June 2016

Inside this issue:

2016 NASC Symposium Recap New NASC Leadership Elected NCAA Bid Process Sightseeing in Sacramento

#SPORTTOURISM

Welcome to a whole state full of your favorite activities.

Maybe you’re into playing on pristine beaches, in the

scenic mountains or at one of our sporty resorts—all of

which are perfect places for showing the kids you’ve

still got it. Plan a trip packed with fun things to do at

ExploreGeorgia.org.

Tell us about your Pretty Sweet moments as you #ExploreGeorgia

Columbus Thomasville Ellijay

The

Kin

g an

d P

rinc

e B

each

& G

olf R

esor

t

LOOKING TO SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE?

Information-sharing is a founding principle of the NASC, and the industry knowledge among the NASC membership lends itself to unprecedented expertise.

The NASC encourages members to share information with your peers. Contact Elizabeth Young, Director of Membershipand Marketing, at elizabeth@sportscommissions.org to learn more about how you can contribute to a future edition of The NASC Playbook.

And don’t forget to share your news to be included in NASC Get in the Game eNews each week. Simply have your media relations department add info@sportscommissions.org to its distribution list.

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS9916 Carver Road, Suite 100Cincinnati, OH 45242

TELEPHONE/FAX(513) 281-3888/(513) 281-1765

WEBSITEwww.SportsCommissions.org

STAFFDon Schumacher, CSEE, Executive DirectorLori Gamble, Associate Executive DirectorElizabeth Young, Director of Membership & MarketingMeagan McCalla, Member Services ManagerMichelle Long, Member Services Intern

BOARD OF DIRECTORSOFFICERSRalph Morton, Executive Director, Seattle Sports Commission, Chair Mike Anderson, CSEE, Executive Director – Sport Tourism, Myrtle Beach Regional Sports Alliance, Vice Chair/Chair-Elect Kindra Fry, CSEE, SMP, Executive Director, Bryan CollegeStation Sports + Events, TreasurerJanis Schmees Burke, CSEE, Chief Executive Officer, Harris County - Houston Sports Authority, SecretaryGreg Ayers, CSEE, President & CEO, Discover Kalamazoo,Immediate Past ChairDIRECTORSJanna Clark, CSEE, Sports and Sales Director, Elizabethtown Sports ParkJohn David, CSEE, Chief Operating Officer, USA BMXMatt Dunn, CSEE, Executive Director, Tourism Development, Palm Coast and the Flagler BeachesRoy Edmondson, CSEE, Vice President of SportsBusiness Development, Visit AnaheimJason Gewirtz, Editor, SportsTravel MagazinePete Harvey, CSEE, Director of Sports Development, Buffalo Niagara Sports CommissionBrian Hickey, CSEE, CDME, Director of Sports, Tallahassee Sports CouncilWilliam Knox, CSEE, Director, Hamilton County Sports AuthorityKathy Nelson, President/CEO, Kansas City Sports CommissionMichael Price, CSEE, Executive Director, Greater Lansing Sports AuthorityJanis Ross, Executive Director, Eugene, Cascades & Coast SportsSteve Schell, Sports Strategic Sales Executive, Experient SportsGlen Schorr, Executive Director, Orienteering USAKris Smith, CSEE, Sales Manager, Event Development, Detroit SportsBenjamin Wilder, CSEE, Director, Savannah Sports CouncilMarc Zimmerman, CSEE, Sales & Events Manager, Central Florida’s Polk County Sports Marketing

MEDIA & PUBLIC RELATIONS ADVISERSJackie Reau, Game Day Communications Betsy Ross, Game Day Communications

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the Executive Director .................1-2

Participate in SportsBusiness Journal ................4

2016 NASC Symposium Recap ..........................5

New NASC Leadership Elected ..........................8 NASC Award Winners ......................................9

NASC Sports Legacy Fund ...............................13

CSEE Graduates .............................................14

Market Segment Meetings .............................15

NCAA Bid Process ..........................................18

Sightseeing in Sacramento .........................19-20

www.SportsCommissions.org

LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR As your professional association continues toward its 25th Anniversary at our 2017 Sports Event Symposium in Sacramento, it seems a good time to look back on the process that led to adopting bylaws and obtaining not-

for-profit status. The process itself took three years, and perhaps what is most important is this: the NASC was founded to be THE place where host organizations could gather and share experiences.

The first conversations regarding an association took place in 1989. A volunteer committee was formed and work continued through 1990 and 1991, culminating in adoption of bylaws and the election of officers and directors April 10-11, 1992. The single person deserving of credit for making this process work is Hill Carrow. Hill made certain our organizational meetings had agendas and minutes and each meeting resulted in progress.

Those persons present in 1992 and still involved in the NASC besides Hill are Vicky Comegys, Dennis Gann, Mike Millay, Dan Quandt, and myself.

Financials were based upon annual dues of $600…and they have grown only modestly since. By the end of 1992, we had about $10,000 in the bank and the budget for 1993 projected total revenues of another $25,000. Our budget for 2017 will be about $2 million.

In 1992, every founding member knew where they would go to find events. Holding a marketplace and taking appointments

1#SportTourism

with prospective rights holders did not make the agendas in those early years, and it is important to explain why. Early members were sports commissions, followed by a number of convention and visitors bureaus skilled in obtaining and producing events.

In fact, this distinction: a host organization actively involved in producing events was regarded as essential to membership.

By 1997 we created the industry’s very first event market-place. More than a dozen rights holders including the AAU and NCAA met with city representatives. The sessions were so successful they were made a permanent feature of our symposium. Other industry conferences followed with their own events.

Over the years more and more organizations have applied for membership, so many that our membership is now quite diverse in needs and interests.

Today members report that the opportunity to obtain new business is the single most important reason to attend the Symposium. Focus has shifted from information sharing among industry leaders to ten minute meetings with as many event owners as possible, sometime without regard to whether facilities exist to host the events under discussion.

This change requires your association to search for ways to better educate members before the appointments and to increase the number of qualified event owners. Our 25th year is seeing intensive discussion among our committees on ways to best address the situation: an increase in Symposium fees, how to be certain all event owners stay until the last appoint-ment is complete, etc.

1992 2017

One contributing factor is the growth in the number of DMO sales people. A sales person today needs leads more than edu-cation. Their task is to book events that produce room nights, and many do not know where to look for events.

The NASC offers many, many ways to learn what to do. Our website has become the single most dependable source of what to do and where to go. The NASC will spend more than $100,000 in 2016 maintaining and improving the site and all member services that are housed and executed through the site. New members learn they have information at their fingertips 24/7. We are not simply a two or three day a year industry conference. The NASC is a professional association, the only member based not-for-profit serving the sport tourism industry in the United States. The annual cost of membership allows everyone with a member organization access to these answers.

Our Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE) Program was created to provide a way for experienced members to accumulate enough credits to earn the designation. The key word was always “Executive.” Our efforts have been directed toward serious-minded professionals. Although this effort will continue, the program has been revised for 2016 to better meet current needs. We realize some participants want information that will produce immediate sales. Some are not particularly interested in preparing for a career in the industry.

The NASC is working on ways to assist those passing through as well as those looking at becoming industry “lifers.”We have been member directed since 1992. There has never been a year where members have not been asked what they are looking for so our committee volunteers can decide how best to give it to them.

The balance of 2016 and the early months of 2017 will see even more strides toward generating more chances for sales opportunities. There may well be costs involved. After all, your association has been charging only one-third of what is charged by the next lowest priced conference!

So, after 25 years we are much more than a couple of days of appointments and social events. The NASC has evolved into a full service, member directed association of like-minded individuals committed to industry best practices.

Thanks for your attention, and continued success.

Donald G. Schumacher, CSEEExecutive Director

2

PlayOrlandoNorth.com

PERMANENT STATE-OF-THE-ART Lighted Athletic Fields15

56

4 385’ to Center Field Synthetic Turf

350’ to Center Field Synthetic Turf

315’ to Center Field Natural Turf

THE NEW, HIGH-PERFORMANCE SEMINOLE COUNTY SPORTS COMPLEX IS HERE. YOU’RE UP.

P L A Y N O R T H

6#SPORTTOURISM

Minnesota has the facilities to host Super Bowl size to pint size events – summer or winter – mobility challenged athletes or athletes looking for extreme challenge. Minnesota destinations can help you execute your ultimate game plan. You’re passionate about your sport. We’re passionate about making your sporting event a sensation! Team up with Minnesota Sports.

MinnesotaSports.org

4

Piers & CheersWe’re always game

From riverfront cheerleading competitions to a Beach2Battleship Iron Distance Triathlon, Wilmington’s hosted many diverse events filled with good times. Our welcoming year-round weather, breathtaking beaches and bustling riverfront are crowd-pleasers.

Book off-season for the best savings, and see where the water takes you.

WilmingtonSportsNow.com | 800.650.9064 ext.124

4

This is a perfect platform for NASC members to showcase their role in the sport tourism industry. As an advertiser, you will beguaranteed an opportunity for a company spokesperson to beinterviewed for the story.

With SportsBusiness Journal as our partner, we know that your message will be reaching an audience of the mostexecutives in sports. SBJʼs readers are the leaders in every aspectof the sports industry from teams and leagues, to media, marketing and advertising, to facilities and professional services.

We hope you join the NASC and take advantage of this uniqueopportunity to put the spotlight on our very special segment of the sports industry.

July 11 is the deadline for participation in this special section.If interested in participating, contact Judi Bowe at (312) 873-2216 or jbowe@sportsbusinessjournal.com to reserve advertising space.

Thanks for your continued support of the NASC,

Elizabeth YoungDirector of Membership and Marketing

Opportunity to Tell Your Story in NASC Special Section of

For the third year, the NASC, in association withSportsBusiness Journal, will publish a special advertiser- supported section on the impact our members make in their communities and in sports.

The section appearing in the August 8 issue will focus on theevolution of the sport tourism industry and how it impacts communities. Other areas of coverage will include industrytrends and best practices, case studies and examples of successful events, and the monetization and economic impact of events.

As the interest in the sport tourism market continues to grow, we are making a special effort to tell the NASCʼs story and increase exposure for our members at the national level.

5#SportTourism

Future Symposium Dates 25th annual NASC Symposium March 27-30, 2017 – Sacramento, CA

26th annual NASC Symposium April 23-26, 2018 – Minneapolis, MN

27th annual NASC Symposium April 15-18, 2019 – San Diego, CA

THE 24TH ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM WELCOMED 900 MEMBERS AND EVENT OWNERS

More than 900 members and events rights holders attended the 2016 NASC Sports Event Symposium in Grand Rapids to elect new NASC leadership, honor members with national awards and participate in dozens of continuing education programs led by industry leadership. “As the only only not-for-profit trade association for the sport tourism industry offering an annual meeting for serious-minded sport tourism professionals, we enjoyed a week of educational programs to share best practices in the industry as well as honoring those doing great work in our member communities,” said Don Schumacher, CSEE, executive director of the NASC. “In future years, our

members will have the opportunity to visit three fantastic American cities in Sacramento, Minneapolis and San Diego as we host our annual Symposium in each city.”

The Symposium Committee is currently developing the schedule, recommended pricing structure and other important elements of the planning process. The Board of Directors will be reviewing and approving recommended pricing at its Summer Board Retreat in July. 2017 registration rates will be announced in August and registration will open on September 1.

The Site Selection Committee for the 2020-2021 Symposium bid process has been formed and will be releasing the RFP later this summer. Members interested in hosting the Symposium should contact Lori Gamble, Associate Executive Director, at lori@sportscommissions.org for any questions about site selection.

9

NEW NASC LEADERSHIP ELECTEDNew NASC board leadership was also announced, including Ralph Morton, CSEE, Executive Director, Seattle Sports Commission as the new chair of NASC.

Additional Officers: Vice Chair/Chair-Elect, Mike Anderson, CSEE, Executive Director of Sport Tourism, Myrtle Beach Regional Sports Alliance; Treasurer, Kindra Fry, CSEE, SMP, Executive Director, Bryan College Station Sports + Events; Secretary, Janis Schmees Burke, CSEE, Chief Executive Officer, Harris County/ Houston Sports Authority; and Immediate Past Chair, Greg Ayers, CSEE, President & CEO, Discover Kalamazoo.

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2017: Brian Hickey, CSEE, CDME, Director of Sports, Tallahassee Sports Council; Janis Ross, Executive Director, Eugene, Cascades & Coast Sports; Benjamin Wilder, CSEE, Director, Savannah Sports Council; and Marc Zimmerman, CSEE, Sales & Events Manager, Central Florida’s Polk County Sports Marketing.

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2018: Janna Clark, CSEE, Sports and Sales Director, Elizabethtown Sports Park; Kris Smith, CSEE, Sales Manager, Event Development, Detroit Sports; Roy Edmondson, CSEE, Vice President of Sports Business Development, Visit Anaheim; and Pete Harvey, CSEE, Director of Sports Development, Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission.

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2019: Matt Dunn, CSEE, Vice President, Tourism Development, Palm Coast and

the Flagler Beaches; William Knox, CSEE, Director, Hamilton County Sports Authority; Kathy Nelson, President/CEO, Kansas City Sports Commission; and Michael Price, CSEE, Executive Director, Greater Lansing Sports Authority.

Allied Representatives with a Board Term Expiring 2017: Steve Schell, Sports Strategic Sales Executive, Experient Sports, and Board Term Expiring 2018 is Jason Gewirtz, Editor, Sports Travel Magazine.

Rights Holder Representatives with a Board Term Expiring: Glen Schorr, Executive Director, Orienteering USA (2017); John David, CSEE, Chief Operating Officer, USA BMX (2018).

I T ’ S T I M E T O P L A Y I N P U R E M I C H I G A N

puremichigansports.org

5#SportTourism

affordable

missouri’s gotgame

make your next event a winner in missouri!

s h o w m e m i s s o u r i s p o r t s . c o m

exceptional facilities

central location

NEW NASC LEADERSHIP ELECTEDNew NASC board leadership was also announced, including Ralph Morton, Executive Director, Seattle Sports Commission as the new chair of NASC.

Additional Officers: Vice Chair/Chair-Elect: Mike Anderson, CSEE, Executive Director of Sport Tourism, Myrtle Beach Regional Sports AllianceTreasurer: Kindra Fry, CSEE, SMP, Executive Director, Bryan College Station Sports + Events Secretary: Janis Schmees Burke, CSEE, Chief Executive dOfficer, Harris County/ Houston Sports AuthorityImmediate Past Chair: Greg Ayers, CSEE, President & CEO, Discover Kalamazoo

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2017: Brian Hickey, CSEE, CDME, Director of Sports, Tallahassee Sports Council; Janis Ross, Executive Director, Eugene, Cascades & Coast Sports; Benjamin Wilder, CSEE, Director, Savannah Sports Council; and Marc Zimmerman, CSEE, Sales & Events Manager, Central Florida’s Polk County Sports Marketing.

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2018: Janna Clark, CSEE, Sports and Sales Director, Elizabethtown Sports Park; Kris Smith, CSEE, Sales Manager, Event Development, Detroit Sports; Roy Edmondson, CSEE, Vice President of Sports Business Development, Visit Anaheim; and Pete Harvey, CSEE, Director of Sports Development, Buffalo Niagara Sports Commission.

Directors with a Board Term Expiring 2019: Matt Dunn, CSEE, Executive Director, Tourism Development, Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches; William Knox, CSEE, Director, Hamilton County Sports Authority; Kathy Nelson, President/CEO, Kansas City Sports Commission; and Michael Price, CSEE, Executive Director, Greater Lansing Sports Authority.

Allied Representatives: Steve Schell, Sports Strategic Sales Executive, Experient Sports, and Board Term Expiring 2018 is Jason Gewirtz, Editor, Sports Travel Magazine.

Rights Holder Representatives: Glen Schorr, Executive Director, Orienteering USA (2017); John David, CSEE, Chief Operating Officer, USA BMX (2018).

8

Attract sports-related groups to your destination and increase your share of the more than 97 million room nights our readers generate each year.

Advertise in SportsTravel!

Follow us:

For more information, call (877) 577-3700or visit SportsTravelMagazine.com.

SportsTravel is a registered trademark and “Sports Move People”

is a service mark of Schneider Publishing Company, Inc.

Sports Move PeopleTM

2016 ST_NASC ad_v05.indd 1 5/31/16 11:33 AM

Ron Sertz and Erie Sports Commission honored with three awards

The Erie Sports Commission was honored with three awards at the NASC Sports Event Symposium in April, including the “Marketing Campaign of the Year” Award for cities under a population of 250,000, Sport Tourism Executive of the Year, Ron Sertz, and Sports Commission of the Year, population under 250,000.

The Marketing Campaign of the Year award goes to an active NASC member in each budget category with the most outstanding comprehensive marketing campaign for the organization or an event. The Sport Tourism Executive of the Year award honors the sports commission CEO who demonstrates “The highest levels of achievement, personal conduct and professionalism in the sport tourism industry,” according to the NASC criteria. The Sports Commission of the Year award goes to an organization that has had the most outstanding impact on their local community through sports events.

“It was a tremendous honor to be awarded not one, but three industry awards from the National Association of Sports Commissions,” said Ron Sertz, Executive Director of the Erie Sports Commission. “Winning any awards on this level is incredible. Winning three was amazing! We were blown away to have been recognized so promi-nently. Bringing these awards home to Erie will serve as a platform and

9

provide us with a great opportunity to continue to market our region as an outstanding destination for sporting events.”

“I was both humbled and honored to be named the Sport Tourism Executive of the year,” continued Sertz. “Individual awards like this are only won by the combined efforts of a dedicated staff, and I have a great one. Also, my admiration of NASC as an organization is extensive, so being accorded this great honor from an organization I greatly admire makes it even more special. It will always serve as a highlight to my long and extensive career in sports.”

St. Louis Sports Commission Wins NASC “Locally Created Event of the Year” Award

The St. Louis Sports Commission is the recipient of the “Locally Created Event of the Year” Award for cities of population 250,000 and above. The Locally Created Event of the Year award goes to an active member of NASC with the most outstanding locally created event or program. This event can be newly created or a long-standing event, but must be an event/program created by the submitting organi-zation to serve a local community or an organizational need. The St. Louis Sports Commission is being honored for The Musial Awards.

“Since our industry continues to grow and create more outstanding events, it is magnificently meaningful to us to be honored by the NASC,” said Frank Viverito, President, St. Louis Sports Commission. “The Musial Awards event is designed to elevate and celebrate good sportsmanship and to change the way people view sports and life. This award validates our efforts and inspires us to accomplish even more.”

Chris Massey of Harris County-Houston Sports Authority Wins NASC “Game Changer” Award

Chris Massey from the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority is the recipient of the “Game Changer” Award which recognizes the invaluable contributions made by sport tourism executives who are vital to the success of their desti-nation’s sport tourism efforts but are not CEOs.

In giving the award, the NASC judging panel said: “Chris Massey, Director of Events for the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority was an industry leader in 2015, whether for his expertise in bidding on events or maximizing the media and promotional support for the City of Houston that those events presented.”

“Chris has made a significant contribution to the sports scene in Houston. He takes an innovative approach to every event we host and in partnership with our clients he’s able to blaze new trails, gaining results like they’ve never seen before. Smart and ambitious, he epitomizes the very name of the Game Changer award, “ Janis Schmees Burke, Chief Executive Officer, Harris County-Houston Sports Authority.

#SportTourism

10

Sports are

BIGGERin Texas

11#SportTourism

Wicomico County Convention and Visitors Bureau Wins “Locally Created Event of the Year” Award

The Wicomico County Convention and Visitors Bureau/TEAM Maryland is the recipient of the “Locally Created Event of the Year” Award for cities under a population of 250,000. The Locally Created Event of the Year award goes to an active member of NASC with the most outstanding locally created event or program. This event can be newly created or a long-standing event, but must be an event/pro-gram created by the submitting organization to serve a local community or an organizational need. Wicomico County Convention and Visitors Bureau was honored for the Gover-nor’s Challenge Basketball Tournament.

“Wicomico County Recreation, Parks, & Tourism is thrilled to accept the Locally Created Event of the Year award for the Governor’s Challenge Basketball Tournament,” said James Simmons, Assistant Tourism Manager & Gover-nor’s Challenge Tournament Director. “It has been a true community effort to grow the event to a national scale while making a tremendous economic impact and provid-ing opportunities and a platform for our local under-rated athletes. To be able to shine a positive light on our local athletes, coaches, officials, fans and community is what it is all about and we plan on continuing to grow. We are grateful to be recognized nationally at the highest level for our Sport Tourism efforts.”

San Antonio Sports Wins NASC “Marketing Campaign of the Year” Award

San Antonio Sports is the recipient of the “Marketing Campaign of the Year” Award for cities with population of 250,000 and above. The Marketing Campaign of the Year award goes to an active NASC member in each budget category with the most outstanding comprehensive market-ing campaign for the organization or an event. This can include a variety of types of marking, including print ads, newsletters, email blasts, digital marketing (including web-sites, social media components, etc.), press releases, media coverage or any other promotional program. The campaign should promote the organization as a sports destination.

“Our VIVA SWIM campaign was the perfect alignment of San Antonio Sports’ three vision points: places to play, events that impact and healthy kids,” said San Antonio Sports senior vice president Mary Ullmann Japhet. “Be-cause of our world-class Northside Swim Center, we were able to attract USA Swimming’s national and junior na-tional championships, which inspired the creation of VIVA

SWIM. We aligned swim lesson providers to provide more low- or no-cost swim lessons across the community, which resulted in an additional 8,700 children taking lessons in the summer of 2015 over 2014. We could not have done this without the support of USA Swimming and our local sponsors and community partners. We gratefully share this award with all of them.”

Fox Cities CVB Wins NASC “Sport Tourism Organization of the Year” Award

Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau is the recipient of the “Sport Tourism Organization of the Year” Award for cities with population of under 250,000. The Sport Tourism Organization of the Year award goes to an NASC member, which has had the most outstanding impact on their local community through sports, events, commu-nity events and/or economic impact.

“To be honored by our NASC peers on a national level is probably the most prestigious recognition the Fox Cities CVB could receive,” said Matt Ten Haken, Director of Sports Marketing, Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We are incredibly grateful. After the symposium, being able to share this award with the many organizations, both nationally and locally, that we have the honor to work with has been very rewarding. We know that this industry is all about partnerships and relationships and this award has helped us solidify our bond with so many important partners.”

Rockford Area CVB Wins NASC “Sport Tourism Organization of the Year” Award

The Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is the recipient of the “Sport Tourism Organization of the Year” Award for cities with population of 250,000 and over. The Sport Tourism Organization of the Year award goes to an NASC member, which has had the most outstanding impact on their local community through sports, events, commu-nity events and/or economic impact.

“I’m honored that the RACVB was recognized by the National Association of Sports Commissions as the “Sport Tourism Organization of the Year” for populations over 250,000,” said Lindsay Arellano, RACVB Director of Sales and Service. “To be recognized by our peers and selected as “the best” in the industry for larger markets across the nation is a true honor and significant recognition of the quality of our staff team, marketing and sales efforts, results and partnerships.”

WWW.SPORTSCOMMIS-12

Richmond Sports Backers Wins NASC “Sports Commission of the Year” Award

The Richmond Sports Backers organization is the recipient of the “Sports Commission of the Year” Award for cities with population of 250,000 and over. The Sports Commission of the Year award goes to an NASC member which has had the most outstanding impact on their local community through sports events.

“It is an honor to become the first four-time winner of this award and a testament to the quality of the organization, its events, and its programs,” said Sports Backers’ board of direc-tors president Tyler Hutchens. “We’ve been able to build an incredible staff that is committed to excellence in everything we do, from our annual events to our initiatives aimed at build-ing an active community. It’s especially exciting to win this award as the organization celebrates our 25th anniversary.”

Aaron Soroka from GWN Dragon Boat Wins NASC “Sports Event Professional” Award

Aaron Soroka, chief operating officer of GWN Dragon Boat, is the recipient of the “Sports Event Professional” Award for event owners. The Sports Event Professional award goes to a staff member of an NASC rights holder member organi-zation which has exhibited the most outstanding impact in the sport tourism industry. This individual has positively impacted the industry through events held through economic impact, hotel occupancy, growth of sport in a local commu-nity, participation and/or attendance records.

“I am honored to have been recognized as the NASC Sports Event Executive of the Year,” said Aaron Soroka, Chief Operating Officer, GWN Dragon Boat. “Successful events require a tremendous amount of teamwork amongst all stakeholders, including staff, venue partners and sponsors. GWN is fortunate to have a tremendous team. This award is recognition of their dedication and shared vision. It serves to provide valuable publicity amongst industry peers in the continued development of the sport and the Walgreens Major League Dragon Boat Series.”

10 INDOOR FACILITIES | 5 MULTI-SPORT OUTDOOR FACILITIES | 16,000 HOTEL ROOMS

We’ve got trails, beaches, arenas, fields and parks close to downtown. And we’ve got a city filled with award-winning restaurants, hotels, nightlife, a casino and museums. Together, that means no matter who wins the event you host here, you’re still a hero.

6097 / 5704 • VISIT Milwaukee • Meetings & Conventions/sports • NASC Playbook June 2016 • 7.5" x 5"

visitmilwaukee.org/playbook

NASC MEMBERS RAISE THOUSANDS FOR MARY FREE BED WHEELCHAIR & ADAPTIVE SPORTSWith the support of our members, the NASC Sports Legacy Fund donated $27,000, its largest contribution to date, to Mary Free Bed Wheelchair & Adaptive Sports. Started 40 years ago with a tennis program, the Mary Free Bed Wheelchair & Adap-tive Sports program serves 400 children and 300 adults through a variety of organized team sports, clinics and camps every year. The NASC Sports Legacy Committee will be selecting the 2017 beneficiary later this summer. The committee selects the beneficiary based on the criteria of donating to non-profits that provide individuals – particularly at-risk youth, veterans, or physically or intellectually disabled individuals – opportunities to participate in sport and encourage healthy lifestyles. Since 2009, the NASC Sports Legacy Fund has donated more than $90,000 to beneficiaries in the host cites of the NASC Sports Event Symposium.

13

JUST A TURN UP FROM DALLAS

Westside Aquatic Center n 75,000 sq. ft. facility n Seating for 1,200 spectators n 75-meter competition pool n 36 numbered lanes n Two 1-meter and two 3-meter diving boards Toyota of Lewisville Railroad Park n 8 lighted soccer fields n 4 lighted football fields n 4 lighted baseball fields n Permanent concession buildings Lewisville Lake Park n 8 lighted soccer fields n 10 lighted baseball/softball fields n Golf, disc golf, fishing, boat ramps, and marinas Hotels n 1800 rooms within minutes of sports venues

Carlos Hernandez n 972.219.3713chernandez@cityoflewisville.com

VisitLewisville.com

LEWISVILLE, TEXAS

Sponsored by

14

CERTIFIED SPORTS EVENT EXECUTIVES GRADUATES HONOREDCongratulations to our 2016 CSEE graduates! 22 individuals were recognized in Grand Rapids for earning a CSEE credential.

CSEE GRADUATES:Daniel Bell, DeKalb CVB Matt Billingsley, Visit BakersfieldAlan Bradley, Round Rock CVBJenni Campbell, San Angelo CVBAuvis Cole, Rock Hill/York County CVBAshley Harper Cottrell, Maryland Sports/TEAM Maryland Todd Dibs, Visit Tri-ValleyDon Dukemineer, Huntsville/Madison County CVBShelli Fine, Reno Tahoe USAKris Jensen, Kenosha Area CVBJim Marlin, Cedar Valley Sports CommissionEric Marvin, Columbus Indiana Visitors CenterCheryl McCullough, Colorado Springs CVBHeather McElhiney, Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau Tim Pasisz, Visit StocktonMatthew Payne, Denver SportsDominique Powell, Bryan College Station Sports + Events Allen Stebelton, Greene County CVBMatt Ten Haken, Fox Cities CVBKaty Tigchelaar, West Michigan Sports Commission Marissa Werner, VISIT MilwaukeeKelvin Yarrell, Rocky Mount Sports Complex

15#SportTourism

2016 NASC Market Segment Meetings and CSEE Fall Course

Best Practices ·Trends · Strategies · Ideas · SolutionsOctober 25-26, 2016 | Indianapolis, IN

MARKET SEGMENT MEETINGSThe 2016 Market Segment Meetings are scheduled for October 25-26, 2016, in Indianapolis, IN. All market sizes will be meeting in the same location this year.

The NASC Market Segment Meetings create an opportunity for destinations of similar market size and organization structure to conduct open and honest dialogue about matters of importance to attendees. These are advanced level discussions among serious-minded professionals in the sport tourism industry.

Participants will take away best practices from the most credible source in the industry … your association!

Format: Small group discussions- Destination Marketing Organizations- Small & Mid-Market Sports Commissions - Large Market Sports Commissions – Marketing & Events - Large Market Sports Commissions – CEOs

Key topics:- Board Development- Locally Created Events- Constructing Your LOC- Volunteer Recruitment- Non-traditional Housing

CSEE FALL COURSEOur business is about bringing people together and to do that, we have to understand and truly care about the objec-tives of each stakeholder that is part of the sport event equation. CSEE participants will leave this session with refined skills and abilities related to sharing their story, hearing the story that others have to tell, and using this information to successfully negotiate deals. Presenters will be from Sport Tourism and Academia and participants are expected to come ready to work at applying the informa-tion learned via group case work during our time together.

The fall course is being developed in partnership with Ohio University College of Business.

- Facility Development- Bidding Success Stories- Keys to Successful Site Visits- Quality of Life in Your Community

RegistrationMarket Segment Meetings: $299 per person Active Membership Required.

CSEE Fall Course: $400

Hotel Information

Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites$159 per night

Register & book your room at www. sportscommissions.orgFor more information, contact Meagan McCalla, Member Services Manager, at 513.842.8307 or meagan@sportscommissions.org.

SCHEDULE (subject to change)

Tuesday, October 257:00 a.m. - Noon ..................... Registration 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. .............. CSEE Breakfast 8:00 a.m. - Noon ..................... CSEE Fall Course 12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. ............ Networking Lunch 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. .............. Small Group Discussions5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. .............. Happy Hour

Wednesday, October 268:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. .............. Continental Breakfast 8:30 a.m. - Noon ..................... Small Group Discussions

www.SportsCommissions.org19

Amazeum, Bentonville

Besides having great team sport facilities, Arkansas also has super fun stuff to do when you’re not on the fi eld or the court. The brand-new

Amazeum, the beautiful River Market, Magic Springs Water and Theme Park, USS Razorback … the list (and the fun) goes on and on. Find out

more at Arkansas.com/sports or 1-800-872-1259. And come see us at 2017 NASC Sports Event Symposium, March 27-29 in Sacramento, CA.

#VisitArkansas

Magic Springs Water and Theme Park, Hot SpringsArkansas Inland Maritime Museum, North Little Rock

Score, runs, goals AND FUN.

APT 28627.2 2017 NASC Sports_tc.indd 1 6/7/16 4:48 PM

Put us in play for your next event.

Proud host of

The Perfect Playground.

G r A N d r A P I d s ,M I C h I G A N

WestMIsports.com ExperienceGr.com

18www.SportsCommissions.org

NCAA Championships Bid Process Now Open through August

Hosting an NCAA championship in your city or your facility means high profile exposure for your market in addi-tion to media attention, room nights for teams, families and fans as well as a more robust resume when you look to host future events.

There are many opportunities each year for championship bids as the NCAA administers 90 championships in 24 sports for its member institutions. Each championship is run by a committee of coaches and administrators from NCAA mem-ber schools who are experts in their sport. And remember, there’s not just Division I sports: Division II and III also hold championships and need host cities.

So how do you go about applying to be a championship host? Here are a few suggestions from Jeff Jarnecke, NCAA Director of Championships and Alliances.

“First, know your schedule and how it fits into our calendar,” said Jarnecke. Because many championships are bid out years in advance, it’s wise to do your homework and see if the dates at your facility match the NCAA’s calendar.

Once you’ve identified which of your facilities could hold an NCAA championship, you will want to start the process by heading to http://championships.ncaa.org. If you are part-nering with an area university or conference office, it’s likely they applied as a host in the past, so you can coordinate your bid response with them. If you are new to the process, you’ll see a link saying “Request Account” that will eventually get you access to this portal. Groups such as IMG Academy, Hoosier Amateur Sports Corp., Indiana Dunes Tourism, Kansas City Sports Commission and others, are on the account list.

“When you’ve gained access, you’ll go to the home screen,” said Jarnecke. “If you put in a bid earlier, you’ll see the list of bids for your organization. You’ll also see championships that are available for bids.”

Along with the available bids will be deadlines to file an application, documents and the requirements or “bid specifi-cations” each championship needs. You’ll also be assigned a primary contact connected with the group placing the bid.

“Another important tool is the budget portal,” said Jarnecke. “Here you’ll see your previously submitted bud-gets and users can create new budgets from a championship they may have already held.”

Once the bid is in, members of the championship committee may make a site visit to look over the facility (or facilities)

you have offered as hosts for the championship. At that time you will have an opportunity to “champion” your facility, your city and your volunteer base to the committee.

“We receive hundreds of applications from facilities around the country to be the host for our NCAA championships,” said Jarnecke. “Not only do we look for the best facility possible, but we’re also looking for the best experience for the student-athlete. This championship just may be the highlight of his or her collegiate playing career, and we want it to be a memorable experience for student-athletes and their families.”

Deadlines for BidsThrough 2021-22, the deadline for ALL sports/ divisions is August 12, 2016 except for the follwing:

2017-18 Beach Volleyball finals August 11

2017-18 Mixed Rifle finals August 11

2017-18 Mixed Skiing regionals August 11

2018-19 DIII M/W Outdoor Track/Field finals August 11

2017-18 Mixed Skiing finals August 11

2017-18 DI Men’s Ice Hockey regionals and finals July 12

DO VEGAS LIKE A CHAMPIONWITH OUR LUXURIOUS LINEUP

With over 2,000,000 square feet of function space, 3 arenas and 50,000

guest rooms, MGM Resorts is the ideal host for your next sporting event.

For more information, contact Daniel Rush, drush@mgmresorts.com.

mgmresorts.com

BELLAGIO® ARIA® VDARA® MGM GRAND® THE SIGNATURE AT MGM GRAND® MANDALAY BAY® DELANO™ LAS VEGAS

THE MIRAGE® MONTE CARLO™ NEW YORK-NEW YORK® LUXOR® EXCALIBUR® CIRCUS CIRCUS® LAS VEGAS BEAU RIVAGE®

GOLD STRIKE® TUNICA MGM GRAND® DETROIT

19#SportTourism

SIGHTSEEING IN SACRAMENTO

Sacramento, the host of the 2017 NASC Sports Event Symposium, is a city made for exploring. If you want to experience California’s capital like a native, here are some suggestions on what to do and where to go.

MUST DOSGolden One Center Central to Sacramento’s recent redevelopment is the new downtown Golden 1 Center sports and entertainment complex opening in October, 2016. Home of the NBA’s Kings basketball team, the arena is poised to be the most technologically-advanced in the country and will offer a full Farm-to-Fork menu with 90 percent of the ingredients sourced within 150 miles of the court. March Madness will also return to Sacramento at the Golden 1 Center in 2017. Beyond thrilling sports, the arena will showcase music, theater and much more.

Grab a PlateThe Sacramento region’s food scene is exploding, with world-class chefs quietly flocking to the city to take advan-tage of the 365-day growing season coming from the sur-rounding 1.5 million acres of farmland. The region supplies most of the world’s sushi rice, tomatoes, almonds and more, but there’s nothing like tasting fresh food, right from the source in Sacramento.

Raise a PintOnce the Beer Capital of the West, Sacramento’s craft beer scene has re-emerged, with the region offering more than 40 craft breweries to explore. Visitors can enjoy a pint at Ruhstaller’s downtown subterranean tasting room, or hit other favorites like Track 7 and New Helvetia. Visitors can even pedal for their pints aboard Sacramento’s BrewBike that tours local breweries.

FOODIES’ FAVORITESFrom burgers to fine dining, there are countless delicious options in Sacramento. A few restaurants include:

Casual Restaurants Mother: Even if you’re a hardcore carnivore, Mother is a can’t-miss Sacramento spot. The restaurant offers a full, locally-sourced vegetarian and vegan menu.

Broderick: Restaurateur Chris Jaroz’ food truck gave way to two eateries that feature casual farm-to-fork bites with a spicy twist.

Zocalo: Elevated Mexican food in a breathtakingly restored space in Midtown Sacramento.

deVere’s Irish Pub: A traditional Irish pub with a decid-edly Sacramento twist.

20www.SportsCommissions.org

Low Brau: Beer hall with casual bites (we suggest the mini corn dogs) and a great outdoor patio.

Hook & Ladder: Rustic, laid-back bar and kitchen, fueled by local farms, breweries and wineries.

Magpie: A favorite with locals. Inspired by the relaxed cafes of Italy and focuses on Sacramento’s seasonal offerings.

Upscale Dining Mulvaney’s B&L: Slow food restaurant with rotating menu based upon local farms’ offerings. Founder and lead chef Patrick Mulvaney is one of the driving forces behind Sacramento’s farm-to-fork movement.

Ella: Downtown fine dining with a menu designed around farm-to-fork. Founder Randall Selland is an integral part of Sacramento’s farm-to-fork movement.

Grange: Seasonal, farm-to-fork offerings in the Citizen Hotel’s restaurant. Executive Chef Oliver Ridgeway was the only chef to have two dishes on Saveur’s Hot 100 list in 2014 and is one of the two lead chefs for the Tower Bridge dinner.

Empress: Subterranean dining centered on the rotisserie, this new restaurant beneath Sacramento’s Crest Theatre was easily the most anticipated restaurant opening of 2016.

Frank Fat’s: Sacramento’s oldest eatery still brings crowds of diners hungry for the restaurant’s elevated Chinese cuisine. Once home to secret political meetings, you’ll still see famous faces at this Sacramento institution.

BEST WATERING HOLESFederalist: Unique beer garden and pizza join constructed from shipping containers.

Shady Lady: A classic style bar specializing in crafted cocktails (named one of Esquire’s “Best Bars in America in 2014).

Ruhstaller: An underground tasting room for a local brewery that grows its own hops just outside of Sacramento.

COFFEE CAPITALJava lovers will find their paradise in Sacramento, and the region’s coffee houses are the favorite haunts of locals. Sacramento received more mentions on Coffee Review’s prestigious ‘Top 30’ list than any other city in 2015. Favorite spots include Old Soul, Temple, Chocolate Fish and Insight.

SHOPPING FOR SOUVENIRSSacramento offers shopping options ranging from clothing boutiques to farmers’ markets, so there’s really something for everyone. But with the region’s food scene getting so much attention, bringing home a taste of Sacramento is the way to go. A bag of coffee from one of the region’s famed coffee houses (see below) is a great bet, as it a jar of the locally-made (national brand) Preservation & Company Bloody Mary Mix. You also can’t beat a reminder of your trip to California’s State Capital with a unique T-Shirt from the State Capitol building’s gift shop.

BE THE SPORTS PLANNER EVERYBODY LOOKS UP TO.BE THE SPORTS PLANNER EVERYBODY LOOKS UP TO.Sporting events are measured in points, goals, runs, wins and losses. They’re also measured in memories. In Wisconsin, our sports destinations are dedicated to helping you create experiences worthy of reminiscing for years to come. Become anall-star that everyone looks up to and get the ball rolling at sportswisconsin.com.