Michigan State University (MSU) leaders emphasized the significant economic contributions of collegiate athletics to the Lansing area during a recent panel hosted by the Lansing Economic Club. University President Kevin Guskiewicz and Athletic Director J Batt discussed how sporting events, particularly football, generate substantial regional economic activity by attracting visitors and stimulating local spending.
With Spartan Stadium filled for consecutive home games early in the football season, officials highlighted the broader financial ripple effects beyond ticket sales. Events bring in fans from surrounding regions, boosting revenue for hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses. While football offers the largest economic impact, other sports such as basketball, hockey, and soccer also contribute to community engagement and regional visitation.
“Whether it’s football, which presents the greatest opportunity, or men’s and women’s basketball, hockey, or soccer, we’re proud to play a role in bringing people into the community and offering entertainment across the region,” Batt remarked.
The university continues its home game schedule, with another match set for Saturday against Youngstown State. MSU officials underscored that athletics not only enhances school spirit but also strengthens the local economy through sustained visitor influx and public engagement.
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MSU officials highlight athletics’ economic impact on Lansing area
EAST LANSING, Mich — MSU Athletic Director J Batt and University President Kevin Guskiewicz discussed the economic impact of MSU athletics on the Lansing area during a panel with the Lansing Economic Club on Thursday. n nMSU officials emphasized that athletics plays a crucial role in driving the local economy. n nFootball games provide the greatest economic opportunity for the Lansing area. n nThe university hosts various sporting events that bring visitors to the region. n nAfter three weeks into the football season at Michigan State University, with thousands of fans filling the stands at Spartan Stadium for two consecutive home games, university officials are highlighting the economic benefits that extend beyond the field. n nWATCH: MSU officals say athletics boosts Lansing economy through sporting events and visitor spending n nMSU officials highlight athletics ‘ economic impact on Lansing area n nAthletic Director J Batt and University President Kevin Guskiewicz addressed how MSU athletics impacts the local economy. n nBoth officials emphasized that athletics plays an important role in driving economic activity in the Lansing area, with football games creating significant opportunities. n n”Whether it ‘s football games with the greatest opportunity, but basketball games, women, men, hockey, soccer games, we ‘re happy to play a part in the community as far as driving people in from out of town and providing entertainment throughout the community,” Batt said. n nThe football game days continue on Saturday, as MSU hosts a third-straight home game against Youngstown State. n nThis story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy. n nWant more FOX 47 News? Here ‘s how you download our Roku app n nHow to download FOX 47 News on your Roku device