SFC has doubled in size and its people-first approach is now embraced by 100+ venues managed across the nation, with 5,000 employees.
Sports Facilities Companies has won the 2026 USA Today Top Workplaces National Award, establishing itself on this prestigious list of top workplaces for the 5th consecutive year. USA TODAY announced the award in partnership with Energage.
It honors companies that have created exceptional cultures that put people first and reflect positive feedback consistently from SFC employees across the nation.
SFC, a leader in the industry, plans, develops and operates events, sports, entertainment and recreation facilities across the country. SFC’s team has grown by more than doubling in the last five years. It now employs over 5,000 people across its SF Network, which includes more than 100 venues managed and a support center based in Clearwater, as well as award-winning locations such Gatlinburg (Tenn.), Branson, Mo.
and Sandusky, Ohio.
We win by investing in our people. Jason Clement is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Sports Facilities Companies. He said that five consecutive years of being on this list was a result of our deliberate decision to make investments in people. “Consistency compounds. This consistency represents a commitment to the municipalities and communities we serve: The same culture which earned this recognition will be present in your facility each day.
“Our team doesn’t just manage venues – we serve communities and take that responsibility very personally.”
SFC is committed to creating environments which empower and enable team members. This momentum can also be seen in the strategic expansions of the company, including the launch of Spirit Golf.
Spirit Golf marks SFC’s entry into the golf course management industry and further shows the commitment the company has to expanding its reach across leisure and hospitality.
Tami Swanson is Vice President for Human Resources at SFC. “Our goal is that every member of our team feels valued and heard” said Tami. The USA TODAY Top Employers award is entirely based on employee feedback. This makes the recognition even more meaningful. This award shows that the members of our team believe in our vision, are connected to our core values and have faith in those who guide our growth.
“We are committed to investing in their long-term development, success, and well-being.”
USA TODAY Top Workplaces National Award recognizes employers who excel in listening to employees and engaging them. More than 42,000 organisations were invited to apply for the awards in 2026. The winners were chosen based on the confidential responses of team members who evaluated key aspects such as alignment, connection and engagement.
Energage is an HR technology and research firm which has been administering the Top Workplaces Program since 2006, and based its list entirely on feedback from employees. Energage uses its research-backed surveys and proprietary analytics to evaluate how organizations foster cultures in which employees feel empowered, respected, and encouraged to grow.
Eric Rubino is CEO at Energage.
“Winning a USA Today Top Workplaces Award is testament to the organization’s commitment to people-first culture and credibility,” he said. This award is more than a simple recognition. It’s proof of your employees’ belief in the company and its leaders. This badge is a trusted indicator of excellence and credibility for both job seekers and clients. This badge is a sign of a business that cares about its employees, which resonates with today’s market.
Visit our websites at sportsfacilities.com or theSFNetwork.com to learn more. Keep an eye on Facebook or LinkedIn to learn about new programs and jobs.
Sports Facilities Companies
Sports Facilities Companies is the leading national resource in the development and management of sport, recreation and wellness facilities. SFC offers a complete solution to community leaders, developers, and sports enthusiasts.
Services include master planning for sports, recreation, and tourism, as well as program planning and feasibility. Professional facility management is also available. SFC, which is represented by SF Network and has over 100 venues managed, welcomes almost 30 million guests each year and generates an economic impact of nearly $1 billion. For more information, visit SportsFacilities.com or theSFnetwork.com.
