Sports Destination Management, the leading publication with the largest circulation of sports event planners and tournament directors in the sports tourism market, has announced the 2018 Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism. This year's winners are responsible for contributing more than $700 million to the national economy over the past year.
Among the winners is the 2018 American Legion World Series, held Aug. 16-21, at Shelby High School's Keeter Stadium. The six-day baseball tournament sold a record 128,157 tickets and is credited with 1,500 hotel room nights and a total economic impact for the region of $16 million.
"We are pleased that the ALWS has gained recognition for its economic impact on our region," says Eddie Holbrook, chairman of the local ALWS committee. "The dedication of our staff and volunteers and the consistent support of our sponsors is paying off in a big way both financially and in awareness of this important event in youth athletics."
The ALWS is a champion in the Mid-Market category. Also, in the list of Mid-Market champions is the 2018 CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament in Charlotte. The 2018 NCAA Division 1 Baseball Regional held in Greenville, NC, is a champion in the Small Market category.
All winners of awards have been recognized in a special feature published in the November/December 2018 issue of Sports Destination Management. The entire article with full details on the winners can also be found online along with a special feature on economic impact.
Sports Destination Management is written for the largest audience of sports event managers and tournament directors in the sports tourism market and maintains a focus on issues surrounding event location decisions and event management.
Submitted by Judy Gaultney