A Spike We Like

It's almost time for East Coast Volleyball's annual Northeast Qualifiers in Baltimore.  Teams that win bids will be going to Junior Nationals run by USA Volleyball.

This competition for girls' club teams in age divisions from 12 to 18 has taken place at the Convention Center for several years, and has always brought a substantial bump in visitors to town.  This year it returns for two big weekends --April 16-18 and 22-24.

These "Qualifiers" also promote inter-regional play and provide a high level of competition for teams at different levels within each age classification.  They showcase junior talent for college recruiters and promote the growth and development of the sport.

The "spike" we like is not just net action but the increase in attendance this year.  In fact, it is the explosion in participation that had Terry scrambling a few weeks ago to find additional venues for the competitions as the event has outgrown the Convention Center.

With Terry's help, organizers were able to secure two satellite sites within easy access to the Convention Center.

Thanks to Visit Baltimore, we can give you an idea of not just the numbers this event will produce, but also the economic impact it is expected to generate with players, coaches, families, friends, officials and (the most important audience of all,) college scouts.

Here's the Score:

Number of attendees:  6,600
Economic Impact: $6.8 million
Best Part:   90% from outside Baltimore


We are happy to share yet another example of the economic impact of youth sports tournaments on the visitor industry.  The good news is that these events continue to grow and Maryland continues to claim more of the market with our excellent facilities and convenient location.  Kudos to Terry, Visit Baltimore, and the Convention Center for their quick set in scoring expansion space to make this the biggest and best East Coast Volleyball Northeast Qualifier yet.