More than 170 softball teams from across the Midwest have arrived in northwest Indiana to compete in the National Softball Association (NSA) Even & Odd North World Series – NW Indiana. Games will be played throughout the region at fields in Crown Point, Highland, Dyer, LaPorte and Schererville from July 19-24.
More than 6,000 participants & spectators started arriving July 18. The South Shore CVA team has been hard at work planning fun-filled activities for participants and spectators during their stay.
“We are working with our partners to provide teams and families with discounts to restaurants, attractions and local shops,” said Megan Goodan, SSCVA Chief Sports & Leisure Officer. “We want to encourage everyone to get out and explore the great things in and around Northwest Indiana. We're also working with the parks & rec departments where games will be played to be sure participants and their families have a one-of-a-kind experience while they're here!”
The festivities begin with a World Series Kick Off July 18th from 4-7pm at the Crown Point Sportsplex. This includes a skills competition, managers/coaches’ meetings, pin trading, DJ and vendors. Games will begin on Wednesday, and Opening Ceremonies will take place at Bulldog Park on Thursday from 4-9pm and includes a parade of teams, vendors, food trucks, beer garden, DJ, braid bar, obstacle courses, laser tag, photo booth, face-painting and more!
“Our local restaurants and attractions surrounding these fields and hotels are expected to be inundated with traveling softball families,” said David Uran, SSCVA President/CEO. “Northwest Indiana and the SSCVA are honored to be hosting these highly ranked and competitive teams. Our partners along with our all-star staff will be providing a world-class event and experience for players, coaches, and fans as these teams battle to be crowned the next NSA World Series Champions!”
The estimated economic impact of hosting the World Series is $10.2 million. Additional sporting events in the region next week include the 15U Ohio Valley Regional Championships and the Illinois YMCA Long Course Championships. These events also generate economic impact in the region from hotel stays, restaurants, attractions, retail, and local amenities.