(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Little League Softball World Series Brings Major Economic Boost to Greenville
GREENVILLE, N.C. — As the Little League Softball World Series returns to Elm Street Park, city officials and local business owners are celebrating more than just home runs and strikeouts — they’re welcoming a significant boost to the local economy.
According to Andrew Schmidt, President and CEO of the Greenville-Pitt County Convention and Visitors Bureau, this year’s tournament is expected to bring in an estimated $1.6 million in economic impact. That’s an increase of about $100,000 from last year, and a sign that the event continues to grow in popularity.
A Growing Tournament, A Growing City
Opening ceremonies kick off today, with championship action scheduled through August 10. Each year, fans — many of them parents and young softball players from surrounding states like Virginia and across the Carolinas — make the trip to cheer on their teams.
“We are seeing that incremental increase, and we are happy with that,” Schmidt said.
Greenville has made a long-term commitment to the event. A contract signed in 2024 will keep the tournament in town through 2027. The city contributes $25,000 annually to support the tournament through the Greenville-Pitt County Sports Commission, which also raises additional funds for marketing and event support.
Local Businesses Feel the Buzz
Business owners throughout the city are already feeling the impact.
Mani Singh, owner of GoGo Creamery, credits past tournament traffic for helping him expand his ice cream and boba shop to a second location downtown.
“Children love ice cream and boba,” Singh said. “When the city hosts events like this, it brings more foot traffic and helps our business grow.”
Edward Meadows, owner of The Bodega & Café, welcomes the series as a boost during what’s typically a slower summer season before college students return to nearby East Carolina University.
“It’s kind of like a primer,” Meadows explained. “We always look forward to the Little League.”
Bigger Audience, Bigger Exposure
Thanks to growing media interest, the tournament is reaching new audiences. This year, every game will be broadcast on ESPN platforms, with semi-final and championship games expected on ESPN2 and ABC. The City of Greenville is also investing in 30-second commercial spots to air during broadcasts.
And in a special highlight, ESPN’s SportsCenter will broadcast live from Stallings Stadium as part of its “50 States in 50 Days” tour.
“The momentum keeps growing,” Schmidt said. “The crowd keeps growing, and the national spotlight continues to shine brighter on Greenville.”
A Win for Everyone
From hotel bookings and restaurant visits to retail shops and local attractions, the Little League Softball World Series is helping to boost revenue and bring visibility to Greenville as a vibrant destination for family sports tourism.
As fans fill the stands and businesses feel the surge, one thing is clear: Greenville’s commitment to the tournament is paying off — both on and off the field.
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