#SPORTSWATCH

Upcoming events in Greater Raleigh, N.C.

View our full 2024 calendar, here! 
 

2024 Sports ETA

Recent GRSA travel

GRSA staff was in Portland, Ore., last month for the Sports ETA Symposium, an annual event that brings together the nation’s top sports destinations and decision makers responsible for organizing sports events. During the week, GRSA met with 40 event organizers and sponsored a golf simulator activation for clients and attendees. GRSA was also recognized as a finalist for the Sports ETA Member Awards in the category of Sports Tourism Organization of the Year. 

 

USA Baseball ribbon cutting

USA Baseball unveils new indoor training facility

USA Baseball and Cary, N.C., celebrated the unveiling of the Executive Offices and Training Center at the USA Baseball National Training Complex. The $10.45 million project includes a versatile, 22,000-square-foot covered infield (convertible into eight pitching/batting lanes) and 14,000 square feet of office and warehouse space. Notably, the facility integrates 301 photovoltaic panels—offsetting 60% of energy demand and reducing water usage by 35%. This launch marks a new era in baseball training, emphasizing sustainability and community partnership, poised to elevate athlete development and inspire future generations.

 

PPA tour

Recap: PPA Tour thrills at Cary Tennis Park

This April, Cary Tennis Park played host to the electrifying PPA Tour, showcasing the pinnacle of men's and women's professional pickleball. As part of the global governing body's mission to elevate the sport, players battled fiercely for titles and coveted PPA Rankings points. With 26 tour stops across the U.S. leading to the prestigious PPA Finals in San Clemente, Cali., the competition was intense. The event culminated in crowning the Top 8 qualified singles players and doubles teams in the world, along with the prestigious title of PPA World No. 1.

The PPA Tour: North Carolina Cup had an estimated direct economic impact of $2.6 million. For a complete list of winners, visit PPA Tour's website.

 

NC FC Youth Starting XI

NCFC Youth announces the starting XI of All-Star 50th Anniversary Commemorative Team

North Carolina FC Youth (NCFC Youth), the largest youth soccer organization in the state, serving more than 16,000 local players annually, has announced the formation of an All-Star Commemorative Team as part of its 50th anniversary of serving the region. March 11 marks the club’s official 50th anniversary, which was founded originally under the name Capital Area Soccer League (CASL). The club rebranded in 2017 to NCFC Youth after a collaboration with Triangle Futbol Club Alliance (a neighboring powerhouse youth soccer club headquartered in Hillsborough, N.C.) and North Carolina Football Club. Read more, here.

 

The Soccer Tournament

The Soccer Tournament returns to Cary

The Soccer Tournament (TST) returns to Cary, June 5-10, 2024, with an expanded lineup of action-packed matches. Featuring 48 men's teams and eight women's teams, this year's event promises high-stakes competition like never before.

With two $1 million prizes up for grabs, including a groundbreaking women's tournament, TST is raising the bar. Witness American soccer legend Heather O’Reilly's club of former U.S. Women’s National Team members vie for victory in the historic women's event.

The event will take place at WakeMed Soccer Park and will showcase some of the world's top talent, culminating in a championship game doubleheader on June 10, where a total of $2 million in prize money will be awarded.

 

2023 NCAA Women's Lacrosse

Save the dates: Upcoming NCAA tournaments

Greater Raleigh is set to be the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts this spring as it proudly hosts two NCAA tournaments. On May 24 and 26, the NCAA Division I Women's Lacrosse Championship takes place at WakeMed Soccer Park, followed by the NCAA Division II Baseball Championship at the USA Baseball National Training Complex from June 1-8. With top teams competing for glory in Cary, it's a can't-miss opportunity for fans to witness thrilling action and championship moments firsthand.

 

Lonnie Poole

Awesome ways to extend your golf day in Raleigh, N.C.

The UNC Health Championship presented by Stitch takes place May 30-June 2 at Raleigh Country Club. After a rewarding day at the green, why not extend the fun and explore the Raleigh area's various offerings? Whether you're looking to unwind or keep the adrenaline pumping, Raleigh, N.C., has spectacular options for entertainment. Try these fantastic activities to enjoy, including Drive Shack, a 65,000-square-foot facility combining the classic allure of golf with state-of-the-art technology and an electric atmosphere. Tee off at their driving range with friends and enjoy delicious bites and drinks. Read more, here.

 

Apex Legends Esports Tournament 2022

Raleigh, N.C., ranks as a top international esports event host destination

A recent industry study has solidified Raleigh, N.C.'s position as a premier destination for hosting esports events. The study was conducted by esports advisory and advocacy firm PLAYHRDR Advisors and examined the global trends in hosting major live, in-person esports tournaments in North America, Europe and the Nordic region between the years of 2019 through 2023. Read more, here.
 

Photos by USA Baseball, David Kuhn and Alyson Boyer Rode