South Shore Scores Big Softball Series

Northwest Indiana last held the "B" teams in 2014 and the games came to Hamilton County this summer.

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The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority says a major softball event could pump more than $3 million into the local economy. The 2016 National Softball Association Girls Fast Pitch "A" World Series, set for the end of July, is expected to attract 10,000 players, coaches, family and fans to northwest Indiana.

The region has hosted the "B" World Series four times since 2007. Games have been played in communities including in Highland, Munster, Crown Point, Ross Township, Cedar Lake, Hobart, Michigan City and La Porte. CVA President Speros Batistatos says, using conservative estimates, attendees at previous events booked over 12,000 hotel nights in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties and beyond. He calls the tournaments a "vital piece of business" and says "northwest Indiana remains committed to presenting an enjoyable, successful event for all participants. We look forward to the 2016 event, as well as a continued relationship with the National Softball Association."

Next year’s event is expected to draw as many as 250 teams. The organization says it will announce the site of opening ceremonies, as well as game sites at a later date.