On this week's program, host Phil Tower welcomes Mike Guswiler, President, The West Michigan Sports Commission. 
Mike spoke with us about the powerful impact that sports tourism has nationally and here in West Michigan. Here in the U.S., the sports tourism sector generates over $52 billion in direct spending annually (up 31.5% from $39.7 billion in total direct spending in 2021) and a total economic impact of $128 billion.  That’s a massive impact!Mike reminded us that the West Michigan Sports Commission was founded in 2007 as an economic generator to harness some of that $52.2 billion national youth and amateur sports industry for  West Michigan. 
One of the WMSC's top priorities is generating overnight stays from sporting events, which drives spending in area hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. 
Since its beginning, the WMSC has booked 1,216 sporting events and tournaments, attracted more than 2 million athletes and visitors, and generated over $649 million in estimated economic impact. 
Currently, the WMSC is identifying statewide, regional, and national sports finals and championships with MHSAA, NAIA, MIAA, GLIAC, and USOPC in various sports.
In other sports to resin and local sports news, Mike discussed the $12M expansion at the Meijer Sports Complex in Rockford and the exciting news that Grand Rapids will host the 2025 Move United Games. Move United is the largest organization promoting and hosting community adaptive sports.

Online: West Michigan Sports Commission