In the realm of sports tourism, two recent events have gained significant traction: the Sports ETA Women’s Summit and the Sports ETA Symposium. While both focused on sports tourism, they've been notable for their emphasis on acknowledging women's contributions and facilitating networking and opportunities within the industry.
Sports ETA Women’s Summit: Cleveland's Electric Atmosphere
In the heart of Cleveland, amidst the excitement of the Women's Final Four, the Sports ETA Women’s Summit kicked off with a burst of energy and enthusiasm. The city was electric with anticipation as attendees gathered for a networking reception, forging connections and sharing stories in an atmosphere of women empowerment.
Throughout the summit, “we had incredible keynote speakers who not only shared their life experiences of downfalls and success but also inspired me through their push for better for women and girls in our communities and worldwide”- Gretchen Secky Director of Client Engagement. From discussions on breaking barriers to reflections on the legacy of past leadership, the summit served as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the work that lies ahead.
Legends of the Ball delved into the rich history of women in sports, encouraging those there to aim higher and work together for success. It was a powerful moment and a nod to the resilience and determination of women athletes and leaders, past and present.
As the summit drew to a close, the echoes of inspiration lingered, fueling a collective commitment to drive positive change in the sports industry and beyond. Being a women-run business, this event truly made us feel special and heard in the industry, amplifying our sense of belonging and significance. With girl boss Taylor Swift's anthem ringing in our ears, we left Cleveland with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to make our mark on the world.
Sports ETA Symposium: Portland's Gathering of Minds
In another world, in the city of Portland, the Sports ETA Symposium unfolded as a gathering of like-minded individuals and a celebration of community. Attendees came together for this annual week of meetings, education, and networking.
For many, the symposium was a chance to reconnect with old friends and colleagues while welcoming newcomers to the fold. As a member of the Mentor Committee, “I had the opportunity to meet and talk to several new members, and I'm happy to say that the future of the industry looks bright!” - Jason Puckett STS Director of Business Development. Getting to witness their passion and enthusiasm for the industry was truly rewarding.
Reflecting on the evolution of the symposium over the years, it was clear that the future of the sports industry is in good hands and growing rapidly. With over 800 attendees, including nearly 300 first-timers, the symposium showcased the growing diversity and talent within the community.
During this event, the Sports ETA State of Industry report showcased that sports travelers spent 52.5 billion dollars! It was then broken down into sections, with the top spenders. 13.9 billion spent on airfare, 10.9 billion on lodging, and 9.7 billion on food and beverage. In 2023 73.5 million room nights were reported, imagine what it would be like without discounted rates on lodging!
As the event came to a close, there was a sense of anticipation for what lay ahead. With the location set to Tulsa for next year's symposium, the momentum continues to build, fueled by a shared commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Everyone who attended the symposium was there to better the sports tourism industry, bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise.
In the wake of these two remarkable events, the message is clear: women in sports are not just players on the field; they are leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As we celebrate their achievements and honor their contributions, let us continue to champion equality and empowerment in sports and beyond. With events like the Sports ETA Women’s Summit and the Sports ETA Symposium leading the way, the future looks brighter than ever.
More on Sports ETA: Discover groundbreaking insights from our president Laura Deromdy in the Sports ETA whitepaper! Click here to explore her invaluable contributions to the travel industry and gain knowledge to propel your organization forward.