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Sports Destination Committee

Sports Destination Committee New for 2026/2027

Committee Chair

Darren Van Lehn

Travel Medford

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Sports events can fill hotel rooms on weekends when few other opportunities will—but winning them means competing against destinations with newer facilities, deeper subsidies, and dedicated sales teams.

The Sports Destination Committee connects destination professionals focused on attracting, developing, and supporting sports tourism across the West. Members will compare bid strategies, discuss facility development and community partnerships, and share insights into what truly influences a rights holder’s decision. Through candid peer exchange, the committee will explore emerging trends, address industry challenges, and identify practical strategies for recruiting successful events, strengthening destination competitiveness, and maximizing the economic and community impact of sports tourism.

Focus Areas

  • Recruiting and bidding for events, tournaments, and championships
  • Facility development, venue capacity, and making the local investment case
  • Measuring economic impact and room nights credibly
  • Working with rights holders, governing bodies, and local organizers
  • Youth, amateur, and outdoor event pipelines across the West

This committee is for you if…

  • Sports events are a meaningful part of your room-night mix
  • You bid on tournaments or work directly with rights holders
  • You’re making the case locally for facility investment
  • You work in sales, sports development, or destination leadership

One West Members

Access committee meeting notes, shared resources, and member discussions in the One West member area.

Go to Committee Member Area →

Member Benefit

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