The Championship Series presented by the Texas-based Alliance Fastpitch organization was held in Indiana for the first time, with Kokomo co-hosting the 16U/18U series with Hamilton County from July 24 to 31.
The series brought 180 softball teams to Indiana from around the country, including 50+ teams from the West Coast. More than 3,000 players participated.
The series’ welcome party, Home Run Derby and All-Star Game attracted an attendance of 3,500. The All-Star Game was broadcast live on ESPNU from Kokomo Municipal Stadium.
The Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau worked in conjunction with Hamilton County Tourism and Bullpen Tournaments to host the week-long event that took place at Kokomo Municipal Stadium, Championship Park, Grand Park, Noblesville Youth Baseball, and Purdue University.
From visitor maps to promotional items, all marketing materials were co-branded by the tourism organizations.
The event will return in 2023 with Kokomo and Hamilton County hosting 10U/12U softball teams.
EVENT’S IMPACT
- 1,500+ hotel rooms in Kokomo, Hamilton County and Indianapolis were used to house teams, umpires, staff, and families
- Several Airbnb short-term rentals were also booked by teams for overnight stays
- Estimated 425+ hotel room nights were booked in Kokomo
The commercial below is a product of the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau was aired nationally on ESPNU during its televised coverage of the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series’ All-Star Game.