National Association of Sports Commissions, University of Arizona Partner on Amateur Sports Economic Study

CINCINNATI, OH--(Marketwire - Jun 7, 2012) - In the first study of its kind measuring direct visitor spending at amateur sporting events throughout the country, a survey conducted by the University of Arizona Sports Management Program and monitored by the National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC), the resource for the sports event industry, shows that amateur athletic events bring in an average of $208.80 in direct spending per visitor, each day of the event.

More than 30 events were surveyed in 31 different markets.

"Just about everyone agrees that amateur sporting events have a significant economic impact on the areas where the events are held," said Don Schumacher, NASC executive director. "But this University of Arizona study shows just how significant the direct spending can be to the host community."

Schumacher also pointed out that "these are direct spending numbers only... the economic impact produced will be higher depending upon each market."

A wide range of spending patterns was reported, with major events like an NCAA basketball tournament session producing the highest average per day ($365) and youth oriented events coming in as low as about $130 per day in individual spending. These are the maximum and minimum numbers reported. Sports executives, city officials, and others should remember that averages tend to under- and over-estimate these impacts, and the best solution is to conduct event surveys whenever possible.

"Hosting these events cannot simply be about the event itself," according to the report. "Organizers need to realize the vast economic opportunity that exists, and that maximizing this opportunity is paramount."

The National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC) connects people and ideas in the sports event industry. Founded in 1992, the NASC represents more than 550 organizations, including 300 cities within the sports event industry across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, and more than 125 event owners. For more information, visit www.sportscommissions.org.