Sports Commission Scores Induction into Hall of Fame

On Saturday, Dec. 14, the Alabama chapter of the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) inducted the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission (GSOBSC) into its inaugural hall of fame during USSSA Alabama’s annual banquet at the Island House Hotel in Orange Beach. The sports commission has hosted numerous USSSA events, including the Global Sports Baseball and Softball World Series, since 2009.

“The sports commission is deeply touched by this great honor, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with this fantastic organization,” said Beth Gendler, vice president of sales for GSOBSC. “USSSA Alabama impacts student athletes throughout the state day in and day out by teaching them the concept of sportsmanship, and we, along with the Cities of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, are proud to play a small part in their valiant efforts.”

Founded in 1968, USSSA is the world’s largest multi-sport athletic organization, including baseball, basketball, fast-pitch softball, flag football, martial arts, lacrosse, soccer, slow-pitch softball, volleyball and wrestling. Gendler says USSSA has made a huge economic impact in the area and is a major factor in GSOBSC’s year-to-date numbers. In 2013, the area has seen 47,468 room nights filled and nearly $20 million in direct visitor spending as a result of the sports commission’s efforts.

“USSSA brings in thousands of youth athletes along with their families and friends, which echoes throughout the area in lodging and retail revenue,” said Gendler. “As sports tourism continues to grow and more events make their way to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, we encourage guests to enjoy all our local communities have to offer from cultural excursions to culinary experiences.”

For information on upcoming athletic events along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, visit www.gulfshoresorangebeachsports.com, or call 1-800-745-SAND.

About Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission is a partnership between Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce and the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. In 2007, this commission became a department within Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism. In this role, the commission - along with assistance from both cities – works to bring quality sporting events to Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism is an official corporate sponsor of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). For information, please visit www.gulfshoresorangebeachsports.com.