TUCSON, Ariz.—The Sports Events & Tourism Association (Sports ETA) has named Rachel Rogers of Cobb Travel & Tourism its 2026 Woman of the Year, recognizing her leadership and impact in the sports tourism industry.
Rogers, vice president of sports sales and engagement for Cobb Travel & Tourism and the Cobb Sports Alliance, received the honor during the Sports ETA Women’s Summit held in conjunction with the NCAA Women’s Final Four. Cobb County is located in north-central Georgia, immediately northwest of Atlanta.
The award, presented by Team Travel Source, recognizes a female leader who has demonstrated leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in advancing the sports events and tourism industry.
Since joining Cobb Travel & Tourism in 2013, Rogers has led strategic initiatives in sports event recruitment, marketing, and partnership development, helping drive visitation and economic impact while elevating the destination’s national profile.
“Rachel Rogers’ leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Cobb Sports Alliance into the economic driver it is today,” says Holly Quinlan, president and CEO of Cobb Travel & Tourism. “Her dedication to both the industry and our community is unmatched. She continues to raise the bar, inspiring future generations of female sports tourism professionals.”
“Rachel Rogers exemplifies excellence in sports tourism,” says John David, president and 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 includes leadership roles in both professional and collegiate athletics. She began with the Rome Braves, a Minor League affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, and later served as senior associate athletic director and senior woman administrator at Shorter University, where she helped guide the school’s transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II.
She currently serves on the Sports ETA board of directors and is involved in professional development and mentorship efforts across the industry.
