KANSAS CITY, Mo. – After Keiser (Fla.) captured the 2019 NAIA Women’s Soccer National Champion, the city of Orange Beach saw a large impact to the local economy at the end of November. The region was benefited to the tune of over $800,000 in the 2019 event as the area received a boost to travel and tourism during a traditionally slow period.

The Orange Beach/Gulf Shores region has seen this benefit since the 2012 season, showing that women’s soccer can bring an exciting atmosphere and new money to the region during the holiday season. Below is the full breakdown of numbers:

2019 NAIA Women’s Soccer Championship By-The-Numbers

-         $802,353 overall impact to the region

-         1,923 hotel room nights were booked for the championship

-         Over $8,000 from gate and concessions

“Each year, the NAIA brings student-athletes, coaches, families and fans to experience Orange Beach for the Women’s Soccer National Championship, and we can’t wait to welcome new and returning guests back to the beach,” said Beth Gendler, vice president of sales for the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission. “Not only do the players and fans impact our economy during their visit for the championships on and off the field, but many extend their stays or come back for family vacations. Additionally, the NAIA’s Champions of Character messaging shines in our community far beyond the monetary impact.”