The exclusive, invitation-only conference brings together the leaders of the sports events industry for three days of education, networking and trade fair.
The Location
The Reno- Tahoe region is fast becoming a Mecca for major sporting events – summer or winter and they are eager to show off recent revitalization efforts. Shelli Fine, Director of Sports Development said, “Reno Tahoe USA and the Grand Sierra Resort couldn’t be more thrilled to be the host of this year’s US Sports Congress. Our winter destination will provide the attendees with an excellent ski/spa experience rivaled by few, and Grand Sierra Resort’s plush new amenities will satisfy all. The United States Sports Congress is one of the best sports industry shows of the year – and we plan on meeting their every expectation.”
The Show
Unlike traditional industry trade shows, the Sports Congress focuses first and foremost on continuing education for event stakeholders and sports commissions. General sessions, breakouts and networking events address the key issues that are affecting industry stakeholders.
“The US Sports Congress does a great job combining both education and networking opportunities together. I have been able to take away valuable information, and at the same time get to know someone on a more personal level,” said Ben Wilder, director of the Savannah Sports Council.
At a time when the industry’s largest show is in decline, the Congress has shown consistent year-over-year growth because it delivers value for attendees.
“It’s really about being in tune to the market,” explains Lou Mengsol, president of the US Sports Congress. “We develop our own view of the market, gather opinions from attendees and other stakeholders, and mold those ideas and concepts into the conference programming.”
The Schedule
The event kicks off on Sunday, Dec. 8, with registration and a president’s reception. The next morning, attendees have the option of visiting Northstar Ski Resort or enjoying a spa experience at the newly renovated Grand Sierra, host of this year’s event. That afternoon the trade show opens, with plenty of opportunity for networking before the opening reception.
The congress has a robust line up of top-notch educational sessions, keynotes and motivational speakers. The line-up includes Al Fahden, who will lead a session on business building. Fahden is a noted author, corporate trainer, and former stand-up comic. He has consulted with Fortune 500 companies, as well as celebrity business owners such as Paul McCartney and Bill Murray. Allen has been featured in People Magazine and countless television and radio broadcasts. Danny Heinsohn will conduct a session called “It’s Not What You Sell, It’s How You Sell.” An accomplished Ironman triathlon competitor, Danny’s worked with some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment. He will share his methodology to sales and marketing success.
Also speaking is Professor John Wolohan, noted sports management guru from Syracuse University and the David B. Falk Center for Sport Management. Professor Wolohan will provide keen insights from his visit to the just-completed WADA (World Anti-Doping Association) Conference to provide insights on an update to the code and how this will impact athletes and events.
Accommodations
Attendees will be staying at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. Fresh from a $25-million renovation, Grand Sierra is one of the largest convention center resorts in the country, with more than 200,000 square feet of meeting space. The main entrance features the chandelier from the original MGM Hotel and Casino, which is now surrounded by fresh lounge-style seating and digital displays of the surrounding area. The lobby has seen a substantial upgrade, and guest rooms throughout the resort are also being upgraded to reflect a chic design flair. Food and beverage outlets abound, including the new premier ultra-lounge, WET, featuring flair bartenders, live music and exclusive design features, plus Cantina Mexican restaurant, which provides an authentic experience and more than 115 different tequilas.
For more information, contact the United States Sports Congress at www.ussportscongress.com, or call 608-363-0873.
