SPARTANBURG, S.C. — At its 2026 annual celebration, OneSpartanburg, Inc. honored the Hub City Spartanburgers with the Elaine Harris Tourism Champion Award, which is given to an organization demonstrating outstanding commitment to driving tourism to the Spartanburg economy.
“The Hub City Spartanburgers and Fifth Third Park are happy to play a small part in showcasing the incredible growth taking place all around Spartanburg County,” said Spartanburgers Assistant General Manager Luke Feisal. “This recognition would not be possible without the continued support from partners and residents of this community.”
Named for the late Mayor of Pacolet Elaine Harris, the Tourism Champion award recognizes people or organizations exemplifying the vitality and persistence of Elaine Harris in creating a thriving tourism economy across Spartanburg County. Past Elaine Harris Tourism Champion Award winners include The Carolina Country Club, Spartanburg Parks and USC Upstate.
“Since first pitch of their inaugural season in 2025, the Spartanburgers and Fifth Third Park have become major partners in elevating Spartanburg’s tourism experience, creating a premier destination for residents and visitors to enjoy, and sparking a new center of energy in Downtown Spartanburg,” said OneSpartanburg, Inc. Chief Tourism Development Officer Billy Dunlap.
The Spartanburgers have brought a wide array of events to Spartanburg, including the Hub City Classic college baseball showcase, hometown and in-state college baseball games, three sold-out nights of Banana Ball and the recently announced REV Entertainment College Baseball Series, along with concerts and other community-focused happenings. Over two seasons, the Spartanburgers have welcomed almost 445,000 visitors to Fifth Third Park for both baseball games and events.
The Tourism Champion award comes on the heels of Greenville-Spartanburg being named the top Minor League Market in the country by Sports Business Journal. As Spartanburg continues to grow and develop downtown, with over $400 million worth of investment in current building projects, Fifth Third Park will remain an epicenter for events, community gatherings and FUN for years to come.
About the Hub City Spartanburgers
The Hub City Spartanburgers are the High-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers and the reigning South Atlantic League South Division Champions. For more information on the Spartanburgers, visit milb.com/hub-city. For information about tickets to any of Hub City’s 66 home games, call 864-594-0701 or email: tickets@hcspartanburgers.com. For media inquiries, email: iunsworth@hcspartanburgers.com. Follow along with the Spartanburgers on social media.