With a multifaceted sports and business development program, the San Diego Sports Commission and Hall of Champions have merged their efforts to enhance the quality of life through sports. Geared toward the youth in the area, the program is also directed toward a broad marketing campaign to bring in major events that will generate economic strength. The commission’s forerunner, known as the Sports Council, was partially responsible for bringing major sports teams (Padres and Chargers) here and for spearheading the construction of Qualcomm Stadium. Al Kidd, president of both organizations and leader of the program, said it’s important to incorporate efforts from different businesses to make a difference in San Diego. “We went to the city and asked them to help us streamline this program,” he said. “Anything to win an event for San Diego.” He said the project is partially funded from the tourism and marketing district’s hotel money. “Our goal this year was to bring in visitors for 20,000 hotel rooms,” he said. “We’ll have had 30 events this year.” The organization, for example, raised money and helped market the recent America’s Cup World Series, conducted in San Diego Bay. It also handled many running events like marathons and triathlons. “We have received extremely good support from the mayor’s office, county supervisors, port commissioners and the tourism and marketing district,” Kidd said. “We’re at a high point of relevancy and as a contributor. We’re touching so many aspects in our part with tourism.” Kidd said the efforts are a continuation of what the old sports council was able to accomplish.  An internship program has been established as a method of building a foundation in marketing. Offering some 70 to 80 interns practical work experience, the program will group the interns in teams, promoting specific events. Four sessions will be conducted each year, coinciding with each calendar season, with the next class set to start Jan. 13.  The duration of internships — which are offered in five departments: business development, marketing and communications, youth sports/education, events and sports development — is 12 to 16 weeks. “We feel the Hall of Champions offers the recognition factor with its Stars of the Month and Hall of Famers,” Kidd said. “It’s a preservation of sports history. But we were devoid in the educational areas.” The hall has been conducting free youth clinics for many different sports, and some professional athletes will even take part in the activities.  “We cover the cost and that’s kinda cool,” said Kidd. “And it’s always great to have these sit-down chats, particularly dealing with sportsmanship. We also teach them to become leaders.” As for amassing income, Kidd said 30 people are involved in production efforts to build foundations for major sporting events for the city. “What’s different is that there were only three or four people in the council to do an event,” he said. “Today, I have a marketing department, graphic artists for logos and printed material, sponsor acquisition programmers, project managers and a logistics department to seek permits. Our project managers will go to national conventions. They become very active in our event recruitment program.” For more information, visit www.sdsportscommission.com.