What do you look for in a facility?
We want an open space with high ceilings and flat surfaces—hardwood floors, smooth concrete, blacktop and AstroTurf all work well for our needs. We’re even developing and running tournaments in the sand. We prefer a ceiling height of at least 14 feet with no obstructions, such as fans or light fixtures. Spaces without beams are ideal, but if beams are spread out enough we can work around them. We also look for climate-controlled facilities that offer a dry atmosphere; humidity can disrupt bag speed and play on the boards. Another important requirement is being able to put down a security deposit.
Why would you choose a destination?
We seek out small-to-mid-size cities that not only appeal to our “blue collar” type of player, but also where we can make a financial impact. Often we target cities that are easily accessible by car (the majority of our players like to drive versus fly). It’s important that there is plenty of free parking available when they arrive. We want a clean, economical city with fair room and board rates as well as friendly and social people.
Why wouldn’t you choose a destination?
In the case of a world point-earning tournament, if there were no indoor facilities to meet our needs, we would not likely host a cornhole tournament in that city. However, we could host a qualifier or invitational tournament outdoors.
What services do you want from a CVB?
- A bid fee
- Meals for our staff
- Room and board for our staff
- Local marketing and social media help
- Locate and provide best venue for the event
- Provide a list of must-sees while players are in town
- Help providing fair food and beverage pricing from concessions for our players
What do your participants and spectators want outside the event?
When players are done with the games, they are ready for a drink. We want good local restaurants and bars nearby the facility and hotels with entertaining downtown districts. We often get a lot of the players’ family members as spectators, so family activities—such as amusement parks, rafting or museums—close to hotels appeal to us, too.
Contact American Cornhole Organization (ACO) at 513-965-8687, email info@americancornhole.com or visit www.americancornhole.com.
