A weekend of rugby will bring a significant boost to Elkhart's economy, said Bart Bottorff, director of the Moose Rugby Grounds.
The Boys High School National Championships are returning to Elkhart for the third year in a row. Between May 23 and 25, more than 800 athletes, coaches and staff, along with 1,200 fans, will descend on the area's hotels, restaurants and stores.
“We are thrilled to have this event return to our backyard,” Bottorff said in a press release. “While it’s a considerable amount of work by a select few people, the benefits for the local community and revenue return are significant. We are excited that the coaches from last year’s event voted to come back to our facility.”
Players and their families come from as far away as California, Connecticut, Florida and Texas.
Elkhart County already hosted two other rugby competitions in April: the boys and girls Midwest championships.
“We love sporting events and the contributions they bring to our business partners in the community,” said Jon Hunsberger, executive director of the Elkhart County CVB. “As rugby continues growing with an eye toward the U.S. hosting the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033, Elkhart County will be looking for innovative ways to support Bart and his team.”
Other cities that have hosted the event include: Charlotte, North Carolina; Salt Lake City; and Kansas City.
Caption: The Boys High School National Championships will return this weekend for rugby enthusiasts and players. (Photo by Alex Goff/Goff Rugby Report)
