The Chesterfield Sports, Visitation and Entertainment (SV&E) Department serves as the official destination marketing organization (DMO) for Chesterfield, Virginia. Through the Experience Chesterfield brand, our mission is to attract visitors, boost the local economy, and showcase everything the county has to offer—because strong tourism not only drives economic growth but also enhances quality of life for residents through vibrant amenities, exciting events, and rich cultural opportunities.
Through its Play Chesterfield division, the department works with local leagues, associations, and sports organizations to bring grassroots sports to life across the community, giving residents a place to play, compete, and connect. Sports tourism events also highlight Chesterfield’s facilities and attractions while providing a home field advantage for local athletes and teams. By combining community-based sports with visitor-focused events, SV&E creates memorable experiences that strengthen local engagement and promote the county as a premier destination for sports and recreation.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, we look forward to welcoming you, because in Chesterfield, you’re always close to something special!
Our Team
J.C. Poma
Executive Director of Sports, Visitation and EntertainmentJ.C. has a passion for tourism, hospitality, and enhancing the visitor experience. With more than 15 years of sports and tourism experience, J.C. serves as Chesterfield County’s first Executive Director of Sports, Visitation, and Entertainment and leads a team dedicated to ensuring everyone who lives in, or visits Chesterfield has an exceptional experience. A former college athlete, he brings the same energy and commitment to building Chesterfield’s reputation as a premier destination. J.C. holds degrees from the University of Virginia and Georgetown University and proudly calls the Richmond region home with his wife and their two children.
Matt Mullen
Assistant Director, Sports and EventsMatt’s role is to showcase everything Chesterfield has to offer—from the fields to the fun. With a deep knowledge of sports and event operations, as well as local landmarks and entertainment, he works to promote Chesterfield as a first-choice destination for residents and visitors alike. Matt ensures every experience is seamless and enjoyable, and his enthusiasm helps create lasting memories for all. Outside of work, you can find Matt enjoying his favorite beer at Triple Crossing or spending time with family at one of Chesterfield’s many parks.
Eli Parks
Sports Events SpecialistIn his event services role, Eli works with clients to ensure that events run smoothly from start to finish. He is your go-to for all things like facility rentals, vendor operations and so much more. And he won’t stop there! Once your event is completed, Eli will check in to gather feedback on how we can better serve our clients. Outside of work, you can likely find Eli playing his guitar, providing lessons to local youth baseball players, or checking out the best pizza spots in the county.
Katie Cominsky
Digital Media SpecialistKatie brings over eight years of experience in social media and marketing, complemented by a strong background in Human Services. With a genuine passion for people, she has a unique ability to connect with both residents and visitors, creating meaningful engagement and lasting impressions far beyond the scope of social media. Outside of work, Katie enjoys exploring local coffee shops, discovering new foods, traveling, leading worship at her church and spending time with her husband and daughter.
Katie Hardell
Community & Events SpecialistKatie is passionate about building community—whether it’s through the countless smiles sparked by appearances from our county mascot, Cole, or by championing local initiatives like Chesterfield Restaurant Week and our partnership with the Chesterfield Food Bank Outreach Center. In her role, Katie also promotes the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds and oversees special event applications at county facilities and parks. An avid outdoor enthusiast, she loves exploring nature at Pocahontas State Park or discovering new trails during her travels. Outside of work, Katie also enjoys board game nights and is always on the hunt for new favorites at Unplugged Games Café’s ever-growing library.
Liz Hart
Marketing and Communications ManagerWith over 10 years of experience, Liz leads the strategy and execution of the Experience Chesterfield and Play Chesterfield brands. With a passion for storytelling and community engagement, she works to showcase the people, places, and experiences that make Chesterfield a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. Liz enjoys exploring Chesterfield with her husband, three kids, and golden retriever, Bogey. Whether it’s trying new restaurants, visiting local parks, supporting small businesses, or cheering on her children at their sports events, she loves spending her free time immersed in the community she proudly calls home.
Mary Anne Wilson-Woodel
Administrative AssistantMary Anne serves as the Administrative Assistant for the Sports, Visitation & Entertainment Department, where she provides vital organizational support to ensure smooth daily operations. In this role, she coordinates communications and streamlines processes to support both local and tourism-related sports, as well as event logistics, keeping projects on track from start to finish. Mary Anne’s career in recreation began in 1995 on an Army base in Germany, where she discovered a passion for serving communities—a passion that has guided her through nearly three decades of experience in Parks and Recreation across multiple Virginia counties. Her expertise in event coordination, strong attention to detail, and dedication to exceptional customer service make her an invaluable member of the team. Outside of work, Mary Anne enjoys fishing and cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers, often attending games with her family.
Ronnie Hobson
Sports Relations SupervisorRonnie Hobson serves as the Sports Relations Supervisor, leading the team that works closely with local leagues, associations, and organizations to bring grassroots sports to life across the Chesterfield community. A former multi-sport high school athlete and UNC Wilmington graduate, Ronnie began her career with Chesterfield as an intern and has since held various roles in programming, scheduling, and event permitting. With over 20 years of experience, she is a trusted leader and resource on youth and adult sports in the county. Outside of work, Ronnie enjoys traveling and following women’s college basketball and softball.
Shana Howlett
Sports Relations SpecialistChesterfield native Shana Howlett is the Sports Relations Specialist, overseeing scheduling for all diamond and court sports. With 12 years’ experience—including four full-time in recreational sports—she’s dedicated to fostering inclusive athletic programs. A VCU alum with a Master’s in Sport Administration from Arkansas State, Shana also brings experience from roles at VCU Athletics, the Richmond Flying Squirrels, and Richmond Raceway. A former high school basketball player, Shana remains active and involved in sports and recreation. She’s also a talented musician, playing drums, piano, guitar, and bass—bringing creativity and rhythm to everything she does.
Cole
MascotMeet Cole, Chesterfield’s mascot. Yes, he’s a coal-mining raccoon. You can read about his story here. Cole’s main duty is to greet the residents and visitors of Chesterfield and ensure their time here is unforgettable. We like to say that he has the best job in the world – putting a smile on everyone’s face! He is friendly and approachable so if you see him, don’t hesitate to snap a photo with him and tag us on social media. You can find Cole at various events throughout the county.