Home to the best local concert and sporting events in the area, Orlando’s Amway Center walked away with the title of Sports Facility of the Year at last night’s Sports Business Awards in New York City.

Not even two years old, the Amway Center beat out Kansas City, Kansas’ Livestrong Sporting Park, New Orleans, Louisiana’ Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and Scottsdale, Arizona’s Salt River Fields at Talking Stick to walk away with the honor.

2012 was a big year for the Amway Center as it played host to the 2012 NBA All-Star Weekend and ensuing events.

Orlando Magic Chief Executive Officer Alex Martins accepted the award saying, “We are extremely honored and humbled that Amway Center has been named as the best sports facility in the nation for 2012. The judges have recognized that the facility has been designed and operated with the patron in mind first. We thank Street and Smith’s for this honor and congratulate all of the other very worthy finalists on the success of their facility.”

On hearing the announcement, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer commented, “To have the Amway Center recognized as the “Sports Facility of the Year” is a testament to the vision, tireless support and triumphant spirit of the Orlando community. Receiving this coveted award is not only incredibly gratifying but further proof that teamwork makes it all possible.”