Youth Sports Tourism: Building a Healthier Future
By Stevi Gable Carr
Founder and CEO WISe Wellness Guild
Youth Sports Tourism: Building a Healthier Future
Youth sports tourism has rapidly emerged as a significant catalyst, driving wellness, economic prosperity, and robust community engagement in cities across the nation. As this dynamic sector continues to grow, it presents strategic opportunities for community leaders to foster healthier populations, stimulate local economies, and cultivate civic pride.
1. Promoting Wellness and Physical Health
Participation in youth sports actively promotes healthier lifestyles by reducing obesity rates and enhancing mental well-being among young people. According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, regular physical activity significantly reduces anxiety and depression, thus improving overall youth health.
Cities that invest strategically in versatile sports infrastructure, such as Indiana’s Grand Park Sports Campus, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually, clearly demonstrate how youth sports tourism can nurture lifelong habits of physical fitness.
2. Boosting Local Economies
Youth sports tourism generates substantial economic benefits throughout U.S. communities through visitor spending on hospitality, retail, and related services. In 2023, youth and amateur sports tourism contributed more than $52.2 billion in direct spending, supported roughly 757,600 jobs, and generated around $20.1 billion in tax revenue.
Financial Projections (2025–2029):
2025: Estimated spending of $60 billion.
2026: Projected spending of $65–$68 billion.
2027: Projected spending of $70–$75 billion.
2028: Exceeding $80 billion annually.
2029: Approaching $85–$90 billion, greatly expanding employment opportunities and economic stability. (Source: Sports Events & Tourism Association, Youth Sports Business Report, Wintergreen Research)
Foley, Alabama exemplifies this economic potential by hosting year-round tournaments at its sports complexes, significantly enhancing local economic activity and job creation.
3. Strengthening Community Identity and Engagement
Youth sports events foster community cohesion, increase civic engagement, and amplify local pride. Facilities such as the North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex have enhanced the city’s reputation, strengthening community bonds and attracting new residents and businesses.
Strategic Recommendations for City Leaders
To maximize the benefits of youth sports tourism, communities should:
Invest in Multi-Purpose Sports Facilities: Cater to diverse sports and events, ensuring facilities are used year-round.
Foster Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage investment and professional management to enhance the quality of events.
Strategically Market Events: Promote the holistic benefits—community wellness, economic development, and civic pride—to attract participants and visitors.
Continuously Evaluate Impact: Regularly assess economic and community outcomes to refine strategies and ensure sustained growth.
Conclusion
Youth sports tourism represents more than athletic events; it is a powerful vehicle for driving community health, economic growth, and civic unity. Communities that strategically invest in this sector can expect sustainable development, healthier residents, and vibrant local economies. By embracing this approach, city leaders can create thriving, resilient communities ready for long-term prosperity.
Are you ready to lead the future of wellness-driven sports tourism?
Partner with WISe Wellness Guild and WellNXT to craft strategies prioritizing health, inclusivity, and equity in your city. Schedule your discovery call today and subscribe to our weekly wellness newsletter at wisewellnessguild.com.
About the Author: Stevi Gable Carr
Stevi Gable Carr, Founder & CEO of WISe Wellness Guild and co-founder of WellNXT, champions wellness through innovation and strategic partnerships. With over 20 years of expertise, she connects corporations with tools and resources to prioritize women’s health and equity in the workplace and beyond.
Stevi has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Fortune for her dedication to advancing whole-self wellness and fostering impactful community engagement. As an ambassador of Global Wellness Institute, Fellow at the Institute of Coaching at Harvard McLean Hospital, and Member of the International Coaching Federation, Stevi is committed to igniting human potential by fusing wellness and leadership, creating a foundation for lasting success and well-being.
