National Club Softball Association World Series brings positive economic impact to Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – Around 1,000 people from all across the United States are pouring into Columbus for the National Club Softball Association World Series.

The event kicked on Thursday, May 16 at the South Commons Softball Complex. It is being hosted by the Columbus, GA Sports Council.

The executive director of the council, Merri Sherman, said when people come to the Fountain City for a big event like this, they stay in the local hotels, eat at the restaurants, and view the attractions. This brings money into Columbus and puts various activities the area offers on display.

16 collegiate club softball teams from across the country are competing for a national championship during the event. In addition, supporters are also coming to town from various states.

“We’re from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but we’re here from the West, Virginia Mountaineers,” said Dana French, supporting her daughter.

“We’re from New York. We’re representing Connecticut Sacred Heart University,” said Kellie Mallegol, also supporting her daughter.

Sherman said the outpouring of people into the city is positive for economy.

“The total impact for the event… a little over $345,000 for the weekend through visitor spending,” she said.

“Well we definitely ate out last night, they have some plans for some places they would like to go tonight,” said French.

The kitchen manager at The Pizza Place in Uptown, Presley Copeland, said he looks forward to the influx of visitors to Columbus each year.

“It increases money flow and it also spreads our name around to other people. So, if they come out of town, they’ll likely come hear,” he said.

He also said there are challenges, so preparation is key.

“You have to track those kind of events of when you’re going to have an influx of people in Columbus or whatever. If you don’t, then you’re not going to have enough product on hand or enough staff on hand,” Copeland said.

This is the 14th-year The NCSA World Series has been held in The Fountain City.

“There’s so much for our teams to do away from the stadium, but the Columbus Sports Council, David Boyd, Merri Sherman…they treat us like kings and queens,” said Christian Smith, the vice President of softball operations.

The World Series will continue until Sunday, May 19.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR THE EVENT.

Copyright 2024 WTVM. All rights reserved.