SALISBURY, Md. – 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 2024 Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism. This year’s winners are responsible for contributing a more-than-welcome boost of over $1.88 billion to the national economy over the past year.
Among the winners was the USSSA Eastern Nationals, produced by the Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance (MAASA), a partnership between Wicomico County, Worcester County and Ocean City.
The Eastern Nationals takes place annually in July. This year’s event generated 18,237 room nights and an economic impact of $15.8 million.
Originating in Wicomico County in 2007 with just 30 teams, the tournament has expanded into neighboring jurisdictions over the last decade. The event now welcomes nearly 350 teams over the course of three weeks, with daily play in eight facilities. Opening ceremonies were held at Salisbury University’s Seagull Stadium and Ocean City’s Caroline Street stage.
All winners of awards have been recognized in a special feature published in the November/December 2024 issue of Sports Destination Management. The entire article with full details on the winners listed below can also be found online.
Read Now: Article on Champions of Economic Impact
About Sports Destination Management: 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 the important issues surrounding event location decisions and event management. With content from experts and thought leaders, SDM provides in-depth coverage of sports event planning and execution through incisive and relevant articles as well as insightful, real-world case studies showcasing best practices and successful event production.
In addition to the publication, SDM offers extensive digital resources through www.sportsdestinations.com and the e-newsletter SDM Blitz, both providing decision support tools for organizers to ensure successful events at all levels of play.