Rockford Region Selected as One of Four Cities to Host World Series Baseball Tournament

The Rockford Region scores a new World Series event. The American Amateur Youth Baseball Alliance (AAYBA) chose the Rockford Region to host one of its four 2012 world series tournaments. The other events will take place in St. Louis, Mo., Flower Mound, Texas and Arvada, Colo.

The tournament for boys 8 – 12 years old will take place July 15-21, 2012. Organizers say it will draw 80 teams from around the country and bring nearly 2,000 players, coaches and fans. The tournament will generate an estimated $1.2 million for local restaurants, hotels and retail outlets.

The AAYBA began looking at the Rockford Region at the request of Rockford resident and event co-organizer Matt Feltz.

“I took a team of my own to St. Louis last year, and we had a great experience. That sparked my interest in bringing the tournament to Rockford,” said Feltz. “We have great facilities and experience with other high-profile tournaments. It’s a perfect fit.”

According to Feltz, the AAYBA had been looking for a way to capitalize on the Chicago market. They toured Sportscore One and were impressed by the facilities. AAYBA representatives recognized the region would draw athletes from both the Chicago and Milwaukee areas.

“This is a great example of one person making a difference. Matt Feltz recognized this event would be a great match for our region. He knew our community had the right facilities and RACVB had the servicing experience to make this event a success. He pulled all the key players together to make this tournament happen, and we thank him for his efforts,” said RACVB President/CEO John Groh.

Bison Sporting Events owner Kelly Robison will help Feltz coordinate and organize the tournament. Bison Sporting Events brought more than 20 tournaments to Rockford during 2011.

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is a private, non-profit organization that champions efforts to promote and further develop the Rockford Region as an overnight visitor destination. RACVB generates positive economic impact for the community through investments in tourism marketing, sales, promotion and advocacy. www.gorockford.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Kristina DeCoster, RACVB Director of Public Affairs: 815.489.1664