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Sports tourism turns national competition into local economic opportunity.
A national championship brings much more to Enid than great competition. It brings athletes, coaches, families and fans who stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, fill up at local gas stations and shop in our stores. In short, it brings new dollars into our community.
We have seen that impact for years through the NJCAA Division II Baseball World Series at David Allen Memorial Ballpark. Enid has hosted the championship for 17 years, and a new long-term agreement will keep it here through May 2038. That commitment says something important: Enid has earned a national reputation as a community that knows how to host.
Our success is now growing beyond baseball. When Enid hosted the 2025 NJCAA Division I Women’s Soccer National Championship at Advance Soccer Complex, the tournament generated an estimated $950,000 in direct and indirect economic impact and approximately 1,315 hotel room nights.
And more opportunity is ahead. Advance Soccer Complex will host the 2027 NJCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Soccer National Championships November 10–14. Once again, visitors from across the country will experience our facilities, businesses and community hospitality.
The benefits last longer than the final game. Each successful event strengthens Enid’s reputation, supports local jobs and makes the most of facilities our residents enjoy year-round. It also introduces people to Enid who may return as visitors—or one day consider our community for a business, career or home.
"Every tournament is an opportunity to turn visitors into customers, ambassadors
and future partners for Enid."
That is why sports tourism belongs in the economic development conversation. It supports the businesses already here, attracts outside spending and puts Enid on a national stage.
When teams come to Enid, our entire community is part of the welcome. Every full hotel room, restaurant table, friendly conversation and positive experience helps build the next opportunity. The games may bring visitors here—but Enid’s hospitality is what they will remember.
