Rolla Parks System Releases Tournament Schedule

The Rolla Parks and Recreation staff has worked with a number of organizations and individuals to develop a full schedule of tournaments to be played throughout the Rolla park system in 2014.  Ber Juan Sportsplex will host 16 tournaments beginning March 29 through August 10.  Among the highlights for this year are the Mid-America Region Gold tournament for girl’s 18 & under fastpitch softball and three slowpitch state tournaments.  The Centre will once again host the Licking Shootouts over the course of the summer with 6 tournaments. 

Sports tourism has a tremendous impact on Rolla’s economy.  Based on surveys from previous years over 75% of participants are from outside of Phelps County and would not visit the area if it were not for these tournaments.  Special events and tournaments hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department generate nearly $1 million through retail shopping, dining and hotel accommodations. 

The Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce works with the Rolla Parks and Recreation Department to attract and accommodate the visitors and participants of these tournaments.  Stevie Kearse, Executive Director of the RACC says “These events bring outside dollars to our community, which in turn helps our community grow and prosper.  Not only do sporting events bring participants, they also bring family and friends.  These groups stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, shop in our retail stores, purchase gas, and so much more.  We appreciate the diligence of the Parks Department on continue to recruit these groups to the area.”

For more information, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 573-341-2386.