The John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center is excited to mark its 10th anniversary with the Community Playmaker Summit: SC, a highly anticipated event open to both the public and media, kicking off at 1:00 p.m. This milestone celebration is not merely a routine gathering but a significant occasion that will feature a lineup of keynote speakers who are leaders in the sports community, a dynamic panel discussion that addresses the past and future of sports in the area, and an award ceremony that honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the local sports community. Attendees can expect to hear inspiring stories of perseverance, dedication, and innovation that have shaped the sports landscape in Myrtle Beach, making this event a not-to-miss for anyone passionate about sports.
A quorum of Myrtle Beach City Council members may be present at the event, which begins at 10:00 a.m. for invited participants. This gathering aims to showcase the collaborative spirit of our city leaders and community advocates. While no official action or votes will be taken during the celebration, it is vital to provide this notice out of an abundance of caution to reassure our community of full compliance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act. This ensures transparency and builds trust within our community, a cornerstone of effective governance.
Myrtle Beach Sports Center: A Decade of Excellence
When: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Event Time: 1:00–3:00 PM
Award Ceremony: 2:00 PM
The media and public are invited to attend beginning at 1:00 p.m. This event is an excellent opportunity to engage with community leaders and learn more about the impact of local sports initiatives.
Where: John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center, 2115 Sports Center Way, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. This state-of-the-art facility has hosted numerous events over the years, becoming a hub for athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.
Panelists Include:
• Brenda Bethune, Mayor of Myrtle Beach
• Mark Beale, General Manager, John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center
• John Pedersen, Former City Manager of Myrtle Beach
Speakers Include:
• Terri Springs, wife of John T. Rhodes, who will share personal anecdotes that highlight the legacy of her husband
• Mike Lowder, Myrtle Beach City Councilman, discussing the future of sports in the city
• Mike Chestnut, Myrtle Beach City Councilman, focusing on community engagement in sports programs.
During the ceremony, local leaders will be recognized whose dedication and vision have driven the development and success of the sports center. Key figures from various sports organizations, youth programs, and local businesses will be honored for their contributions. Their efforts have expanded youth sports opportunities throughout South Carolina and strengthened Myrtle Beach’s reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism since the center opened for its first event on March 7, 2015. The sports center was renamed the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center in honor of former Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes, who died in January 2021. Rhodes was instrumental in the creation of the ‘Myrtle Beach Sports Complex’ and one of the earliest sports tourism proponents in Myrtle Beach. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes, and the event will reflect on the profound impact he had on the local sports community.
The Community Playmaker Summit: SC will not only celebrate the achievements of the past but also pave the way for future initiatives aimed at enhancing sports programs at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center. Discussions at the summit will include topics such as increasing accessibility to sports for underprivileged youth, enhancing facilities to accommodate a wider range of sports, and utilizing technology to improve training methods. By addressing these critical issues, Myrtle Beach aims to solidify its position as a leader in sports tourism and community engagement. Collaboration between local government, schools, and sports organizations will be emphasized to ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from sports.
As we look back over the past decade of the Myrtle Beach Sports Center, it is essential to recognize the evolving landscape of sports in Myrtle Beach. The sports center has hosted a multitude of events ranging from youth tournaments to professional competitions, attracting thousands of visitors each year. This influx has not only boosted local businesses but has also fostered a sense of community pride. The success stories of young athletes who have trained at this facility and gone on to achieve great things serve as a testament to the center’s impact. For example, several athletes from the area have received scholarships to prestigious colleges, thanks in part to the training and opportunities provided at the sports center. Such achievements underscore the importance of investing in local sports infrastructure.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
