USSSA Economic IMPACT

May 20, 2019 — The Space Coast Tourism Development Office estimates the economic impact from USSSA events (January through September 2018) as conservatively $12.4 million, with more than 40 team events accounting for more than 52,000 room nights. Beyond lodging, spending by teams and coaches, families and visitors at area restaurants, gas stations, attractions and entertainment venues accounts for much more. More than 65 dining venues in Viera alone suggest the need is there. Says Don DeDonatis, CEO of United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA): “They’re traveling here for our sports events and then discovering the many other things on the Space Coast to enjoy as well.”

In August of 2018, USSSA Space Coast Stadium Complex hosted the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup, telecast to more than 120 countries across the globe, giving the Space Coast high visibility. USSSA.com has streamed games and images of the complex in Viera as well as images from around the county extending the reach. Through March 2019, room night tally is running in excess of 63,000 according to USSSA. In 2018, total attendance at all games is estimated by USSSA at approximately 500,000. An increased number of events are scheduled for this season, in excess of 50 multi-day sporting events/tournaments panning out over a course of months.

Says DeDonatis, “We want this to be a win-win for everyone, as we create more events, spur more local business and attract more people here. We plan to be a great partner for a long time.”

Additionally, USSSA supports local athletics, providing its complex free for use by boys baseball and girls fastpitch teams for Viera High School as well as use by Team Florida’s Special Olympics softball team.

Learn more about USSSA at USSSA.com

Source: Space Coast Business March 2019