Share the knowledge. That’s what Gray Williams wants to do for Sports ETA members, new and not so new.

“I begged, borrowed lots from Sports ETA members to get where we are today,” said Williams. “I am always happy to help anyone who is looking to move towards this.”

All that begging and borrowing has led her to this - the Executive Director of Greenville- Pitt County Sports Commission, a newly formed organization. Launching in July 2019, the commission is just beginning to show how the area is an emerging sports destination. Her role is to lead the sports commission in being a preferred sports destination for events, vendors, visitors and beyond.

“We are a small destination with big city feels and budget friendly hospitality,” Williams said. “We also understand what we are and what we are not. Knowing we have 2,000 hotel rooms puts us in a position where some events could be a fit and some are not.”

Gray suggests partnering with local venues and hotels to help increase your destination’s appeal. Her sports commission has a great working partnership with East Carolina University. Because of that relationship, they are able to go in on bids together.

Gray’s work has led to a different passion - traveling around the United States.

“While in this industry I have been able to travel to many states and experience the culture and hospitality each of our partners bring,” Williams said. “This is something I suggest to everyone now - abroad is great but traveling within the U.S. is awesome!”

If she’s not working or traveling, you can find Gray with her family and friends usually on the beaches of North Carolina. 

Learn more about Gray Williams and the rest of Sports ETA’s mentors here.