BALANCING GROWTH WITH COMMUNITY ACCESS As travel sports surge, so do the pressures on local infrastructure. With more visitors come higher expectations— but cities are working to ensure that growth doesn’ t come at the expense of the local community. Balancing access for local players, preserving facility quality and managing increasingly complex schedules has become a key challenge across the River Region. Still, leaders agree: community recreation remains a top priority.
“ At 17 Springs, scheduling is handled with a balanced approach,” said Myers.“ Local youth leagues, school teams and recreational users have consistent and prioritized access throughout the week. Travel events are typically concentrated on weekends, allowing for ample community use during weekdays and off-peak hours.”
Photo courtesy of Kyle Parmley
In Wetumpka, the philosophy is similar.“ Community events have 100 percent priority over any travel tournament requests,” said Reggie Bass, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Wetumpka.“ Travel tournaments are worked around all community sporting events.”
This careful coordination reflects a shared commitment across the region: expanding sports tourism without sidelining the hometown players it all started with.
WHAT THE FUTURE LOOKS LIKE Youth sports tourism isn’ t slowing down— and neither is the River Region. Cities are investing in infrastructure, welcoming visitors and finding ways to support both competitive travel teams and local kids who just want to play.
With new parks, expanded partnerships and forward-thinking planning, the River Region is quickly becoming a top destination for families chasing both championships and community.
GET ON THEIR RADAR: Join local event guides or partner with tourism groups to promote your business to visiting teams.
ADJUST BUSINESS HOURS: Consider early or late openings near major venues— games run long, and families need places to eat and relax.
OFFER QUICK DEALS: Create bundle meals, athlete discounts or grab-and-go options for teams on the move.
SHOW TEAM SPIRIT: Welcome teams with signage, specials or themed decor. A friendly vibe encourages return visits.
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