By McAllen Chamber of Commerce

The City of McAllen recently played host to a sporting event of grand proportions, as the P.O.N.Y. International Softball World Series took center stage. With its Opening Ceremony held at the McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium, the tournament commenced with great enthusiasm and anticipation.

The five-day extravaganza has drawn the attention of softball enthusiasts from far and wide, making it a big deal for the city. The five-day tournament brought 120 teams from the U.S., Puerto Rico and international teams including Mexico and Philippines. Youth teams competed at the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex, McAllen Municipal Park and West Side Park. The fields echo with cheers, laughter, and the crack of bats, showcasing the vibrant sporting culture of McAllen.

Apart from the entertainment it provides, the P.O.N.Y. International Softball World Series carries significance for the city’s economy. With approximately 10,000 visitors, the impact on local businesses and the community is substantial. Hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, and various other local services witness a considerable surge during the tournament period, benefiting the city’s economy and boosting the overall revenue.

Estimates suggest that the event will generate an economic impact of around $1.3 million, showcasing the potential that sports tourism holds for McAllen. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, this softball spectacle also bolsters the city’s reputation as an attractive destination for hosting regional and national sporting events.

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.