Sports tourism has an impact in Sisters

Families have flocked to Sisters this winter for tournaments hosted by Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) and the Sisters School District. Tournaments like the Outlaw Volleyball Winter Classic and the Sisters Shootout bring hundreds of visitors to Sisters Country, providing a much-needed economic stimulus during the winter season.

"Sports tourism has a great future in the Sisters community," said Anne Heath, executive director of SPRD. "We have everything a family could want to make a sports tournament into a mini-vacation."

The economic potential of sports tourism is significant and it is the fastest growing tourism industry in the United States, according to Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Erin Borla.

With each participant and family member spending an estimated $125, a tournament can bring hundreds of thousands of dollars into the local economy.

The next event is this upcoming weekend. The Sisters Shootout, a two-day tournament will Sisters host 54 middle school teams from as far away as Portland. With 600 athletes and over 1,250 family members and fans, the Sisters Shootout will 'pack a punch' this President's Day weekend with an estimated economic impact of $437,500, Borla reported.

"The Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with SPRD to enhance sports tourism here in Sisters Country," Borla said. "Each tournament adds to our community spirit and helps businesses thrive throughout the winter season."

Pepsi, Three Creeks Brewing Company, Sisters Coffee Company, The Gallery Restaurant & Bar, Sisters Inn & Suites, Sisters Bakery, and Martolli's Pizza are sponsoring the tourney.

For more contact Heath at 541-549-2091 or [email protected]