Grand Rapids, Michigan— The nonprofit West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC), which hosts youth and amateur sports events, reports that youth/amateur sports tourism is expected to have an economic impact of $90.8 million in the region through 112 events by 2024. This was a 65% increase from 2019 and the highest tourist expenditure to date.
“WMSC’s primary mission is to be an economic generator for West Michigan through sports tourism, and this past year has demonstrated the power of youth and amateur sports in driving the local economy,” said WMSC President Mike Guswiler . “With our estimates of record economic impact in 2024, it’s clear that the importance of sports tourism to our region will only continue to grow.”
Since its inception in 2007, WMSC has booked 1,328 sporting events and championships, attracted more than 2.4 million athletes and visitors, and generated an estimated economic impact of more than $738 million.
Meijer Sports Center also experienced a record year last year, with projected economic impact reaching an all-time high. The 2024 baseball/softball season is the strongest yet with 20 games and 31,194 players/spectators, 4,822 hotel nights booked, most weekends fully booked, and an estimated economic impact of $9.3 million.
WMSC has raised $13 million in public and private funding for a $13.5 million “Streak” capital campaign to improve and expand the Meijer Athletic Center, with the complex breaking ground in October 2024. Expansion will be a focus in 2025. Approximately $500,000 remains to be raised to expand the complex, which is expected to generate $1 million in additional visitor spending annually by accommodating 200 more groups.
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