The Economic Impact of Sporting Events in Lane County

Abstract

20 pagesWhen considering the full economic impact of sports in Lane County, the first events that come to mind involve the University of Oregon athletics program. But the Ducks are not the only events that the University hosts. For example, Hayward Field is the home of the yearly Prefontaine Classic. State high school football championships take place in Autzen Stadium, along with the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The Matthew Knight Arena hosts championships for high school basketball, along with the Duck’s basketball program. Moreover, the University is not the only place in Lane County that holds these events. The Willamalane Center for Sports and Recreation hosts state volleyball championships, gymnastic meets, and even roller derby. There are drag boat races at Dexter State Recreation Park, sailing regattas at Fern Ridge Reservoir, marathons, golf, model airplane, and horsing events held in town. Amazon Pool hosts several swim meets every summer, each with hundreds of athletes and spectators. Understanding the full impact of sporting events on Lane County’s economy requires understanding how varied the sporting culture is in the county