccer, tennis, baseball, soccer, softball When it comes to sports complexes, Crown Point has a lot Dowling Park opened in the fall of 2015 and now serves as to offer. The facilities house a total of 10 fields—three 300-foot home to Purdue University Northwest-Calumet Campus athletic championship fields and six skinned, lighted fields, including a teams. Sports played at the complex include tennis, baseball, championship field with a PA system and seating for 750 spectators. soccer and softball, while an abundance of concessions, parking Beyond the baseball/softball diamonds, Crown Point consists of and locker rooms makes the venue great for fans and athletes alike. two lighted turf fields for soccer, lacrosse and football, including Located just north of Interstate 80/94, Dowling Park sets a high easily-accessible parking and concessions. Sparta Dome, a 120,000- standard for Indiana athletic facilities. square-foot complex located on the same property, can host softball, baseball, soccer and football. 4. Lake Central High School Aquatic Center Sports: Swimming, diving, water polo 2. The Diggz of Northwest Indiana Lake Central High School, located in St. John, Indiana, and Sports: Volleyball home to the Barracudas, boasts one of the most high-tech Northwest Indiana’s finest volleyball facility sits on the southern pools in America. Open to the whole community, the Lake Central tip of Lake Michigan. The Diggz, formerly Omega Sports Complex, Aquatic Center regularly hosts open swims, high school events hosts weekend JVA volleyball tournaments, adult co-ed leagues and swimmers from the Lake Central Masters Association, a and private volleyball lessons on six total courts. With 42,000 square swim club for athletes aged 19 and over. One of the most interesting feet of space, the venue is regularly rented for top-of-the-line events. features is the video board inside the facility.

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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT 5. Lemon Lake County Park Sports: Cross country, cycling, disc golf, fishing, volleyball Lemon Lake is comprised of 403 acres of hills, valleys, woodlands and open, grassy areas. Though the landscape may seem sleepy and serene, there’s always an opportunity for exercise at this location. Lemon Lake hosted the 2010 and 2013 Pro Disc Golf World Championships. Some advantages to visiting Lemon Lake include a one-mile paved track around the lake and over five miles of trail through the scenic forest. Not up for a nature walk or undisturbed jog? This venue also has softball fields, a playground, two sand volleyball courts, six 18-hole disc golf courses and areas for fishing and picnicking. For those looking for a nice afternoon in the park, you really can’t do better than Lemon Lake. 3

6. Whihala Lakefront Beach Sports: Tennis, baseball, fishing, boating Located within the boundaries of beautiful Whiting Park, Whihala Beach sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, only 30 minutes southeast of Chicago. The beach has lifeguards and ample parking, not to mention being open from 7 a.m. until dusk every day. Fun activities include walks along the coast of Lake Michigan, looking out at the Windy City skyline and enjoying the cool breeze coming off the lake. There’s also a boat launch ramp, while the surrounding Whiting Park boasts tennis courts, a baseball diamond and a fishing pier. It’s Easy to Find a Good Time 2 Beyond tournaments and events, there is a ton of activities to keep you busy in Northwest Indiana and over the border in Illinois. Walk or jog along the area’s twisting, turning nature trails. Have a bite at any one of the many restaurants in the area, or venture to Albanese Candy Factory or Fair Oaks Farms. Then, of course, Chicago is close by. America’s third-largest city offers Wrigley Field, Navy Pier, the Field Museum, the Art Institute and many other quality attractions.

A Short Trip from Chicago With Chicago just a short drive away, it’s not hard to access the South Shore. Interstate 65, Interstate 80/94, Interstate 90, US 41 and US 30 run through the South Shore region. Chicago’s Midway International Airport and O’Hare International Airport are each about an hour from the South Shore. 4

Planner Perspective “I have used the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority for all my Beverly Bandits hotel needs as well as all of the hotel needs for all teams needing assistance while playing at PGF tournaments in Crown Point and couldn’t be happier with the level of service provided. Great people and great partners.” — Bill Conroy, Beverly Bandits Premier Girls Fastpitch

SOUTH SHORE CVA Rick Flutka, Sports Development Manager 219-554-2726 • [email protected] AlongTheSouthShore.com 5

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A place to play between SOUTH BEND MISHAWAKA, IN Chicago and Indy. You Can Play Where Notre Dame Plays Win or Lose, What Can You Do? 1. Compton Family Ice Arena No matter how well your team plays, after the buzzer sounds or Sports: Hockey, figure skating, curling the last pitch is thrown, players and coaches need something to Located on the south edge of the Notre Dame campus, the keep them busy. In South Bend Mishawaka, that shouldn’t be a five-year-old Compton Family Ice Arena is adjacent to the problem. The area offers some great opportunities to get active, Joyce Center and just west of the Irish track and field facility. including activities like biking, paddling and running along the The arena houses two ice rinks, one NHL-size and one Olympic-size, St. Joseph River. The Indiana Dunes are close by, and nothing and provides ice for the Notre Dame hockey team as well as beats spending a relaxing day in the sun, away from the hustle and residents. Each surface has two levels of viewing and seating, with bustle of daily life. the majority of seats chair-back style. Spectator capacity is 5,000 In addition, the Potawatomi Zoo houses 400 animals and 160 total between seating and standing room. There are five locker different species, making it the perfect spot for spectators of all ages. rooms and a press room for the NHL-size rink. Not into the outdoors scene quite as much? There is a multitude of museums, such as the Studebaker National Museum, where 2. Four Winds Field visitors can explore a priceless collection of vehicles and artifacts. Sports: Baseball On a sweet note, the South Bend Chocolate Company offers In downtown South Bend, Four Winds Field at Coveleski regular tours, where kids can learn how chocolate is made and even Stadium hosts the , the Class A minor league try some themselves. The list is nearly endless—South Bend affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Coveleski Stadium has a seating capacity Mishawaka provides exciting activities for everyone. of 5,000, as well as a children’s play area and an adults-only bar.

3. The Kitchen BMX Skatepark A Central Midwestern Location Sports: Biking, skating, skateboarding South Bend has its own international airport, the only airport The largest indoor skate park in the Midwest offers one of the in the nation to offer intercity rail and interstate bus service as country’s premier indoor BMX and skating facilities. It is a non-profit well. Allegiant, Delta and United have regional flights into South facility designed to offer indoor physical activity for the children of the Bend International. Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports and region. Kids also won’t mind the South Bend Chocolate Factory, Indianapolis International are all options as well. Interstate 80-90 which sits just outside the park. serves the South Bend Mishawaka area, bringing visitors from Chicago and Detroit. Interstate 65 runs north-south and can bring visitors from Indianapolis to the south and Chicago to the north. VISIT SOUTH BEND MISHAWAKA South Bend is two hours from Chicago, 2.5 hours from Indianapolis Meghan Huff, Sports Sales Manager and three hours from Detroit. 574-400-4021 • [email protected] VisitSouthBend.com

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The name may not be familiar to you, but it should be. Columbus, Indiana COLUMBUS, IN has all the makings for a memorable sports event—no matter the size. A Smorgasbord of Excellent Facilities 4. Hamilton Center Ice Arena Sports: Hockey, figure skating 1. Otter Creek Golf Course This elite sports facility was designed in a Swiss chalet style by Sports: Golf famed architect Harry Weese. Originally designed as a warming Ranked among the top 25 public golf courses in the U.S. house and changing area for an outdoor ice rink, the arena was since its inception in 1964, Otter Creek is located in the midst of transformed into an indoor skating facility in the 1970s. The facility serene countryside. Many championship tournaments have now includes a regulation-size hockey rink and an adjacent been held at this property, including the 1991 U.S. Amateur Public practice rink, providing year-round skating for the community and Links Championship, AJGA tournaments, NCAA regional sports events. championships, the Independent Youth Classic and Indiana Men's Amateur Championship (26 times). The course has also Columbus Offers a Plethora of served as a qualification site for the U.S and Senior Open, plus the Activities off the Field National Public Links. Columbus is home to Indiana’s largest outlet mall and largest 2. Blackwell Park & Wigh Soccer Complex antique mall, conveniently located right next door to one another, Sports: Soccer making for a full day of retail therapy excitement. Blackwell Park is home to the Wigh Soccer Complex, and is The community is bike- and pedestrian-friendly, with more than a versatile outdoor sports park for soccer, rugby, lacrosse and any 27 miles of trails that wind through the city. There are lots of family- other outdoor sports. The fully irrigated complex can hold up to friendly activities, including a bike-share program, a three-story 17 full-size fields that can be laid out to fit any tournament’s needs. children’s museum, an indoor playground featuring a 40-foot-tall The park also features the renowned Freedom Field Playground play structure, an adventure park with zip lining and buggy tours, along with barbecue areas, picnic areas and a shelter-house. and a fully restored ice cream parlor dating to 1900.

3. Lincoln Park Softball Complex How to Get to Columbus The Lincoln Park Softball Complex hosts many state, regional Columbus is centrally located between Indianapolis, Louisville and national events. The facility has six fully irrigated, lighted softball and Cincinnati, and just minutes from I-65, I-70 and I-74. The fields and a six-station batting cage. This softball complex has Indianapolis and Louisville airports are the closest major airports. been named “Complex of the Year” by both the National Softball There are no shuttles or taxis from the airports to Columbus, but Association and USSSA. The complex is said to have the best teams can rent vans or arrange for buses to take them to the city. natural grass diamonds in the state. Planner Perspective “Lincoln Park in Columbus has the best softball fields in the state COLUMBUS INDIANA VISITORS CENTER and the Visitors Center sports staff gets it - they understand the true Eric Marvin, Director of Sports Tourism 800-468-6564 or 812-378-2622 • [email protected] impact of sports tournaments and do whatever they can to make Columbus.In.US operating an event in Columbus a win for everyone.” — Tim Foster, USSSA Indiana Fast Pitch State Director

290 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG