Huddle Up Group recently released a Sports Tourism Strategic Plan and Facility Recommendations to the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission (SBSC). The sports tourism industry has grown exponentially post-Covid as sports travel teams have proliferated along with sports tournaments.
The extensive report listed factors for sports tourism development planning. It listed the following STRENGTHS of the Shreveport-Bossier market:
1. Central Location and Accessibility
Shreveport-Bossier's strategic position in the southeastern United States enhances its appeal as a regional sports hub, especially given its proximity to Dallas. The location along I-49 and I-20 highways provides easy vehicle access for regional visitors and contributes to the logistical ease of hosting and managing large-scale sporting events.
2. Rich Sports History and Community Support
Shreveport-Bossier is steeped in a rich sporting history, prominently highlighted by the Independence Bowl, which not only draws significant awareness at the local and regional levels but also celebrates the community's long-standing engagement with sports. This event, among others such as Bassmaster Classic, serves as a testament to the area's capable handling of major sporting events.
The report listed the WEAKNESSES of this market:
A. Perceived Downtown Crime Rate
One of the more pressing challenges for the Shreveport-Bossier in terms of sports tourism is the negative connotation surrounding the downtown area's perceived crime rates. Such perceptions can deter sports event organizers and tourists from considering this area as a destination.
B. Limited Flight Availability
Shreveport Regional Airport's limited flight availability, especially in peak afternoon hours, poses significant logistical challenges for those traveling for sports events. This limitation can be a critical factor in the decision making process for event organizers when considering locations, as ease of travel directly impacts participants' ability and willingness to attend.
C. Facility Availability and Cost
Access to facilities as well as costs of renting venues in Shreveport-Bossier are significant hurdles that affect the ability to host sporting events. The current challenges with scheduling and pricing may restrict access for some event organizers, particularly those from similar or less financially robust organizations.
The benefits of this extensive report are yet to be determined. Obviously there are many moving pieces in the sports tourism destination market which require the collaboration of many local entities and organizations. The first step is the acceptance of the perceptions and realities listed in the report.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.