Springfield Secures Three-Year Deal as Host for Missouri USA Wrestling Championships
Springfield, Missouri has been chosen as the host city for the Missouri USA Wrestling championships for the next three years, starting in 2024. The city’s Wilson Logistics Arena at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds will be the venue for these highly anticipated events.
In a press release, Lance Kettering, Executive Director of the Springfield Sports Commission, expressed his excitement for the city’s wrestling scene. Kettering highlighted the significance of the Wilson Logistics Arena and its role in securing the three-year deal. He stated, ‘Booking three Missouri USA Wrestling events for three years is remarkable. We are excited to welcome wrestlers from all over Missouri to Springfield.’
Mark Hecquet, President/CEO of the Convention & Visitors Bureau, also expressed his gratitude for the collaboration that led to securing the events. He emphasized the positive impact of hosting sporting events on the local economy, stating, ‘Having sporting events in Springfield benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, attractions, and retailers. It also helps keep the economy strong and creates jobs.’
The Missouri USA Wrestling championships are expected to draw a significant number of participants and spectators to Springfield. The rookie division alone will feature 700 contenders and an additional 400 wrestlers ages 6 and under. The state championship will welcome 1,100 boys and 300 girls. In total, over 1,000 wrestlers will compete in the freestyle and greco events.
Aside from the exciting wrestling action, these championship events are projected to have a positive economic impact on Springfield. It is estimated that the tournaments will add $3 million to the local economy over the three-year period. This boost in revenue will benefit various sectors, including the hospitality industry, which employs around 22,000 people in Greene County.
Erik Kivett, the State Series Tournament Director at Missouri USA Wrestling, expressed his excitement for bringing these events to Springfield. He stated, ‘We look forward to showcasing the new arena to our wrestling participants and crowning champions in the upcoming season.’
The schedule for the upcoming championships has already been announced. In 2024, the events will take place from January 19 to 21, featuring the 6U and Rookies Championships. In 2025, the championships will be held from January 17 to 19, including the 6U and Rookies Championships, Boys & Girls State Championships, and Freestyle and Greco Championships. Finally, in 2026, the events will run from January 16 to 18, hosting the 6U and Rookies Championships, Boys & Girls State Championships, and Freestyle and Greco Championships.
With Springfield securing this three-year deal as the host city for the Missouri USA Wrestling championships, the city can look forward to not only thrilling wrestling matches but also a boost to its economy and reputation as a sports destination. Wrestlers, spectators, and locals alike will come together to celebrate the sport and experience all that Springfield has to offer.
