Tennis and Softball have become renowned sports throughout the Burlington community. The roots of softball stretch back to the early 1970’s when the City played host to numerous teams as well as national, regional and state tournaments. Tennis on the other hand, continues to grow since the opening of the Burlington Tennis Center in the late 1990’s. Both sports along with others such as youth baseball, softball and soccer continue to provide economic stimulation for our local economy.
This week, the City received confirmation that it will play host to two large Amateur Softball Tournaments both in 2005 and 2006. The ASA Men’s Senior Division ages 55-75+ tournament Labor Day Weekend in 2005 and 2006. This tournament will attract players and teams from across the United States and will have a tremendous economic impact on the community. Along the tennis circuit, the Burlington Tennis Center has been recognized for its outstanding service among the community, state and regional tennis organizations. Hosting over six major tournaments this past year from USTA Sanctioned events to state high school competition, the center continues to gain notoriety along the tennis circuit. Topping the list, is the confirmation from the North Carolina High School Athletics Association that the Burlington Tennis Center will play host to the following High School Athletic events from 2005 through 2009: Men's & Women's Individual State Championships and Men's & Women's Dual Team Championships.
As stated in a letter from Assistant Executive Director of the NCHSAA, Carolyn Shannonhouse, “NCHSAA relies heavily on the Burlington facility and its staff. They have gone above and beyond the call of duty to assist us in our events. Your facility is wonderful and we have received a lot of positive feedback.”
Proven successes benefit not only the Softball and Tennis programs but the Burlington community as well. “The economic impact of these events weighs heavily on the city’s decision to host the tournaments”, stated Lisa Wolff, Superintendent of Recreation Programming with the City of Burlington. “Spouses, parents, grandparents and friends travel to Burlington to watch these athletes give it their best shot at receiving National and State Titles. It quickly becomes relevant that hotel reservations are made, restaurants become occupied, and the community gains from the sales tax spent while Burlington is recognized as an outstanding place to play softball and tennis”, Wolff stated.
"Securing these sporting events for Burlington will translate into an economic boost while hosting the tournaments. This is great news for our community and businesses that will benefit" said Kelly May with the Convention & Visitors Bureau and staff coordinator for the Sports Development Council.
Other Upcoming National Tournaments In Burlington Include:
Triple Crown Sports Girls Fast Pitch Tournament June 3-5, 2005-Ages 9-16
National AAU Youth Baseball Tournament-July 16-23, 2005