Author: Garrett Calvert

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March. 16, 2026

Contact: Lance Kettering, Executive Director
Email: lkettering@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 106

SPRINGFIELD, MO – The “March to Springfield” tips off this week as teams from across the country compete in the National Christian HomeSchool Basketball Championship, with games scheduled March 16–20 throughout the Springfield area. This year’s championship marks the largest tournament in the event’s 34-year history, featuring 414 teams, with approximately 95% traveling from outside Springfield. Programs representing 19 different states — including Hawaii — will compete
across 23 gym floors, resulting in more than 1,100 games played across the Greater Springfield region, including sites in Ozark. The week-long championship, which is projected to generate more than $5 million in direct economic spending for the community. The event’s continued growth and impact have already secured its return to Springfield March 15–19, 2027.

Fans and participants will also have the opportunity to experience one of the championship’s premier showcase events on Monday evening, when the NCHBC Slam Dunk and 3-Point Finals take place at 7:00 p.m. at the O’Reilly Family Event Center at Drury University. The competition will follow Memphis MHEA’s varsity boys team — the five-time defending national champions — as they take the court for their 5:30 p.m. matchup. With thousands of athletes, coaches, and families converging on the region, the championship continues to elevate Springfield’s national reputation as a destination capable of hosting large-scale sporting events while delivering meaningful economic and community impact.

To learn more about the event visit https://www.nchclive.com/nationals-info-sheet-nchbc/

                                       

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 7, 2025

Contact: Lance Kettering, Executive Director
Email: lkettering@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 106

SPRINGFIELD, MO—The National Christian HomeSchool Basketball Championships (NCHBC), the world’s largest homeschool sporting event, will continue to call Springfield, Missouri, home through 2030 following a new five-year extension agreement between NCHBC, the Springfield Sports Commission, and Visit Springfield.

Since first arriving in 2009, the NCHBC has become a cornerstone of Springfield’s annual sports calendar — drawing more than 400 teams and 3,500 athletes and coaches each year for a week of basketball competition. The tournament utilizes 20+ local venues across the Springfield region for 1000+ games, including The Field House, Bobby & Betty Allison Sports Town, Strafford Sports Center, Baptist Bible College, Evangel University, Drury University, Ozark High School, and several Springfield-Greene County Park Board facilities to name a few.

The event’s reach and economic influence are substantial, generating an estimated $6 million in direct economic impact annually and more than 6,000 room nights each year, resulting in a total projected impact exceeding $30 million through 2030.

“Springfield has proudly welcomed the National Christian HomeSchool Basketball Championships since 2009, and we are thrilled to continue that tradition through 2030,” said Lance Kettering, Executive Director of the Springfield Sports Commission. “This event is a cornerstone of our sports calendar and a wonderful reflection of our community’s hospitality and passion for sports. Visit Springfield and the Sports Commission are grateful to the NCHBC for their continued confidence in Springfield and look forward to working together for many years to come.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to secure this five-year extension, guaranteeing that the National Christian HomeSchool Basketball Championships (NCHBC) will call Springfield, Missouri, home through 2030!” said Robert Flatt, Executive Director of the NCHBC.

This new agreement is a testament to the incredible, long-term partnership we share with the Springfield Sports Commission and Visit Springfield. Since 1992, NCHBC has been the world’s largest homeschool sporting event, and Springfield has been the heart of our tremendous growth. With a record-shattering 408 teams in 2025, it’s clear that the city provides the perfect foundation for our event. We are proud that 2030 will mark our 22nd consecutive year in Springfield, and we look forward to achieving even greater milestones together for the next generation of Christian homeschool athletes.”

“Hosting national events of this magnitude further highlights Springfield’s growing reputation as a leading sports destination,” said Mark Hecquet, President/CEO of Visit Springfield. “Our continued partnership with the NCHBC showcases the community collaboration and commitment that make Springfield a premier choice for major sporting events nationwide. We look forward to once again welcoming thousands of athletes and their families to experience all that our city has to offer.”

The NCHBC will continue to take place in March of each year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 13, 2025

Contact: Stan Adams, Director of Sports Business Development
Email: stan@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 109

SPRINGFIELD, MO—The Springfield Sports Commission is excited to announce that Springfield will host the 2025 USA Club Rugby Northern Super Regionals, scheduled for May 2-4 at Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Town.

The event will feature 14 teams and approximately 300 athletes, comprised of individuals 18+, competing for regional supremacy, further establishing the city as a premier sports destination.

“This is a tremendous win for the Springfield community,” said Stan Adams, director of sports business development for the Springfield Sports Commission. “We estimate the Rugby Super Regionals will bring around $678,000 of positive economic impact to the Springfield area. Culturally, we hope this sparks more interest in the sport, inspiring kids and adults to participate for years to come.”

The 2025 USA Club Rugby Northern Super Regionals will bring together the region’s finest teams, offering a weekend of fierce competition and entertainment.

For Benjamin Thomas, president and head coach of the Springfield Rugby Club, this event represents a significant milestone. “This is a hallmark event! The top rugby teams between the coasts will be in Springfield, playing at a world-class facility,” Thomas said. “It’s our chance to show our community and the rest of the Midwest and Rocky Mountains that rugby belongs here.”

Chris Martin, general manager of Allison Sports Town, expressed his excitement about the event and emphasized the unique experience the facility offers. “Our facility has a ‘wow’ factor. We’re not just providing fields; we’re creating a full experience with our Fan Zone, Beer Garden and top-tier amenities.”

Adams also highlighted Springfield’s appeal to all sports teams. “Entertainment, affordability and a wide variety of restaurants to fit anyone’s palate—it’s the perfect blend for teams and fans looking for a memorable weekend.”

The overall estimated economic impact for both events is calculated via the Destination International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

All events and activities are subject to change. To stay updated, please visit springfieldmosports.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 6, 2025
Contact: Stan Adams, Director of Sports Business Development
Email: stan@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 109

SPRINGFIELD, MO—The Springfield Sports Commission is excited to announce that Springfield has been selected to host the Special Olympics Missouri State Outdoor Games from 2025 through 2027.

The event, scheduled for the third weekend of October each year, will feature competitions in flag football, bocce, softball, tennis and golf, welcoming more than 650 athletes, coaches and volunteers annually.

“We are thrilled and honored to host the Special Olympics Missouri State Outdoor Games for the next three years,” said Stan Adams, director of sports business development for the Springfield Sports Commission. “This is an incredible opportunity to showcase the remarkable talent, determination and spirit of these athletes while uniting our community in celebration of inclusion and sportsmanship. We look forward to creating a memorable experience for everyone involved and making this event a resounding success.”

The games will be held at top venues across Springfield, including the Killian Softball Complex, Cooper Tennis Complex and Lake Country Soccer, along with several other locations throughout the city.

“The best way for the Springfield community to make this event a success is to volunteer or come out and cheer on the athletes,” said Craig Hall, director of competition and outreach for Special Olympics Missouri.

Hall also expressed excitement for the athletes. “This year’s games will be in a new city, and they will get to experience top-of-the-line facilities and feel the hospitality from the city of Springfield,” he said.

The event is projected to generate more than $1 million annually in economic impact, with a total impact of more than $3 million over the three-year contract.

“This will bring a significant economic boom to our community, drawing athletes, families and spectators from all across the entire state of Missouri for the next 3 years. This influx boosts local businesses, hotels, restaurants, retail stores and transportation services,” said Adams. “Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the event highlights the long-term value of inclusivity, showcasing how supporting opportunities for individuals of all abilities contributes to stronger, more vibrant local economies.”

The city’s selection as host is made possible through a partnership involving Special Olympics Missouri, the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, Special Olympics Southwest Missouri and Lake Country Soccer.

The overall estimated economic impact for both events is calculated via the Destination International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

All events and activities are subject to change. To stay updated, please visit springfieldmosports.org

NEWS RELEASE: Dec. 13, 2024

Contact: Lance Kettering, Executive Director
Email: lance@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 106

SPRINGFIELD, MO—The Springfield Sports Commission is excited to announce that the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) State Baseball Championships will remain in the Greater Springfield area through 2031. The tournament, hosted at Ozark Mountain Sports Complex in Ozark, MO, has been a community staple since 2021.

The Springfield Sports Commission and the Ozark Mountain Sports Complex secured the five-year extension through a competitive bid process.

“We are pleased to announce the Ozark Mountain Sports Complex as the continued host of the MSHSAA Baseball Championships through 2031,” MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Rukstad said. “This facility has been continually upgraded to offer an exceptional environment for our student-athletes, coaches and fans to celebrate the pinnacle of high school baseball. We look forward to partnering with the Ozark and Greater Springfield communities to create unforgettable championship experiences for years to come.”

The events, each featuring 24 teams across six classes, draw an average of 10,771 fans annually and will generate an estimated $3.45 million in positive economic impact for the Greater Springfield community over the agreement’s duration, or roughly $690,000 annually.

The championships are also expected to create approximately 3,000 room nights at local hotels (for the entirety of the agreement), or an estimated 600 annually, underscoring Great Springfield’s ability to host major sporting events that attract visitors across Missouri.

“We are proud to host numerous MSHSAA State Championships in the Greater Springfield area and are thrilled to extend this opportunity through 2031,” said Lance Kettering, executive director of the Springfield Sports Commission. “Facilities like Ozark Mountain Sports Complex play a vital role in bringing premier events to our area, and we’re fortunate to have such outstanding partners. This event’s continued success would not be possible without the exceptional team at the Ozark Mountain Sports Complex.”

“Collaborating with the Springfield Sports Commission has been instrumental in bringing premier events like this to the Greater Springfield area, showcasing our community’s exceptional facilities and hospitality,” said Randy Merryman, owner of Ozark Mountain Sports Complex. “We’re excited to continue providing an outstanding experience for athletes, coaches, and fans in the years to come.”

The championships will occur annually from late May to early June through 2031.

The overall estimated economic impact for both events is calculated via the Destination International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

NEWS RELEASE: Dec. 5, 2024 

Springfield Sports Commission

Contact: Stan Adams, Director of Sports Business Development
Email: stan@springfieldmo.org
417-881-5300 ext. 109

SPRINGFIELD, MO—The Springfield Sports Commission is thrilled to announce that Springfield, Missouri, will host USA Archery’s 2025 U.S. Open & Target Nationals, scheduled for Aug. 13-17, 2025, at Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town.

USA Archery’s U.S. Open & Target Nationals are key events in the archery circuit, attracting top youth and adult competitors to vie for national titles.

“USA Archery is extremely excited to partner with Allison Sports Town and the Springfield Sports Commission to bring this amazing event to a community that is already archery-obsessed,” said Jenni Bailey Edmunds, events coordinator for USA Archery. “Due to the significance of this tournament, participation continues to increase each year, and we don’t see that stopping with Springfield.”

With an anticipated 500-600 competitors, the event is set to bring major attention to Springfield.

“Not only will this event showcase Springfield internationally with its high number of competitors, but the projected economic impact of over $958,000 will bring a substantial financial boost to the community,” said Stan Adams, director of sports business development.

“Thanks to the Springfield Sports Commission for their partnership with us in hosting this event and for the tireless work they put in to make this a reality,” said Chris Martin, general manager for Allison Sports Town. “This event will be our first national event at Allison Sports Town, and we are excited to showcase our venue for the competitors and guests.”

The Springfield Sports Commission and Visit Springfield, Missouri, are excited to welcome archery athletes, coaches, and fans alike to the city.

Overall estimated economic impact is calculated via the Destinations International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

News Release: Dec. 3, 2024

Springfield Sports Commission

Contact: Stan Adams, Director of Sports Business Development

Email: Stan@springfieldmo.org

417-881-5300 ext. 109

Springfield Sports Commission Announces Springfield Futsal Shootout in Partnership with Lake Country Soccer, SWMO Rush and Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Sports Commission, in collaboration with Lake Country Soccer, SWMO Rush and Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town, is excited to announce the Springfield Futsal Shootout, set for two weekends in Jan. 2025. The event, presented by the Sports Commission, will bring top-tier futsal teams together for a competitive tournament organized by Lake Country Soccer and SWMO Rush.

The Springfield Futsal Shootout will start the new year with the girls’ tournament Jan. 3-5, featuring approximately 70 teams, followed by the boys’ tournament Jan. 10-12, hosting 110 teams. All games will be held at Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town, with roughly 50% of teams expected to travel from outside the Springfield area, providing a positive boost to the local economy.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Springfield Sports Commission and SWMO Rush to host the Springfield Futsal Shootout. A special thanks to Lance Kettering and John Markey for making this event possible,” said Chris Martin, general manager of Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town. “We’re looking forward to welcoming teams from across the region for these exciting weekends of futsal action in January.”

The tournament is expected to generate a significant economic impact, with approximately $393,000 in direct spending from the girls’ weekend and $497,000 from the boys’ weekend. This influx of visitors is projected to generate about 1,000 hotel room nights over the two weekends, benefiting local businesses and the hospitality industry.

“It is exciting to work together with both Sports Town and Lake Country Soccer on this event. It has been a goal of ours to partner with Sports Town and Lake Country Soccer for championship events,” said Lance Kettering, executive director of the Springfield Sports Commission. “We hope this indoor futsal tournament will lead to many more opportunities to collaborate in the future.”

John Markey, executive director of Lake Country Soccer, also expressed enthusiasm for returning the event to Springfield. “While we’ve always enjoyed hosting the event in Branson, we’re thrilled to bring it home to Springfield,” said Markey. “Our partnership with the Sports Commission and Allison Sports Town has allowed us to deliver an outstanding event that will greatly benefit the Springfield community economically.”

The overall estimated economic impact for both events is calculated via the Destination International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

News Release Oct. 31, 2024

Springfield Sports Commission

Contact: Lance Kettering, Executive Director

Email: Lance@springfieldmo.org

417-881-5300

The Springfield Sports Commission Secures 17 Events – Estimating an Economic Impact of Over $10 Million.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield Sports Commission is excited to announce 17 events coming to Springfield through partnerships with five major sports organizations, expected to generate over $10 million in positive economic impact for the local community over the next seven years.

“We have secured an exciting lineup of sporting events for Springfield,” said Springfield Sports Commission Executive Director Lance Kettering. “Our team has worked tirelessly to bring these premier competitions to our city, including NXTPRO Basketball, Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Track and Field, USA BMX, Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Softball, and Rise Productions Youth Cheer and Dance. The four-year commitment for USA BMX at Wilson Logistics Arena especially highlights Springfield as a growing hub for top-tier sports events, and we look forward to welcoming athletes and fans alike.”

The overall estimated economic impact for each event is calculated via the Destination International Economic Impact Calculator and past event history.

“Bringing in sporting events is a significant driver of local economic growth for Springfield,” said Convention and Visitors Bureau President Mark Hecquet. “These events not only fill our hotels and restaurants, they also support local businesses and help create a need for jobs, ultimately producing a major positive impact on the city’s economy.”

First-time events to Springfield include AAU Track and Field and Rise Productions Youth Cheer and Dance.

Returning events to the area include NXTPRO Basketball, which previously hosted a high school-level competition and is now set to bring a middle school event to Springfield, and USA BMX, which, following the success of its inaugural event in 2024, has signed a four-year commitment.

Additionally, the Springfield Sports Commission has proudly renewed its long-standing partnership with MSHSAA Softball, an ongoing collaboration since 2010.

“We truly value our relationship with MSHSAA and are excited to continue hosting their championships,” said Director of Sports Business Development Stan Adams. “The MSHSAA State Softball Championships have been a highlight for Springfield since 2010, and we’re thrilled to keep that tradition going. With the addition of turf to Killian Softball Stadium, this event will be even better, offering an enhanced experience for both the players and fans.”