Whether its taking in the world-renowned Savannah Bananas on their home field, rooting for Georgia Southern University’s division I football team, watching the drop puck at a Ghost Pirates hockey game, or being one of the 5,300 fans at cheering on our professional soccer team, the Tormenta Football Club, there is a sports team for you.
Other popular sporting events include the Publix Women’s Half and 5K, Enmarket Savannah River Bridge Run, Critz Tybee Run Fest, the St. Patrick’s Day Rugby Tournament, and the Savannah Hockey Classic.
Coastal Georgia is a sports enthusiast’s paradise, where traditional athletics blend seamlessly with unique and unconventional experiences. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or an active participant, the region offers a dynamic mix of competition, entertainment, and outdoor adventure.
One of Coastal Georgia’s biggest sports sensations, the Savannah Bananas, started as a Coastal Plain League team composed of top college players from across the country. Since their debut at Grayson Stadium in 2016—where they won the championship in their first season—the Bananas have played to sold-out crowds every year. They have since transformed the game with their signature high-energy twist, Banana Ball, capturing national attention and taking their show on the road. Despite their growing popularity across the country, Savannah remains their home base, with a packed schedule of games throughout the year.
For soccer enthusiasts, Tormenta FC has made a name for itself in Statesboro, featuring a roster of talented players from local, national, and international backgrounds. The team competes in a state-of-the-art, 5,300-seat soccer-specific stadium, providing an exciting and immersive experience for fans. Meanwhile, hockey has found an unexpected home in the South with the Savannah Ghost Pirates. Now concluding their second season, the professional minor league team plays from fall through spring at the newly built Savannah Enmarket Arena, drawing crowds (and opponents) from near and far.
College sports are also a major part of the region’s athletic landscape, with Division I programs at Georgia Southern University and Savannah State University offering thrilling competition in football, soccer, baseball, volleyball and basketball. The deep-rooted school spirit and passionate fan base make attending a game an unforgettable experience.
Beyond team sports, Coastal Georgia hosts an array of marquee athletic events that draw participants and spectators alike. The St. Patrick’s Day Savannah Rugby Tournament, YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest, Publix Savannah Women’s Half & 5K, Enmarket Savannah Hockey Classic, and the Enmarket Savannah Bridge Run are just a few of the annual highlights that bring the community together in celebration of athleticism and endurance.
For those seeking alternative sports and recreational activities, Coastal Georgia offers an abundance of options. Golfers can take advantage of numerous private and public courses, where sunny skies and mild temperatures make for ideal playing conditions nearly year-round. Barrel racing is a popular equestrian sport in the region, with numerous tournaments held throughout the surrounding counties. Roebling Road Raceway provides an adrenaline-fueled experience for motorsports enthusiasts, while the coastline offers the perfect setting for regatta competitions, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.
The sports culture in Coastal Georgia extends beyond the field and court, embracing the region’s rich outdoor heritage. Archery, skeet shooting, and hunting are widely practiced, further showcasing the diverse range of athletic pursuits available. Whether you’re cheering from the stands, hitting the water, or testing your skills on the track or range, Coastal Georgia offers an exciting and immersive sports experience for everyone.
The Savannah region enjoys a lower cost of living than the national average including a 33 percent lower cost on housing. The region also offers the opportunity to live close to the stunning coastal landscapes, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking a variety of living experiences.