Sporting Events FAQs

Get the play-by-play

Why should I go through the Sports Commission when looking for a sporting event city or venue?

We are here to make your job easier – it's a little like one-stop shopping. Consider us your link to all your planning needs. We'll help you find and secure a sporting facility, hotel, services, entertainment, restaurant and dining options, ideas for group activities, maps and information, discounts and so much more.

Does the Sports Commission charge for its services?

All services provided by the Sports Commission are complimentary – it's what we do! The South Bend Regional Sports Commission offers the following services and more:

• RFP distribution
• Secure bids and proposals
• Host site visits
• Host pre-planning meetings
• Pre-event promotional services
• On-site Greeting and Information Service
• Maps and Brochures
• Discount Coupons
• VIP Gifts
• Official Welcome Address
• Welcome Letters
• Welcome Signage
• Transportation Assistance
• Sponsorship Assistance
• Spouse and Children's Programming
• Tour Planning
• Special Event Assistance
• Media Support
• Support Services

What type of sporting event can South Bend accommodate?

Being blessed with a variety of sporting and hotel facilities, South Bend and Mishawaka can accommodate almost every sport including, but not limited to, baseball, softball, swimming, diving, kayaking, rowing, hockey, ice skating, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, football, twirling, dance, volleyball and fencing.

Can we bring an event to South Bend during a Notre Dame Home Football Weekend?

While there are plenty of hotel rooms in St. Joseph County to accommodate football fans AND sporting event participants and spectators, discounted group room rates are not available.

South Bend is now officially a Bicycle Friendly Community

The League of American bicyclists recently designated South Bend as a Bicycle Friendly Community. "The League of American Bicyclists was impressed with many aspects of South Bend's bicycling community, including the growing bike culture in South Bend. South Bend is becoming an even better place for cycling," said Nancy Tibbett, a League representative. Tibbett cited the increased volume of bicycle commuting, the high participation in bicycling events and the proximity of residents to bike routes – nearly 70 percent live within a quarter-mile – as factors in South Bend's bronze-level designation. "The League looks forward to helping South Bend move up the ranks and become an even better cycling city," she said.

South Bend's is now part of an elite group of 158 U.S. cities in 43 states, so designated for their "remarkable commitment" to bicycling. South Bend is one of four Indiana cities designated and the only Bicycle Friendly Community in northern Indiana.