Erie, Pa: SportsEvents Media Group announced the winners of the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, with nominees submitted by the Erie Sports Commission and its partners earning recognition in four distinct categories. This year’s recognition highlights the region’s versatility, celebrating a long-standing partnership, a premier venue and both new and established championship events.
The partnership between Champion Cheer Central and the Erie Sports Commission was honored for Best Long-Term Relationship between Planner and Destination. A staple of the local sports calendar, Champion Cheer Central has consistently brought high-energy competition to the Flagship City, creating a deep-rooted connection between event organizers and the local community. This synergy was further solidified by the 2025 Lake Erie National Cheer and Dance Championships, which was named the All-Star Multisport Complex and welcomed 270 teams and 3,295 athletes, generating $2.9 million in estimated economic impact, making it the largest event hosted by Champion Cheer Central.
The NCAA Division II Men’s Golf Atlantic/East Regional was named Best New Sporting Event. Hosted at Whispering Woods Golf Club in conjunction with Gannon University, the tournament brought top collegiate golfers to Erie, showcasing the area’s ability to host sanctioned collegiate events at a national level.
The Erie Sports Center has emerged as a top tier national facility, earning the title of All-Star Multisport Complex. The facility has become a cornerstone for athletics, providing amenities for a wide range of sports. The venue has successfully hosted major tournaments, including Lax Bash, USA Ultimate, spikeball, soccer and rugby.
“Erie’s consistent success in the Readers’ Choice Awards is a testament to the incredible coordination between our local venues and the event organizers who choose our city year after year,” said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “Earning national recognition across such diverse categories, from a long-standing partnership like Champion Cheer Central to a new event like the NCAA Division II Men’s Golf Atlantic/East Regional just proves that Erie has the infrastructure and the passion to remain a frontrunner in the sports tourism industry.”
To read the full SportsEvents 2026 Readers Choice Awards issue, visit: https://sportseventsmediagroup.com/2026rcawinners/
