Topeka Area Sports Commission using survey results to assess events, facilities

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Topeka Area Sports Commission has been busy planning, learning and studying – even while bringing a variety of events to the area.

Executive director Mike Bell visited Eye on NE Kansas to update their activities.

TASC launched a survey in late 2023 to better understand sports-related travel habits, expenditures and preferences among Topeka-area residents. Bell said the main finding is that money is leaving the area as families travel outside the area for competitions and tournaments. Not only that, when families travel out of town, they are not in town to participate in and volunteer for local events.

He also shared how recent events show the Topeka area is willing to support live sports. He cited several events last weekend, including a National Interscholastic Cycling Assoc. race, boxing at Evergy Plaza, and several KSHSAA regional events. In the week ahead, Topeka will host high school state soccer and softball competitions, plus a USTA tennis event. Several summer baseball and softball tournaments also will come to town.

Bell said TASC also is supporting several venue improvements, including a new downhill trail at Kaw River State Park, pickleball courts and a Heartland BMX track.

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