In this issue, we reach midsummer and my favorite time of the year: the opening of awards season. SDM wants its readers to nominate events for the program, Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism. Our industry is a force to be reckoned with, and you have played a role in it, so please take a moment to enter. This industry also showcases lacrosse, running and road sports and combat sports (all three of those have ancient roots) as well as a newer sport with a North American pedigree: cheer, and sports venues made by nature. Happy reading.
Lacrosse is considered the oldest organized sport in North America, with its origins going back to the 12th century when it was played by Indigenous peoples. Today, nearly 2 million players wield lacrosse sticks on fields across the U.S., with participation continuing to increase at all levels. Here are some great venues, primed and ready to host. more....