We probably take it for granted that our region hosts some major sporting events that impact our communities in many ways. We also host smaller scale events that also attract attention. For Catalyst Community, we asked Tim Shelton, Director of Sports Tourism for Go Great Lakes Bay, to share his thoughts on what these events mean for our region.
The Great Lakes Bay Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau serves as the regional destination marketing and management organization. The Bureau serves as the joint marketing organization for Michigan’s Bay, Midland and Saginaw Counties and their individual Convention and Visitors Bureau organizations. The Bureau’s current mission is to increase overnight stays, contributing to economic growth in our region.
Prior to joining Go Great Lakes Bay in 2022, Tim enjoyed a career in hotel management for 33 years. Tim holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Ball State University. His career has specialized in revenue management, sales and marketing for several hotel brands including Sheraton, Marriott, Hilton, Dolce and Wyndham.
The Dow Tennis Classic is held at the Greater Midland Tennis Center.
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The value of sports tourism in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Area cannot be overstated. Sports tourism refers to travel for sporting events to participate in or watch. Whether youth, amateur or professional in scope, our region has a rich history of hosting sporting events and has invested in premier venues for a variety of sports. Here are some top reasons why sports tourism is valuable in the Great Lakes Bay Area:
1. Economic impact: Sports tourism brings significant economic benefits to the region. Visitors attending sporting events spend money on accommodation, food, transport, shopping and other local services, boosting the local economy. This spending has a ripple effect, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
Soccer tournaments draw thousands to the Great Lakes Bay Area each year.
2. Increased tourism: The hosting of sporting events draws visitors from near and far, putting the Great Lakes Bay Area on the map as a destination for sports enthusiasts. These visitors may not have otherwise considered visiting the region, but the allure of the sporting event draws them in. This helps diversify the tourism industry and provides additional opportunities for growth.
3. Use of the site: The investment in sports venues pays off as they attract a variety of events throughout the year. These venues host not only local and regional sporting events, but also national and international competitions, showcasing the region’s capabilities and attracting participants from all over. This use of the venues ensures that they are useful not only for sports tourism but also for the local community.
4. Community Engagement: Sporting events bring people together, fostering a sense of community and pride among residents. Local residents have the opportunity to attend these events, support their favorite teams and support local athletes. The volunteer opportunities we have in the Great Lakes Bay Area are substantial. In 2024, we are very fortunate to host the LPGA Dow Championshipon WTA Dow Classic and on CHL Memorial Cup. These events could not happen without volunteers. This sense of community engagement and participation fosters a positive and inclusive environment in the region.
Dow Diamond is the home of the Great Lakes Loons.
5. Destination promotion: By hosting sporting events, the Great Lakes Bay region is positioned as a desirable sports tourism destination. Word of mouth from participants and visitors helps promote the region as a favorable location for future tournaments, leagues and sporting activities. This in turn attracts more events and visitors in the long run.
Overall, sports tourism adds value to the Great Lakes Bay Area in many ways. It stimulates the local economy, attracts visitors, encourages community engagement and showcases the region’s amenities and opportunities. By continuing to invest in sports tourism, the region can continue to reap these benefits and solidify its position as a sports destination in the Midwest.
The Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB offers many additional services, including assistance with the bidding process for meetings and events, securing hotel room blocks and meeting space, visitor guides and maps, group welcoming services and marketing. For more information about our services, please contact me at [email protected] or 800-444-9979.
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