Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission

Rent an Orange Beach Villa and Stay Close to the Sports Action

2012-02-29T07:36:00.001-08:00

If you love softball, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is where you want to be the first half of March. Beginning the second day of March is the 2012 Dolphin Classic Softball Tournament-Breast Cancer Awareness event (March 2nd and 3rd)—16 to 18 softball teams compete in this two-day competition. Then on March 9th and 10th is the NAIA & the University of Mobile Gulf Coast Softball Invitational, which will involve 30 NAIA softball teams. Finally the 2012 Gulf Coast Classic I Softball Tournament will take place March 12th to 14th, with a whopping 60 high school softball teams competing in this tournament. All three events will take place at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex.

Perhaps you know someone competing in one of these events—or belong to one of the competing teams. Or maybe you would simply enjoy catching a good softball game (or several games!). Either way, it’s a good reason to plan a trip to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach.

Several local accommodations offer special rates and packages during these Gulf Coast sports events—like Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor Orange Beach Villas. Make it a true vacation by renting one of these three-bedroom, two-bathroom villas. Not only do you have access to amenities like a full kitchen, a swimming pool, and a fishing lake, you’re also only miles from the Gulf Shores Sportsplex, giving you easy access to both relaxation and the upcoming sports action.

Escape to the Gulf Coast for President’s Day Weekend

2012-02-16T07:08:00.002-08:00

President’s Day is on Monday, bringing with it a long weekend. And with a long weekend comes the perfect opportunity for a getaway to the Gulf.

You could plan to spend just the weekend in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach—and check out the USSSA President’s Day Beach Blast Baseball Tournament taking place February 18th and 19th at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. Or you could use the long weekend as an extension into a longer vacation. Not only will you get more time to relax on the Gulf, but you’ll get to attend a non-human sports event—the United States Canine Association Region 1 Field Trial—at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex.

Whenever you decide to stay (and for however long), a company like Young’s Suncoast Realty & Vacation Rentals—a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor—can help you find a place to stay. Maybe you’d like a Gulf-front beach house, or a multi-bedroom condo overlooking a golf course. Visit the company’s website and you can even search for vacation properties in certain locations, those that accept boats, and those that allow pets—bring the family dog along to watch next week’s canine agility events.

Start Your Own Tournament with Condo Amenities

2012-01-31T04:31:00.000-08:00

It’s no wonder that Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is a prime spot for sporting events. Not only does the Gulf Coast location provide great weather and scenic settings, but the area offers several venues for all types of sports—everything from baseball fields and tennis centers to skate parks and marinas.

But you don’t have to attend a formal sports event to get in on the athletic action. Many of the area’s hotels and condominiums offer amenities geared toward physical activity, including Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor Brett/Robinson.

Whether staying at Brett/Robinson’s Phoenix All Suites Hotels or one of the company’s many condominiums, guests will have access to at least one activity-friendly amenity: swimming pools. Several of the Phoenix condominiums even offer indoor pools convenient for use during cooler or rainy weather. Putting greens are another amenity found at some of the properties—squeeze in a little warmup before heading out for a round of golf. And individuals seeking a little more competitive action will have access to tennis courts at most of the Brett/Robinson properties; some even offer facilities such as racquetball and basketball courts.

Multi-bedroom condos are available—bring some friends and start your own competitive events!

Feeling Up to Good Food and Karaoke?

2012-01-19T05:56:00.000-08:00

If you’re in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach for a sports event, you’ll find your days filled with activity. You might be participating in the 2012 Gulf Coast Half Marathon Series, or getting your baseball fix while watching the upcoming USSSA President’s Day Beach Blast Baseball tournament.

But the fun doesn’t have to end once the running shoes are put away. When the day’s activities are done and you’re still looking for a little action, you might check out some of the local nightlife hot spots—like Tacky Jack’s, a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor.

Visit Tacky Jack’s for a delicious dinner—everything from po boys and burgers to various seafood and steak platters—then stay for some of the nighttime activities. Karaoke, bingo, live music, and open mic nights are common events at Tacky Jack’s. Or just hang out, watch some football, and take advantage of the daily specials—like $2 beer and 50-cent wings.

Tacky Jack’s has several locations in and around Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, so take your pick and have fun!

Looking for the Latest Information on Gulf Sports, Weather, and Entertainment?

2011-12-31T07:19:00.000-08:00

A martial arts camp, a tennis tournament, and a half marathon—these are some of the sporting events coming to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach at the beginning of the New Year. Sports certainly are a popular pastime on the Gulf Coast, whether it’s viewing/participating in the live action of a sporting event or visiting a local bar to watch another popular sport: football.

It’s an especially popular sport this year, with Gulf Shores & Orange Beach being an official sponsor of the SEC. For the latest information on SEC football, visit AL.com—a popular Alabama news website and a sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission.

Right there on the homepage, under Alabama Sports, you’ll find headlines on SEC and college football in general, as well as other sports headlines, from high school to professional. There is even a countdown to the BCS Championship—only 9 days to go! And if you’re planning a visit to the Gulf for some sports action—live or on the big screen—the website is an excellent source for local weather, entertainment, and travel information.

It’s going to be an excellent New Year!

Tune into the Perfect Holiday Balance

2011-12-20T05:21:00.000-08:00

Balance is the key to many things in life. It’s important to balance out the day-to-day work life with a little fun, and balance out the cold of winter with a getaway to a place with more tolerable temperatures. And with less than a week until Christmas, many people have decided to balance out the chill of the holidays with a warm trip to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach.

Now that you’re here, finding the right balance of holiday cheer is another important task. This is where Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor 95 KSJ—a Clear Channel radio station—becomes useful. Tune into this channel to hear a good mix of popular country music, with a little holiday music mixed in here and there.

The station’s website is a good place to find a mix of the latest news and local holiday happenings. And if you’re in the mood for non-stop Christmas music, the website offers links to stations streaming festive holiday music.

Strike that perfect balance, and enjoy the holidays on the Gulf.

Spending Black Friday on the Gulf? Check Out the Tanger Outlet Center

2011-11-23T10:46:00.000-08:00

Maybe you’re spending the Thanksgiving holiday Gulf-style this year, or maybe you’re getting ready for the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon on Saturday, November 26th, or the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championships beginning Sunday, November 27th. Whatever the reason, many of you will be in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach on Black Friday. If you’re willing to brave the crowds, you’ll find many great options for shopping—including the Tanger Outlets, a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor.

With over 120 brand name outlets, the Tanger Outlet Center in Foley is a popular Gulf shopping spot. Shoppers can find deals on everything from clothing and accessories to housewares and home furnishings. The Tanger Outlet Center offers more than just shopping—visitors can scale the rock-climbing wall, go bungee jumping, and visit the family fun park. If you get hungry, there are several options for lunch.

Visit the Tanger Outlets website to find coupons, buy gift cards, and get information on the TangerClub (perks include special offers and savings). And if you really want to find some good sales, check out their Moonlight Madness sale—stores open at 10 p.m. Thanksgiving night!

Prepare for Thanksgiving with Publix Supermarkets

2011-11-15T05:37:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons to visit Gulf Shores & Orange Beach this time of year (great weather, great sports, etc.) but one big reason is just a little more than a week away: Thanksgiving. Many of you will be heading this way soon to spend a mild Thanksgiving holiday walking the beach, playing some golf, and perhaps preparing a big meal in your condo or beach house. To help prepare for the big dinner, you might want to head over to one of the local Publix Supermarkets—an excellent source of quality groceries and a sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission.

In addition to a wide variety of grocery products, Publix also provides its customers with several other services and programs: get a prescription filled at the store’s pharmacy, order a custom-decorated cake from the bakery, or enjoy a sub from the deli. Clubs and programs include the Publix Wine Guide, the Publix Baby Club, and the Pet Program. And if you’re looking for meal ideas for the big holiday (or any other time), you may find the Publix Apron’s Simple Meals Recipes to be useful.

Publix has several locations in and around Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, making shopping for your Thanksgiving dinner convenient. And be sure to check out some of the post-holiday sporting events, including the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon and the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championships—inspire yourself to work off that Thanksgiving turkey!

Work Up an Appetite and Head to the Original Oyster House

2011-10-31T05:31:00.000-07:00

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is the place to be for sports fans in November. We’re kicking things off with the SEC Women’s Soccer Championship on November 2nd through the 6th, followed by the Alabama Adult Combo Tennis State Championships November 3rd through 6th, and the Alabama Soccer Festival November 4th through 6th. Other upcoming November events include the Professional Redfish Series Championship November 10th to 13th, the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon on November 26th, and the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championships November 27th to December 3rd.

With all the activity going on, fans and athletes alike are sure to work up an appetite, making the Original Oyster House both a tasty option and an appropriate sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission.

Two restaurant locations offer two scenic views: one overlooks Mobile Bay in Mobile, and the other overlooks Big Lagoon in Gulf Shores. But nice views and a casual atmosphere are only part of the dining experience; delicious food makes up the rest. The restaurants offer a variety of foods, from steak and chicken selections to a wide variety of seafood dishes.

And of course, there is no shortage of oysters at the Original Oyster House. Get them baked, deep fried, or simply on the half shell—whatever suits your palate.

Get Lazy on the Gulf with Meyer Real Estate

2011-10-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

A vacation in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is the perfect time to get lazy—even if one of the area’s high-energy sporting events is on your agenda. Whether you’ve just competed in a championship tennis match at The Beach Club or are resting after cheering on your favorite SEC Women’s Soccer team before heading to the next championship game, being lazy is a good way to re-energize yourself. Rent a vacation property with Meyer Real Estate—a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor—and you’ll find it easy to accomplish this goal with the company’s “Be Lazy & Get a Free Night” special.

This special allows guests to rent a condo or beach house for two, three, or four nights and get the third, fourth, or fifth night (respectively) free. Guests can also get two free nights—rent for five nights, get the sixth and seven nights free.

Meyer Real Estate both rents and sells condos and houses in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, as well as Perdido Key and Fort Morgan. The company’s website allows visitors to search for rental properties by arrival and departure date, rental type, location, and even view (such as Gulf front or golf course oriented). Those interested in purchasing property can browse properties for sale and even choose a specific agent. And once you own a property, you can take advantage of Meyer’s Gulf Coast Property Management services.

The array of properties available with Meyer Real Estate makes it easy to find a place to lazily relax—whether renting a Gulf-front condo or beach house or staying in your own purchased property.

Hungry After the Big Game? Enjoy a Delicious Meal at LuLu’s

2011-09-30T05:41:00.000-07:00

This time of year, you may be visiting Gulf Shores & Orange Beach for any number of reasons: to participate in a tennis championship or a softball competition; to watch one of the several sporting events taking place, such as Thunder on the Gulf, the Shrimp Festival Volleyball Invitational, or the SEC Women’s Soccer Championship; or simply to relax on the beach and enjoy what the area has to offer.

Whatever the scenario, delicious food and good fun will likely be welcome additions—which is why a visit to LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores should be part of the plans. Owned by Lucy Buffett, the restaurant is famous for its food—cheeseburgers, mahi mahi sandwiches, seafood baskets, wraps, and tacos. LuLu’s even offers allergy menus for those with gluten, egg, seafood, shellfish, or dairy allergies.

And not only is LuLu’s a sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission, but the establishment also offers its own form of sports fun, including volleyball nets and the “Mountain of Youth”—a three-story rope-climbing contraption. There is also a fountain for the kids to cool off in during the hotter weather, snow cones, a retail store, face painting, and a sand area with toys.

Grab a drink at the restaurant’s Bama Breeze bar, take in the view of the Intracoastal Waterway, and enjoy the nightly live music.

Comfortable Weather and Apples Make an Excellent Golf Experience

2011-09-21T05:56:00.000-07:00

As we come into fall in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, we come into an ideal time for one of the area’s most popular sports: golf. Imagine playing a round of golf in comfortable fall temperatures, feeling relaxed as you make your last putt on the 18th, then enjoying refreshingly chilled apple to finish out your day.

The apple is just a little perk offered at certain courses, thanks to Honours Golf, a sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission.

A managing company of golf courses and clubs across Alabama and into northwest Florida, Honours Golf handles details such as course development and construction, marketing, turf care, and food and beverage services, among others. In the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area, the company manages Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, Craft Farms, and Rock Creek Golf Club—all members of the Gulf Shores Golf Association.

The company’s services benefit both the golf course and golfers, helping clubs maximize their course’s potential and providing enjoyable golf experiences for members and guests. And if you visit their website you’ll find some great golf deals, such as their double play and triple play fall rates and winter golf packages—a nice jump for those who are already planning ahead!

Cycling for a Cause

2011-08-31T05:10:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy cycling and want to contribute to a good cause, you’ll want to check out the upcoming MS Ride: Tour de Beach, taking place on September 24th and 25th in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach.

Not only can participating cyclists expect to challenge themselves with a 150-mile ride, they’ll also be helping out the Alabama-Mississippi chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, as all proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit this organization.

Whether you’re riding in the event, volunteering to help out, or simply cheering on the cyclists, it’s sure to be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. To make the event that much more enjoyable, you might consider lodging during those two days at Hampton Inn & Suites in Orange Beach, one of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission’s sponsors and the host site for the event.

The MS Ride begins and ends at the Hampton Inn, making it a convenient location for lodging during the event. In addition, the hotel offers Gulf-front views, comfortable rooms, a business center, fitness room, and a pool. After a couple of long days of cycling, easy access to the Gulf and a pool is a big benefit!

The Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon is Less than a Month Away!

2011-08-15T05:53:00.001-07:00

Few sports can put an athlete’s skills to the test like a triathlon, and in less than a month athletes in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach will get the chance to challenge their athletic abilities right on the Gulf. It’s time to get ready for the Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon and “Tri-it-on” Triathlon on September 10th!

The event will begin with a 1,000-yard swim, followed by a 20-mile bike ride through the area’s state park, and finishing up with a 5-mile run. The other race option is the “Tri-it-on” Triathlon, which involves a 300-yard swim, 9-mile bike ride, and a 2-mile run. Participants are also invited to a pre-race dinner, post-race party, and awards ceremony.

In addition to holding the event and supporting the Sports Commission as a sponsor, Brett/Robinson is also offering a special rate for the event for guests who stay at any Phoenix property—you might want to take advantage of their pools, lazy rivers, and hot tubs after a long day of racing!

More information on the triathlon and accommodations is available on the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission website.

Gulf Sports Make You Hungry for Gulf Food

2011-07-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

When the big competition is over, one thing generally pops into the minds of athletes and fans alike: food. Sports make us hungry, and being in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach you may get a craving for some local flavors and a Gulf view. LuLu’s at Homeport Marina offers both—and more.

One of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission’s sponsors, LuLu’s is the place to go for good food and live music. Their menu offers a variety of delicious dishes, from fried oysters and fish baskets to hamburgers and sandwiches of all sorts. You can also enjoy one of several “specialty drinks” while listening to the music of a live band every evening—all while gazing out at the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Several events take place at LuLu’s throughout the year, too, such as the Annual Memorial Day Weekend LuLuPalooza Music Festival in May, LuLu’s Fresh Art Market every Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and the Annual Halloween “Boolu’s” Haunted House in October.

You can even take a little bit of LuLu’s home with you: shop the website for t-shirts, hats, glassware, and other fun items, or purchase the “Crazy Sista Cooking” recipe book and enjoy a bit of Gulf cuisine at home.

Cool Off With Caribe This Summer

2011-07-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Here we are halfway through July with August on the horizon. The “dog days” of summer are here, and it certainly feels like it in the South. Amid all the heat, several sports events are taking place in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach this month and next, including softball and baseball world series, a beach volleyball championship, and the Mark Gottfried Celebrity Golf Tournament.

Whether watching or participating in these events, having a place to cool off afterward is vital. And if you happen to be staying with Caribe the Resort, a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor, you’re in luck—the resort has no shortage of swimming space. In addition to the 980-foot-long lazy river, Caribe also has three three-tier swimming pools—two with water slides—as well as an indoor heated pool at each tower. Caribe is also situated on Perdido Bay, giving guests plenty of access to the Gulf.

Though a big draw, water isn’t the only amenity the resort has to offer. Guests have access to three tennis courts, a putting green, two bocce ball courts, and a fitness center. The property also has a designated fishing dock and a “green space” for activities such as picnics, barbecues, and family lawn games.

The two-, three-, and four-bedroom condos are spacious and equipped with full gourmet kitchens, making them ideal for friends and family members—or teammates—to stay together.

Stay Close to the Sports Action This Summer

2011-06-24T07:20:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons to stay with Orange Beach Villas, another sponsor of the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission. But for baseball and softball players and fans, there is one important reason to stay at these condos: their close proximity to the Orange Beach Sportsplex.

Several baseball and softball tournaments are scheduled to take place at the Orange Beach Sportsplex throughout the summer. If you’re in town either to play in or to watch one of these tournaments, you’ll appreciate being so close to the event location. In addition, the three-bedroom/two-bath condos create an ideal temporary living situation for those traveling with multiple family members or teammates.

The Villas are also close to The Wharf—so there’s a good chance you could catch a concert in between sporting events. Guests have access to the property’s swimming pool and a lake for fishing. Pets are also allowed to stay with payment of a small pet fee.

It’s Good to Have Choices When Planning a Vacation

2011-06-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

If there’s one major benefit of visiting Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, it’s the variety of options you’ll find: options for where to eat, what to do, and even what sports events to watch or participate in. With so many choices, it makes sense to have plenty of options concerning where to lodge during your stay.

This is what makes Young’s Suncoast Vacation Rentals an ideal accommodations resource, as well as an appropriate sponsor for the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission. They have properties in several locations around the area, so it’s easy to find something convenient to that big sporting event, or any other activity or event, you’re attending.

Young's Suncoast also offers a range of condos and rental houses to accommodate varying situations. In addition to condominiums ranging from one to six bedrooms and beach houses that sleep anywhere from eight to ten people, the properties also come with fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and Gulf-front views. And if your favorite pet needs to come along, certain locations can accommodate him, too.

It’s simple to find what you’re looking for on their website—search according to location, whether they allow pets, or even if they accept boats. Check them out and start planning your Gulf trip!

Stay Close to Pools, Water Parks, and Other Attractions This Summer

2011-05-31T06:23:00.000-07:00

A range of sporting events are coming to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach this summer, from baseball and softball tournaments to tennis and volleyball and even a kayak fishing tournament. Whether you’re in town to compete or watch, you’ll probably want to check out the local attractions during non-competition times—making Microtel Inn & Suites of Gulf Shores, a Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission sponsor, a convenient place to stay.

First of all, it’s going to be hot this summer, and not only does Microtel offer an outdoor pool, but it’s also less than five minutes away from Waterville USA—two convenient ways to cool off after a long day of sports activity. Gulf Shores State Park is also within five minutes, giving guests an opportunity to spend time on the beach and swim in the Gulf. Also nearby are the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Fort Morgan, deep sea fishing, and The Wharf.

The hotel offers some freebies, too: free continental breakfast, free 24-hour coffee, free local and long-distance phone calls within the U.S., and free wired and wireless internet. A fitness room and laundry are also available to guests.

And the Championship Title is Up for Grabs!

2011-05-24T04:10:00.000-07:00

It’s the unpredictability of sports that makes them so appealing—there’s nothing exciting about knowing (or, rather, strongly suspecting) ahead of time who is going to win. So it’s bitter-sweet that the defending champs of the NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship are already out of the competition. With just one day left until the final championship game, the title is officially up for grabs.

And the competition is getting tougher. Looking at Monday’s final scores, no team really blew any other team away. The 7-1 win of Oregon Tech over Lubbock Christian was the biggest score difference on Monday. Otherwise, scores were much closer compared to the scores seen earlier in the competition.

One game in particular proved close with solid pitching. California Baptist defeated Oklahoma City with a final score of 1-0. That one run came from just one hit—a homerun in the second inning. Oklahoma City’s pitcher did a stellar job, giving up only four hits and striking out seven in six innings, while California Baptist’s pitcher allowed only one hit and struck out eleven batters.

The championship final is scheduled for Wednesday, May 25th at 12:30 p.m. Come cheer on the next NAIA National Champions!

High Scores and Shut-Outs Characterize Day 1 of NAIA Championship

2011-05-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

One day down, six more to go in the NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship. So far it’s proving to be an exciting championship, with big scores, a no-hitter, and a fighting defending champion rounding out the first day.

Several games finished up with high final scores and/or shut-outs. Bethel (Indiana) shut out Morningside (Iowa) with a final score of 10-0, and defending champ Simon Fraser (B.C.) continued its fight for a repeat title by winning 10-2 against Reinhardt (Georgia). Trevecca Nazarene (Tennessee) also had a big shut-out score, beating Midland (Nebraska) 9-0, while Oliviet Nazarene (Illinois) won 9-4 against William Woods (Missouri). With scores like these, it’s apparent that these ladies are serious about winning!

Several players have shown amazing skill in pitching, too. Anyibell Ramirez and Morgan Paschall of Lindsey Wilson (Kentucky) combined their pitching efforts and pulled out a no-hitter and a 3-0 win against Blanks Minot State (North Dakota). In addition, pitcher Lauren Baker of Trevecca Nazarene allowed only one hit the entire game, as did pitcher Lily LaVelle of Oklahoma City in her team’s 5-1 defeat of Mobile.

With six more days until the final championship game, there’s plenty of softball still to be played!

Book a Last-Minute Stay with Fairfield Inn & Suites

2011-05-19T05:40:00.000-07:00

This time of year, Alabama’s Gulf Coast is thriving with activity, including various sporting events. Softball, baseball, and basketball events are taking place in May, and tennis, kayak, and more baseball are scheduled for June. You might decide at the last minute to make a trip to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach to catch some tournament action—and you might want to check out the last-minute weekend deals offered by Fairfield Inn & Suites, a sponsor of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is located in Orange Beach across the street from white-sand beaches. In addition to convenient access to the beach, Fairfield guests can take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor heated pool, lakeside Jacuzzi, and 24-hour fitness center. Other amenities include flat screen TVs, free wireless Internet, and a deluxe continental breakfast bar.

The hotel is an ideal location for meetings and events, with two meeting rooms totaling 1,480 square feet.

Besides offering deals on last-minute weekend rates, the hotel also honors Marriott Rewards points, which allow guests to redeem points for free nights. And if you redeem four nights, you get a fifth night for free—allowing you plenty of time to check out those sports tournaments!

Preparing for the NAIA Softball Championship

2011-05-17T05:25:00.000-07:00

The 2011 NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship is only a couple days away now. But you don’t have to wait until Thursday to start getting involved.

Get into the spirit of the week by attending the Welcome Banquet on Wednesday, May 18th. First is the Parade of Champions—watch as participating softball teams parade down Main Street at The Wharf beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dinner follows at the Conference Center at The Wharf. Banquet tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at the door.

And if you haven’t booked reservations to stay in the area, now’s the time to do it. Several accommodations and special rates are available to fans of the NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship, from Gulf-front hotel rooms to luxurious condominiums. More information on lodging is available on the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website.

Fans have a few options for the actual event as well—pay for day to day attendance or purchase a pass to the entire tournament. Day passes to the tournament are available for $8 per adult and $3 per child (age 10 and under). The same rate applies to admission to the big championship game. Tournament passes are available for $30 per adult and $15 per child.

The 2011 NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship Starts Next Week!

2011-05-13T09:43:00.000-07:00

Alabama Gulf Coast sports fans, and particularly softball fans, will be happy to know that the 2011 NAIA Women’s Softball National Championship is scheduled to start next Thursday, May 19th at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. Come watch as 32 college teams compete for the National Champions title!

All 32 teams will play three games in pool play action from May 19th to May 21st, followed by an eight-team double elimination round on the 23rd and 24th. The final champion-deciding game will be played on May 25th.

The mix of teams competing in this championship promises to make it an exciting event. The current national champion Simon Fraser (B.C.) is returning to defend its title. Oklahoma City, the leading team in all-time championship wins, will play against Mobile, who is competing in the championship for the 16th time. The Stars hold the record for the most NAIA championships attended, this year being their 25th trip. And there are several teams making a first appearance at the championship—a good setup for a potential underdog winner.

Don’t miss the excitement! Be there to cheer on your favorite team, or just follow the whole week-long event to see who will come out on top.

Relax with Spectrum Resorts

2011-04-29T06:15:00.000-07:00

Accommodations are an important factor in a successful vacation. It’s a great feeling to return to a comfortable, luxurious condo after a day spent in the sun, whether at the beach, touring the local sites, or attending an Alabama Gulf Coast sporting event. So it’s very appropriate that Spectrum Resorts is one of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission’s sponsors.

With three resorts to choose from—The Beach Club, Caribe the Resort, and Turquoise Place—Spectrum Resorts offers a number of lodging options, from one- to five-bedroom condos as well as charming, spacious beach cottages. Each property offers its own assortment of amenities and guest services, including several outdoor and indoor swimming pools, poolside cabanas and bars, fitness centers, lazy rivers, spa services, supervised child care, and novelties such as life-size chess (The Beach Club) and lawn bowling (Caribe).

All three locations also offer a variety of specials to enhance guests’ vacation experiences, including free concert tickets, resort credit, and packages that include guests’ choice of golf, fishing, shopping gift cards, and passes to places like Waterville USA and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

The company also offers a no-payment-until-you-stay policy, and guests can cancel reservations up to 72 hours before their arrival with no penalty.

Music, News, and Events from Sunny 105.7

2011-04-22T04:22:00.000-07:00

Whether you’ve just woken up to your radio alarm, are driving to the latest Alabama Gulf Coast sporting event, or you’ve just arrived in town and the CD selection has run out, chances are you’re going to check out the music and news on the local radio waves. And you’ll likely come across Sunny 105.7, “the Voice of Paradise” and a sponsor of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission.

If you like a variety of music, you’ll find it here—everything from classic ‘70s music to today’s tunes. You can also catch the Rick and Bubba show in the mornings and get updates on local news, events, and contests.

And if you missed something on the air, you can visit the station’s website: get the latest in entertainment news, browse the community calendar for information on events and activities, and even view the title and artist of current and previous songs played.

Hang Out at The Hangout

2011-03-29T04:01:00.000-07:00

Any place worth visiting for any length of time has that one popular location that all the locals and regular visitors know about—whether it’s a widely held favorite restaurant, a hip night club with the best live music, or some outdoor location known for frequent parties and good times. Come to Alabama’s Gulf Coast and you’ll quickly learn that The Hangout, so aptly named, is one such location in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach.

With a wide-ranging menu of delicious seafood and land-based food, The Hangout, another sponsor of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission, is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a beachside restaurant with good food and a fun atmosphere. As the site of the annual Hangout Music Festival and other major concerts, it’s also an ideal location for those in the mood for a good beach party and some live music.

And bringing a little sport to The Hangout next month is the 2011 Naked Tour, where award-winning author Chris McDougall will lead a 90-minute barefoot run along the beaches of Gulf Shores followed by a signing of his new book Born to Run. More information about this event is available on the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website.

Kaiser Realty’s Cycling the Coast for a Cure

2011-03-16T05:17:00.000-07:00

Kaiser Realty is typically known for its beach home and condo rentals and Gulf Shores real estate sales, but on March 26th the company’s name will be attached to another positive: the 5th Annual Kaiser Realty Cycling the Coast for a Cure.

Together with the American Cancer Society, Kaiser Realty, a sponsor of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission, invites cyclists to ride either the 21-mile or 37-mile course, which starts at Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach. Via individual sponsorships and raffle ticket sales, participants are asked to raise $100 for the American Cancer Society before the cycling event.

Besides giving access to a fun event for a good cause, the registration fee ($35 for the 21-mile and 37-mile courses and $25 for the fun ride) also includes lunch and a Cycling the Coast t-shirt.

For more information, visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website or call Kaiser Realty, Inc.

Making Your Stay Comfortable

2011-02-28T09:08:00.000-08:00

Whether visiting Gulf Shores & Orange Beach for a sporting event, spending the weekend golfing with friends, or vacationing for a week with the family, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Fortunately, Alabama’s Gulf Coast offers several accommodations settings, ranging from hotel rooms for weekend guests on a quick getaway to resort-style condominiums for longer stays.

One notable vacation rental company, and a sponsor of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission, is Brett/Robinson. With two hotels, several beach houses, and numerous condominium properties available to rent, Brett/Robinson has an option for anyone vacationing in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. In addition to vacation rentals, the company offers money-saving deals and vacation packages, including free-night specials and golf packages.

Kaiser Realty, Inc., another Sports Commission sponsor, also specializes in vacation rentals, as well as real estate sales. The company aids temporary visitors in the renting of condos and beach homes in a variety of locations throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast. Kaiser Realty also assists in real estate sales for those who wish to stay permanently, and offers a property management program for property owners interested in renting out their beach homes and condos.

And shedding a little light on the whole experience is Baldwin EMC, another Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission sponsor and provider of electric services in and around Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. In addition to providing electricity to private residences and businesses in the area, Baldwin EMC also sells energy products such as CFL light bulbs and electric grills, provides energy-saving resources, and performs personalized energy audits.

Thanks to all three sponsors for their support and services!

Communication is Key

2011-02-22T04:18:00.000-08:00

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast and you’ll find that the area offers much more than just beautiful white-sand beaches and Gulf views. People come from all over to participate in sporting events ranging from baseball and soccer tournaments to triathlons and major fishing tournaments. Participation isn’t the only fun part of these events; they serve as entertaining spectator sports as well.

But sports aren’t the only activities taking place in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. All kinds of happenings are going on throughout the year, and thanks to companies like AL.com and Clear Channel—two big sponsors of the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission—knowledge of these events is passed on regularly to the public.

AL.com provides a wealth of information on news, entertainment, sports, travel, and weather for the entire state of Alabama. There is even a selection of forums where you can interact with others on specific topics and precise locations. If you’re looking for current information on news stories and events in Alabama—including the Alabama Gulf Coast—AL.com is an excellent resource.

Thanks to Clear Channel, a provider of entertainment and information services around the world, information relevant to the area is distributed via radio stations like 95 KSJ in Mobile. Along with music and news, Clear Channel radio also provides the latest information on local concerts and other events.

And thanks to both of these companies (as well as several other sponsors), the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission is able to support and promote a variety of sporting events throughout the year.

Beginning the New Year

2010-12-21T02:38:00.001-08:00

There’s often a let-down feeling following the bang of the New Year. All the excitement leading up to the holidays and New Year’s Eve culminates into one big end-of-year party—then comes the dullness of January and February.

This is not so much the case along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, where there is always something to do. Several sports events will be taking place in the first weeks of 2011, including a tennis tournament, a volleyball tournament, a seafood festival and car show, and a cheerleading competition. Then there are the regular draws of the Gulf: a variety of inviting accommodations, historic and nature sights and trails, delicious dining, and fabulous shopping venues. And with the weather not nearly as cold as more northern areas—average temperatures in January and February in the 50s—a stroll on the beach is not out of the question.

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website for more information about the Alabama Gulf Coast and upcoming sporting events.

Soccer Semifinals

2010-12-02T20:15:00.000-08:00

Only two days are left in the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship. It’s been an exciting run this week, with two teams remaining undefeated all the way through so far and host team Mobile pulling out a win with only 58 seconds left in the quarterfinals.

But we’re not done yet. The semifinals begin on Friday, with Notre Dame and Mobile playing at 4 p.m. and Hastings and William Jewell playing at 6 p.m. Then the two semifinal winners will play in the final game on Saturday at 7 p.m.

It’s sure to be an exciting weekend for sports fans. Be there live to see which teams will advance to the finals!

Championship Kickoff

2010-11-30T03:25:00.000-08:00

The NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship has officially begun in Orange Beach, and with some exciting results. No.-1 seed Rio Grande, previously undefeated, lost to unseeded Bethel University. Bethel defeated Rio Grande 2 to 1—a repeat of the championship-winning game between the two teams in 2008.

While those two teams repeated history, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma made a little history by winning its first-ever second round match. The game went into overtime, and Science and Arts won 4 to 3 against the University of Great Falls.

Plenty of soccer is yet to be played. The championship continues all week, with the final championship game on Saturday night.

One More Week!

2010-11-22T14:25:00.000-08:00

Only a week left until the start of the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship! The Opening Round has already taken place—the sixteen teams have been determined and will advance to the week-long National Championship, which starts in Orange Beach next Monday, November 29th.

The teams that made it through really proved their worth during the Opening Round, with about half of the teams defeating not only their opponents but the home field advantage rule as well—home teams won only eight of the fifteen matches. And four schools—Hastings, Maine-Fort Kent, Notre Dame, and Rio Grande—remain undefeated going into the National Championship.

It’s going to be an exciting week! There’s still time to make plans to be here—visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website for information on accommodations for this event.

Beach-side Accommodations

2010-11-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

We’re now about a week and a half away from the start of the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship in Orange Beach. If you haven’t made plans to be here yet, there’s still time!

There are lots of great specials being offered by several hotels and condominiums throughout the area. Options range from affordable per-night rates to seven-night packages. Plenty of Gulf-front accommodations are available, too—since you’re visiting the Gulf, you might as well enjoy it!

The week of NAIA soccer is sure to be an exciting one, and the thrill doesn’t have to stop with the games at the end of the day. Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website for more information on lodging specials.

Volunteers Needed for the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon

2010-11-17T03:19:00.000-08:00

You don’t have to be a runner to be a part of the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon, 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. This event will take place on Saturday, November 27th at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. Participants will race along the Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail and onto Beach Road before ending up back at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. It may sound as though the runners will be doing all the work, but there’s a whole other to this event—and a whole other need for participants.

If you’ve ever wanted to be part of a marathon but haven’t felt up to the physical aspect, this is your chance to get involved. Volunteers are needed for this event to assist with tasks such as set-up, registration, and directing runners at various points throughout the race. As a volunteer, you’ll also get to attend the post-race party and help yourself to free food and beverages.

Click here to register as a volunteer.

Soccer Pairings Announced

2010-11-16T09:50:00.000-08:00

We’re getting even closer to the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship event in Orange Beach. Now we know not only the qualifiers for the championship, but also the team pairings for the opening round games.

Eight teams have qualified for the first time in their school’s history, and seven teams have won the national championship at least one time—a perfect setup for some good soccer drama! More information about the qualifying teams and pairings can be found on the NAIA website.

Fifteen campuses will host the games making up this initial 30-team opening round on November 20th. Who participates in the National Championship in Orange Beach will be determined by which teams win the opening round games. Stay tuned to learn the results!

NAIA Opening Banquet

2010-11-15T18:35:00.000-08:00

Soccer fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship! The games officially start on Monday, November 29th—just a little more than two weeks away!

Visitors who are interested in an early start to the event should attend the Opening Banquet on Sunday, November 28th at The Wharf Conference Center. This banquet is open to the public and will start off with a parade of the teams at 6 PM, then dinner at 6:30.

Let the excitement build as you watch the stars of the week officially parade into the event, then dine and talk soccer with fellow sports fans. For admission to the games, tickets are $8 per day for adults and $3 for children—or purchase an all-tournament pass for $20.

Soccer Update

2010-11-12T11:19:00.001-08:00

The 32-team field and bracket for the 2010 NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship will be announced this Sunday. We’re getting that much closer to the big soccer event in Orange Beach!

The latest Men’s Soccer Coaches’ Top 25 Poll placed the University of Rio Grande in the number 1 spot for the third week straight. The team has remained undefeated all season, along with Notre Dame College (ranked 2nd), Hastings College (ranked 3rd), and University of Maine at Fort Kent (ranked 6th). Rio Grande has been ranked in the top 10 since the start of the 2009 season. They could be an interesting team to watch!

The soccer championship begins November 29th at the Orange Beach Sportsplex and goes until the final championship game on December 4th.

Where to Stay for the NAIA Soccer Championship

2010-11-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

With six days of soccer coming up with the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship in Orange Beach, soccer fans will want to be there for every moment of the action. Fortunately, visitors have a variety of lodging options to choose from in the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area.

Several accommodations are offering friends and family specials for the soccer tournament. Chain hotels provide a convenient place to sleep for a shorter stay, while resort-style condominiums offer amenities and extra space for larger groups. Several accommodations offer perks such as private gulf-front balconies, swimming pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, hot tubs, saunas, and more.

Come stay the week and get caught up in the soccer excitement!

Fishing, Marathon, and Soccer Fun

2010-11-04T04:07:00.000-07:00

The weather may be cooling down, but the sports action along the Alabama Gulf Coast is not. We start this month with the 2010 Inshore Fishing Association Redfish Tour Championship, which takes place November 4th to 6th and involves anglers from six regions competing for the national championship title. Then on November 11th to 13th is the Inshore Fishing Association Redfish Tour Kayak Championship—anglers competing from kayaks in Orange Beach.

Those looking for a fun way to burn off their Thanksgiving dinners might consider signing up for the Kaiser Realty Coastal Half Marathon, 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. These races take place November 27th starting at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. Runners will make their way down the scenic Hugh Branyon Back Country Trail, along the Beach Road overlooking the Gulf, and back to the Orange Beach Sportsplex.

Ending the month is the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championships in Orange Beach, which is sure to be an exhilarating week of soccer!

The Competition is Building

2010-11-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

In just under four weeks the 52nd Annual NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship will begin in Orange Beach, and it promises to be an exciting event. There are some strong teams within the NAIA men’s soccer league, with five teams (University of Rio Grande, Simon Fraser University, Notre Dame College, Hastings College, and University of Maine at Fort Kent) being undefeated so far this season—it’s unlikely those teams will go down without a fight!

Several other teams have strong records with only one or two losses. Watching the players behind these impressive statistics should make for an exciting week of soccer as they compete for the top spot in the championship.

The action starts Monday, November 29th at noon. Don’t miss it!

College Sports: So Much Fun!

2010-10-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

People often argue that college sports are better than professional sports. Many find college athletes more entertaining to watch, with their youthful energy and fearless attitudes. The college crowds attending their school’s sporting events also contribute a spirited element to the atmosphere—painted faces and enthusiastic cheering can be contagious.

The liveliness of a college soccer game is no different, which is why the week of November 29th to December 4th should be an exciting one in Orange Beach. With 16 college men’s soccer teams running, kicking, and head-bouncing balls all week, there should be plenty of reason for energetic cheering!

Get Ready for Some Soccer!

2010-10-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

November 29th through December 4th for soccer fans—and sports fans in general—in the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area. The 52nd Annual NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship takes place that week at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. Sixteen NAIA soccer teams from around the country will compete single-elimination style throughout the week. The final championship game will take place on Saturday, December 4th.

Tickets are $8 per day for adults and $3 per day for children. Or if you want to witness the teams’ progress throughout the entire tournament, an all-tournament pass is available for $20.

Come root for a favorite team, or just check out all the action!

Fall: A Great Time for Sports and More

2010-10-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

Fall is an ideal time of year for along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The weather is mild and inviting for baseball tournaments, soccer championships, golf events, marathons and various other sporting events. But sports aren’t the only activities to be enjoyed in the area.

If you like nature, we have plenty—from nature trails and preserves, scenic parks, and, of course, beaches. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo exhibits the natural habitats of more than 400 animals, and attractions like the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, and the Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuaries and Sea Lab offer educational opportunities about the local ecosystems.

History attractions are another popular pastime. Visit Fort Morgan for a glimpse of history ranging from the Civil War to World War II; tour USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, which includes the World War II battleship, a submarine, combat aircraft, tanks, and a Vietnam river patrol boat; and gain a glimpse into the 1930s at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a 10,500-square-foot home built in 1935.

There are plenty of other attractions to be enjoyed: ride some rides and play some mini-golf at an amusement park, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel at The Wharf—the tallest in the southeast.

On Land and Sea

2010-10-08T04:44:00.000-07:00

Plenty of sports action is taking place along the Alabama Gulf Coast this month, spanning from land to sea and covering activities such as boating, fishing, baseball, tennis and even a duathlon.

Between October 12th and October 17th, two water-based events will take place: Thunder on the Gulf and the IFA Redfish Tour Gulf Division Fishing Tournament. The speed-boat-racing fun of Thunder on the Gulf runs from the 12th to the 17th. Then on the 16th and 17th, anglers will compete with each other to catch “the big one” in the IFA Redfish Tournament.

Also on the 16th is the Hot to Trot Reverse Duathlon (where participants bike 9.2 miles, run 5.6 miles, and then bike another 9.2 miles) and the NSA Gulf Coast Fall College Exposure Softball Tournament, in which 36 travel softball teams compete for champion status.

Tennis fans will want to check out the Alabama State Senior and Super Senior Tennis Championships October 21st to the 24th. This event involves over 400 Alabama athletes competing at three different tennis facilities. Then finish out the month with the USSSA Monster Bat Halloween Beach Baseball Tournament, in which more than 20 travel baseball teams compete over the Halloween weekend.

It’s going to be an active month! Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website for more information.

Thunder on the Gulf

2010-09-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

We’re less than two weeks away from the start of the 8th Annual Thunder on the Gulf, which takes place October 12th to 17th. You can almost hear the “thunder” now!

The event will begin with the arrival of the boats at the dry pits at the Gulf State Park Pavilion and a 5 PM kick-off party at Florabama. The remainder of the week will involve viewing of the dry pits, free concerts (Bon Jovi and Brad Paisley will perform on October 15th and 17th), a poker run, more parties, and, of course, high-speed boat racing!

Viewing the races is free; admission is charged for the dry pits and parties. Visitors can purchase VIP passes at www.thunderonthegulf.com, which grant free access to pits, parties, and VIP tent. Official race merchandise will also be on sale throughout the event.

Cycling Events

2010-09-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Bicycling is an exhilarating activity all on its own. The physical stamina required and the feeling of freely breezing along from point A to point B make it a very rewarding sport. But if you’re a cyclist looking for something extra in a cycling event, you’ll want to check out two events coming up.

The 2010 MS Ride-Tour de Beach, taking place September 18th to 19th, is a two-day cycling event and MS fundraiser with two challenges: biking 150 miles and raising as much money for MS as possible.

Then the 2010 Ride for Wishes takes place October 1st to 3rd. Also a two-day event, this fundraiser supports the wish-granting efforts in Alabama. And participants of varying levels can choose their cycling distance: from 17 miles to 100 miles.

It’s a good month for experiencing the rewards of biking and helping others. Check out these and other events at the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website.

Try a Triathlon

2010-08-18T09:45:00.000-07:00

Imagine starting the day with a 1,000-yard swim, then taking a 20-mile bike ride followed by a 5-mile run. If this type of athletic endeavor calls to you, you’ll want to be in Gulf Shores on Saturday, September 11th for the 2010 Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon and the “Tri-it-on” Triathlon.

Maybe you want to put your physical stamina to the test, or maybe you just want to stand on the sidelines and cheer for the participants (for free—there is no charge for spectators). Or perhaps you’ve never participated in a triathlon before but want to get your feet wet—literally and figuratively in this case—by trying out the mini “Tri-it-on” triathlon, which involves a 300-yard swim, 9-mile bike ride and 2-mile run.

The event starts bright and early on Saturday morning, and a post-race party and awards ceremony will be held at The Hangout afterwards. Click here for more information.

Get Involved!

2010-08-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

All too often, former athletes and general sports lovers deprive themselves of their passion. Many believe they’ve outgrown the athletic world and only relive the glory days of sports in their memories, or watch from afar at events and on television.

It’s easy to overlook the possibility of active sports participation in the adult world, but it’s not impossible to get involved again. The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to a variety of sporting events throughout the year, many of which are open to anyone willing to register. Golf tournaments, fishing tournaments, triathlons, and cycling events are some of the activities that take place along the Gulf.

For those who want to get involved but aren’t quite up for the athletic aspect, volunteer opportunities are available with the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission. Help set up for an event, sell tickets, keep score or act as court marshal. Visit the Sports Commission’s website for more information.

Celebrity Golf

2010-07-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

For golf enthusiasts, it doesn’t get much better than a golf tournament. Golfers love the chance to put their skills to the test; observers enjoy the showcase of competition.

If it’s possible to heighten the excitement surrounding a golf tournament, adding celebrities to the event may be the way to go—which is exactly what will happen on September 1st in Gulf Shores. Mark Gottfried, basketball analyst for ESPN and former long-time college basketball coach, will host a golf tournament held at Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club. To make things more interesting, more than 20 celebrities—current and former college athletes and coaches, former NBA and NFL players, and TV personalities—will also be in attendance.

Participants and observers will get the chance to both witness a first-ever star-studded golf tournament and make a contribution to the community, as tournament proceeds will be donated and used as scholarships for local youth recreational programs.

For more information about this event, visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website.

Working Up an Appetite

2010-07-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

If there’s one thing that’s true about sporting events, it’s that they make us hungry. The energy exerted by the athletes demands hearty nourishment (particularly if the athletes are children, and we get a lot of child athletes down here!). Even just watching the activity can make you hungry—and very often the concession stand simply isn’t enough.

Fortunately, Alabama’s Gulf Coast has much to offer in the way of food, whether you want something quick and easy before the big game or a fancy celebratory feast after the big win. Get a taste of the local flavor at one of the many seafood joints, or go with a more familiar restaurant that you know is a personal favorite.

The dining options are just one of many benefits of the Alabama Gulf Coast. Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website to learn more about what the area has to offer.

So Much to Do

2010-06-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Sports can take a lot out of us. Even the exhilaration of simply watching an exciting baseball game or tennis match can be enough to wipe us out. So it’s nice to have a way to recuperate afterward.

Not only are there many ideal locations for sports activities around the Alabama Gulf Coast, there are also many opportunities for relaxation and other activities. Beachfront condos and hotels with pools, spas, and other amenities are great places to kick back and relax. Or if you want to explore what the area has to offer, you can check out the nature trails, historic sites, shopping and amusement parks, among other attractions. Then when you’ve worked up a good appetite, enjoy a dinner out at one of the many local restaurants.

Click here for more information on what the area has to offer.

Student Events

2010-06-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

School may be out, but there are plenty of sporting events for students in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area this summer.

It’s never too early to prepare for fall football, and that’s exactly the purpose of the Gulf Shores High School Football Camp, which will take place June 18th and 19th at Gulf Shores High School and Gulf Shores Sportsplex. More than 75 high school football players will gather for two days of intense training. Then the Gulf Shores High School Summer Volleyball Competition Camp will take place July 7th and 8th. Visitors can watch the competition between 12 high school volleyball teams.

Other events for youngsters throughout the summer will include baseball tournaments, tennis tournaments, a city swim meet, and a Coach Pitch World Series.

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission website for more information on these and other events.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

2010-05-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

The beauty of digital photography is you can store pictures—lots of pictures—pretty much anywhere you want: on your computer, online, or just on the memory card physically stored away somewhere. Long gone are the days of shoeboxes stuffed with photographs and stacked in a closet somewhere.

Sporting events simply lend themselves to photographs. Event participants often like to have visual keepsakes from the experience, and you never know when you might capture that great-game moment that so often happens in sports.

And if you happen to capture one of those great sporting moments during a sports event in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area, you can post the pictures in the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission’s website for others to see.

Click here to view our photo gallery and submit your own photos.

May Variety

2010-05-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

When it comes to sports, we do it all down here along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. This month is a great example, with Taekwondo, baseball/softball, tennis, and basketball all on the calendar for May.

The Eastern Shore Taekwondo Invitational is scheduled to take place May 14th to 16th at the Orange Beach Recreation Center. This event will feature senior level black belt testing and promotion, as well as Taekwondo competitions for children, teens, adults, and seniors.

Then, three softball/baseball tournaments will take place between May 15th and May 30th: the 2010 Global Sports Sandlot Shootout Baseball Tournament (May 15th and 16th at the Orange Beach Sportsplex), the St. Jude Softball Tournament (May 15th at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex), and Alabama NSA Memorial Day at the Beach (May 28th to 30th at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex and Orange Beach Sportsplex).

In between all of this activity is the Orange Beach NTRP Combo Classic, which will involve more than 80 tennis players competing for the win from May 21st to 23rd, and the 3rd Annual Youth Basketball of America Gulf Coast Challenge on May 28th to 30th, which will take place at Gulf Shores High School Gulf Shores Middle School, Bodenhamer Center and Orange Beach Recreation Center.

Click here to find out what the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission can do for your event.

Unique Venues

2010-04-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Not every sporting event fits in a traditional sports venue. In fact, some of the more unique and interesting events—like fishing tournaments and marathons—need a more distinct location.

In this respect, the Alabama Gulf Coast has one big advantage over other locations: the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf is a big draw for visitors and a great location for water and boating events, such as fishing tournaments. And there are plenty of marinas and boat launches available with features like dock stores, fuel stations, restaurants, showers and telephones.

Other unique event venues include the Gulf State Park Pavilion, Gulf Shores Pavilion, Amphitheater at the Wharf, and the Hugh Branyon Back Country Trail.

Learn more about these and other venues here.

April Activity

2010-04-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

April is shaping up to be an athletically active month on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. If you’re in the area this month, you’ll have the opportunity to watch a variety of sports, from swimming and biking to softball games.

Softball fans will be plenty entertained: The 2010 Gulf Coast Classic II Softball Tournament is up first, scheduled for April 12th to 15th. Then the 2010 Orange Beach Invitational Softball Tournament will take place on April 23rd and 24th. Fifty teams will compete in the first tournament, 24 in the second.

For some triathlon fun, check out the 14th Annual Mullet Man Triathlon scheduled for April 17th. Participants will swim ¼ mile, bike 15 miles, and run 4 miles. Then end the month with the 2010 AHSAA State Track Championship, which will involve high school athletes from all over Alabama competing in events like shot put, discus, and javelin, among others.

Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission for information on these and other upcoming events.

Team Player

2010-03-17T11:09:00.001-07:00

You know that special player on your team - the one you can count on to score a run, make the hit, make the goal. It is a great feeling knowing that you have the resource you need to help the entire team.

And the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission can be your resource too, your go-to clutch player.

We have a great track record hosting tournaments and events with the USTA, FLW, SEC, NCAA and NAIA. And we would be happy to work with your next sporting event.

So what can we bring to the field? Here's a lineup that can really help make your next event in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach a win!
• Facility and Site Selection
• Bid Preparation and Presentation
• Liaison with local officials
• Provide special accommodation rates
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Volunteers
• Welcome Bags, coupons
• Vendor/Supplier Referrals

Hundreds of Student Athletes Head to Sporting Events on Alabama’s Beaches

2010-03-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

As thousands of students head to Alabama’s Beaches for Spring Break, Pleasure Island is also gearing up to host four athletic events in nine days - all of which are supported by the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission (AGCSC) and its partners and sponsors.

First up to bat is the 2010 NAIA Gulf Coast Invitational Softball Tournament, which will be held March 12-14 at both the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Sportsplexes. Pool play begins on Friday at 9 a.m. at the Gulf Shores location followed by a 10 a.m. start in Orange Beach. On Saturday morning, play resumes at both locations at 9 a.m. Competition continues throughout each day and draws to a close in the late evening hours. On Sunday, games in the single elimination bracket will span 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $6.00 per day or $15.00 for a weekend pass, and the AGCSC Sponsor represented at this event are Lester’s Restaurant and The Island House Hotel. For more information, visit www.umobile.edu/athletic/2010gci.asp, or call Terri McCormick at 251-510-0244.

Meanwhile, more than 25 high school teams will be competing in the 2010 Gulf Coast Classic Baseball Tournament. From March 15 – 18, these teams are set to play at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex and Simms Park in addition to Gulf Shores, Foley and Robertsdale High Schools. Play will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday and at 10 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. The tournament’s championship game will start at 2 on Thursday at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. Admission is $15.00 for a tournament pass or $7.00 for a daily pass. For more information, call 251-968-4747.

Adding to the competitive atmosphere will be the Gulf Coast Classic I Softball Tournament. Nearly 60 high school fast pitch teams are set to compete March 15-17 at the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Sportsplexes. Play will start daily at 8 a.m. and spans into the late evening hours. Admission is $7.00 for a one-day pass or $10.00 for a two-day tournament pass. Pre-school age children will be admitted free of charge. AGCSC Sponsors represented at this event are Staybridge Suites, Meyer Real Estate, Holiday Inn Express Orange Beach, Caribe The Resort and Spectrum Vacations. For more information, visit the athletic page at www.gs-hs.com, or call 251-968-4747.

Finally, the Orange Beach Soccer Shootout will round out a busy mid-March timeframe. Youth soccer teams from as far away as Kentucky and Georgia will travel to Alabama Gulf Coast for this anticipated tournament. Play is set for March 20 and 21 at the Orange Beach Sportsplex and Seth Simpson Fields (Perdido Key, FL). Games will span 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Admission is free but parking is $5.00 per car, and AGCSC Sponsors represented at this event are Cosmo’s Restaurant, Fairfield Inn and Suites, IMAX Naval Aviation Memorial Theatre, The Wharf and Holiday Inn Express Orange Beach. For more information, visit www.orangebeachsoccershootout.com, or email tournaments@inbox.com.

Later, the sports commission will welcome these upcoming events: USSSA Beach Blast (March 26-28), 2010 Pleasure Island Volleyball Tournament (March 27-28), Cycling the Coast for a Cure (April 3), USSSA Super NIT (April 9-11) 2010 Gulf Coast Classic II Softball (April 12-15), Orange Beach Soccer Classic (April 16-18) and the 14th Annual Mullet Man Triathlon.

For information on these or other athletic events on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, please visit www.alabamagulfcoastsports.com, or call 1-800-745-SAND.

Dolphins Flip for Sports Commission's First March Event

2010-03-02T23:18:00.000-08:00

Exciting fast pitch softball action will arrive on Pleasure Island as the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission (AGCSC) welcomes its first event of March. The 2010 Dolphin Classic Softball Tournament is slated for March 5 and 6 at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex.

High School players will represent the following teams: Gulf Shores, West Florida, Jackson, Brewbaker Tech, Fairhope, Faith Academy, Pascagoula, Baldwin County, UMS, McGill-Toolen, Flomaton, Rehobeth, Spanish Fort, Leroy, and Gulf Breeze.

Play begins on Friday afternoon with the first pitch at 4:3o followed by a round of games at 6:15 and 8:00. On Saturday morning, games are set for 9:00 and 10:45 before the single elimination tournament starts at 12:30.

Also the South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, a sports commission sponsor, will have a local doctor at this tournament to promote breast cancer awareness. Dr. Judy deLacee Corbett of Baldwin OB/GYN, P.C. will be on hand to distribute shower cards that promote self examination, pink candy, and pink ribbons. At the end of tournament, she will hold a drawing for a breast cancer awareness gift bag.

Admission is $7.00 for a one-day pass or $10.00 for a two-day tournament pass. Pre-school age children will be admitted free of charge.

Later in March, the sports commission will welcome these upcoming events: 2010 NAIA Gulf Coast Invitational Softball Tournament (March 12-14), 2010 Gulf Coast Classic I Softball (March 15-17), 2010 Baseball Gulf Coast Classic (March 15-18), Orange Beach Soccer Shootout (March 20-21), USSSA Beach Blast (March 26-28) and 2010 Pleasure Island Volleyball Tournament (March 27-28).

For information on these or other athletic events on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, please visit www.alabamagulfcoastsports.com, or call 1-800-745-SAND.