Series to Generate Estimated $1.3 Million Economic Impact with 10,000 Visitors Expected

By McAllen Chamber of Commerce

The P.O.N.Y. International Softball World Series kicked off its Opening Ceremony Wednesday afternoon at the McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Protect Our Nation’s Youth (P.O.N.Y.) five-day tournament brings 120 teams from the U.S., Puerto Rico and international teams including Mexico and Philippines. Youth teams will compete at the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex, McAllen Municipal Park and West Side Park.

The summer classic is expected to draw over 10,000 visitors that could generate an estimated economic impact of $1.3 million. The McAllen Chamber of Commerce Tourism department ‘Convention & Visitors Bureau,’ the McAllen Boys & Girls Club and the City of McAllen, worked together to host the international tournament.

At the commencement of the event, the participating teams were individually introduced amidst the enthusiastic cheers of the spectators. The national anthem of each country was played accompanied by warm wishes from city and partner officials for fun and safe games. Attendees had the convenience of food vendors and sponsor information tables, where a variety of refreshments and snacks were available for purchase.

Year round, the CVB diligently facilitates conferences and sports tournaments that attract thousands of visitors. These events play a significant role in generating substantial revenue for our city.

Sponsors of the tournament include City of McAllen, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos State of the City Fund, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, IBC Bank, South Texas Health System, RGV Tours.com, Texas Regional Bank, Ruby Red Hospitality, McAllen City Police Department, Magnolia Property Management, Top Golf, Dicks Sporting Goods, Electrolit and Buffalo Wild Wings.