The Forest City has had a successful year in terms of hosting “big city” sporting events. Sport Tourism London looks to continue the trend into the new year following the positive response from the Ontario Summer Games, the Continental Cup of Curling, Roger’s Hometown Hockey and many more large scale events in the sports world that were hosted in London throughout 2018.
The 5th annual Community Sport Organizations meeting heard from many sport clubs and aims to improve tourism in sports for the London area.
2018 Ontario Summer Games Recap and hosting in 2020
Games Manager, Dave De Kelver reflects on London’s 2018 Ontario Summer Games
Cheryl Finn, Director of Sport Tourism in London says they’re always aiming to do more. The 2018 Ontario Summer Games brought on over 35-hundred athletes, families and coaches visited London. Although athletes are here for the sport, there is much added to an athletes experience. Finn says they can’t wait to do it all over again in 2020.
“Having those young athletes in our city competing in our local facilities is very,very important. Not only for the economic development but the fact that they’re here and they recognize and remember London as a par of their competition.”
None of it would be possible without the thousands of volunteers, time and commitment. A sense of community pride a develops when you’re able to reach a large amount of people and it’s no secret that the London sport industry continues to grow.
Municipal Accommodation Tax
Growing London’s sport industry is on the rise with the new Municipal Accommodation Tax. Finn explains that the tax will allow more chances to host, making it more fee-sable.
“There are whole new possibilities now in terms of money invested into bids and bringing in large numbers of people to compete in sport events.”
In the past London has also hosted many High School all Ontario Championships such as volleyball and basketball. More bidding is expected with the added tax and assistance available from London Sport Tourism.
Clubs and organizations are voicing their concerns, including Forest City Volleyball Club due to lack of facilities/overflowing courts.
— Sarah McCarthy (@sarahmnews) November 21, 2018
London Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Budget
Tourism and attraction grows with London’s sport scene. The Parks and Recreation 2019 budget will be presented in the new year to council. The plan will take into account many voices from London’s sport clubs and organizations. A common concern that was brought up by many groups was the lack of space. President of Forest City Roller Derby, Cat Gabriel says at the end of the day the team wants a place to call home.
“We’ve been moving around for probably a couple years. Having a consistent space where we know where we’ll be able to come month after month and be able to play-all weather, all situations and potentially be able to host games as well.”
Closing out 2018 on a high note
There hasn’t been a shortage of triumphs in London’s sport community this year. 2018 is a year to remember and ending off with an inspiring event. The Canadian Tire Para-Hockey Championships start December 1st-8th taking place at Western Fair Sports Centre.
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