Baseball

Baseball has a strong tradition in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. We have a proud history of hosting spring training for professional baseball teams, as well as numerous youth and collegiate tournaments.

The Tampa Bay Rays, 2008 American League champions, hold their Spring Training at the beautiful Charlotte Sports Park, which has been ranked as a top spring training facility. There's no better setting to truly enjoy a big-name game.

In addition, college teams representing NCAA and junior colleges from across the country flock to tournaments in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, including the Annual Snowbird Baseball Classic. Many teams? In 2019, 19 Division I and 25 Division III colleges matched up to play spring ball.

"When considering other Florida communities, Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands [former destination name] makes the most sense as a tournament host destination," said Steve Partington, Tournament Director. "The area's warm winter temperatures, outstanding ball fields, affordable lodging and diverse activity options make Charlotte Harbor an attractive choice."