Regional leaders will gather at Rhythm & Rally Sports & Events, the world's largest indoor pickleball facility, to discuss how sports complexes can help community revitalization. 

“Though it’s only been open a few months, Rhythm & Rally is making an impact in both the sports and community revitalization worlds,” says Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller. “This summit is a chance for the work to be replicated elsewhere so more people can be offered these opportunities.” 

The Community Playmaker Summit:GA will take place Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 9:30am to 3:30pm and will provide valuable insights and best practices for revitalizing structures, such as shuttered malls, into world-class sports and event complexes that can enrich the lives of city residents, increase city tourism, and provide positive economic impact.

The event will feature engaging panel discussions, peer networking opportunities, and a firsthand look at the innovative Rhythm & Rally facility. Panel discussions will focus on economic development and sports tourism in Macon-Bibb and the state, the pickleball explosion in the United States, and the journey from concept to success for Rhythm & Rally Sports & Events.

“We are excited to welcome our new partners at Sports Facilities Group, and other sports facility & community leaders throughout the region to Macon, Georgia!“ said President & CEO of Visit Macon, Gary Wheat. “We are so happy to see Macon-Bibb Co. at the top of conversation for meetings, tournaments and events interested in the unique space of the ‘world’s largest indoor pickleball facility.’ Thanks to all the partners involved with Rhythm & Rally, we have a facility that illustrates the best in community development paired with sports tourism!”

Numerous trailblazers will be speaking at the event, including Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller, Visit Macon President/CEO Gary Wheat, Urban Development Executive Director Alex Morrison, Sports Facilities Companies National Director of Business Development Jim Arnold, and more.

“The accomplishments in Macon with both Rhythm and Rally and the Atrium Health Amphitheater are worthy of national recognition,” said Ashley Whittaker, editor-in-chief of Community Playmaker magazine and Partner for the Sports Facilities Companies (SFC). “From creative funding mechanisms to the innovative use of former big-box retail space, these ideas will inspire other local government leaders. It is our privilege to share this story with guests at Summit:GA and online across the country.”