With the sun peaking through to shine on an outfield covered in morning dew, the latest crop of RiverDogs began their first home workouts, while dozens gathered above, in the Segra Club, to learn why Charleston has been deemed the Top Minor League Sports Market.

Rob Salvatore, Chairman and Co-Owner of the Charleston Battery, Todd Halloran, Owner and Governor of the South Carolina Stingrays Hockey Club and Dave Echols, General Manager and President of the Charleston RiverDogs, joined the Chamber for our State of the Region series. MC and moderator Scott Eisberg, Sports Director of ABC News 4, led the discussion on what makes Charleston a great minor league sports market, how the supports of Charleston helped each franchise navigate the uncertainty of their COVID seasons and what drew each of these leaders to the Holy City.

Top Highlights:

• Even though the RiverDogs, Battery and Stingrays may have a large footprint, they are actually small businesses, as their operating teams are usually made up of fewer than 30 people.

• The sports market in Charleston continues to grow as more people move to the city. Although, a major league team in Charleston is unlikely, these organization will still focus on providing the best experience to the fans.

• An entrepreneurial spirit and the dedication of front office, technical and gameday staff have led to Charleston being named one of the Top 5 Minor League Sports Cities.

A special thank you to each of our panelists for participating, along with the Charleston RiverDogs for hosting the event in the beautiful Segra Club. Also, thank you our presenting sponsor, First National Bank, along with our program sponsor, Dunhill Staffing.

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