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2019 SPG SOUTH CAROLINA GUIDE
A Great State for Professional Anglers Palmetto State’s waters are perfect for big-time tourneys Site InSpections Plenty of Fabulous of Event-Ready Destinations Fishing in SC and Their Top Venues 5 A Premier Travel Media publication • www.SportsPlanningGuide.com SPORT_358.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 10:26 PM Page 358 SPORT_359.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 11:08 PM Page 359
Lindsay Burns President
If you're searching for a place to hold a professional, amateur or collegiate sporting event, look no further. South Carolina is just right for champions. We're just right for soccer games, baseball tournaments, golf championships and tennis playoffs. And let's not forget about football, basketball and the awesome mud run challenges, 5K walks and runs and fishing tournaments. The Palmetto State has played host to national and worldwide organizations including the PGA Tour, NCAA, Women’s Tennis Association, Bassmasters, International Quidditch Association, USA Cycling and so many more. Whether your event is small or large, professional or amateur, the members of the South Carolina Sports Alliance (SCSA) are committed to helping 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 promise 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. Become a champion in South Carolina!
Sincerely,
Lindsay Burns President SPORT_358.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 10:26 PM Page 358 SPORT_359.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 11:08 PM Page 359
Lindsay Burns President
If you're searching for a place to hold a professional, amateur or collegiate sporting event, look no further. South Carolina is just right for champions. We're just right for soccer games, baseball tournaments, golf championships and tennis playoffs. And let's not forget about football, basketball and the awesome mud run challenges, 5K walks and runs and fishing tournaments. The Palmetto State has played host to national and worldwide organizations including the PGA Tour, NCAA, Women’s Tennis Association, Bassmasters, International Quidditch Association, USA Cycling and so many more. Whether your event is small or large, professional or amateur, the members of the South Carolina Sports Alliance (SCSA) are committed to helping 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 promise 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. Become a champion in South Carolina!
Sincerely,
Lindsay Burns President SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:46 PM Page 360 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:47 PM Page 361
Regardless of the season, the Palmetto State hosts fishing tournaments almost every week.
August 2017 was the third time the Fishing League Worldwide nament was $1,463 per day, per boat, or $53,257 per tournament based Forrest Wood Cup had been held at Lake Murray, near Columbia. Fifty- on spending by the captains and their fishing and traveling parties. A three of the world’s best anglers competed in the FLW’s leading event. 1999 study by Texas A&M reported on an offshore tournament and According to the Capital City/Lake Murray Regional Tourism Bureau, the measured non-local county anglers separately. It was reported the 2008 three-day event had a mouth-dropping $46 million economic economic impact of a five-day tournament was $1,136,647. impact followed by a $24 million impact in 2014. The year 2017 continued In Charleston, the Lowcounty “Fish Scales” website lists a half dozen the string of bringing millions to the Lake Murray region. tournaments including the Charleston Trident Fishing tournament’s FLW credits three reasons for returning to Lake Murray: The fishery, weekly results. In 2019, this legendary tournament will enter its 53rd the facilities and the community. The FLW points out that only four times year. The Carolina Lady Anglers’ 22nd Fishing For the Cure Tournament since the inauguration of the annual cup has in early June 2019 is a regional favorite. Bene- an angler brought a five bass limit exceeding fitting the Palmetto Warrior Connection, the Tournament 20 pounds to the weigh-in. Two of those four Lowcountry Open, like many one-day events, times were on Lake Murray. The weigh-in site passes on a portion of every registration fee to at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention a worthwhile cause. The 26th Annual Fishing Center and launch site at Dreher Island State for Miracles King Mackerel Tournament benefits Park are premier facilities. The state’s capitol MUSC Children’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Fishing Means city Columbia is centrally located in the state Care Unit. with easy interstate highway access. The four-day Annual Hilton Head Harbor Closer to the coast, the 2018 Academy Wahoo Shootout that completes the SC Wahoo Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation Eastern Series brings hundreds of anglers and their Regional presented by Magellan Outdoors, crews to Hilton Head Island. Likewise, the Big Dollars in was held in June of 2018. When the initial three-day Bohicket Marina Invitational Billfish action was completed, there were 112 that Tournament departing from the marina located survived the cut in this unusual format. There between Kiawah and Seabrook certainly has an were 56 tournament boats on the water, each economic impact on the community. South Carolina with a non-boater. Winyah Bay was the fishery, Georgetown Landing Marina hosts three including the five rivers that converge, and multi-day major fishing tournaments. The season Georgetown was the host for the tournament. In kicks off with the late April 11 Annual Georgetown South Carolina is home to numerous fishing tournaments that have a sizable economic impact on the state. 2016, Georgetown got on the map as a commu- Meatfish Slam. The 53rd Annual Georgetown nity cable of hosting an event when the Bass- Blue Marlin Tournament will be late May 2019, The Palmetto State’s n mid-March of 2018, the Bassmaster Classic was held on Lake master Elite Series came to town. Along with the Elite Series, the Winyah while the 2019 Wahoo Challenge is mid-August 2019. The three-day Hartwell in South Carolina’s upstate region. This is the third Classic Bay Heritage Festival coincided and became a must for anglers and out- Marlin Quay King Mackerel Shootout departs for the Marlin Quay Marina abundance of fresh water on Lake Hartwell and the first since 2015, which had the third doorsmen. Earlier, smaller tournaments had economic impacts of in Murrells Inlet. Competitive saltwater fishing tournaments have a highest attendance of any Classic. More than 100,000 people were $500,000. The larger tournaments with more competition and practice decided economic impact on Georgetown County. lakes and rivers, brackish spread between the Green Pond Landing launch site in Anderson, days anticipated an impact exceeding $2 million. On the farthest northern point of South Carolina’s coast, Little River the weigh-in at Bon Secours Wellness Arena, or the trade show at the From Little River to Hilton Head Island, there are saltwater fishing hosts some fun tournaments with generous payouts. The 16th Annual TDI Convention Center, the latter two taking place in Greenville. tournaments departing from marinas all along the coast. Beginning in Rumble in the Jungle attracts boasts and crews from as far away as bays and the Atlantic Ocean The anticipated $23 million economic impact of the Classic was mid-February, the calendar of competitions is full. For one-day tourna- Florida and Virginia in mid October. It’s held during the peak of King bring big-time fishing exceeded. Visitor spending impacted hotels, restaurants, retailers and ments with local participation, it’s almost impossible to measure the Mackerel season. gas stations. The 30-acre, deep water Green Pond Landing facility was economic impact for an area. Even the South Carolina Wahoo Series Regardless of the season, freshwater or saltwater, professional, or tournaments and a positive opened just prior to the 2018 Classic. Between the Geico Bassmaster that runs daily from mid-February to April 15 is difficult to gauge with amateur anglers, there are tournaments almost every week in South and Walmart FLW tournaments along with numerous additional competitive boats leaving from multiple marinas daily. Carolina benefiting a local community. To learn more about bringing your economic impact events, it’s estimated the launch site alone will have an economic impact While there is little current data available, a study by Michigan State fishing tournament to South Carolina visit the South Carolina Sports of more than $10 million annually. University in 2009 indicated the economic impact of a Great Lakes tour- Alliance at discoversouthcarolina.com/sports-alliance. SPG
3604 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 361 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:46 PM Page 360 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:47 PM Page 361
Regardless of the season, the Palmetto State hosts fishing tournaments almost every week.
August 2017 was the third time the Fishing League Worldwide nament was $1,463 per day, per boat, or $53,257 per tournament based Forrest Wood Cup had been held at Lake Murray, near Columbia. Fifty- on spending by the captains and their fishing and traveling parties. A three of the world’s best anglers competed in the FLW’s leading event. 1999 study by Texas A&M reported on an offshore tournament and According to the Capital City/Lake Murray Regional Tourism Bureau, the measured non-local county anglers separately. It was reported the 2008 three-day event had a mouth-dropping $46 million economic economic impact of a five-day tournament was $1,136,647. impact followed by a $24 million impact in 2014. The year 2017 continued In Charleston, the Lowcounty “Fish Scales” website lists a half dozen the string of bringing millions to the Lake Murray region. tournaments including the Charleston Trident Fishing tournament’s FLW credits three reasons for returning to Lake Murray: The fishery, weekly results. In 2019, this legendary tournament will enter its 53rd the facilities and the community. The FLW points out that only four times year. The Carolina Lady Anglers’ 22nd Fishing For the Cure Tournament since the inauguration of the annual cup has in early June 2019 is a regional favorite. Bene- an angler brought a five bass limit exceeding fitting the Palmetto Warrior Connection, the Tournament 20 pounds to the weigh-in. Two of those four Lowcountry Open, like many one-day events, times were on Lake Murray. The weigh-in site passes on a portion of every registration fee to at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention a worthwhile cause. The 26th Annual Fishing Center and launch site at Dreher Island State for Miracles King Mackerel Tournament benefits Park are premier facilities. The state’s capitol MUSC Children’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Fishing Means city Columbia is centrally located in the state Care Unit. with easy interstate highway access. The four-day Annual Hilton Head Harbor Closer to the coast, the 2018 Academy Wahoo Shootout that completes the SC Wahoo Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation Eastern Series brings hundreds of anglers and their Regional presented by Magellan Outdoors, crews to Hilton Head Island. Likewise, the Big Dollars in was held in June of 2018. When the initial three-day Bohicket Marina Invitational Billfish action was completed, there were 112 that Tournament departing from the marina located survived the cut in this unusual format. There between Kiawah and Seabrook certainly has an were 56 tournament boats on the water, each economic impact on the community. South Carolina with a non-boater. Winyah Bay was the fishery, Georgetown Landing Marina hosts three including the five rivers that converge, and multi-day major fishing tournaments. The season Georgetown was the host for the tournament. In kicks off with the late April 11 Annual Georgetown South Carolina is home to numerous fishing tournaments that have a sizable economic impact on the state. 2016, Georgetown got on the map as a commu- Meatfish Slam. The 53rd Annual Georgetown nity cable of hosting an event when the Bass- Blue Marlin Tournament will be late May 2019, The Palmetto State’s n mid-March of 2018, the Bassmaster Classic was held on Lake master Elite Series came to town. Along with the Elite Series, the Winyah while the 2019 Wahoo Challenge is mid-August 2019. The three-day Hartwell in South Carolina’s upstate region. This is the third Classic Bay Heritage Festival coincided and became a must for anglers and out- Marlin Quay King Mackerel Shootout departs for the Marlin Quay Marina abundance of fresh water on Lake Hartwell and the first since 2015, which had the third doorsmen. Earlier, smaller tournaments had economic impacts of in Murrells Inlet. Competitive saltwater fishing tournaments have a highest attendance of any Classic. More than 100,000 people were $500,000. The larger tournaments with more competition and practice decided economic impact on Georgetown County. lakes and rivers, brackish spread between the Green Pond Landing launch site in Anderson, days anticipated an impact exceeding $2 million. On the farthest northern point of South Carolina’s coast, Little River the weigh-in at Bon Secours Wellness Arena, or the trade show at the From Little River to Hilton Head Island, there are saltwater fishing hosts some fun tournaments with generous payouts. The 16th Annual TDI Convention Center, the latter two taking place in Greenville. tournaments departing from marinas all along the coast. Beginning in Rumble in the Jungle attracts boasts and crews from as far away as bays and the Atlantic Ocean The anticipated $23 million economic impact of the Classic was mid-February, the calendar of competitions is full. For one-day tourna- Florida and Virginia in mid October. It’s held during the peak of King bring big-time fishing exceeded. Visitor spending impacted hotels, restaurants, retailers and ments with local participation, it’s almost impossible to measure the Mackerel season. gas stations. The 30-acre, deep water Green Pond Landing facility was economic impact for an area. Even the South Carolina Wahoo Series Regardless of the season, freshwater or saltwater, professional, or tournaments and a positive opened just prior to the 2018 Classic. Between the Geico Bassmaster that runs daily from mid-February to April 15 is difficult to gauge with amateur anglers, there are tournaments almost every week in South and Walmart FLW tournaments along with numerous additional competitive boats leaving from multiple marinas daily. Carolina benefiting a local community. To learn more about bringing your economic impact events, it’s estimated the launch site alone will have an economic impact While there is little current data available, a study by Michigan State fishing tournament to South Carolina visit the South Carolina Sports of more than $10 million annually. University in 2009 indicated the economic impact of a Great Lakes tour- Alliance at discoversouthcarolina.com/sports-alliance. SPG
360 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 3615 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:57 PM Page 362 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:58 PM Page 363
The Florida Senior Games feature top-level athletes and will often attract Beforesizable crowds. or After the Games, There are plenty of stores where you can get the equipmentGo you’ll need. water fishing destination. Fish Lake Murray, like Lake Hartwell, does more Regardless of where your competition brings you From North Myrtle Beach to Hunting Island State Park, there are than just host big-time professional fishing tournaments. Locals and piers stretching further into the ocean than you can cast from the visitors are pulling bass, crappies, bream and catfish from its waters. in South Carolina, there’s sure to be great fishing nearby beach. Often, there’s equipment to rent and some grizzled locals avail- Lake Moultrie in Berkley County, has become a star destination for able to share a few secrets of pier fishing with a visitor. Remember, no bass fishermen. Lake Greenwood in the county with the same name f you watched any of the College Baseball World Before going much further, here’s some basic license is required for pier fishing. In the Myrtle Beach area alone, there has a reputation for good catches in spring, summer and fall. Lake Series or the Little League World Series, you prob- information on fishing licenses in South Carolina. First, are seven piers ranging from the Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Monticello in Fairfield County, gives anglers a chance at both small- ably noticed the number of participants saying no child under 16 years of age is required to obtain a Beach to the Pier at Garden City on the south end of the Grand Strand. mouth and largemouth bass. The Santee River has prospered and Ithey enjoyed fishing. fishing license. A freshwater fishing license is required Other notable saltwater piers are the Old Pitt Street Bridge that con- become noted as a great bass destination with strong catches in 2015, A 2016 Special Report on Fishing shared that 46 for adult (16+) non-residents. A saltwater recreational nected Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island. Memorial Waterfront Park 16 and 17. Lake Thurmond in McCormick County, is an excellent black million Americans ages 6 and up are “united by a love fishing license is required unless fishing on a licensed in Mount Pleasant stretches into Charleston Harbor. Folly Beach Fish- bass fishery with good numbers of largemouth bass being caught. The of fishing.” An encouraging note was that female and public pier or, fishing from a hired license charter ing Pier is the second longest on the East Coast. Hunting Island Pier lake borders two Georgia counties, also. youth participants were the majority of newcomers to vessel. Nonresident Freshwater and saltwater fishing is the furthest south of South Carolina’s piers. Apache Pier in the Myrtle Some of the best trout fishing can be found in South Carolina’s the general fishing population. The report also shared licenses are $11 each, good for 14 consecutive days. Beach area lays claim to the longest wooden pier on the East Coast. upstate. The Middle Saluda River flows through Jones Gap State Park that freshwater remains the most popular form of fish- To purchase a license online, or to get further infor- If you’re looking to get on some ocean water, there are options. For in Marietta. Look for some wild and native brook trout. The Chattooga ing, attracting more than 37.7 million participants. mation, go to the South Carolina Department of larger families, groups or just a parent and the kids, consider a Head National Wild & Scenic River offers the best trout angling at the Elliott Saltwater fishing is second with 12 million partici- Natural Resources website at dnr.sc.gov. Boat. Depending on whether you book a half day, or a three-quarter Rock Wilderness Area accessible through the Walhalla State Fish pants, or 4.1 percent of the population. Coastal South Carolina is a honey hole of fishing day trip, a Head Boat will often take up to 70 passengers from three to Hatchery in Mountain Rest. The East Fork of the Chattooga River is just Against this backdrop, there are reasons teams opportunities. Ocean surf fishing may be right out 20 miles into the ocean. Head Boats usually include in their per person as promising. In Salem you’ll find Lake Jocassee. Be careful, you just and families visiting South Carolina should experi- your accommodation’s front door. Adults now need price all fishing equipment, bait and a crew to ensure a good fishing might catch a record-breaking brown, or rainbow trout. Chauga River in ence the state’s waters. First, through sports tourism, a saltwater license to surf fish. If you find the right experience. Individual charters running from almost every South Car- Walhalla requires a hike into the backcountry. The reward is good fishing more boys and girls along with friends and families spot, there’s some good eating fish to be had. In salt- olina marina with ocean access provide an even more personal salt- and a fabulous landscape. The Lower Saluda River below the Dreher are visiting the state. Second, South Carolina is water, you may not want to use your own equipment. water fishing experience for smaller groups and families. Shoals Dam on Lake Murray is popular for rainbow and brown trout. unique that no matter where you play, there will be There’s great bass fishing in South Carolina lakes and rivers. Lake You can be assured that no matter where your event takes you in good fishing nearby. Hartwell in the upstate is bass happy. The Darwin H. Wright Park in South Carolina, or the season you visit, there are fishing opportunities In the upstate, there’s great stream and lake fish- AndersonCaption has here a on fishing these pierlines tohere access Caption the here waters. on these Like lines every here Captionstrong herefish- on Captionnearby. here Pack on these your lines tackle here Captionor get some here on gear these when lines hereyou Captionarrive. hereEither on way, South Carolina’s many ing. Through the midlands, the lake and river fishing is abundant. On the lakes, streams, rivers and ing lake in South Carolina, there are guides available to identify the best check with your South Carolina event host for the best fishing spots, or coast, there’s a mix of river, inlet and ocean fishing. If you were to get up the ocean ensure there spots. Lake Marion, South Carolina’s largest lake, is a premier fresh- visit online at DiscoverSouthCarolina.com. SPG is great fishing almost early, you could fish a cool mountain stream for trout, lake fish for bass, anywhere you venture. river fish for catfish, fish for flounder in the inlet and catch a charter for grouper all in a day.
3626 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 363 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:57 PM Page 362 SPORT_360-363.qxp_Layout 1 11/7/18 8:58 PM Page 363
The Florida Senior Games feature top-level athletes and will often attract Beforesizable crowds. or After the Games, There are plenty of stores where you can get the equipmentGo you’ll need. water fishing destination. Fish Lake Murray, like Lake Hartwell, does more Regardless of where your competition brings you From North Myrtle Beach to Hunting Island State Park, there are than just host big-time professional fishing tournaments. Locals and piers stretching further into the ocean than you can cast from the visitors are pulling bass, crappies, bream and catfish from its waters. in South Carolina, there’s sure to be great fishing nearby beach. Often, there’s equipment to rent and some grizzled locals avail- Lake Moultrie in Berkley County, has become a star destination for able to share a few secrets of pier fishing with a visitor. Remember, no bass fishermen. Lake Greenwood in the county with the same name f you watched any of the College Baseball World Before going much further, here’s some basic license is required for pier fishing. In the Myrtle Beach area alone, there has a reputation for good catches in spring, summer and fall. Lake Series or the Little League World Series, you prob- information on fishing licenses in South Carolina. First, are seven piers ranging from the Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Monticello in Fairfield County, gives anglers a chance at both small- ably noticed the number of participants saying no child under 16 years of age is required to obtain a Beach to the Pier at Garden City on the south end of the Grand Strand. mouth and largemouth bass. The Santee River has prospered and Ithey enjoyed fishing. fishing license. A freshwater fishing license is required Other notable saltwater piers are the Old Pitt Street Bridge that con- become noted as a great bass destination with strong catches in 2015, A 2016 Special Report on Fishing shared that 46 for adult (16+) non-residents. A saltwater recreational nected Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island. Memorial Waterfront Park 16 and 17. Lake Thurmond in McCormick County, is an excellent black million Americans ages 6 and up are “united by a love fishing license is required unless fishing on a licensed in Mount Pleasant stretches into Charleston Harbor. Folly Beach Fish- bass fishery with good numbers of largemouth bass being caught. The of fishing.” An encouraging note was that female and public pier or, fishing from a hired license charter ing Pier is the second longest on the East Coast. Hunting Island Pier lake borders two Georgia counties, also. youth participants were the majority of newcomers to vessel. Nonresident Freshwater and saltwater fishing is the furthest south of South Carolina’s piers. Apache Pier in the Myrtle Some of the best trout fishing can be found in South Carolina’s the general fishing population. The report also shared licenses are $11 each, good for 14 consecutive days. Beach area lays claim to the longest wooden pier on the East Coast. upstate. The Middle Saluda River flows through Jones Gap State Park that freshwater remains the most popular form of fish- To purchase a license online, or to get further infor- If you’re looking to get on some ocean water, there are options. For in Marietta. Look for some wild and native brook trout. The Chattooga ing, attracting more than 37.7 million participants. mation, go to the South Carolina Department of larger families, groups or just a parent and the kids, consider a Head National Wild & Scenic River offers the best trout angling at the Elliott Saltwater fishing is second with 12 million partici- Natural Resources website at dnr.sc.gov. Boat. Depending on whether you book a half day, or a three-quarter Rock Wilderness Area accessible through the Walhalla State Fish pants, or 4.1 percent of the population. Coastal South Carolina is a honey hole of fishing day trip, a Head Boat will often take up to 70 passengers from three to Hatchery in Mountain Rest. The East Fork of the Chattooga River is just Against this backdrop, there are reasons teams opportunities. Ocean surf fishing may be right out 20 miles into the ocean. Head Boats usually include in their per person as promising. In Salem you’ll find Lake Jocassee. Be careful, you just and families visiting South Carolina should experi- your accommodation’s front door. Adults now need price all fishing equipment, bait and a crew to ensure a good fishing might catch a record-breaking brown, or rainbow trout. Chauga River in ence the state’s waters. First, through sports tourism, a saltwater license to surf fish. If you find the right experience. Individual charters running from almost every South Car- Walhalla requires a hike into the backcountry. The reward is good fishing more boys and girls along with friends and families spot, there’s some good eating fish to be had. In salt- olina marina with ocean access provide an even more personal salt- and a fabulous landscape. The Lower Saluda River below the Dreher are visiting the state. Second, South Carolina is water, you may not want to use your own equipment. water fishing experience for smaller groups and families. Shoals Dam on Lake Murray is popular for rainbow and brown trout. unique that no matter where you play, there will be There’s great bass fishing in South Carolina lakes and rivers. Lake You can be assured that no matter where your event takes you in good fishing nearby. Hartwell in the upstate is bass happy. The Darwin H. Wright Park in South Carolina, or the season you visit, there are fishing opportunities In the upstate, there’s great stream and lake fish- AndersonCaption has here a on fishing these pierlines tohere access Caption the here waters. on these Like lines every here Captionstrong herefish- on Captionnearby. here Pack on these your lines tackle here Captionor get some here on gear these when lines hereyou Captionarrive. hereEither on way, South Carolina’s many ing. Through the midlands, the lake and river fishing is abundant. On the lakes, streams, rivers and ing lake in South Carolina, there are guides available to identify the best check with your South Carolina event host for the best fishing spots, or coast, there’s a mix of river, inlet and ocean fishing. If you were to get up the ocean ensure there spots. Lake Marion, South Carolina’s largest lake, is a premier fresh- visit online at DiscoverSouthCarolina.com. SPG is great fishing almost early, you could fish a cool mountain stream for trout, lake fish for bass, anywhere you venture. river fish for catfish, fish for flounder in the inlet and catch a charter for grouper all in a day.
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Williams-Brice Stadium Sports: Football Home to the South Carolina Gamecocks football team, Williams-Brice Stadium was originally constructed in 1934, and with its recent renovations completed in 2012, has the capacity to seat nearly 85,000 spectators. Further renovations at the stadium include expanded stadium seating with 8,000 additional seats, supplementary oce space, new athletic training facilities and locker rooms. As the 20th largest college football stadium in the NCAA, the sporting facility remains the pride and joy of South Carolinians. It has been the playing field for several great athletes that went on to the NFL, 3 including Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers.
2. Colonial Life Arena Sports: Basketball, ice hockey A multi-purpose arena primarily home to the University of South Carolina’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, Colonial Life Arena seats 18,000 spectators and hosts a variety of other events, including conferences, concerts and graduation ceremonies. As the largest arena in the entire state and the eighth largest college Columbia, SC campus arena in the nation, Colonial Life oers sports teams a renowned and reputable facility Reputable sports facilities and contemporary amenities make it easy for planners with top-notch amenities, such as handicap seating and parking, restrooms, assisted listening to choose this capital city for their next sports event. 4 devices and concession services. The arena hosts 2 1 the annual South Carolina High School Basketball and Cheerleading State Finals.
3. Spirit Communications Park Columbia, South Carolina is a destination that has been of historical astronomy, a 55-foot digital dome planetarium Planner Perspective Sports: Baseball attracting sports planners and teams for decades, namely and a 2,500 square foot observatory. At Columbia “We are really for Experience Columbia SC Sports! You and As the stomping grounds for the Minor League for its reputable and renowned sports facilities at the , unparalleled art exhibits filled with your team are to be commended for your hard work. We can’t Museum of Art Baseball team Columbia Fireflies, Spirit thank you enough for your care, energy and time. Tremendously University of South Carolina, home to the Gamecocks educational opportunities are on display, such as Hiroshi Communications Park was recently established sports teams. Other than the university’s award-winning Sugimoto’s Time Exposed and Jackson Pollock’s 20-foot appreciated, thank you so much.” in 2016 and can seat 9,077 spectators. In its sports facilities, Columbia has a number of athletic centers Mural painting. – Randy Coleman, CEO/President, opening year, Ballpark Digest deemed the facility and recreational parks for indoor and outdoor sporting International Dance Challenge, LLC “Ballpark of the Year.” This was only the second events. How to Get to Columbia time the award was ever given to a ballpark in its The three major interstates that run through Columbia first year. With retractable garage doors, year- Things to do in Columbia and are easily accessible from anywhere on the Eastern round batting cages are available for rent for a In Columbia, there are a number of fun and educational corridor are I-26, I-77 and I-20. If coming from the West maximum of 20 batters at a time, with bats and helmets provided by the park. experiences for all ages, including Riverbanks Zoo and Coast, take I-70. Major cities located within a five-hour , a hands-on, interactive experience for the whole drive from Columbia are Garden Atlanta, Jacksonville, Savannah, 4. Palmetto Health Fields family to enjoy. With discounted prices for groups, teams Charlotte and Montgomery. Conveniently located can retreat to a refreshing water extravaganza at the approximately 10 minutes from downtown Columbia, at Saluda Shoals Park Sports: Soccer, tennis, lacrosse, Waterfall Junction, soar through the trees on a zipline Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is the region’s cross country, running tour and gaze upon an array of exotic animals from every leading commercial airport with 35 daily non-stop flights Experience Columbia SC Sports continent in the world. from eight destinations. CS. Scott Powers Situated on a 480-acre riverfront park, Palmetto Health Fields feature a six-field soccer complex Executive Director with six clay and four hard-surface tennis courts. Providing an educational environment that entertains, Phone: 803-545-0009 Built to support modern competition, the park’s inspires creativity and imagination and enriches the Email: [email protected] sports facilities feature natural turf fields, state- lives of its visitors, South Carolina State Museum has an Website: www.ColumbiaSCsports.com of-the-art lighting, extraordinary field visibility, extensive exhibit depicting South Carolina art, a collection Wi-Fi access and plenty of available parking.
3648 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 365 SPORT_364-365.qxp_Layout 1 11/8/18 10:28 PM Page 364 SPORT_364-365.qxp_Layout 1 11/8/18 10:27 PM Page 365
FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Williams-Brice Stadium Sports: Football Home to the South Carolina Gamecocks football team, Williams-Brice Stadium was originally constructed in 1934, and with its recent renovations completed in 2012, has the capacity to seat nearly 85,000 spectators. Further renovations at the stadium include expanded stadium seating with 8,000 additional seats, supplementary oce space, new athletic training facilities and locker rooms. As the 20th largest college football stadium in the NCAA, the sporting facility remains the pride and joy of South Carolinians. It has been the playing field for several great athletes that went on to the NFL, 3 including Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers.
2. Colonial Life Arena Sports: Basketball, ice hockey A multi-purpose arena primarily home to the University of South Carolina’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, Colonial Life Arena seats 18,000 spectators and hosts a variety of other events, including conferences, concerts and graduation ceremonies. As the largest arena in the entire state and the eighth largest college Columbia, SC campus arena in the nation, Colonial Life oers sports teams a renowned and reputable facility Reputable sports facilities and contemporary amenities make it easy for planners with top-notch amenities, such as handicap seating and parking, restrooms, assisted listening to choose this capital city for their next sports event. 4 devices and concession services. The arena hosts 2 1 the annual South Carolina High School Basketball and Cheerleading State Finals.
3. Spirit Communications Park Columbia, South Carolina is a destination that has been of historical astronomy, a 55-foot digital dome planetarium Planner Perspective Sports: Baseball attracting sports planners and teams for decades, namely and a 2,500 square foot observatory. At Columbia “We are really for Experience Columbia SC Sports! You and As the stomping grounds for the Minor League for its reputable and renowned sports facilities at the , unparalleled art exhibits filled with your team are to be commended for your hard work. We can’t Museum of Art Baseball team Columbia Fireflies, Spirit thank you enough for your care, energy and time. Tremendously University of South Carolina, home to the Gamecocks educational opportunities are on display, such as Hiroshi Communications Park was recently established sports teams. Other than the university’s award-winning Sugimoto’s Time Exposed and Jackson Pollock’s 20-foot appreciated, thank you so much.” in 2016 and can seat 9,077 spectators. In its sports facilities, Columbia has a number of athletic centers Mural painting. – Randy Coleman, CEO/President, opening year, Ballpark Digest deemed the facility and recreational parks for indoor and outdoor sporting International Dance Challenge, LLC “Ballpark of the Year.” This was only the second events. How to Get to Columbia time the award was ever given to a ballpark in its The three major interstates that run through Columbia first year. With retractable garage doors, year- Things to do in Columbia and are easily accessible from anywhere on the Eastern round batting cages are available for rent for a In Columbia, there are a number of fun and educational corridor are I-26, I-77 and I-20. If coming from the West maximum of 20 batters at a time, with bats and helmets provided by the park. experiences for all ages, including Riverbanks Zoo and Coast, take I-70. Major cities located within a five-hour , a hands-on, interactive experience for the whole drive from Columbia are Garden Atlanta, Jacksonville, Savannah, 4. Palmetto Health Fields family to enjoy. With discounted prices for groups, teams Charlotte and Montgomery. Conveniently located can retreat to a refreshing water extravaganza at the approximately 10 minutes from downtown Columbia, at Saluda Shoals Park Sports: Soccer, tennis, lacrosse, Waterfall Junction, soar through the trees on a zipline Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is the region’s cross country, running tour and gaze upon an array of exotic animals from every leading commercial airport with 35 daily non-stop flights Experience Columbia SC Sports continent in the world. from eight destinations. CS. Scott Powers Situated on a 480-acre riverfront park, Palmetto Health Fields feature a six-field soccer complex Executive Director with six clay and four hard-surface tennis courts. Providing an educational environment that entertains, Phone: 803-545-0009 Built to support modern competition, the park’s inspires creativity and imagination and enriches the Email: [email protected] sports facilities feature natural turf fields, state- lives of its visitors, South Carolina State Museum has an Website: www.ColumbiaSCsports.com of-the-art lighting, extraordinary field visibility, extensive exhibit depicting South Carolina art, a collection Wi-Fi access and plenty of available parking.
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1. Bon Secours Wellness Arena Sports: Basketball, volleyball, hockey, wrestling, indoor sports This state-of-the-art multipurpose complex is ideal for sporting events, live entertainment, family shows, concerts and so much more. More commonly known as “The Well,” the complex holds, on average, 120 major events per year, and provides several guest services to ensure maximum comfort. With 15,000 seats throughout the entire facility, there is more than enough space to enjoy a basketball game on one of their championship-ready courts, watch a nail-biting wrestling match or keep your eye on the puck in a hockey game. With 30 luxury suites, restrooms, parking and hotel services nearby, the Bon Secours Wellness Arena is the perfect place for your next athletic function.
2. Fluor Field at the West End Sports: Baseball This 7,400-seat baseball-only stadium is a premier choice for your upcoming baseball game. Fluor Field closely emulates the dimensions of Fenway Park, as the only exception includes the Green Monster, a 30-foot high wall in left field. All other dimensions are equivalent to those of Fenway Park. Fluor Field also has a manual scoreboard, dugout and practice area and, in 2007, the venue underwent renovations funded by the Greenville Drive. Enhancements include a display of Greenville’s own baseball stars to highlight the rich heritage of the city. Recent events that the GREENVILLE, SC field hosted include the 2009, 2012 and 2013, 2016, 2017 KNOWN FOR ITS NATURAL BEAUTY AND LUSH FOLIAGE, GREENVILLE PROVIDES A PLETHORA and 2018 Southern Conference Baseball Championships. With parking and restrooms available onsite, this deluxe OF GREAT SPORTS FACILITIES AND THINGS TO DO FOR YOUR UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENT baseball field is an excellent alternative for competitive baseball games and tournaments.
Greenville, in the upstate region of South Carolina, is home to Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy overlooking the Planner Perspective 3. Greenville County Aquatic Complex the breathtaking, majestic Reedy River with beautiful gardens, gorgeous local waterfall and lush gardens. Your journey Let’s make Greenville the basketball capital of the South! Sports: Swimming, water polo a bridge overlooking the region and an incredible waterfall. does not stop here. Check out Greenville Tours, including —Leslie Claybrook, Assistant Commissioner Visitors will be sure to revel in the natural beauty and winding engaging culinary and brewery tours, Greenville Segway Completely reconstructed in 2011, the Greenville Southeastern Conference trails along the river, as well as several state parks and tours revealing the history and favorite spots of the locals County Aquatic Complex is one of the most dynamic, museums offering insight into the city’s culture and history. and a number of other hands-on tours. If you’re not a fan state-of-the-art swim facilities in the nation. The main of the great outdoors, then worry no more, as the Children’s indoor competition pool has eight 50m lanes, which Things to do in Greenville Museum of the Upstate is ideal for that young fan who just easily converts to 20 lanes by 25 yards. With a consistent depth of six-to-seven feet and wave-refracting gutters, Give your athletes the chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the can’t keep still at sports games. the GCAC makes for an exceptionally swift course abundance of things to do in Greenville. Off the court or field, during meets. A second indoor pool also serves as a there are a plethora of restaurants, entertainment options, How to Get to Greenville heated therapy pool for swimmers, and measures five shopping districts and so much more to take your mind off Getting to Greenville is simple and worry-free with clear 25-yard lanes. A recent upgrade to the facility is the stressful games. directions. From the north, follow I-26 E and enter South Paddock Evacuator System, which removes the Carolina on US 25 South toward US 276 S. From the south, VisitGreenvilleSC chlorine odor from the air. In addition, retractable If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, Greenville offers a take I-26 W to I-385 N to Greenville. From the east, use I-85 Robin Wright overhead doors help to keep air moving. The facility number of nature tours and parks to revel in the diverse South to I-385 N to Greenville. Just 13 miles away, 20 minutes, Senior Sales Manager, Sports now includes new locker rooms, concessions, and plant and animal life. Start your trip off the right way with a is the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, which Phone: 864-421-0000 aerobic equipment. In addition to swimming, water visit to GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail along the picturesque Reedy services Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Email: [email protected] polo, kayaking, and triathlon events are also held. River. The scenic trail lies along a historic rail bed featuring Southwest and United. Website: www.VisitGreenvilleSC.com Events recently hosted are SC State Short Course 22 miles perfect for walking, jogging and biking with friends. Championships and the USA Swimming Southern Continue your excursions by the river by traversing the Zone Age Group Championships.
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1. Bon Secours Wellness Arena Sports: Basketball, volleyball, hockey, wrestling, indoor sports This state-of-the-art multipurpose complex is ideal for sporting events, live entertainment, family shows, concerts and so much more. More commonly known as “The Well,” the complex holds, on average, 120 major events per year, and provides several guest services to ensure maximum comfort. With 15,000 seats throughout the entire facility, there is more than enough space to enjoy a basketball game on one of their championship-ready courts, watch a nail-biting wrestling match or keep your eye on the puck in a hockey game. With 30 luxury suites, restrooms, parking and hotel services nearby, the Bon Secours Wellness Arena is the perfect place for your next athletic function.
2. Fluor Field at the West End Sports: Baseball This 7,400-seat baseball-only stadium is a premier choice for your upcoming baseball game. Fluor Field closely emulates the dimensions of Fenway Park, as the only exception includes the Green Monster, a 30-foot high wall in left field. All other dimensions are equivalent to those of Fenway Park. Fluor Field also has a manual scoreboard, dugout and practice area and, in 2007, the venue underwent renovations funded by the Greenville Drive. Enhancements include a display of Greenville’s own baseball stars to highlight the rich heritage of the city. Recent events that the GREENVILLE, SC field hosted include the 2009, 2012 and 2013, 2016, 2017 KNOWN FOR ITS NATURAL BEAUTY AND LUSH FOLIAGE, GREENVILLE PROVIDES A PLETHORA and 2018 Southern Conference Baseball Championships. With parking and restrooms available onsite, this deluxe OF GREAT SPORTS FACILITIES AND THINGS TO DO FOR YOUR UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENT baseball field is an excellent alternative for competitive baseball games and tournaments.
Greenville, in the upstate region of South Carolina, is home to Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy overlooking the Planner Perspective 3. Greenville County Aquatic Complex the breathtaking, majestic Reedy River with beautiful gardens, gorgeous local waterfall and lush gardens. Your journey Let’s make Greenville the basketball capital of the South! Sports: Swimming, water polo a bridge overlooking the region and an incredible waterfall. does not stop here. Check out Greenville Tours, including —Leslie Claybrook, Assistant Commissioner Visitors will be sure to revel in the natural beauty and winding engaging culinary and brewery tours, Greenville Segway Completely reconstructed in 2011, the Greenville Southeastern Conference trails along the river, as well as several state parks and tours revealing the history and favorite spots of the locals County Aquatic Complex is one of the most dynamic, museums offering insight into the city’s culture and history. and a number of other hands-on tours. If you’re not a fan state-of-the-art swim facilities in the nation. The main of the great outdoors, then worry no more, as the Children’s indoor competition pool has eight 50m lanes, which Things to do in Greenville Museum of the Upstate is ideal for that young fan who just easily converts to 20 lanes by 25 yards. With a consistent depth of six-to-seven feet and wave-refracting gutters, Give your athletes the chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the can’t keep still at sports games. the GCAC makes for an exceptionally swift course abundance of things to do in Greenville. Off the court or field, during meets. A second indoor pool also serves as a there are a plethora of restaurants, entertainment options, How to Get to Greenville heated therapy pool for swimmers, and measures five shopping districts and so much more to take your mind off Getting to Greenville is simple and worry-free with clear 25-yard lanes. A recent upgrade to the facility is the stressful games. directions. From the north, follow I-26 E and enter South Paddock Evacuator System, which removes the Carolina on US 25 South toward US 276 S. From the south, VisitGreenvilleSC chlorine odor from the air. In addition, retractable If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, Greenville offers a take I-26 W to I-385 N to Greenville. From the east, use I-85 Robin Wright overhead doors help to keep air moving. The facility number of nature tours and parks to revel in the diverse South to I-385 N to Greenville. Just 13 miles away, 20 minutes, Senior Sales Manager, Sports now includes new locker rooms, concessions, and plant and animal life. Start your trip off the right way with a is the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, which Phone: 864-421-0000 aerobic equipment. In addition to swimming, water visit to GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail along the picturesque Reedy services Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Email: [email protected] polo, kayaking, and triathlon events are also held. River. The scenic trail lies along a historic rail bed featuring Southwest and United. Website: www.VisitGreenvilleSC.com Events recently hosted are SC State Short Course 22 miles perfect for walking, jogging and biking with friends. Championships and the USA Swimming Southern Continue your excursions by the river by traversing the Zone Age Group Championships.
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Myrtle Beach Sports Center Sports: Badminton, basketball, volleyball Indoor sports thrive at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center, a $12.4 million complex that features indoor court space totaling 100,000 square- feet. Volleyball teams will have access to 16 courts. These surfaces can also be converted into badminton courts, while basketball games take place in eight courts of their own. The center oers seating for up to 2,000 spectators. When the game is done or even in-between games, venture into the entertainment center, equipped with a video wall covered in screens for gamers to enjoy, and the retail shops.
2. North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, lacrosse, soccer, softball The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex houses diverse playing space for outdoor athletes. To start, baseball and softball athletes will have access to four fields with a 225-foot fence and accompanied by a dirt infield. Eight full-size fields with natural grass are available for lacrosse and soccer. Four of these fields are lit at night. College and adult softball games take place on fields that Myrtle Beach, SC also have dirt infields, but with a 330-380-foot fence. Games are called from an ocial’s room. Don’t miss the chance to compete and relax in this modern city on the Atlantic Coast. A full-service concession stand sees many guests 3 each year. 3. Grand Park Athletic Complex Sports: Baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball Planners will look forward to comprehensive assistance Kingdom Amusement Park for more adventures on 38 Planner Perspective Myrtle Beach’s Grand Park Complex boasts fields “Myrtle Beach is such an easy sell to my travel teams that play in when it comes to booking facilities, lodging and roller coasters. Choose from coasters that will take you on with surfaces that can accommodate any outdoor our events. The city sells itself! With miles of sandy beach, tons of recreational activities in Myrtle Beach. Getting around is twisty turns or (safely) on exhilarating free falls from 100 sport. Namely, the complex holds seven multi- made easy by each facility’s proximity to first-rate hotels feet up in the air. You can also whizz around on bumper or attractions and plenty of hotels that accommodate any budget, sport baseball fields, each of which are equipped and popular group-friendly attractions. In addition, you go-karts. teams simply love coming to play in our tournaments. Parents use with lighting and can be transformed for football won’t want to miss a moment out on Myrtle Beach’s our events as a vacation while getting a chance to watch their child and lacrosse games. A six-tunnel batting cage world-class white sand beaches. Spend an afternoon How to Get to Myrtle Beach play in a national championship. The city facilities are top-notch as accompanies these fields. Three more full-size out on the water or checking out the city’s theme parks, Planners and their teams can drive to Myrtle Beach along well. I highly recommend Myrtle Beach, SC to any event organizer fields for youth lacrosse and soccer games sport shopping centers and museums. Evening brings amazing either Highways 51, 73 or 501, which can also be accessed as not only will you not find better amenities and a better location artificial grass surfaces. The complex additionally has two convertible baseball fields with natural opportunities to dine out on the town and stroll along the from within the city. Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta in the country, but more importantly your teams will thank you for grass. Concessions stands and restrooms boardwalk. and Savannah, Georgia; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and hosting your event there and come back year after year.” surround each area, and on-site parking is are all situated less than eight – John Whitley, National Travel Basketball Association Charlotte, North Carolina available. Other attractions such as the Crabtree Things to do in Myrtle Beach hours away from Myrtle Beach. Visitors from farther cities Memorial, a roller hockey rink and The Market Myrtle presents several di erent ways for your team can fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport, which is Common neighbor the facility. members to enjoy themselves. One of the more notable seven minutes from central Myrtle Beach. and obvious natural attractions is the city’s boardwalk and promenade, which o ers Instagram-worthy views Myrtle Beach Area CVB of the beach. That said, you can even enjoy the waters Jonathan Paris indoors at Myrtle Beach Waves. Here, you can choose Executive Director from more than 30 water slides and learn how to go tube Phone: 843-916-7264 sliding or flow riding (basically, belly flopping) on water. Email: [email protected] Small children will have their own zones equipped with Website: www.MyrtleBeachSports.com shallow pools and three open body slides. Visit the Family
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Myrtle Beach Sports Center Sports: Badminton, basketball, volleyball Indoor sports thrive at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center, a $12.4 million complex that features indoor court space totaling 100,000 square- feet. Volleyball teams will have access to 16 courts. These surfaces can also be converted into badminton courts, while basketball games take place in eight courts of their own. The center oers seating for up to 2,000 spectators. When the game is done or even in-between games, venture into the entertainment center, equipped with a video wall covered in screens for gamers to enjoy, and the retail shops.
2. North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Sports: Baseball, lacrosse, soccer, softball The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex houses diverse playing space for outdoor athletes. To start, baseball and softball athletes will have access to four fields with a 225-foot fence and accompanied by a dirt infield. Eight full-size fields with natural grass are available for lacrosse and soccer. Four of these fields are lit at night. College and adult softball games take place on fields that Myrtle Beach, SC also have dirt infields, but with a 330-380-foot fence. Games are called from an ocial’s room. Don’t miss the chance to compete and relax in this modern city on the Atlantic Coast. A full-service concession stand sees many guests 3 each year. 3. Grand Park Athletic Complex Sports: Baseball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball Planners will look forward to comprehensive assistance Kingdom Amusement Park for more adventures on 38 Planner Perspective Myrtle Beach’s Grand Park Complex boasts fields “Myrtle Beach is such an easy sell to my travel teams that play in when it comes to booking facilities, lodging and roller coasters. Choose from coasters that will take you on with surfaces that can accommodate any outdoor our events. The city sells itself! With miles of sandy beach, tons of recreational activities in Myrtle Beach. Getting around is twisty turns or (safely) on exhilarating free falls from 100 sport. Namely, the complex holds seven multi- made easy by each facility’s proximity to first-rate hotels feet up in the air. You can also whizz around on bumper or attractions and plenty of hotels that accommodate any budget, sport baseball fields, each of which are equipped and popular group-friendly attractions. In addition, you go-karts. teams simply love coming to play in our tournaments. Parents use with lighting and can be transformed for football won’t want to miss a moment out on Myrtle Beach’s our events as a vacation while getting a chance to watch their child and lacrosse games. A six-tunnel batting cage world-class white sand beaches. Spend an afternoon How to Get to Myrtle Beach play in a national championship. The city facilities are top-notch as accompanies these fields. Three more full-size out on the water or checking out the city’s theme parks, Planners and their teams can drive to Myrtle Beach along well. I highly recommend Myrtle Beach, SC to any event organizer fields for youth lacrosse and soccer games sport shopping centers and museums. Evening brings amazing either Highways 51, 73 or 501, which can also be accessed as not only will you not find better amenities and a better location artificial grass surfaces. The complex additionally has two convertible baseball fields with natural opportunities to dine out on the town and stroll along the from within the city. Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta in the country, but more importantly your teams will thank you for grass. Concessions stands and restrooms boardwalk. and Savannah, Georgia; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and hosting your event there and come back year after year.” surround each area, and on-site parking is are all situated less than eight – John Whitley, National Travel Basketball Association Charlotte, North Carolina available. Other attractions such as the Crabtree Things to do in Myrtle Beach hours away from Myrtle Beach. Visitors from farther cities Memorial, a roller hockey rink and The Market Myrtle presents several di erent ways for your team can fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport, which is Common neighbor the facility. members to enjoy themselves. One of the more notable seven minutes from central Myrtle Beach. and obvious natural attractions is the city’s boardwalk and promenade, which o ers Instagram-worthy views Myrtle Beach Area CVB of the beach. That said, you can even enjoy the waters Jonathan Paris indoors at Myrtle Beach Waves. Here, you can choose Executive Director from more than 30 water slides and learn how to go tube Phone: 843-916-7264 sliding or flow riding (basically, belly flopping) on water. Email: [email protected] Small children will have their own zones equipped with Website: www.MyrtleBeachSports.com shallow pools and three open body slides. Visit the Family
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1 Sumter, SC Visit this South Carolina town for a taste of hospitality and sporting fun
Come enjoy an outdoor lover’s paradise with an abundance of leisure activities, including a vibrant arts culture FACILITY SPOTLIGHT and superb sport facilities. More than enough exciting attractions orbit this wonderful community as well. In 1. Palmetto Tennis Center Sumter, you’re just a 90-minute drive from the state’s Sports: Tennis beautiful beaches, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are only The Palmetto Tennis Center at Palmetto Park boasts 24 state- three hours to the northwest. of-the-art, hard-surface tennis courts with lighting for night play. Other amenities include shaded stadium and courtside Things to do in Sumter bleacher seating, cool water misters, a bistro-style seating Enjoy the local artistic community by visiting spots like area, a shelter area with picnic tables, two ball machines, Sumter Little Theater, Sumter Opera House, or the Sumter stringing service, pro shop and a locker-showers facility. County Gallery of Art. In between games, teams can be inspired by the local artists and performers and support the The PTC’s years of successful new and returning events local community at the same time. and tournaments come from experience. In April of 2004, the PTC opened the doors to the Conference Carolinas and Sumter oers much natural beauty for its visitors to added a fall individual event soon after. Collegiate play also enjoy, with nature trails through Crosswell, Memorial and includes the Southeast Regionals and National Small College Palmetto parks, among others. The crowning jewel would Championships. They’ve learned from the best by hosting have to be Swan Lake Iris Gardens, a vast collection of annually a Women’s 25K Pro Circuit Event since 2008 and expertly maintained gardens with sections like the Butterfly, the National Zonal TEAM Championship since 2013, as well as Chocolate and Camellia gardens. Local eateries oer a four junior state tournaments. (www.sumtertennis.com) diverse range of cuisines, from Sambino’s Bistro, Asian Barbecue, Willie Sue’s and Hamptons to J. O’Grady’s, 2. Aquatics Center in historic downtown Sumter to Baker’s Sweet’s Bakery Sports: Swimming & Cafe’. Sports enthusiasts may have one of the unique opportunities to visit Riley Park while attending a tennis The public Aquatics Center’s six-lane, 25-meter pool meets tournament or a swim meet. requirements for competition swim meets with its unique design and is fully equipped with swim lanes, diving blocks, How to Get to Sumter and electronic timer and touch pads. Each year, the center Several major roads intersect in Sumter. Routes 76 and 521 hosts more than 11 swim meets for the city league, community come in from the west and northwest, respectively, while invitational and high school. In October, the center is host to Route 15 bisects the town from north to south, with Route the TriSumter Triathlon. (www.sumterswim.com) 521 accompanying the southern portion of 15. Coming in from the east and northeast are Routes 378, 401 and the City of Sumter other tail of Route 76. Susan H. Wild Sumter’s two nearest commercial airports are Florence Recreation Programs & Facilities Director Regional Airport and Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Phone: 803-774-1651 with Florence roughly 50 miles to the east of Sumter and Email: [email protected] Columbia roughly 50 miles to the west. Website: www.sumtersc.gov
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1 Sumter, SC Visit this South Carolina town for a taste of hospitality and sporting fun
Come enjoy an outdoor lover’s paradise with an abundance of leisure activities, including a vibrant arts culture FACILITY SPOTLIGHT and superb sport facilities. More than enough exciting attractions orbit this wonderful community as well. In 1. Palmetto Tennis Center Sumter, you’re just a 90-minute drive from the state’s Sports: Tennis beautiful beaches, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are only The Palmetto Tennis Center at Palmetto Park boasts 24 state- three hours to the northwest. of-the-art, hard-surface tennis courts with lighting for night play. Other amenities include shaded stadium and courtside Things to do in Sumter bleacher seating, cool water misters, a bistro-style seating Enjoy the local artistic community by visiting spots like area, a shelter area with picnic tables, two ball machines, Sumter Little Theater, Sumter Opera House, or the Sumter stringing service, pro shop and a locker-showers facility. County Gallery of Art. In between games, teams can be inspired by the local artists and performers and support the The PTC’s years of successful new and returning events local community at the same time. and tournaments come from experience. In April of 2004, the PTC opened the doors to the Conference Carolinas and Sumter oers much natural beauty for its visitors to added a fall individual event soon after. Collegiate play also enjoy, with nature trails through Crosswell, Memorial and includes the Southeast Regionals and National Small College Palmetto parks, among others. The crowning jewel would Championships. They’ve learned from the best by hosting have to be Swan Lake Iris Gardens, a vast collection of annually a Women’s 25K Pro Circuit Event since 2008 and expertly maintained gardens with sections like the Butterfly, the National Zonal TEAM Championship since 2013, as well as Chocolate and Camellia gardens. Local eateries oer a four junior state tournaments. (www.sumtertennis.com) diverse range of cuisines, from Sambino’s Bistro, Asian Barbecue, Willie Sue’s and Hamptons to J. O’Grady’s, 2. Aquatics Center in historic downtown Sumter to Baker’s Sweet’s Bakery Sports: Swimming & Cafe’. Sports enthusiasts may have one of the unique opportunities to visit Riley Park while attending a tennis The public Aquatics Center’s six-lane, 25-meter pool meets tournament or a swim meet. requirements for competition swim meets with its unique design and is fully equipped with swim lanes, diving blocks, How to Get to Sumter and electronic timer and touch pads. Each year, the center Several major roads intersect in Sumter. Routes 76 and 521 hosts more than 11 swim meets for the city league, community come in from the west and northwest, respectively, while invitational and high school. In October, the center is host to Route 15 bisects the town from north to south, with Route the TriSumter Triathlon. (www.sumterswim.com) 521 accompanying the southern portion of 15. Coming in from the east and northeast are Routes 378, 401 and the City of Sumter other tail of Route 76. Susan H. Wild Sumter’s two nearest commercial airports are Florence Recreation Programs & Facilities Director Regional Airport and Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Phone: 803-774-1651 with Florence roughly 50 miles to the east of Sumter and Email: [email protected] Columbia roughly 50 miles to the west. Website: www.sumtersc.gov
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Jerry Richardson Indoor Arena Sports: Basketball, volleyball We’ll start with the latest and greatest. With an expected opening date of fall 2017, the Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium is a 123,000-square- foot facility that will include a 3,400-seat basketball arena and a 500-seat volleyball competition venue. The facility will replace Benjamin Johnson Arena and will serve as the home for women’s basketball, men’s basketball and volleyball at Woord College. The facility will have a seating capacity for non-athletics functions, such as commencement and concerts, of 4,500. Hosting a tournament in this gym 2 would give players the opportunity to feel what it’s like playing in a Division 1 basketball arena – something they will never forget.
2. Upward Sports Star Center Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball Upward Sports just opened the Upward Star Center, a 120,000-square-foot indoor facility equipped with two regulation-size artificial soccer fields and up to four grass multi-purpose fields as well as six basketball courts, 12 full-sized volleyball courts, four lighted sand volleyball courts. This Spartanburg, SC union facility features seven meeting rooms and can host an event of roughly 3,000 people indoors Spartanburg Turns Tournament Planners’ Heads.Softball and track and field and 8,000 people outdoors. This massive facility, facilities highlight a South Carolina city that hosts national championships. only a 10-minute drive from over 3,000 hotel 3 rooms, could not be more convenient for hosting a tournament in Spartanburg.
3. Tyger River Park Spartanburg is home to one of the biggest and best exploring the Spartanburg Science Center. Parents will Planner Perspective Sports: Softball, baseball softball/baseball complexes in the nation and features love the relaxing atmosphere of Strawberry Hill USA, “The SC association USATF held its region meet in Spartanburg in Tyger River Park, one of the South’s premier over 20 youth softball/baseball fields overall in addition to where you can pick in-season fruits like berries, peaches 2016. The support from the community and the city and county baseball and softball tournament complexes, 14 multipurpose fields. Tyger River Park Softball Complex or pumpkins. All parties will enjoy an afternoon of boating, administration of Spartanburg was tremendous. We are considering features 12 youth baseball/softball fields hosted the 2015 ASA USA 18U Class A World Series and fishing or hiking at Croft State Park. a bid for the youth national cross country meet in Spartanburg arranged in convenient four-field clusters, a 2015 NSA B Girls Fast-Pitch World Series. Spartanburg also on the campus of Milliken corporation. All of this is due to the championship stadium seating 600 people and with unmatched site amenities, clubhouse, also hosted the Southern Conference Track and Field The BMW Zentrum and Performance Driving Experience hospitality and support we received from Spartanburg.” concession areas, umpire changing rooms, lounge, Championships, USA Track & Field Junior Olympics Region is the only BMW factory on the continent. With its – Thaddeus Sligh, USATF Region 4 Youth Coordinator VIP Suite, wireless internet, covered seating, two 4 Championship, AAU State Gymnastics championships interactive museum exhibits, this attraction will hold the playgrounds and flat-screen TVs at each pod. and many more. Oh, and you know the Carolina Panthers? attention of everyone. Located 15 miles from downtown, Tyger River Park They’ve held summer training on Woord College’s has hosted the 2015 USSSA Global Sports Baseball campus since 1992. Throw in two brand new, state-of- How to Get to Spartanburg World Series, 2015 ASA/USA Girl’s 18 U Class A the-art facilities in the Upward Star Center and the Jerry Spartanburg County, at the crossroads of Interstates 85 National World Series and 2015 NSA Girls Fast- Richardson Indoor Stadium and you’ve got yourself a and 26, is less than a six-hour drive from major cities Pitch Class B World Series, among other events. premier sports tournament destination. like Atlanta, Birmingham, Lexington, Jacksonville and All fields are dirt and irrigated. Eight fields have Richmond. Major airlines serve the Greenville-Spartanburg permanent fences at 275 feet, two fields have Things to do in Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), and from there it’s just a 20- Spartanburg CVB permanent fences at 220 feet and two fields have permanent fences at 260 feet. The stadium field It’s tough to find a place that not only oers everything 30 minute drive east on I-85 to downtown Spartanburg. Kristyn Hawkins has a permanent 300-foot fence. Ample parking you need for your sporting tournament, but also oers Sports Tourism Sales Director and restroom facilities are available. entertainment value during downtime. And it’s even Phone: 864-594-5050 harder to find a place that oers a broad range of Email: [email protected] entertainment for both children and adults. Spartanburg Website: www.visitspartanburg.com is a rare combination of all of the above. The kids will love
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FACILITY SPOTLIGHT
1. Jerry Richardson Indoor Arena Sports: Basketball, volleyball We’ll start with the latest and greatest. With an expected opening date of fall 2017, the Jerry Richardson Indoor Stadium is a 123,000-square- foot facility that will include a 3,400-seat basketball arena and a 500-seat volleyball competition venue. The facility will replace Benjamin Johnson Arena and will serve as the home for women’s basketball, men’s basketball and volleyball at Woord College. The facility will have a seating capacity for non-athletics functions, such as commencement and concerts, of 4,500. Hosting a tournament in this gym 2 would give players the opportunity to feel what it’s like playing in a Division 1 basketball arena – something they will never forget.
2. Upward Sports Star Center Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball Upward Sports just opened the Upward Star Center, a 120,000-square-foot indoor facility equipped with two regulation-size artificial soccer fields and up to four grass multi-purpose fields as well as six basketball courts, 12 full-sized volleyball courts, four lighted sand volleyball courts. This Spartanburg, SC union facility features seven meeting rooms and can host an event of roughly 3,000 people indoors Spartanburg Turns Tournament Planners’ Heads.Softball and track and field and 8,000 people outdoors. This massive facility, facilities highlight a South Carolina city that hosts national championships. only a 10-minute drive from over 3,000 hotel 3 rooms, could not be more convenient for hosting a tournament in Spartanburg.
3. Tyger River Park Spartanburg is home to one of the biggest and best exploring the Spartanburg Science Center. Parents will Planner Perspective Sports: Softball, baseball softball/baseball complexes in the nation and features love the relaxing atmosphere of Strawberry Hill USA, “The SC association USATF held its region meet in Spartanburg in Tyger River Park, one of the South’s premier over 20 youth softball/baseball fields overall in addition to where you can pick in-season fruits like berries, peaches 2016. The support from the community and the city and county baseball and softball tournament complexes, 14 multipurpose fields. Tyger River Park Softball Complex or pumpkins. All parties will enjoy an afternoon of boating, administration of Spartanburg was tremendous. We are considering features 12 youth baseball/softball fields hosted the 2015 ASA USA 18U Class A World Series and fishing or hiking at Croft State Park. a bid for the youth national cross country meet in Spartanburg arranged in convenient four-field clusters, a 2015 NSA B Girls Fast-Pitch World Series. Spartanburg also on the campus of Milliken corporation. All of this is due to the championship stadium seating 600 people and with unmatched site amenities, clubhouse, also hosted the Southern Conference Track and Field The BMW Zentrum and Performance Driving Experience hospitality and support we received from Spartanburg.” concession areas, umpire changing rooms, lounge, Championships, USA Track & Field Junior Olympics Region is the only BMW factory on the continent. With its – Thaddeus Sligh, USATF Region 4 Youth Coordinator VIP Suite, wireless internet, covered seating, two 4 Championship, AAU State Gymnastics championships interactive museum exhibits, this attraction will hold the playgrounds and flat-screen TVs at each pod. and many more. Oh, and you know the Carolina Panthers? attention of everyone. Located 15 miles from downtown, Tyger River Park They’ve held summer training on Woord College’s has hosted the 2015 USSSA Global Sports Baseball campus since 1992. Throw in two brand new, state-of- How to Get to Spartanburg World Series, 2015 ASA/USA Girl’s 18 U Class A the-art facilities in the Upward Star Center and the Jerry Spartanburg County, at the crossroads of Interstates 85 National World Series and 2015 NSA Girls Fast- Richardson Indoor Stadium and you’ve got yourself a and 26, is less than a six-hour drive from major cities Pitch Class B World Series, among other events. premier sports tournament destination. like Atlanta, Birmingham, Lexington, Jacksonville and All fields are dirt and irrigated. Eight fields have Richmond. Major airlines serve the Greenville-Spartanburg permanent fences at 275 feet, two fields have Things to do in Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), and from there it’s just a 20- Spartanburg CVB permanent fences at 220 feet and two fields have permanent fences at 260 feet. The stadium field It’s tough to find a place that not only oers everything 30 minute drive east on I-85 to downtown Spartanburg. Kristyn Hawkins has a permanent 300-foot fence. Ample parking you need for your sporting tournament, but also oers Sports Tourism Sales Director and restroom facilities are available. entertainment value during downtime. And it’s even Phone: 864-594-5050 harder to find a place that oers a broad range of Email: [email protected] entertainment for both children and adults. Spartanburg Website: www.visitspartanburg.com is a rare combination of all of the above. The kids will love
374 Sports Planning Guide @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG SportsPlanningGuide.com Sports Planning Guide 37517 SPORT_379.qxp_Layout 1 11/9/18 9:27 PM Page 373
NEW FROM SportsPlanningGuide.com DESTINATION VIDEOS
• From Palm Beach, Florida to Seattle, Washington, our destination videos will show you hundreds of sports complexes and attractions all in a few minutes. • Easy access from any device. • Open the Videos tab at SportsPlanningGuide.com to discover dozens of Site InSpections that feature videos.
PRESS PLAY TODAY!
SPARTANBURG? MORE LIKE... FIELDS-FOR-DAYS-BURG. We know what it takes to host champions and have fun doing it. We know that after catching the action, there’s nothing better than talking stats and predictions over farm-to-table food and sweet treats. We even know how to train the Carolina Panthers and host a myriad of regional sports championships. What we don’t know is...why haven’t you come to visit yet? VisitSpartanburg.com There’s only #oneSpartanburg. Sports Planning Guide www.SportsPlanningGuide.com 630-794-0696
SPORT_379.qxp_Layout 1 11/9/18 9:27 PM Page 373
NEW FROM SportsPlanningGuide.com DESTINATION VIDEOS
• From Palm Beach, Florida to Seattle, Washington, our destination videos will show you hundreds of sports complexes and attractions all in a few minutes. • Easy access from any device. • Open the Videos tab at SportsPlanningGuide.com to discover dozens of Site InSpections that feature videos.
PRESS PLAY TODAY!
SPARTANBURG? MORE LIKE... FIELDS-FOR-DAYS-BURG. We know what it takes to host champions and have fun doing it. We know that after catching the action, there’s nothing better than talking stats and predictions over farm-to-table food and sweet treats. We even know how to train the Carolina Panthers and host a myriad of regional sports championships. What we don’t know is...why haven’t you come to visit yet? VisitSpartanburg.com There’s only #oneSpartanburg. Sports Planning Guide www.SportsPlanningGuide.com 630-794-0696
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