(ABC 6 News) – The Early Bird Basketball Tournament is underway in Rochester and nearby towns, drawing thousands of athletes and visitors over the weekend.
Approximately 400 teams are competing across 15 venues in Rochester, Stewartville, Byron, and Kasson. Now in its eighth year, the event has expanded significantly from its modest start with just 70 teams.
Organizers highlight the positive economic ripple effect on host communities.
“Visitors are filling hotel rooms, dining at local eateries, and supporting youth groups managing concessions for their programs,” said Bryant Schmidt, tournament director and events coordinator for Rochester MN Sports.
Officials project the tournament will generate about $800,000 for the regional economy and occupy an estimated 3,000 hotel stays.
Games continue Sunday from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.
— news from kaaltv.com
— News Original —
Basketball tournament takes over Rochester, bringing economic boon
(ABC 6 News) – The Early Bird Basketball Tournament is taking place in the Med City and surrounding communities this weekend bringing thousands of players and visitors with it. n nNearly 400 teams are taking to the courts at 15 sites in Rochester, Stewartville, Byron and Kasson. n nNow in its 8th year, the tournaments has grown tremendously from just 70 teams when it first began. n nOfficials say the experience is a boon not only for those participating but the communities hosting as well. n n“People staying in the hotels, eating at our restaurants, local concessions groups operating the concessions funding their sports or groups or whatever that is,” said Bryant Schmidt, tournament director and sales and event coordinator for Rochester MN Sports. n nOfficials estimate the event will bring in around $800,000 dollars to the area this year, taking up roughly 3,000 hotel rooms. n nThe tournament continues Sunday from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.