January 17, 2007: Sports Committee’s Estimated Economic Impact Nears $18 Million

CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE – For the eleventh straight year, Chattanooga exceeded the $15 million mark in estimated economic impact from sporting events.  According to estimates by the Greater Chattanooga Sports and Events Committee, $17,719,000 was brought into the Chattanooga area economy through sporting events in calendar year 2006. Sports Committee Board Chairman Doug Dyer said, “This is terrific to reach $17.7 million this year.  In a year without some of the regular big events such as AAU Girls Basketball or a major NSA girls fastpitch tournament, I think this figure is outstanding.”

The 2006 calendar featured three events that surpassed the $1 million plateau in estimated economic impact.  Those events were the NCAA Division I Football Championship ($2,600,000), Athletic Championships Cheerleading ($1,200,000), and the International Fall Taekwondo National Championships ($1,000,000). Three other events reached the $800,000 level or better (Redoubt Generals Soccer Invitational, Recreational League Soccer Tournament, and the Head of the Hooch).

County Mayor Claude Ramsey said, “Hamilton County’s funding of The Sports Committee is a great investment year after year. The return that they bring to this community through economic impact and national recognition is outstanding and seems to continue to grow.” 

Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield commented, “In addition to the great economic benefit they provide, The Sports Committee has been instrumental in enhancing the image of our community and bringing us national exposure.  The 2006 NCAA Division I Football Championship is a great example of tremendous economic impact and national exposure just from one event.”
 

For more information contact: 

M. Scott Smith, Vice President
423-756-8689
scott@chattanoogasports.org