Approximately 10,000 players, coaches, family members and fans will travel to the South Shore to participate in and enjoy the 2016 National Softball Association Girls Fast Pitch “A” World Series. The tournament will take place the week of July 25 – July 31, with games being held throughout Northwest Indiana.
Because of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority’s success with the “B” World Series, NSA has decided to host a different division along the South Shore. Speros A. Batistatos, president and CEO of the South Shore CVA, said the nearest the “A” World Series has been to the region is the 2008 event hosted in Columbus, Ohio.
“The South Shore has been host to the NSA Girl’s Fast Pitch ‘B’ World Series in 2007, 2009, 2012 and 2014,” stated Batistatos. “The ‘B’ World Series has booked more than 12,000 hotel room nights, and has garnered an estimated $3.03 million in economic impact.” Batistatos explained that these numbers are conservative estimates, as some families and fans book hotels outside of the official NSA block.
The 2016 event is expected to draw between 200-250 teams from throughout the Midwest. During tournament week, teams will be able to compete in a skills competition at the Crown Point Sports Complex before heading to a parade and block party. The block party will allow players to participate in activities and celebrate the World Series.
Throughout the years, NSA Girl’s Fast Pitch “B” World Series games have been played in Highland, Munster, Crown Point, Ross Township, Cedar Lake, Hobart, Michigan City and La Porte. Room nights have been booked in Lake, Porter and La Porte counties in Indiana, and Cook County, Illinois.
“NSA is a vital piece of business for the South Shore,” said Batistatos. “Northwest Indiana remains committed to presenting an enjoyable, successful event for all participants. We look forward to the 2016 event, as well as a continued relationship with the National Softball Association.”
Further details for the “A” World Series, including the site for opening ceremonies, will be announced closer to the event. For more information, call the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority at 219-989-7770.
