Playing Outside the Lines

Mainstream sports have long been big money-makers for destinations. Baseball, softball, basketball, lacrosse — they’re all prime examples. Even the rising disciplines of beach soccer and flag football are becoming commonplace.
 

But many destinations have been rolling out the welcome mat for other sports. Some of these you’ll have heard of while others may be new to you. The good news: With flexibility like this, these communities are proving everything is possible.
 

Florida’s Columbia County sums it up: “As destinations compete for visitors and events, niche sports should not be overlooked. They create community, expand facility use and open doors to audiences that many markets have yet to fully embrace.”
 

Alabama: Mobile
Urban Vaulting on Dauphin Street

Since its inception in 2014, the Dauphin Street Vault has grown into one of the most unique and exciting track and field events in the country. What began as a grassroots effort to showcase the sport of pole vaulting in a fan-friendly setting has evolved into a premier street vault competition that attracts elite athletes, collegiate competitors, youth vaulters and spectators from across the nation.
 

Held annually in the heart of downtown Mobile, the Dauphin Street Vault transforms Dauphin Street into a world-class venue where fans can experience the athleticism, skill and excitement of pole vaulting up close. The event’s blend of high-level competition and block party atmosphere has made it a signature summer tradition and a standout on the national track and field scene.
 

The event’s growth has been supported by dedicated community partners, including the Mobile Sports Authority, which has helped promote and support the competition while showcasing Mobile as a destination for premier sporting events. 
 

In 2026, the event reached a historic milestone by being named a World Athletics Global Circuit Challenger Event, placing Mobile on the international track and field calendar and further elevating the event’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier street vault competitions.
 

Florida: Clay County
Golf Options Abound

Clay County, Florida’s golf scene gives players room to enjoy the game at their own pace, with year-round Florida weather, scenic courses and plenty to do before or after a round. 
 

Throughout Clay County, golfers will find a mix of challenging play, natural beauty and welcoming course experiences. Eagle Harbor Golf Club and Eagle Landing Golf Club both offer strong options for traditional rounds, golf outings and competitive events, with layouts that appeal to players looking for an enjoyable but engaging day on the course. 

 

Fleming Island Golf Club adds a social side to the game with Top of the Tee, a separate golf and entertainment experience featuring Toptracer technology, while Magnolia Point Golf Club offers a quieter setting surrounded by mature landscapes, wildlife and a more relaxed pace. 
 

Beyond the courses, visitors can explore nearby restaurants, outdoor recreation and trails like Black Creek Trail, located just a short bike ride or walk from Eagle Harbor. For golfers looking for good play, fewer crowds and easy access to Northeast Florida attractions, Clay County, Florida is an easy place to tee up and unwind.
 

Florida: Columbia County
Radio-Controlled (RC) Racing Track

As the sports tourism industry continues to evolve, niche sports are becoming a powerful driver of destination growth, facility diversification and year-round visitation. Columbia County, Florida is embracing that opportunity by relocating and upgrading its RC racing track as a part of phase one of the new Regional Sports Park.
 

While traditional stick-and-ball sports remain vital in Lake City, emerging and specialty sports like RC racing create unique opportunities to engage passionate participant communities that travel frequently, stay multiple days and build loyal event followings. 
 

RC racing tournaments attract competitors, families, vendors and spectators from across the world, generating economic impact while activating facilities in new ways. The new RC track will provide improved infrastructure, accessibility, enhanced spectator areas, guaranteed racing and additional room for future expansion and event programming. 

More importantly, it reflects a broader vision for Columbia County’s sports tourism future, one built on versatility, innovation and the maximization of every acre of recreational space.

As destinations compete for visitors and events, niche sports should not be overlooked. They create community, expand facility use and open doors to audiences that many markets have yet to fully embrace. In Columbia County, that future is already taking shape.
 

www.columbiacountysportscommission.com | Chris Coleman, Sports and Small Group Sales Representative, Columbia County Sports Commission | 386-984-8951.
 

Florida: Pinellas Park 
Ball Hockey Rink at Sprowls Horizon Sports Park

The Ball Hockey Rink at Sprowls Horizon Sports Park in Pinellas Park, Florida is a dynamic, multi-use space that brings year-round energy and versatility to the community and overall complex.
 

Proudly sponsored by the Tampa Bay Lightning, the rink offers a high-quality playing surface designed to support multiple sports, including ball hockey, futsal and pickleball.
 

Beyond its flexibility, the facility is a true hub for both organized and casual play. Horizon Sports Park hosts structured leagues that cater to a variety of ages and skill levels, creating a competitive and inclusive environment for local athletes. 
 

At the same time, the rink provides public access opportunities, allowing individuals and groups to enjoy the space at their own pace. 
 

For teams, organizations and event planners, the rink is also available for rentals, making it an ideal venue for practices, tournaments and special events.
 

Combining professional backing, community-focused programming and multi-sport adaptability, the ball hockey rink at Sprowls Horizon Sports Park stands out as a premier recreational destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
 

Georgia: Peachtree City
William B. Davis BMX Track

Located just south of Atlanta, the William B. Davis BMX Track offers riders of all ages the opportunity to experience one of cycling’s fastest-growing disciplines in a welcoming, community-focused environment. 
 

Operated by Peachtree City BMX and sanctioned by USA BMX, the facility features a professionally maintained race track, a pump track for skill development and a modern electronic starting gate system that provides riders with an authentic race experience.
 

The track hosts practices, races, clinics and special events throughout the year, attracting riders ranging from beginners to experienced competitors. BMX’s age-inclusive format makes it unique among youth sports, allowing young riders, parents and even grandparents to participate in the same community.
 

Beyond the track itself, visitors can enjoy everything that makes Peachtree City distinctive. The city is known for its extensive network of more than 100 miles of shared-use paths, making it easy for families to explore parks, restaurants, shopping and hotels between events.
 

For those competing, learning the sport or cheering from the sidelines, the William B. Davis BMX Track offers a memorable experience that combines competitive racing and a strong sense of community.
 

Missouri: Branson
MoNASP State Archery Championship 

Branson continues to grow as a destination for unique and specialty sporting events and one of the most exciting returning competitions is the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP) State Archery Championship. 
 

Bringing together more than 4,000 student archers, coaches and families from across Missouri, the event showcases precision, focus and sportsmanship while creating a memorable experience for participants of all skill levels.
 

Hosted in Branson, the championship highlights archery as a growing youth sport and the city’s ability to accommodate large-scale specialty events. Competitors travel from across the state to compete for top honors, turning the area into a hub of energy throughout the tournament weekend.
 

Beyond competition, families enjoy Branson’s attractions, entertainment, dining and outdoor recreation. Events like MoNASP continue to diversify Branson’s sports landscape beyond traditional sports.
 

This event would not be possible without the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program, dedicated volunteers, the Branson Convention Center and the Explore Branson Sports team, whose collaboration helps make the championship a success.
 

Montana: Billings
The Trailhead for Niche Sports

Billings, Montana is up for anything. Axe throwing, arm wrestling, ping pong and everything in between — Billings can (and does) host it all. 
 

Some recent highlights include the 2025 World Axe Throwing League’s U.S. Open, where Ox Indoor Axe Throwing hosted several hundred of the country’s best axe and knife throwers; the 2025 USA Curling Arena Regional Playdowns and the 2026 Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games, featuring 1,000 athletes with intellectual challenges competing across multiple sports throughout the city.
 

Every July, Billings also plays host to the Big Sky State Games, an Olympics-style amateur sports festival featuring 39 different sports with more than 8,000 competitors. In addition to all the traditional sports, there are plenty of niche options like cornhole, equestrian and speed climbing, to name just a few.
 

The team at Visit Billings is always looking for the next great idea to bring to the Treasure State and showcase all it has to offer.
 

New Jersey: Hillsborough Township
Iron Peak Sports & Events: Kickball, Cornhole and More

This season, Iron Peak Sports & Events is excited to continue expanding its adult league offerings with the addition of three brand-new sports: kickball, cornhole and volleyball. These new leagues join the growing lineup of basketball, softball, dodgeball and soccer, creating even more opportunities for adults 18 and over to stay active, social and connected through sports.
 

Iron Peak’s adult leagues are designed for all skill levels, whether participants are looking for friendly competition, a way to stay fit or simply a fun night out with friends. Every league includes custom team jerseys and exclusive discounts and happy hour specials at SUMMIT Sports Bar, making the experience extend far beyond the game itself.
 

One of the things that makes Iron Peak unique is the ability to bring sports, entertainment, dining and community together all under one roof. From stepping onto the field or court to celebrating afterward with teammates at SUMMIT, players can enjoy a complete social sports experience in one destination.
 

The team at Iron Peak is excited to continue growing its adult sports community and providing new ways for people to connect, compete and have fun year-round.
 

Ohio: Shores & Islands
Strongman and Canine Sports

Many already know Shores & Islands Ohio is home to premier sports venues like Sports Force Parks at Cedar Point Sports Center and the indoor sports complex, Cedar Point Sport Center. What they may not know is that the destination also hosts some truly unique sporting events.
 

The Strongman Champions League made its U.S. debut in  Sandusky last year and is set to return in 2026. Athletes compete in a variety of disciplines, including truck and ferry pulls, keg tosses along the waterfront and other tests of strength. The diverse landscape of Shores & Islands Ohio provides a one-of-a-kind setting that challenges competitors in ways few destinations can.
 

That’s a lot of heavy lifting, but it’s not the only distinctive competition the region has welcomed. The Put-in-Bay Dog Bowl brought canine dock diving to South Bass Island, where dogs competed in Big Air, Extreme Vertical and Speed Retrieve events.
 

Whether visitors come to compete or cheer from the sidelines, there’s plenty to enjoy after the competition ends. From thrilling rides at Cedar Point to waterfront dining, shopping, island-hopping cruises and accommodations for every budget, Shores & Islands Ohio offers countless reasons to return — no matter the sport.
 

Pennsylvania: Lackawanna
Archery at Camp Freedom and Montage Mountain Resorts

Archery continues to grow, attracting competitors and enthusiasts seeking outdoor experiences that combine skill, precision and adventure. For event organizers looking to elevate their next competition, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania offers two distinctive venues with proven success in hosting archery.
 

Camp Freedom and Montage Mountain Resorts have welcomed major archery gatherings, including Mountain Archery Fest and Archery Fest at Montage Mountain, drawing participants from around the country. 
 

Their expansive landscapes, varied terrain and event-ready infrastructure create ideal settings for 3D archery courses, competitive shoots and spectator-friendly experiences.
 

Beyond archery, both venues offer exceptional versatility. Camp Freedom’s 2,350-acre property features wooded trails, open spaces and natural terrain well-suited for trail running, mountain biking, rifle sports, cross-country competitions and adaptive outdoor recreation programs.
 

Montage Mountain Resorts provides a dynamic mountain environment capable of hosting endurance races, cycling events, obstacle course competitions, skiing, snowboarding and adventure sports festivals throughout the year.
 

Combined with Lackawanna County’s strategic location, diverse accommodations and vibrant downtown amenities, these venues provide more than just a competition site — they offer a complete destination experience.
 

Situated within a four-hour drive of major metropolitan areas, Lackawanna County offers access to more than 60 million people, creating exceptional opportunities for event organizers to attract participants, spectators and sponsors.
 

Tennessee: Sevierville
Boys’ Volleyball at Sevierville Convention Center

Sevierville in Tennessee is the epicenter of a rising sport: Boys’ volleyball. 
 

Advocates at the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association have been studying the potential of adding boys’ volleyball as a sanctioned sport, and the state has hosted boys’ tournaments.
 

Plus, since men’s volleyball is an Olympic sport, and with collegiate men’s teams across the State of Tennessee, athletes have a big future and plenty of potential.
 

The Sevierville Convention Center, with nearly 150,000 square feet of customizable space, can help boys’ volleyball grow. The venue’s large exhibit halls and ballrooms with high ceiling clearances, at 32 feet and 24 feet respectively, are ideal for vendor space and competitive events.
 

Additional meeting rooms, concourses, show offices and pre-function space are available, as is a 54,000-square-foot outdoor pad. Loading in and out of the Sevierville Convention Center is a cinch, too.
 

The connecting hotel property is Wilderness at the Smokies Water Park Resort, which also hosts many sports events throughout the year in conjunction with the Sevierville Convention Center. 
 

The Sevierville Convention Center, in Sevierville is located in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is surrounded by attractions including Soaky Mountain Waterpark, SkyLand Ranch, Dollywood and more. 
 

Call 865-453-0001 or visit: www.SeviervilleConventionCenter.com. 
 

Washington: Tri-Cities
Horseshoe Pitching, Cornhole and Endurance Events

The Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco and Richland) is a premier destination for specialty and niche sports, combining quality event facilities, scenic outdoor venues and a strong commitment to unique competitions. 
 

Located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers, the region provides an ideal setting for multiple events.
 

A key example is the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association (NHPA) World Tournament, which brings together elite competitors from around the world in a sport with a rich, multi-generational history. 
 

The Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick hosted the prestigious event in 2024 and will welcome it again in 2027 in its newly expanded facility, reinforcing the Tri-Cities’ reputation as a trusted host for specialized championships.
 

The region continues to grow its national profile through events such as the American Cornhole League (ACL) 2026 Tri-Cities Open at the HAPO Center in Pasco. The tournament will attract players from across the country while showcasing the destination through ACL’s national television and streaming broadcasts. 
 

Richland’s Badger Mountain Challenge further highlights the area’s outdoor recreation assets with a 100-mile endurance run, 100K, 50-mile and 55K ultramarathons, as well as a 15K trail run/hike. 
 

Together, these events demonstrate the Tri-Cities’ versatility and growing reputation as a hub for specialty sports.

 

Wisconsin: Janesville
A Community for Curling

Curling is one of Janesville’s distinctive niche sports, thanks to the long-standing presence of the Blackhawk Curling Club, an organization that has built a passionate community around this strategy-driven, winter-friendly game. 
 

The club offers regional and state-level dedicated curling ice and a welcoming culture that makes the sport accessible to beginners and seasoned competitors alike. For athletes and spectators, curling delivers a combination of precision, strategy and personality.
 

What sets curling in Janesville apart is the emphasis on camaraderie. From officiating to ice prep to hospitality, the local community knows how to run smooth, welcoming competitions. The venue is ideal for intimate tournaments, team building events or specialty sports weekends that pair curling with other activities across the city.
 

Janesville’s strategic location is a major advantage for hosts. Situated directly on I 39/90, the city sits within easy reach of Madison, Rockford, Milwaukee and Chicago. This central positioning makes Janesville an accessible hub for regional tournaments, drawing teams and spectators from metro areas without the congestion or cost of larger cities. 
 

With convenient access to hotels, dining, free city parking and Janesville’s broader recreation scene, the Blackhawk Curling Club offers planners an opportunity to host a distinctive, high quality event in Wisconsin’s Great Outside.
 

Wisconsin: Eau Claire
Kubb Capital of North America 

Wisconsin may be known for its football heritage, but over the last two decades, a lawn game with Viking roots has quietly become one of the state’s most distinctive sports. Kubb (pronounced “koob”) is a throwing game often described as a mix of bowling, horseshoes and chess that originated in Sweden and first gained traction in Wisconsin in the early 2000s. 
 

In 2007, Eau Claire hosted the inaugural Midwestern Kubb Championships. Today, that event has evolved into the U.S. National Kubb Championships, drawing more than 125 teams from across the country each July. 
 

Eau Claire now hosts roughly one-third of the nation’s Kubb tournaments and has earned the title “Kubb Capital of North America,” while communities including Beloit, Chippewa Falls, Dallas and Wisconsin Dells have embraced the sport through local tournaments and community play.
 

Beyond competition, Kubb is embedded into the visitor experience statewide, with courts at restaurants, sets available for free check-out at hotels and matches played at festivals and parks. 
 

Kubb demonstrates the growing value of accessible, community-driven sports tourism. The sport appeals across generations, requires minimal infrastructure and creates repeat visitation, combining competition, social connection and local culture into a uniquely Wisconsin experience. SDM