SCOTTSDALE, AZ (April 2, 2026) -- Sports Events & Tourism Association (Sports ETA), the trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, today announced that Rachel Rogers, Vice President of Sports Sales & Engagement for Cobb Travel & Tourism and the Cobb Sports Alliance, has been named the 2026 Sports ETA Woman of the Year. Rogers was honored today during the Sports ETA Women’s Summit, held in conjunction with the NCAA Women's Final Four.

The Sports ETA Woman of the Year Award recognizes a female leader who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in advancing the sports events and tourism industry.

In her role, Rogers leads strategic initiatives for sports event recruitment, marketing, and partnership development, while overseeing the Cobb Sports Alliance. Since joining Cobb Travel & Tourism in 2013, she has played a central role in driving visitation and economic impact through sports, elevating the destination’s visibility and competitiveness on a national stage.

“Rachel Rogers exemplifies excellence in sports tourism,” said John David, President & CEO of Sports ETA. “Her ability to connect strategy with execution, while building strong partnerships that deliver real economic impact, makes her one of the most respected leaders in our industry. She is shaping the future of sports tourism and inspiring the next generation of women leaders.”

Rogers’ career spans both professional and collegiate athletics. She began with the Rome Braves, the Atlanta Braves’ Minor League affiliate, where she held leadership roles in community relations and premium services, contributing to marquee events such as the South Atlantic League All-Star Game. She later served as Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator at Shorter University, where she was part of the leadership team that transitioned the athletics program from NAIA to NCAA Division II, while also leading marketing and student-athlete development initiatives.

A committed industry leader, Rogers serves on the Sports ETA Board of Directors and is actively involved in advancing professional development and mentorship across the industry. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment not only to destination success, but also to expanding opportunities for women in sports tourism.

The Sports ETA Women’s Summit convenes top female executives and emerging leaders from across the country for professional development, networking, and industry insights. Held alongside the NCAA Women’s Final Four, the Summit highlights the continued growth and influence of women’s sports and the leaders driving their momentum.

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About Sports ETA
As the only trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, Sports ETA is the most trusted resource for sports commissions, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and sports event owners. Sports ETA is committed to the success of more than 750 member organizations and 2,400 sports event professionals. We promise to deliver quality education, ample networking opportunities, and exceptional event management and marketing know-how to our members to protect the integrity of the sports events and tourism industry.  For more information, visit SportsETA.org.

Contact: Jackie Reau, Game Day
(513) 708-5822 | jreau@gamedaypr.com