Chesterfield County: A Mecca for Sports Tourism with World-Class Facilities and Fields | Sports Destination Management

Chesterfield County: A Mecca for Sports Tourism with World-Class Facilities and Fields

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Jun 24, 2019

Located in central Virginia, just south of Richmond, Chesterfield County is two hours from the beach, the mountains and Washington, DC. Framed by the James and Appomattox rivers, Chesterfield capitalizes upon abundant natural beauty in an area of major historical significance. Sports and an active lifestyle are part of the culture in Chesterfield. From soccer to lacrosse, and field hockey to swimming, we have the facilities, accommodations, community amenities and the support system to ensure your event is a success. Join the excitement that is happening in Chesterfield County.

Things to do in Chesterfield County
Teams and families will find a variety of exciting activities in the Chesterfield region. Explore the grounds where Pocahontas once lived, where the first college and American hospital were established, and the site of the first commercial coal mines in America. Experience the history of the Civil War at several battle sites within the county. Witness the natural wonders of the Dutch Gap Conservation Area. With easy access to the region’s rivers, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing, kayaking and other water sports.

The greater Richmond area has become known for innovations in food, craft beer, fashion and the arts. The city boasts the only class III & IV urban rapids in the entire country. Find out why we’re a Travel + Leisure Top Destination.

How to Get to Chesterfield County
There are a myriad of highways leading into the Chesterfield area. The county is within a six-hour driving distance to 30 million people and is conveniently located near I-95, I-85 and I-64 and Richmond International Airport.

Facility Spotlight

River City Sportsplex
Sports: Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Flag Football, Ultimate, Spikeball
One of the largest pods of synthetic turf fields in the U.S. with 547,000 visitors in 2018. The 115-acre River City Sportsplex includes 12 synthetic-turf multi-purpose fields with lights, ample parking, concessions and restroom facilities, a plaza area for tournament headquarters and vendors, complimentary Wi-Fi, bleachers at each field, a warm-up area and on-site assistance by facility staff. Named an “ULTIMATE Soccer and Lacrosse Destinations and Venues” by SportsEvents Magazine.

Regional and national tournaments held at this facility: Club Champions League (CCL) College Showcase (soccer), The Jefferson Cup (soccer), Corrigan Sports Summer Rumble (lacrosse), IWLCA Champions Cup (lacrosse), IWLCA Capital Cup (lacrosse), Corrigan Sports Rumble in Richmond (lacrosse), Capital Fall Classic (soccer), Shooting Star Field Hockey Thanksgiving Tournament.

SwimRVA
Sports: Swimming 
This center offers a 50-meter, 8-lane competition pool with moveable bulkheads. This pool was used in the 2008 Olympic trials in Omaha, Nebraska, Twenty-one American records and nine world records have been set in it. At 7’7” deep and 79 degrees F, this spectacular pool is the only 50-meter competition pool in Central Virginia and one of the finest along the East Coast. The spectator seating area holds 700 fans right above the action. Plus, five 36” high definition TVs make this area the perfect place to view the competition. Clean, modern and well-equipped locker rooms offer lockers, showers, bathrooms, sinks and mirrors and bathing suit dryers. Events hosted include: TYR Pro Swim Series, VHSL State Championships, NOVA Winter and Spring Invitationals.

Sampling of Other Facilities

  • Daniel Park at Iron Bridge – 14 lighted baseball/softball fields, game courts, shelters and trails.
  • Horner Park – Seven rectangular multi-use fields and four lighted baseball/softball fields
  • Pocahontas State Park – With nearly 8,000 acres, the largest Virginia state park boasts over 64 miles of trails; boating, picnicking, camping facilities; a 225-acre lake and a recreational pool. The park is home to mountain biking, cross-country and trail running (Ragnar) events each year.
  • Pickleball facilities – Chesterfield has 26 dedicated courts at Rockwood Park (8), Daniel Park (6) and the new CTC@Hull pickleball tournament facility (12).
  • Richmond Volleyball Club – Opened in 2018, this facility has eight volleyball courts and a mezzanine viewing area. Hosts state and east coast regional tournaments.
  • Robious Landing Park – Situated on the James River, this park provides easy access for triathlons and crew (rowing) events, as well as kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Picnic shelters, playground and trails.
  • Stratton Park – Two synthetic turf fields with permanent lining for soccer, field hockey and boy’s lacrosse, complementing a seven-field lighted facility at adjacent Ukrop Park.

What Event Planners Say

“…the River City Sportsplex team is the BEST I’ve ever worked with.” Pam Hixon, Founder of College Connection

“River City Sportsplex remains the premier public venue of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, so we look forward to hosting many more successful tournaments in Chesterfield County for years to come.” Lee Corrigan, Corrigan Sports Enterprises

“…we look forward to working with the county for our college showcase events for years to come.” Brian Kuk, Club Champions League

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