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SOUTH CAROLINA Site InSpections

162 ■ Myrtle Beach, SC 165 ■ Greenwood, SC 166 ■ Aiken, SC 168 ■ Sumter, SC 170 ■ Columbia, SC 173 ■ Saluda Shoals Park, SC 17 4 ■ Florence, SC 176 ■ Mountain Lakes Region, SC 178 ■ Rock Hill/York County, SC 180 ■ Spartanburg, SC 182 ■ Greenville, SC 184 ■ North Myrtle Beach, SC

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If you're searching for a place to hold a professional, amateur or colle- Bring giate sporting event, look no further. Play here. is just right. We're just right for soccer games, baseball tournaments, golf champi- Your onships and tennis playoffs. And let's not forget about football, basketball and the awesome mud run challenges, 5K walks and runs, and fishing tour- Sports naments. The Palmetto State has played host to national and worldwide organi- Event To zations including the PGA Tour, Women’s Tennis Association, Bassmas- ters, International Quidditch Association, USA Cycling and so many more. South Whether your event is small or large, professional or amateur, the mem- bers of the South Carolina Sports Alliance (SCSA) are committed to help- Carolina ing you create an atmosphere where your sporting event can achieve the utmost success.

From the deep forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful beaches of the Grand Strand, South Carolina's diverse landscapes prom- ise a memorable escape to the great outdoors. Our charming small towns, coastal cities and inland areas offer a unique setting for indoor and outdoor sports. With award-winning restaurants, affordable accommodations and plenty of exciting attractions to keep athletes, families and spectators entertained, we can deliver an unforgettable experience. Did we mention the unrivaled Southern hospitality our visitors are certain to receive? You just might want to come back for your vacation!

Start planning your event in South Carolina today. Our team is ready to assist you in planning a winning event that your participants won’t forget. When you step into South Carolina, you step onto your HOME TURF.

Sincerely,

South Carolina Sports Alliance

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sports playing well in south carolina 7asketball, softball, quidditch, tennis, cycling, golf and fish- running track, and outdoor sand courts and fields), complete with team ing—South Carolina is stepping up its game when it comes and meeting rooms, a players’ lounge and café. B to hosting these seven sports. W ith a communal passion Tyger River Park in Spartanburg is South Carolina’s premier soft- and facilities to match, it’s no wonder these sports are succeeding ball/baseball tournament facility. It features 12 fields in four-field clusters; in the Palmetto State. a premier stadium with seating for 600; and a clubhouse with a conference Big-ticket basketball events are migrating to South Carolina, thanks to room, meeting rooms, park administrative and athletic offices, restrooms, new facilities. Myrtle Beach Sports Center opened in March 2015 and concessions and picnic tables in the clubhouse pavilion. The park has is set to host NTBA boys’ and girls’ championships among other tourna- hosted events like the ASA State Championships, NSA & Louisville ments and camps. The 100,000-square-foot indoor facility features Slugger Class B Eastern World Series, 2015 ASA/USA 18U Class A eight basketball courts (and 16 volleyball courts) spread over 72,000 Girls Fast Pitch National Championship and ASA Diamond Clas- square feet of column-free, hardwood space. Event planners sic World Series. Tyger River Park and other com- love the team rooms, telescopic bleachers, a private mezza- plexes scattered throughout the state play host to SC nine for elevated viewing and a café with indoor/ USSSA, girls’ youth fast pitch. outdoor seating. Upward Star Center, which “Spartanburg has always been a opened in fall 2014 in Spartanburg, hosts a variety hotbed for softball, but with the addition of of basketball events, tournaments and Tyger River Park it was an obvious choice series. The 120,000-square-foot facility to bring some of our largest tourna- comprises six basketball courts (among ments here,” said Chad Greene, volleyball courts, batting cages, a SC ASA commissioner. “A lot of

Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, seats over 80,000.

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Cheyenne Woods, Symetra Tour Rock Hill’s Giordana Velodrome hosts national-level cycling events.

towns host big events, but scatter teams to venues over a 40-mile radius. hosts national and UCI-caliber events while introducing the local commu- At Tyger River Park, you have the luxury of hosting those same type tour- nity to the Olympic sport of track cycling through a variety of rider develop- naments all at one location.” ment and outreach programs. When it comes to the game made famous by the Harry Potter series, “The Novant Health BMX Supercross T rack in Rock Hill is the new South Carolina is a cauldron for quidditch. In 2014, North Myrtle Beach gold standard for USA BMX tracks. It has been so thrilling to see the city of Sports Park and Sports Complex hosted Quidditch World Cup 7. The Rock Hill completely commit to the sport of BMX racing and create a world- complex offers plenty of room for racing brooms and snitch snatching with class BMX venue,” said John David, chief operating officer of American eight regulation soccer/lacrosse fields (to do justice to the complex as a Bicycle Association. “Hosting the 2017 UCI BMX World Championships whole, there’s also a variety of baseball fields and eight batting tunnels). in Rock Hill is a dream come true for all parties involved, and this will be Quidditch players and fans delight in the concession areas, picnic shelters, a phenomenal event. Earlier this year we hosted the USA BMX Carolina playgrounds, amphitheater, trails, dog park and 25-acre lake. Quidditch Nationals in Rock Hill and we could not have been more pleased with the hightailed its way back to South Carolina in April 2015 for Quidditch World facility—especially the staff. They truly understand big events and do them Cup 8—this time at Manchester Meadows in Rock Hill. The 70-acre park well.” features eight soccer fields, two lighted, synthetic turf fields—each with sta- South Carolina’s natural beauty sets the stage for unmatched golf events. dium seating for 750—six lighted natural turf fields and additional fields for The state offers 368 courses, 26 of which are Certified Audubon Coop- multipurpose use. And an event of this caliber couldn’t take place without erative Sanctuaries, boasting some of the country's most beautiful sur- the park’s pavilions, concessions and shelters. roundings and wildlife. Myrtle Beach, the “golf capital of the United States,” South Carolina offers more than a picturesque backdrop for tennis offers hundreds of courses from pro-style to casual. PGA.com notes several tournaments. Take Columbia, for example, which hosted 2015’s SEC other top golf courses in South Carolina, including Harbour Town Golf Links Women’s Tennis Tournament at the University of South Carolina. The on Hilton Head Island, The Ocean Course Golf Course at Kiawah Island university’s Carolina Tennis Center features 12 courts with lights and Golf Resort on Johns Island and Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken. scoreboards on each one, plus video cameras, seating for 670 fans and You can’t go fishing without water—and not only is South Carolina po- courtside storage. South Carolina hosts many USTA events, too; the 2014 sitioned along the Atlantic Coast, but the state is also home to 12 major USTA/ITA National Small College Championships was hosted by the lakes with sizes from 7,500 acres to 110,000 acres, and types ranging from Palmetto Tennis Center in Sumter. The center serves up 24 lighted reservoirs (such as Lake Jocassee in the upstate mountains) to the tennis courts, making it the largest tennis center in the state. In April, 2016, swampy wilderness of Lake Marion in the lowlands. Lake Hartwell in Charleston’s Family Circle Tennis Center will host the WTA Family Anderson, located in the upstate region popularly known as the Upcountry, Circle Cup—the largest women-only tennis tournament in the world, with hosted the 2015 Bassmaster Classic. The state also plays host to Fishers 100,000 spectators and more than 70 athletes. of Men Tournament Trail and Ministries, Governor's Cup King Bill- For cycling events, Rock Hill is a shining beacon. The city’s Rock Hill fishing Series, South Carolina BAIT Division 1 and Striped Bass Fes- Outdoor Center houses a variety of cycling venues from paved to off road. tival. The center’s Novant Health BMX Supercross Track will host the 2017 South Carolina rolls out the red carpet for stellar sports events. The BMX World Championships by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). The state’s subtropical climate allows for year-round play, and top-notch facili- event is expected to bring approximately 3,000 amateur participants and ties are catalysts for competitive and unforgettable events—not to mention 300 professional athletes from over 40 countries, and attendees will stay the highly-visited state offers a plethora of activities for all ages and inter- an average of 10 days. Another major venue at the center is the 250-meter, ests. To learn more about hosting your sport in this Southern state, world-class Giordana Velodrome. Endorsed by USA Cycling, the facility visit discoversouthcarolina.com.

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Off the Fields and Courts

south carolina

Is Just Right For Visitors

From the mountains and the midlands to the coast and the islands, South Carolina is a ready mixture of history, adventure, amusement, entertainment and a healthy dose of fun. Here’s a quick walk through each of the state’s 11tourism regions. SPORT_153-161_Layout 1 9/13/15 5:30 PM Page 161

Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy, a peaceful spot in Greenville Re-enactment of the 1865 Skirmish at Gamble’s Hotel, Florence

Nature and History Meet Hit the Greens or the Lakes in the Pendleton District in Santee Cooper Country Located in the northwest corner of the state on I-85, Pendleton is a Exciting fishing, canoeing and kayaking challenges are found on gem. Hiking to some of the Southeast’ s most scenic waterfalls or Lakes Marion and Moultrie, two rivers, two canals and a large swamp. braving the rapids on the Chattooga River are ideal outdoor adventures. The area is no longer a best-kept golf secret with 20 championship For a more leisurely pace, visit the South Carolina Botanical Gardens layouts. Try a flat-bottom boat tour of Cypress Gardens/Butterfly House and Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum. & Gardens or the peaceful tranquility of Mepkin Abbey in Berkeley. Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter is a favorite. Exploring the Upcountry Hiking, horseback riding, biking and driving the Cherokee Foothills Pee Dee Country: From National Scenic Byway are fun ways to discover the Upcountry. With Agriculture to NASCAR 150 waterfalls, three freshwater lakes and the Chattooga National Wild Named for the Pee Dee Indians and easy to reach, this region is & Scenic River’s thousands of acres of parks and hundreds of miles served by I-95 and I-20. The South Carolina Cotton Museum and of trails, great outdoor adventures await here in northwestern South South Carolina Tobacco Museum exemplify the agrarian lifestyle of the Carolina. You’ll also find bustling cities and delightful small towns. region. The famous Darlington Raceway and its “track too tough to tame” is part of the NASCAR tradition. Darlington Raceway Stock Car Go Back in Time in Old 96 Museum is a must-see. Visit the off-the-beaten-path Old 96 Historic District to find historical importance among abundant natural resources. Revolutionary War Relax in the Lowcountry tories are discovered at national and state parks. Museums and historic & Resort Islands homes are not to be missed. Several thousand miles of shoreline are Regardless of your interests, this region has something for you. ready for exploring, along with hiking, walking and biking trails. The immaculate beaches of the resort islands give way inland to historic antebellum homes and farmland. The arts are alive at the SC Artisans Olde English Offers History and Thrill Rides Center. Whether you parasail of f Hilton Head Island, kayak a lush South Carolina experienced more Revolutionary War battles than any marsh or just relax under a stately live oak with a good book, this is a other colony. Many were fought within the Olde English District. Mon- lifestyle to enjoy. uments and markers, living history sites, reenactments and Kings Moun- tain National Military Park all tell the story of our nation’ s battle for Historic Charleston freedom. Carowinds amusement park recently introduced a $50-million The Charleston area, with its venerable architecture, magnificent expansion featuring Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster. gardens and plantation homes, is a living museum. Blended with more than 300 years of history are invigorating outdoor recreation, well-known Capital City & Lake Murray Country art and music venues and world-class dining options. A carriage ride Columbia, the state’s capital city, has a dozen museums, including the through the “Holy City” is a great way to begin your Charleston visit. SC State Museum and EdVenture Children’s Museum. The Riverbanks The Gibbs Museum of Art and Charleston Tea Plantation should be Zoo and Gardens features lush botanical gardens and new North Ameri- on every visitor’s list. can river otter and grizzly bear habitats. The region’s three rivers are a de- light for paddlers, with canoeing, kayaking, rafting and tubing. Lake Murray Myrtle Beach & offers the best in bass fishing, sailing, jet skiing and paddle boarding. The Grand Strand Few destinations can claim to have everything, but, with the exception Race through Thoroughbred Country of mountains, the Myrtle Beach area comes close. Centered around 60 As the name indicates, this South Carolina region has a rich horse miles of wide sandy beaches are outdoor activities from parasailing and tradition and culture. Also discover Civil War battle sites and historic plan- fishing to zip lines and boating, kayaking and canoeing. There are dozens tation homes. From the Jim Harrison Gallery in Denmark to the Heal- of amusements and attractions, including one very large oceanfront ing Springs near Blackville to the fall Chitlin Strut Festival in Salley, Sky Wheel. The evenings come alive with a half-dozen, family-oriented there’s something to see and do in Thoroughbred Country’s small towns. live entertainment theaters.

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Bring your teams to the summery shores of Myrtle Beach, a proven winner when MYRTLE BEACH, SC it comes to entertainment and adventure. Myrtle Beach Boasts Impressive Facilities 3. Grand Park Athletic Complex 1. Myrtle Beach Sports Center Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, football Sports: Basketball, volleyball, badminton This multi-use complex features seven lighted, full-size base- This brand new facility offers 100,000 square feet of indoor ball fields that can be easily converted to accommodate soccer, courts, as well as a café, retail area and entertainment zone. The lacrosse and football. The facility also offers two natural-grass complex contains eight basketball courts and 16 volleyball youth baseball fields that also can be converted, as well as three courts, and can be easily configured to accommodate a variety of full-size, natural-turf fields for soccer and lacrosse. Additional indoor sports such as badminton. amenities include multiple concession locations and a batting cage.

2. Myrtle Beach Convention Center 4. Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium Sports: Cheer, dance Sports: Track and field, football, lacrosse, soccer Adjacent to Myrtle Beach Sports Center, this facility This NCAA-certified track is made of a full pour polyurethane consists of 250,000 square feet of flexible space as well as a synthetic surface with embedded texture, and is complete with 30,000-square foot outdoor plaza that’s perfect for dance and a Daktronics video board and a FieldTurf infield that can cheer competitions. accommodate football, soccer and lacrosse.

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FACILITY 5. Myrtle Beach Recreation Centers (Pepper Geddings, SPOTLIGHT Canal Street and Crabtree Memorial Gymnasium) Sports: Basketball, swimming All three centers include one full-size basketball court, but the Pepper Geddings facility also houses a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool complete with a Colorado Timing system.

6. North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse This baseball and softball park consists of four fields with dirt infields and a 225-foot fence, along with two adult softball fields with dirt infields and a 330-380-foot fence that can be used for collegiate baseball games. The soccer and lacrosse complex 2 consists of eight natural-grass regulation fields, four of which are lighted, as well as an official’s room and a full-service concession stand. Families Love a Myrtle Beach Vacation In addition to the friendly warmth of beaches and crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, your teams can find additional excitement at every turn in Myrtle Beach. If they want to take a break from the seashore but stay outdoors, head to rapids and waterslides at Myrtle Waves or strap on a harness and try out the zip line and treetop adventure course over at North Myrtle Beach Park. If your teams are interested in history, schedule a trip to the Hopsewee Plantation, where you can enjoy traditional English tea and tours of the gorgeous plantation, or take a Segway 6 tour around an old Air Force base. If the weather isn’t cooperating, spend an afternoon at the , Medieval Times or the Ripley Museums. Rain or shine, Myrtle Beach will keep your teams entertained between games and after the tournament. Myrtle Beach is Easily Accessible Myrtle Beach connects via Highway 17. Cities that are less than eight hours away from Myrtle Beach include Charlotte, North Carolina; Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; and Virginia Beach, Virginia. Highways 501 and 17 run through the Myrtle Beach area. Myrtle Beach International Airport is a mere seven minutes from the heart of Myrtle Beach and is serviced by American, Allegiant, Delta, Spirit and United airlines. Planner Perspective 4 “Myrtle Beach is such an easy sell to my travel teams that play in our events. The city sells itself! With miles of sandy beach, tons of attractions and plenty of hotels that accommodate any budget, teams simply love coming to play in our tournaments. Parents use our events as a vacation while getting a chance to watch their child play in a national championship. The city facilities are top-notch as well.” — John Whitley, National Travel Basketball Association

MYRTLE BEACH AREA CVB Mike Anderson, Executive Director, Sports Tourism 843-916-7264 • [email protected] MyrtleBeachSports.com 1

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served by Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest and United. The Atlanta and Charlotte airports are a few hours away. Sports Travelers Enjoy Greenwood After the gear has been stowed and the final score tallied, fans and players can choose from several pastimes. A simple stroll in Uptown Greenwood, with stops to dine at unique restaurants and browse boutiques and art galleries, can be a great way to unwind. Serious shoppers will want to visit The Commons and Greenwood Mall. Greenwood always seems to have some kind of celebration going 3 on. May hosts the Catfish Festival, while the SC Festival of Flow- ers in June has life-size safari topiaries that line the streets of Up- town. July’s SC Festival of Discovery features barbecue and blues. GREENWOOD, SC Planner Perspective “Not only has the Greenwood Regional Tourism & Visitors Bureau Greenwood is known for its hospitality. Add one of South Carolina’s gone above and beyond in helping us host a successful event, they most peaceful lakes and a gracious approach to sports travel, and proactively laid the initial groundwork to get their tournament started. you’ve got a winner. Today, it’s the No. 1 stop on our tour!” — Mike Nichols, Chief Business Officer, A Solid Lineup of Facilities LPGA Symetra Tour 1. Jeff May Recreation, Wellness and Sports Complex Sports: Softball, baseball, soccer, tennis GREENWOOD REGIONAL This 25-acre Lander University venue encompasses a TOURISM & VISITORS BUREAU Lindsay B. Burns, TMP, Director of Sales 950-seat baseball stadium, a 350-seat softball stadium, a 864-953-2464 • [email protected] soccer field, a field house, 12 tennis courts and a tennis pavilion. VisitGreenwoodSC.com 2. Area Golf Courses The Links at Stoney Point is best known for the premier event on the LPGA Symetra Tour, offering a challenging layout with an exceptionally beautiful spot on Lake Greenwood. The Links offers a newly- remodeled clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis courts and a fine-dining restaurant. The Patriot at Grand Harbor also embraces the shores of Lake Greenwood. It often hosts the Championships as well as South Carolina Golf Association events.

3. Lake Greenwood Sports: Fishing, recreational boating, kayaking and paddle boarding Combine 11,000 acres of lake water and over 200 miles of shoreline with largemouth bass and crappie, and you've got a place that will keep fishers happy for hours, if not days. Thanks to an average depth of about 21 feet, there's plenty of room for water sports of all types. Travel to Greenwood Couldn’t Be Easier Greenwood is located between two major south- eastern cities—Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina—and just an hour north of Augusta, Georgia. Groups can drive into Greenwood via Interstate 85 or Interstate 26. Greenville-Spartan- burg International Airport, an hour’s drive, is

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Aiken, South Carolina has a long history of providing outstanding AIKEN, SC sporting events and unforgettable family experiences. Top-of-the-Line Sporting Facilities 3. Citizens Park 1. Weeks Recreation Facility Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer Sports: Pickleball, disc golf, soccer, volleyball, basketball This 123-acre, multipurpose sports park is perfect for hosting This state-of-the-art recreation facility has something for a multitude of tournaments. There are 15 lighted baseball/softball everyone. With its two full-size gyms, nine pickleball courts fields and access to meeting rooms and umpire rooms. The park and soccer field, it accommodates a wide variety of sports events. has three score towers, concessions and multiple open fields. Athletes and fans alike can enjoy its mile-long walking track and Players can practice their skills to their heart’s content in one of nine-hole disc golf course. The facility also has outdoor workout the park’s eight full-size batting cages. Adults and children alike and training equipment, a variety of workout rooms and locker will be entertained at the new Sprayground and can enjoy a meal rooms, plus picnic shelters and playgrounds that are perfect for at one of the picnic tables and the covered eating area. In addition, families with kids or an outdoor team lunch. there is a playground.

2. Weeks Tennis Center 4. Convocation Center Sports: Tennis Sports: Basketball, volleyball Located in Virginia Acres Park, this sprawling, 46-acre complex Home to Pacer athletics of the University of South Carolina will make any tennis player feel like a pro and includes 10 lighted at Aiken, this 100,000-square-foot building is a sports event clay courts and 10 lighted hard courts. The city also provides planner’s dream. The complex holds three gyms and can also be access to over 40 courts in the surrounding area. The center also used as an entertainment venue. The main arena has state-of- features a covered wrap-around porch with Adirondack chairs, the-art sound and scoreboard systems and is surrounded by a dining tables with chairs and ceiling fans so both players and their practice court on each side. Athletes and coaches will be happy audience can stay cool in the shade. Players can purchase gear with its training facilities, and fans will appreciate the spacious and other items in the full-service pro shop and enjoy the locker seating, which has room for up to 4,000 people. The center also rooms and concessions. features eight locker rooms, concessions and meeting spaces.

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Getting to Aiken is a Snap Near the western edge of South Carolina, Aiken is a hidden heading to Hitchcock Woods, one of the largest urban forests in gem surrounded by forests not far from major Southern cities. America, explore the grounds at Hopelands Gardens or head to Getting there is surprisingly simple, with a choice of several Aiken State Park. There they can enjoy a peaceful hike on one nearby airports and only 20 minutes away from Interstate 20. of the many nature trails, kayak the Edisto River, unwind while Aiken is within 2½ hours of Atlanta, Greenville, Charlotte, having a picnic or cool off in the lake. In the heart of the town are Charleston, Hilton Head Island and Savannah. It is connected historic homes and churches to tour. The interactive Train Museum to Atlanta by Interstate 20; Routes 78 and 1 connect other is located in the town’s old train depot. The blend of historic and interstates to the city. Aiken is home to Aiken Municipal Airport. newly established restaurants, such as The Little Bake Shoppe Nearby is Augusta Regional Airport, just seven miles from and Stables Bar and Restaurant, will satisfy any hunger cravings. downtown Augusta. Other airports within driving distance of Aiken include Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Columbia Planner Perspective Metropolitan Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International “We love coming to Aiken, and the reason we do is they are Airport and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. always so on top of everything—they anticipate our needs. Aiken is a nice, quaint town that people love going to and experiencing! Aiken is Horse Country At a tournament a couple years back it rained the final day, but Traveling for sporting events is about more than the games that didn’t stop the City of Aiken staff from helping out. They won and lost; it’s about the times spent with family in unforgettable actually came out and dried the courts for us and we were back locations. Aiken is just that. With a rich equestrian heritage, this playing within 30 minutes!” town is definitely horse country. There are horse statues in the — Mary Goins, USTA Director of League streets, the annual Aiken Triple Crown, the Thoroughbred and a horse district. Surrounded by polo Racing Hall of Fame CITY OF AIKEN PARKS fields, tracks and early 20th century estates, Aiken is a scenic beauty just waiting to be experienced. RECREATION & TOURISM DEPARTMENT Jeff Metz, Athletic Superintendent For those interested in outdoor activities, there are many 803-642-7652 • [email protected] equestrian sites, a farmers’ market and the Citywide Arboretum. CityofAikenSC.gov Families and athletes can relax after a grueling day of play by

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Visit this South Carolina town for a taste of SUMTER, SC hospitality and sporting fun.

There’s No Place Like Sumter well. In Sumter, you’re just a 90-minute drive from the state’s Looking for that perfect East Coast tournament spot? Look no beautiful beaches, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are only three further than Sumter, South Carolina, where you are in the middle hours to the northwest. of everything. The city of Sumter is in the heart of the community Sumter proudly houses Shaw Air Force Base, which inspired with a total city and county population of 108,123. Come enjoy an the town motto “Uncommon Patriotism.” Truly, Sumter loves outdoor lover’s paradise with an abundance of leisure activities, nothing more than showing visitors the town’s “uncommon” including a vibrant arts culture and superb sport facilities. More personality, offering visitors a hometown feel with the conven- than enough exciting attractions orbit this wonderful community as iences of a large city.

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Just the Place for Swim Meets and Tennis Matches 1. Aquatics Center Sports: Swimming The public Aquatics Center meets requirements for competition swim meets with its unique design and is fully equipped with swim lanes, diving blocks, and electronic timer and touch pads. Each year, the center hosts more than 11 swim meets for the city league, community invitational and high school. In October the center is host to the TriSumter Triathlon. The sprint triathlon includes a 300-yard swim in the heated 25-meter, six-lane pool, continues on with a 16-mile bike ride and wraps up with a 5k run at the Aquatics Center. For the recreational swimmer, the center is open six days a week and is swimmer-friendly for all ages. The Aquatics Center also has a twisting tube waterslide, an adjustable spray fountain and a wading pool with beach entrance for easy access. This official American Red Cross facility boasts an experienced training staff for the Sumter community. Training is available for lifeguards and water safety instructors. Stroke and turn training for volunteers and staff to assist at swim meets is also available.

2. Palmetto Tennis Center Sports: Tennis The Palmetto Tennis Center at Palmetto Park boasts 24 Getting to Sumter is Simple state-of-the-art, Deco-Turf courts with lighting for night play. Sumter is located in Central South Carolina, meaning a fairly Other amenities include shaded stadium and courtside bleacher even travel distance from multiple points in the region. Several seating, cool water misters, a bistro-style seating area, a shelter major roads intersect in Sumter. Routes 76 and 521 come in from area with picnic tables, two ball machines, stringing service, pro the west and northwest, respectively, while Route 15 bisects the shop and a locker-showers facility. The tennis center is conveniently town from north to south, with Route 521 accompanying the located adjacent to a playground and spray park. Tennis tournament southern portion of 15. Coming in from the east and northeast are knowledge is paramount to a facility’s continued success. The PTC’s Routes 378, 401 and the other tail of Route 76. Sumter’s two years of successful new and returning events and tournaments nearest commercial airports are Florence Regional Airport and come from experience. In April of 2004, the PTC opened the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, with Florence roughly 50 miles doors to the Conference Carolinas and added a fall individual to the east of Sumter and Columbia roughly 50 miles to the event soon after. Collegiate play also includes the Southeast west. Teams can expect to arrive in town from the airports in just Regionals and National Small College Championships. They’ve over an hour. learned from the best by hosting annually a Women’s 25K Pro Circuit Event since 2008 and the National Zonal TEAM Cham- Planner Perspective pionship since 2013, as well as four junior state tournaments. “On behalf of all the ITA coaches and players who participated in the 2014 USTA/ITA National Small College Championships, Explore Sumter’s Many we would like to express our deepest appreciation to you for Enjoyable Leisure Opportunities serving as tournament organizer for this special event. All of our ITA coaches and players felt the Championships went great and There’s plenty to do in Sumter when you need to unwind from much of this was due to the quality of the tennis center and the your latest game. Enjoy the local artistic community by visiting super support of the staff and local community….We hope to be spots like Sumter Little Theater, Sumter Opera House and able to return to Sumter and the Palmetto Tennis Center next fall Sumter County Gallery of Art. In between games, teams can for our 2015 USTA/ITA National Small College Championships be inspired by the artists and performers and support the event.” community at the same time. — David A. Benjamin, Executive Director, Sumter offers much natural beauty for its visitors to enjoy, with Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) nature trails through Crosswell, Memorial and Palmetto parks, among others. The crowning jewel would have to be Swan Lake Iris Gardens, a vast collection of expertly maintained gardens CITY OF SUMTER with sections like the Butterfly, Chocolate and Camellia gardens. RECREATION DEPARTMENT Local eateries offer a diverse range of cuisines, from Susan H. Wild, Recreation Programs & Facilities Director Sambino’s Bistro, Asian Barbecue, Willie Sue’s and Hamptons 803-774-1651 • [email protected] to J. O’Grady’s, Mary Ann’s Deli, Thai House and Duncan Dogs. SumterSC.gov There’s something to suit everyone’s taste.

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Columbia, South Carolina is hot on the scene for amateur sports, making it the COLUMBIA, SC perfect destination for your next tournament.

Columbia’s Top-Notch Facilities are Sure to Meet Your Needs 1. Williams-Brice Stadium 3. Carolina Stadium Sports: Football Sports: Baseball This giant stadium, home to the USC Gamecocks, is one of the One of the premier baseball stadiums in the U.S., this finest in the country and when filled to capacity hosts over 80,000 University of South Carolina ballpark is a recent addition to the spectators. Over the years the stadium has undergone nearly Columbia sports world, with the ability to host 9,000 fans. Visitors $30 million in renovations and expansions to make it the top- enjoy amenities such as a Picnic Terrace along left field and quality venue that it is today. The single football field is natural premium seating in the Suite and Club levels. The $35-million grass. Spectators can find some of the best premium seating and facility boasts everything from a state-of-the-art video scoreboard suites in all of . The 11,000-square-foot banquet and sound system to a fully equipped press box with TV/radio facility offers excellent views. booths. Field dimensions: 325 feet down the lines, 400 to center field. The stadium is fully ADA-accessible. Players will enjoy the 2. Colonial Life Arena enormous weight room and four indoor batting tunnels. Sports: Basketball This University of South Carolina arena is the largest in the 4. Lexington County Tennis Complex state, with 18,000 seats and square footage of 329,006. Colonial Sports: Tennis Life Arena is a perfect entertainment venue that features 41 suites, Just eight miles west of downtown Columbia, the Lexington a four-suite Entertainment Club and a hospitality room that County Tennis Complex has played host to major tennis events, can host 300, plus plenty of concessions. A state-of-the-art sound including the USTA Junior Team Tennis National Championships. system and scoreboard complete the experience, making Colonial It features 21 hard lighted courts and seats upwards of 500 Life an unforgettable venue for basketball fans and players alike. spectators, making it the region’s premier tennis venue.

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5. Lexington Sports Complex FACILITY Sports: Baseball, softball, t-ball, tennis SPOTLIGHT This multipurpose facility in the western Columbia suburb of Lexington is ideal for baseball and softball teams of all ages. Featuring five youth baseball fields, one intermediate field, one regulation baseball field and two T-ball fields, the complex plays host to groups of various experience levels. It also boasts four softball fields and four tennis courts.

6. Kelly Mill Recreation Complex Sports: Baseball, football, soccer Four baseball fields with a press box and concession stand are joined by a football and soccer field along with a playground, picnic area and walking trails. A recent addition to the community within the last few years, it’s a testament to the strong presence of sports in the area. 3 Columbia Offers Endless Possibilities for Leisure Time Fun Looking to get out into nature? Rent a boat, kayak or canoe, and explore Columbia’s three rivers or Lake Murray. There are riverfront trails for running or biking and an abundance of parks where you can pass an afternoon relaxing in the sweet Southern air. Animal lovers can’t miss out on the Riverbanks Zoo – one of the best in the country and just steps from downtown. It’s home to over 2,000 animals plus a lush botanical garden in a beautiful riverfront setting. The University of South Carolina is right in the center of the city, its gorgeous campus great for a stroll taking in some Southern architecture or attending a university sporting event. 2 Learn about the state’s history at one of the many museums, including the South Carolina State Museum and African American History Monument. Walking tours are a popular way to see the city and learn about Columbia’s rich military and civil rights history. Columbia’s youthful vibe flavors the colorful arts scene and lively entertainment districts. Major headliners have passed through the city, so be sure to check out what concerts will be going on while you’re in town or catch a local band at any of the city’s music venues. Columbia boasts over 450 restaurants, so don’t worry about finding your favorite meal the night before the big game. How Do I Get My Sports Group to Columbia? Groups can drive into Columbia via I-77 from the north, I-20 from the west or I-26 from the south. Delta, American and United airlines serve Columbia’s airport, which is located just eight miles from the city center. 4 Amtrak’s Silver Star line between New York City and Miami stops in Columbia. The train station is conveniently located in the center of downtown. Planner Perspective “We are really for the Columbia Sports Council! You and your team are to be commended for your hard work. We can’t thank you enough for your care, energy and time.” —Randy Coleman, CEO/President, International Dance Challenge, LLC

COLUMBIA SPORTS COUNCIL S. Scott Powers, Executive Director 803-545-0004 • spowers@columbiasportscouncil ColumbiaSportsCouncil.com 6

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Located in the Midlands of South Carolina, Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park is built to SALUDA SHOALS PARK, SC support modern competition and rewards fans with a fun, memorable getaway in an amenity-packed area. Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park Has Everything You Need Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, rugby, quidditch, competitive runs, biking, canoeing, kayaking The Palmetto Health Fields at Saluda Shoals Park offers so much for sporting groups. Six multi-use, natural-turf fields with state-of-the-art lighting offer exceptional field visibility and can host a wide variety of events. Amenities like conveniently located restrooms, Wi-Fi access, on-site concessions and ample parking ensure a great experience for your teams. Responsive professionals offer detailed tournament planning and unparalleled customer service before, during and after every event. Customized contracting flexes to fit your event’s unique requirements, and large-bracket tournaments Saluda Shoals Park is Easy to Reach can utilize a bullpen of supplemental fields nearby. Interstate 26, a major South Carolina highway, is located within The athletic complex is located within a 400-acre riverfront park. two miles of the park. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is less than Saluda Shoals Park’s amenities include 10 miles of paved and 20 minutes away. unpaved trails for walking as well as access to the Saluda River for canoeing, kayaking, tubing and fishing. Planner Perspective “Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission facilities are top-notch. The Local Attractions for Off-the-Field Fun staff goes over and above to make sure our event and participant First on your list is Saluda Shoals Park, a natural park located a experience is outstanding. We have enjoyed our partnership and are mile and a half from Lake Murray with beautiful outdoor experiences, looking forward to returning for many years to come.” such as picnicking and swimming, that the whole family can enjoy. —Jason Gross, Gameday Sports Executive Director, Then, check out Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, one of the nation’s SC USSSA State Director premier natural habitat zoos. The Harbison Boulevard area offers two movie theaters, a bowling alley and Frankie’s Fun Park for families to enjoy. For those who are interested in history, arts and IRMO CHAPIN RECREATION COMMISSION culture, the city of Columbia is less than 20 minutes away. There Ashley Smith, Market Development Director you can visit the SC State Museum and Planetarium, Columbia 803-772-1228 • [email protected] Museum of Art, SC State House and EdVenture Children’s ICRC.net Museum.

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Offering outstanding venues and plenty for athletes to do after the competition, Florence bills itself as the FLORENCE, SC Amateur Sports Destination of the Southeast.

Florence Sports an Impressive 3. Sparrow Stadium at Francis Marion University Line-up of Facilities Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer Sparrow Stadium, which includes Clifford S. Cormell Field, 1. Dr. Eddie Floyd Florence Tennis Center is a new, state-of-the-art venue for baseball. The facility has Sports: Tennis seating for 900 with a capacity of 1,755. On-site amenities include Since its founding in 2011, the Dr. Eddie Floyd Florence a concessions area, a single ticketing area, restrooms, VIP room Tennis Center has been the area's premier place to play, averaging and a press box. Sparrow Stadium is part of the university's about 13 events every year. With 24 asphalt courts, six clay courts $11.1-million R. Gerald Griffin Athletic Complex, which includes and a 5,000-square-foot activity area, it has the space to host a lake, soccer and softball stadiums, and a fieldhouse. tournaments. In fact, there is a partnership with McLeod Health Note: The university's former baseball facility, also named Systems for the annual October Ladies Pro Circuit Tennis Cormell Field, is used by Florence-Darlington Technical College. Tournament, now named the McLeod for Health Florence Open, to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Lowcountry. 4. Florence Civic Center In the activity center, additional amenities include a lounge area, At 50,000 square feet, the Florence Civic Center is the largest a study area, restrooms, locker rooms, showers, and space for convention facility in the northeastern part of South Carolina. It meetings or offices. A pro shop rounds out the indoor amenities; includes a 10,000-seat arena, a 14,500-square-foot ballroom outside, guests will find ample parking space and easy access to and several smaller meeting rooms. The arena covers 29,000 and from town. square feet, and the facility comes packed with amenities, including four breakout rooms, five dressing rooms, corporate suites, facility- 2. Freedom Florence Recreation Complex wide Wi-Fi and available catering. In-house personnel can help Sports: Softball, football, gymnastics with planning your event. This 100-acre, multi-use park is part of Florence’s Parks and Recreation Department, and it was purpose-built to provide 5. Darlington Raceway an elite, beautiful site for tournaments. Sport-ready areas at the Sports: Racing complex include nine lit softball fields, three football fields and One of the Florence area's premier sports venues, Darlington a roomy, 11,600-square-foot gymnastics center. Outdoor Raceway hosts numerous events each year, including the amenities are just as extensive; they include a lake, picnic areas, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles’ Southern 500®. This an amphitheater, and a selection of trails. While access to the year, NASCAR racing returned to its historic Labor Day weekend majority of the park is free, most tournaments will require some date. Other events include the Greater Darlington Chamber kind of usage fee. Freedom Florence Recreation Complex of Commerce's annual July 4 bash Freedom Fest, NASCAR averages approximately 50 events each year. XFINITY series VFW Sport Clips Help a Hero 200 on Labor Day

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weekend, and November's Speed and Feed BBQ Cook-Off and where everything from the circus to the Beach Boys has Car Show presented by Sam Carbis Solutions Group. Track rentals stopped by. Or take in a local performance at the Francis Marion and tours are available. Other on-site race weekend amenities University Performing Arts Center or Florence's own Little include camping and RV areas. The Darlington Raceway Stock Theatre. Florence's downtown area is a great place to stroll, Car Museum and NMPA Hall of Fame are open year-round, browse, eat and generally enjoy life. excluding holidays and weekends. And don't forget the great outdoors when it's time to relax. Anchored as it is by the region's namesake Pee Dee River (and Planner Perspective in the city itself, by Jeffries Creek), Florence has a trail and park system that invites a steady saunter or a quiet rest. “We loved working with the Florence Area Sports Council… I wish all of our CVB and sports commission contacts were like that!” 90 Minutes from Myrtle Beach — Lindsay Judd, Color Vibe One of seven counties in South Carolina's Pee Dee Region, Florence is about 90 minutes away from Myrtle Beach and After the Game is Over, within a few hours' drive of Charleston and Charlotte. Both I-20 Leisure Options Abound and I-95 lead to Florence County. It's approximately midway between New York City and Miami. Florence is served by the Once the gear has been packed and the day's score settled, Florence Regional Airport. Charlotte-Douglas International it's time to relax and enjoy life off the playing field. And in Airport (2.5 hours) and Myrtle Beach International Airport Florence, you can take a civilized approach to this part of (1.5 hours). sports travel planning. Here you’ll find two museums that high- light the area’s heritage, live entertainment to take in, and plenty of strolling to do in and out of the city. If a window into the past is likely to resonate with your group, they'll want to check out the and FLORENCE AREA SPORTS COUNCIL Florence County Museum Jade Perkins the War Between the States Museum. Each March, there's a 843-664-0330 • [email protected] reenactment of a Civil War skirmish at Columns Plantation. PlayFlorence.com In town, you can catch a show at the Florence Civic Center,

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Pick South Carolina’s Mountain Lakes MOUNTAIN LAKES REGION/ region for your next sporting event to bring OCONEE COUNTY, SC everyone together and in the zone.

From Spacious Lakes to Disc Golf Courses 3. Lake Jocassee Sports: Hiking, fishing, kayaking 1. Lake Keowee This lake provides guided tours for vacationers, giving you the Sports: Golfing, sailing, hiking, fishing, boating, water sports, tennis ultimate experience of the deepest lake in South Carolina (385 This man-made lake, known for its Christmas tree shape and feet). Lake Tours navigate through the lake to rivers and waterfalls crystal-clear waters, was built in 1971 to generate hydroelectric to see the exquisite, untouched nature. Take a Twilight Cruise that power. Now, it serves as an excellent public recreational destination lasts past sunset. Kayak Tours travel around the 75-mile-long with fishing, boating, swimming and other water activities for its shoreline. Hop through rocks on the Adventure Tour by foot. Drop guests. Tennis Play Days are available every week, where players your boat in to partake in a day of waterskiing, wakeboarding or at all levels are welcome to participate in friendly competition. tubing. Connected to the Keowee, Little and Seneca rivers, which flow into the larger Savannah River, Lake Keowee is the center for 4. Shaver Baseball/Softball Complex fun in the water. Sports: T-ball, baseball, softball Shaver Complex’s four 200-foot fields and two 285-foot fields 2. Lake Hartwell can handle youth baseball and softball tournaments. Both the Dixie Sports: Fishing, boating, hiking, bird watching Youth/Ozone State Tournament and Dixie Boys World Series Lake Hartwell State Park not only provides access to the take place at this complex, attracting teams from all over the state. 56,000-acre lake, but also various nature trails and wildlife spottings. Coyotes, deer, skunks, groundhogs and foxes tip-toe 5. Shaver Disc Golf Course on the trails. The park also takes bird watching up a notch—see Sports: Disc golf birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, or possibly spot the country’s This course is the most technical of the Mountain Lakes region’s national emblem, the bald eagle. Boat access is available for visitors disc golf courses, with a wood-chip bath in the wooded areas to participate in various water sports, from water skiing to fishing, and well-labeled signs to navigate through the course. The but don’t forget your South Carolina fishing license; you won’t be fairways are tight with rolling elevation. It even has a pro shop that allowed to fish without it. sells equipment.

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FACILITY 6. Sertoma Field Disc Golf Course SPOTLIGHT Sports: Disc golf Sertoma Field Disc Golf Course has amazing scenery with a handful of elevations. One-fourth of the holes are accompanied by water, making this challenging course a must-play. The foliage is mixed with both green areas and open spaces. Tee types are either concrete or gravel depending on your preference.

An Area Blessed with Natural Resources Mountain Lakes’ sporting events typically go hand-in-hand with its natural resources: four lakes, over 150 waterfalls, two rivers and over 80,000 acres of national forest land. This makes it a 2 unique destination for fishing tournaments, road cycling, water sports, hiking adventures and archery. Road bicycle events vary from three-day endurance rides through the mountains (Road Titans 300) to one-day rides with different mileage options (Issaqueena’s Last Ride, Rally in the Valley or Tour de Tugalo). For water-savvy athletes, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet racing and acrobatic competitions are all in season. The National Watercross Tour and INT Wakeboard Competition all occur within the region’s borders. Bass fishing is one of the most popular attractions in Mountain Lakes region. With seven different genus species of bass, its bass fishing tournaments reel in fishermen near and far. Bass Fishing League has multiple events on both Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell. Hike the Big Bend Trail to get a glimpse of the notorious 4 Big Bend Falls or visit one of the region’s five public golf courses to practice your backswing. Culturally, the area abounds with museums, art collections and theaters. Located in the center of Walhalla, the Oconee Heritage Center is located in the old Tobacco Factory and provides a vast collection of artifacts that illustrate the diverse history and heritage of Oconee.

Easy Access a Big Plus Smack-dab in between Atlanta and Charlotte, the Mountain Lakes region is less than a three-hour drive from each. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is about a two-and-a-half hour drive from the Mountain Lakes region. Greenville International Airport is 45 minutes away. 5 Planner Perspective “After working with more than 20 bureaus across the country, the SC Mountain Lakes CVB definitely ranks highest. They have far exceeded our expectations. They were prepared to help and accomplish anything necessary as a partner with our event.” —Jonathan Strauss, Operations Coordinator Road Titans 300

MOUNTAIN LAKES CVB Charlotte Waters, Sales Manager/Event Planner 864-364-4525 • [email protected] SCMountainLakes.com

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Planning a sports event shouldn’t cause blood, ROCK HILL/ sweat and tears; Rock Hill/York County, South Carolina YORK COUNTY, SC ensures your event will be a smooth success. Top Venues for Soccer, 3. Novant Health BMX Supercross Track Cycling and Water Sports Sports: BMX Cycling This BMX Supercross Track opened in 2014 and is the only 1. Irwin Track at Winthrop University Athletic Complex Olympic-caliber training center on the East Coast. One of only Sports: Soccer, track and field a few in the country, it hosts local, state, regional, and national This newly built $2.8-million track and soccer complex, events and provides training and insight for those dreaming of named after Charlotte’s famous businessman and philanthropist entering Olympic cycling one day. With all ages and experience Irwin “Ike” Belk, is Rock Hill/York County’s best facility yet. Its levels welcome, and countless programs, races and events to top-quality Mondo rubberized surfaces attract NCAA Division I choose from, the track is a premier cycling facility. competitors. The complex includes a full-sized soccer field and designated area for field events like discus and pole vault. 4. Lake Wylie Comfortable seating is provided for fans to cheer on their track stars. Sports: Water sports, golf, 5k/10k runs Lake Wylie offers natural beauty and sports activities close to 2. Giordana Velodrome the city. Put your water sports skills to the test with swimming, Sports: Cycling rowing, sailing, fishing, skiing, wakeboarding—you name it. The The Giordana Velodrome, part of the Rock Hill Outdoor lake hosts the annual Splash Dash, a 5k/10k walk or run, and Center, is a 250-meter, world-class cycling track endorsed by Captain’s Choice Golf Tournament. USA Cycling. The idea backing this facility is to introduce to the community and its visitors the Olympic sport of track cycling. Its 5. Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex home base was made to train and develop those interested in Sports: Soccer, biking track cycling, and offers programs for cyclists of all levels and Manchester Meadows Soccer Complex is a new 70-acre park equipment rental. featuring six regulation and two championship soccer fields, a stadium to hold 1,500 people and a pavilion with concessions. Other features include bike trails, a picnic pavilion and playground.

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Wild Rides and Lakeside Leisure Convenient Location a Big Plus York County is full of activities ready to be experienced once The Carolinas have access to three major interstate systems: you get a break in play. Carowinds, an amusement and water I-77, I-85 and I-40. Whether coming from the Northeast, park, has rides of all speeds and sizes, with roller coasters for Southeast, Southwest or Midwest, there will be an easy route adrenaline junkies or carousels for theme park beginners. Comfort option for your arrival to Rock Hill/York County. I-40 provides an Inn at Carowinds and Hampton Inn, Rock Hill are the perfect important east-to-west link for coast-to-coast travel. Located 25 places to stay and play. minutes from downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, Rock Hill is Check out “The Stadium” Sports Amphitheatre at 20 miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of Revolutions in the Rock Hill Galleria or sit down at its full-service the fastest growing airports in the U.S. with over 120 non-stop restaurant after bowling on one of its 20 VIP bowling lanes. service destinations. Cherry Park has five state-of-the-art softball/baseball and multipurpose fields, plus a playground with picnic tables and grills. The legendary baseball player Mighty Casey is honored Planner Perspective here with a sculpture—perfect for photo ops with the team. “We had a great experience working with the City of Rock Hill, Looking to enjoy the beauty of nature? Kings Mountain State York County, and the folks at Manchester Meadows. They went Park sets the stage for a great retreat. With two lakes and above and beyond to help us put on a fantastic event for partici- streams for fishing and 35 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, pants and spectators alike.” the park is the place for everyone to unwind. — Alicia Radford – Acting Executive Director, US Quidditch Quaint boutiques and antiques shops filled with hidden treasures line the streets in Rock Hill, a charming Southern town. Stop by Gettys Art Center to get a glimpse at local Rock Hill/York County artwork and view artists’ galleries and studios. ROCK HILL/YORK COUNTY CVB With various downtowns to choose from, Rock Hill/York County J. Auvis Cole, Sports Sales Manager has a vast selection of shops. 803-487-5702 • [email protected] VisitYorkCounty.com

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Bring your teams to the sports mecca of the South and mix tournaments with outdoor SPARTANBURG, SC adventures in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

soccer fields with artificial turf and four grass fields that can be Spartanburg Has the Facilities You Need used for soccer, lacrosse or 7-v-7 football. Upwards Sports is partnered with Spartanburg Regional Health Services and is 1. Tyger River Park able to offer strength training, rehab opportunities and orthopedic Sports: Baseball, softball services. As one of the South’s premier baseball and softball tournament facilities, Tyger River Park features 12 ball fields arranged in 3. Milliken Arboretum and 5K Fitness Trails convenient four-field clusters in addition to a championship Sports: Cross country stadium that comfortably seats 600 people. In addition to its The rolling hills of the Milliken Arboretum have hosted renowned excellent playing fields, Tyger River Park also offers top-of-the-line cross-country events including the NCAA National Cross-Country site amenities including a clubhouse, several concession areas, Championships, Junior Olympic National Cross-Country umpire changing rooms, a lounge, a VIP Suite, Wi-Fi, covered seats Championship and Milliken Earth Run. The all-grass course is and two parks where the whole family can play. part of a 600-acre private corporate campus and is available for approved community events. 2. Upward Star Center Sports: Basketball, volleyball (indoor and beach), soccer, lacrosse, 4. Viking Track cheerleading, 7-v-7 football Sports: Track and field This 120,000-square-foot, multi-sports facility opened this year The world-class outdoor track boasts the same surfacing and can host almost any sport that comes its way. Indoors, the materials used at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the center is equipped with six full-sized basketball courts, 12 indoor recent World Indoor Championships in Valencia. The custom- regulation volleyball courts, several studios designed for made track lends itself to optimal traction, providing the best cheerleading, dance, aerobics and yoga, as well as a team shop. contact between the track and the athletes’ spikes. Viking Track Additionally, the center houses a running track, batting cages, and contains eight lanes, two jump pits, pole vault and high jump a gym complete with free weights and cardio machines. The outdoor areas. The complex is lighted and uses the Lynx MVP automatic part of the facility has four lighted sand volleyball courts, two timing system.

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5. Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park FACILITY Sports: Soccer, football, tennis, beach volleyball, disc golf SPOTLIGHT Renovated in the spring of 2015, the park offers seven regulation-sized fields that are covered in Bermuda grass and can be used for soccer or football. Additionally, the park features an 18-hole disc golf course (see below for Shoally Creek), three tennis courts, two beach volley- ball courts and shaded picnic tables. The recent renovations also included a restroom and concession complex as well as an expanded parking lot.

6. Shoally Creek Disc Golf Course Sports: Disc golf Heralded as one of the best disc golf courses in the state, Shoally Creek contains 18 holes that span 4,647 feet when played from the short tees, and 6,796 feet when played from the long tees. The course 1 runs mostly through the woods and has several elevation changes. Spartanburg is Easily Accessible Located a few hours away from a variety of metropolitan hubs, Spartanburg is a laid-back oasis in the heart of the Carolinas. By car, Spartanburg is just one hour and 10 minutes south of Charlotte, and is connected to the popular North Carolina city by I-85. Cities less than six hours away include Columbia, Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia; and Nashville, Tennessee. Greenville-Spartanburg Airport, a mere 24 minutes away from the city center, is served by Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest and United airlines. Outdoor Adventures Keep Traveling Teams Busy 2 Whether you’re trying to fill downtime between games or looking to spend a few laidback days at the end of your trip, Spartanburg is full of timeless attractions that will have your team begging to come back. Explore the great outdoors of Upstate South Carolina as you kayak the lakes, rivers and streams surrounding Spartanburg, hike, ride or bike along its hundreds of miles of trails. Discover plants and animals in the sprawling gardens and forests of preserves such as Hatcher Garden, the Cottonwood Trail, Glendale Shoals and many others. Spend an afternoon exploring Croft State Park and go fishing, boating or geo- caching, or head to Strawberry Hill USA and pick delicious in-season berries, peaches or pumpkins. Check out Hollywild Animal Park, a zoo where your team can help feed a variety of animals or relax on a safari ride. Prefer to beat the heat and stay indoors? Go rock climbing at Climb Upstate. Get a little shopping in at the WestGate Mall, then head next door to the Regal 3 Spartan 16 and catch a movie. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at a well-loved Spartanburg classic like the The Beacon Drive In, Wades Restaurant, Sugar-n-Spice or Cribb’s Kitchen. Planner Perspective “Spartanburg has great sports facilities that are well maintained, and they are easily accessible from the airport and highways. We found super support for our events from the City, CVB, hotels and tourism industry.” — Warren Jones, State Commissioner, Ohio Amateur Softball Association

SPARTANBURG CVB Kristyn Hawkins, Sales Associate 864-594-5050 • [email protected] SpartanburgSports.com 5

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With exceptional facilities and a lively city, Greenville, South Carolina is more than the sports metropolis GREENVILLE, SC of the South—it’s a family-friendly oasis.

Elite Facilities Draw Major entertainment arena. It is home to the NY Rangers affiliate Greenville Road Warriors that play in the ECH AA hockey league. Tournaments to Greenville In 2013 it began a three-year renovation project that has seen the installation of a new curtain system, a 360-degree ribbon board, a 1. MeSA Soccer Complex high-definition video scoreboard, digital menu boards and concourse Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, ultimate signage, parking lot upgrades and new risers. Bon Secours Wellness This is home to the Carolina Elite Soccer Academy, which has Arena has been recognized as one of the top 50 venues in both recreational and competitive soccer programs and recently the world. came in second place in the National Soccer Championships. In 2012 the complex hosted the US Youth Soccer Southern Regional 4. Soccer Tournament, which welcomed over 10,000 athletes and Sports: All spectators. MeSA Soccer Complex accommodates both large This university features 11 state-of-the-art, sport-focused and small group events. facilities. The Latham Baseball Stadium is a 10,000-square-foot complex that has undergone significant improvements in the past 2. Westside Aquatic Complex years and provides seating for 2,000. The Pepsi Softball Stadium Sports: Swimming, water polo, kayaking boasts a 2,700-square-foot press box facility and seats 300. The Westside Aquatic Complex has an indoor 25-by-50-meter, 20- Timmons Arena is a 100,000-square-foot arena that seats 3,500 lane competition pool and an indoor, five-lane, 25-yard heated people for basketball and 6,000 for concerts and other entertain- therapy pool. Its state-of-the-art Paddock Evacuator System ment. Paladin Stadium is a 44,000-square-foot, four-story facility provides fresh, clean air for everyone and its concessions will fill all that serves as the new home for Furman football. The Eugene your cravings. The complex also includes newly renovated locker Stone Soccer Stadium houses more than 3,000 fans and includes rooms, meeting rooms, an exercise room and aerobic equipment. a fully-automated scoreboard, press box and lighting.

3. Bon Secours Wellness Arena 5. Fluor Field at the West End Sports: Basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, hockey, mat sports, crossfit Sports: Baseball Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, Bon Secours A replica of Boston’s historic Fenway Park, Fluor Field at Wellness Arena is a state-of-the-art, 15,000-seat sports and the West End serves as the host field of the Greenville Drive,a

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Class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. It includes a 30-foot-high FACILITY SPOTLIGHT “Green Monster,” which is named after the famous left field wall at Fenway. The facility can seat more than 5,000 fans and has a hand- operated scoreboard. Spectators will not be disappointed when watching a game here as the farthest seats are only 12 rows away from the field.

6. Conestee Park Sports: Baseball, softball Conestee Park features four top-tier baseball/softball fields, and a stadium field with a permanent pitching mound at 60 feet, six inches and 400 feet to the center field fence. Its event pavilion in the center of the four fields has a seating capacity of 200 people. It offers restrooms, electrical power, two grills and ample parking. Adjacent to the pavilion are a large playground and open green space for the kids to play in. 3 Lake Conestee Nature Park is located 100 yards away.

Enjoying the Area with Family and Teammates In downtown Greenville, visitors love browsing the one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques. Your team can even catch a game in their downtime with Greenville’s professional hockey and baseball teams – the ECHL Greenville Road Warriors and the MiLB Greenville Drive. Afterward, when everybody is hungry, there are more than 100 restaurants to choose from, many of them chef-owned. Next, take a stroll over to Heritage Green, which sets the stage for art, learning and entertainment. At Falls Park on the Reedy savor the peace and quiet at this tranquil spot which features the Liberty Bridge, waterfalls and landscaped gardens. If you are looking for something more fast-paced, Greenville is sure to 2 supply. Fly through the air at exhilarating speeds on the Gorge Zipline Canopy Tour that is perched precariously on the rim of the famous Green River Gorge. Cook a world-class meal at Charleston Cooks! where visitors can view demonstrations or take a hands-on class. Make a splash and bask in the sun at one of three GCPRT waterparks. Or take a look at out-of-this-world art at Art Crossing at River Place, where artists gather daily to create.

Greenville is Easy to Reach Located directly off of Interstate 85, Greenville is within a two- or three-hour drive of many major cities in North Carolina and Georgia. It is only an afternoon’s drive away from the beaches on the coast. Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is served by six major carriers and has around 50 direct flights daily. The airport is a 15-minute 4 drive from the heart of the city. Planner Perspective “Greenville hits all of our marks when we’re looking for a site to host our events. It has the accommodations we need, it has the facilities and it has the nightlife…. We are treated wonderfully here from the CVB to the Recreation Department.” —Christian Smith, Director of Division II National Club Baseball Association

VISITGREENVILLESC Robin Wright, Senior Sales Manager – Sports 864-421-0000 • [email protected] VisitGreenvilleSC.com 6

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Team up with great venues, wide sandy beaches and plenty of family fun. Only in NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Looking for a venue to host your unique sport? Call North Myrtle 4. North Myrtle Beach Aquatic & Fitness Center Beach; we’re only limited by our imagination. Sports: Swimming The NMB Aquatic & Fitness Center is a membership- You’ll Find Just the Right Venue based facility and a favorite of high school regional and Masters for Your Event Swimming events. A full Colorado timing system and score- board keep track of the action on an eight-lane, 25-yard lap pool. 1. Wyndham Vacation Baseball/Softball Complex The center also offers a three-lane, warm-water therapy pool, Sports: Baseball, softball sauna, hot tub and 20-foot indoor waterslide. For baseball/softball, the Wyndham complex at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex features four regulation 5. J. Bryan Floyd Community Center youth baseball/collegiate softball fields and two regulation Sports: Basketball, volleyball, pickleball high school/collegiate baseball fields. The latter can be This indoor venue features two regulation-style basketball changed to regulation youth baseball, or collegiate fields. The courts that have hosted major events, including the USBA complex has eight batting tunnels. Umpire rooms, misting fans Summer Nationals. Easily transformed, the courts can become in each dugout, picnic areas and concessions enhance athlete six pickleball or four regulation volleyball courts. Officials’ room and family enjoyment. Free live streaming video is on all baseball/ and meeting rooms are available to planners. softball fields with over 200,000 views to date. Family and friends back home can keep up with all the action. 6. Main Street, North Myrtle Beach Sports: 5K, 10K, half marathon, beach volleyball 2. Wild Wing Cafe Soccer/Lacrosse Complex What’s a beach destination without a beach venue? The Main Sports: Soccer, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, cross country Street location is an ideal start/finish line for half-marathons. This facility at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Runners, including the DIVAS Half-Marathon, are treated to a Complex features eight soccer/lacrosse fields with officials’ room. scenic ocean view route, completing their run in the heart of As on the baseball side, there are concessions, picnic areas North Myrtle Beach. and playgrounds. The NMB Park and Sports Complex includes a 10-acre meadow, 25-acre lake, walking/bike trails and Good Times Await Away amphitheater. There’s even a three-acre dog park. from the Field, Court and Pool 3. Central Park Sports Complex With 10 miles of pristine beaches and all the fun they offer, Sports: Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, pickleball, archery do we need to look any further? You decide. Located in the south- This 20-acre park can host a variety of events. Two multipurpose east corner of the NMB Park and Sports Complex, Go Ape fields measure 100 by 200 feet, with another at 180 by 300 feet. Treetop Adventure spans six acres, includes five zip lines, rope There are four outdoor pickleball courts. Two youth baseball/ ladders and two Tarzan swings, and finishes crossing a lake. That softball fields measure 200-225 feet to outfield fences, while one lake is also home to Jetpack Adventures. Do your best George field has 185-200-foot fences. Each has clay infields. The baseball/ Jetson and enjoy the ride. The North Myrtle Beach Segway softball area has five batting cages. The complex also features Experience takes riders on a cruise around the NMB Park and restroom facilities, concessions, playgrounds and two basketball Sports Complex, then into the woods for nature and photo ops. half-courts. is a shopping, dining and entertainment

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destination and home to Alabama Theatre, Alligator Adventure NMB is Easy to Reach by Car or Air and House of Blues; it has 15 restaurants. Specialty shops and bou- Located midway between New York City and Miami, North tiques offer accessories, apparel, jewelry, shoes and gift items. Belk Myrtle Beach is within a day’s drive of most metropolitan areas and Bass Pro Shops anchor nearby . Tanger east of the Mississippi River. It is slightly more than an hour Outlets, with 100 outlets you’ll recognize, is just across the highway. from the intersection of I-95 and I-20. Myrtle Beach International Inlet Point Plantation Stables provides year-round horse- Airport has non-stop flights from more than 30 cities in the United back riding on the beach. Maybe watersport options are more States and Canada. Airlines servicing North Myrtle Beach are your style. Consider parasailing, kite surfing down the beach, Allegiant, Delta, Porter (Canada), Spirit, United, American, ViaAir kayaking, or inlet or deep-sea fishing. and WestJet (Canada). Amongst all the sports action and off the field fun there’s a Once you’ve arrived finding your way locally is a breeze. milder side of North Myrtle Beach awaiting visitors. From the point All sports venues are well marked and easily found. All are within at Cherry Grove to the peaceful Intracoastal Waterway to the ma- minutes of the Main Street and U.S. Highway 17 intersection. jestic marshlands, guests are discovering a quiet, peaceful, relax- Area accommodations, attractions and restaurants are also ing destination. Find a comfortable chair, prop up your feet and effortlessly located. listen to the comforting sounds of quiet. Come hungry and discover the dining delights of NMB. From For information about NMB accommodations, attractions and dining: seafood buffets to grills to raw bars there are more seafood NMB CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CVB restaurants than you can imagine. As at any beach destination, Sports & Group Tourism Manager 843-361-3047 • [email protected] breakfast is important and NMB is famous for its top breakfast NMBSportsTravel.com places. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YH9NLiw7hQ With more than 15,000 vacation rentals, there are plenty of For more information about NMB sports facilities: overnight options. Outstanding condominiums and resorts offer oceanfront, waterway and golf course views. Large families, multi- CITY OF NORTH MYRTLE BEACH ple families and groups may prefer a beach home, available in all Matt Gibbons, CPRP, Superintendent of NMB communities. There are 18 rental companies ready to help Sports Tourism/Athletics 843-280-5574 • [email protected] you search. More than a dozen flag and family hotels/motels are NMBPark.com available from oceanfront to inland.