(Spokane, WA, October 26, 2022) Spokane’s newest sports facility just received national recognition as the best new sports venue in the country by SportsTravel Magazine. “Winning awards was not our vision when we built The Podium Powered by STCU. We knew the facility was the first of its kind in the Western United States with its hydraulic-banked track. We knew it would draw new and bigger sporting events to Spokane,” says Stephanie Curran, Spokane Public Facilities District CEO. “We never dreamed a national publication like SportsTravel magazine, and its readers would give The Podium this kind of exposure with such an outstanding award.”

SportsTravel is the go-to publication for professionals in the sports-related travel and event industry. It’s the only magazine serving the people who organize and manage sporting events around the country. “The Podium is a terrific example of the power of sports-related travel,” said Jason Gewirtz, Executive Editor and Publisher of SportsTravel. “What the Spokane community has accomplished by pulling its resources together to build this world-class venue is an example by which other communities can learn. We received many nominations for our awards this year, including quite a few for best new venue, and The Podium is more than deserving of the recognition our readers have bestowed.”

To meet the criteria for this award, the sports venue had to be new in the past year or be a venue that completed a significant renovation. It had to offer innovative approaches to use of space, amenities, and digital offerings for attendees. The venue also needed to attract new sporting events. The Podium met all criteria including hosting several events that had never been to Spokane, such as the 2022 USA Track & Field Indoor Championships and the 2022 USA Karate National Championships.

When 2022 ends, it’s estimated sports travelers visiting The Podium will have generated $45.2 million in economic impact to the Spokane region. An award from SportsTravel will only increase Spokane’s national exposure as a great place for sports tourism. National exposure enhances the ability to bring more sporting events to Spokane, which translates to more tax revenue.

About Spokane Sports
Founded in 1989, Spokane Sports is a non-profit, economic development organization responsible for recruiting, retaining, and facilitating sports events for the Spokane region. As advocates for sports development, our efforts help our region realize the economic, social, and community development benefits of sports. Learn more by visiting us online. 

About The Podium Powered by STCU

Spokane is proud to announce an all new, indoor multi-sport venue. Completed in Fall 2021, this world-class facility is located in the heart of downtown, giving athletes front-door access to restaurants, hotels, and entertainment. The project forged several unique partnerships and funding approaches, all with the intent to generate economic impact and put Spokane on the map for sports tourism. 

To learn more about Spokane Sports and sports tourism efforts underway, please reach out to Ashley Blake.