The effects of the pandemic are as dead as the proverbial ghost in a graveyard. Just ask organizers of sports events scheduled for October (including coffin races). Total Halloween spending is expected to reach $12.2 billion, exceeding pre-2020 levels. And with more people preparing to attend events, event owners can expect treats (and no tricks).

Between fast-pitch and slow-pitch, softball in the U.S. boasts at least 8.2 million players, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, up about 3 percent from 2021. The sport is played by all ages, on fields that often can be adjusted in size to suit the participants. Here are some key locations for softball tournaments and events.

The NCAA has posted its list of RFPs for championships. If you missed the notification, it's time for you to sit up, take notice and put in your bid. From baseball to wrestling, from men's to women's to multi-sport festivals, your opportunity is listed here, along with all relevant deadlines and documents. SDM hopes to see you in the winner's circle!

Safety at sports events has become an increasing concern, and much has been written about creating safe and effective plans for venue security. But has anyone asked spectators how they feel about security, and what their level of comfort is when it comes to sitting in the stands? A new report explores audience input, and can shed light on the issue.

Move United, the national leader in adaptive sports, is seeking a host for its adaptive sports competition for the 2025 and 2026 years. The weeklong event, which occurs annually in July, is for youth, adult and masters athletes with a physical disability, visual impairment or intellectual disability. Hurry, though: Deadline is October 15, 2023.

We're heard of rain delays but train delays? In September, a marathon was held up by a slow-moving train. In a July race (in the same area, no less), the starting gun had to wait until a train went by, also very slowly. Then there was the mismarked course in an international race that cost an elite Kenyan runner not one but two world records.