Faces of Sports Tourism

In sports, athletic events and tourism have formed an exciting niche that’s vital to multiple industries. “Faces of Sports Tourism” spotlights key figures driving this dynamic sector through insightful interviews, revealing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

This series offers event planners, rights holders, and enthusiasts an inside track on industry leadership. From organizing complex international competitions to boosting local economies through innovative tourism strategies, our interviews aim to inform, inspire, and engage.

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Recently Published

Faces of Sports Tourism: John Poole

Explore IRONMAN’s Rockford debut with John Poole as he shares race strategy, community impact and what’s next for the global brand.

Faces of Sports Tourism: William Knox

Transforming communities: William Knox shares insights on growth and innovation in sports tourism, the importance of family, and more.

The Beating Heart of Aquatic Excellence

Inside the Indiana University Natatorium with Director Ed Merkling

Faces of Sports Tourism: Suzanne Cecil

A Sports Tourism Leader: Suzanne Cecil offers insights on industry evolution, the power of relationships in event success, and more.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Emily Jaenson

Keynote speaker Emily Jaenson talks about helping professionals develop the confidence to take bold steps in their careers and lives.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Dawna Callahan

All In Sport Consulting Founder and CEO Dawna Callahan talks about her dedication to advancing adapted sports.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Consuelo Sanchez

Meet Consuelo Sanchez of Florida’s Sports Coast—discover how this award‑winning deputy director champions adaptive and international sports tourism with major events, creative partnerships, and a bold vision for inclusive growth.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Bonny Bernat

Explore how Bonny Bernat is driving sports tourism innovation—from her role in boosting Winston‑Salem’s event portfolio to shaping industry education at Sports ETA and her visionary plans ahead.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Carlos Deliz

Discover how Carlos Deliz shapes Puerto Rico’s sports tourism landscape—his journey with Discover Puerto Rico, major events hosted, and future vision.

Faces of Sports Tourism: Hill Carrow

Learn about the best and brightest in the industry; featuring Hill Carrow, chairman and CEO of the NCOC for the 2029 World University Games.

New Venue Forum to Launch in December

The inaugural Sports Venue Forum is slated to take place December 8–10 in Charlotte Harbor, Florida. Billed as a collaborative conference for individuals within sports tourism venue development and operations, Sports Planning Guide (SPG) spoke with William Knox,...

Faces of Sports Tourism: Ashley Whittaker

With us for this edition of Faces of Sports Tourism is Ashley Whittaker, leader of marketing for the Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) as well as the SF Network Marketing Department. Ashley is the 2024 recipient of Sports ETA’s Woman of the Year award, which recognized many of her achievements in the sports tourism industry.

SPG State Guides

Explore our State-by-State Sports Planning Guides to discover top venues, local resources, and expert insights for hosting a successful tournament or competition. Whether you’re looking for world-class stadiums, multi-sport complexes, or hidden gems, our guides provide everything you need to plan with confidence. Select a state to get started!