2021 Q3 Luncheon: Economic Impact of Youth & Adult Sports
The Platte County Economic Development Council (PCEDC) hosted its third Quarterly Member Luncheon on Friday, September 17, at KCI Expo Center. Sponsored by Olsson, WSKF Architects, Clarkson Construction Company, and Superior Bowen, the event featured a panel of local business leaders with a focus in youth and adult sports. Attendees also had the chance to enter a drawing for a signed Sporting KC soccer ball, graciously donated by Central Bank of the Midwest.
PCEDC Chairman Mike Reik, with Platte County R-3 School District, opened the luncheon by acknowledging elected officials, high-level PCEDC investors, board members, new members, and partners in attendance. He also thanked the sponsors for their support of this event.
After lunch, moderator Darren Hennen with Olsson, invited the guest panelists to the stage, featuring:
- Chris Boyajian - Director of Youth Business Development, Sporting KC
- Brian Mertz - Founder/Owner, Creekside Development and Creekside Baseball Complex
- Luke Wade - Founder/Creative Consultant, KC Crew and The Community Creator
Panelists discussed how youth sports have dramatically changed over the last few years, with more of an emphasis on competitive regional leagues, travel teams, and tournament play. The explosion of travel teams and the increase in tournaments has led to a significant economic impact. For example, Creekside Baseball Complex estimates that in one year, over 1 million people will visit their fields for tournament play, generating additional revenue for businesses in Parkville and the surrounding areas.
For adult sports, panelists discussed how recreational leagues often turn into grabbing food or drinks before or after a game, also generating more revenue for businesses. Recreational adult and youth sports are helping to impact the regional KC economy.
Thank you, Darren, Chris, Brian, and Wade, for taking the time out of their busy schedules to participate in this conversation. We sincerely appreciate you and your support of Platte County EDC!
September 19, 2021