Tournaments like this one at DE Turf contribute to Milford’s economy
Although the survey focused on sports tourism throughout the state, a recent study provided insight into how much the industry contributes to Milford’s economic base as well. According to Tourism Economics who conducted the survey, Delaware sees economic benefits of $258 million from sports tourism.
“There is no question that Milford benefits from sports tourism,” Greater Milford Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jo Schmeiser said. “From DE Turf to Dover Downs, our hotels and restaurants see many visitors who are here for a sporting event. WE are looking forward to seeing this industry grow throughout our state and especially in the Milford area.”
Local bed and breakfast owner, Joey Phillips agreed with Schmeiser.
“We see about 10 to 15 percent of our guests coming to Milford due to sports tourism,” the co-owner of Causey Mansion Bed and Breakfast said. “We see cyclists as an additional 10 percent of our room bookings.”
The study found that in addition to direct spending, business sales accounted for $403.2 million, and that the industry supported more than 3,000 jobs, generating over $20.2 million in state and local taxes.
Some did question the study, however, as it did not include professional sports like the Blue Rocks and Blue Coats or college sporting events at University of Delaware and Delaware State University. Not including these venues means that the economic impact of sports tourism in Delaware may be significantly higher, something many at the state level have known for some time.
“This study proves something that we already knew that sport tourism is a major factor in our state economy,” Governor John Carney said in a press release. “When travelers come to our state to attend tournaments, races and other sport-related events, whether they come as players or spectators, they create jobs, support our small businesses and grow the economy through our state.”
The study appeared to focus on youth sports like tournaments held at DE Turf and Hudson Fields, both of which help contribute to Milford’s economy. DE Turf was expected to bring $18 million in revenue the first year it was open with a plan to host 10 tournaments. The venue surpassed that goal, hosting 20 tournaments and generating $34 million in revenue. In 2024, a survey by Rockland Analytics found that visitor spending related to DE Turf was over $54 million.
Hudson Fields, located in Milton, also holds soccer and lacrosse tournaments, bringing visitors to the area. The site is also the location of benefit concerts and other events to boost non-profits in the area.
To learn more about the 2023 economic impact analysis of sport tourism, visit the Delaware Tourism Office website.
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