Jan. 10, 2018
USA Judo Youth National Championships Return to York County in 2018
YORK, PA.— York County was selected to host the 2018 USA Judo Youth National Championships for the second time in a decade, according to Laura Gurreri, director of sales for the York County Convention and Visitors Bureau (YCCVB).
The championships will run March304, 208 at the York Expo Center’s Utz Arena and is expected to draw 700 competitors across the country, providing an economic boost for the York economy, while providing local fans a chance to see the sport in person. More than 900 spectators are expected to attend the event.
According to York County estimates, the USA Judo Youth National Championships have an economic impact of almost $1 million for the local economy with competitors filling hotel rooms.
York county previously hosted USA Judo’s Youth Championship in 2009 when it was called USA Judo National Youth and Scholastic Championships.
“After an excellent experience in 2009, we’re thrilled to bring our youth championships back to York County,” said Keith Bryant, CEO of USA Judo. “Not only will USA Judo have the opportunity to work with a proven partner, but we’ll be bringing our championship event closer to the strong judo community in the northeast. We look forward to showcasing this dynamic sport for new and old fans alike and invite anyone interested in learning more about judo to come out and watch this March.”
Gurreri said the York Expo Center has a proven track record of hosting combat sports, making York County an ideal destination for the event.
The YCCVB and the Sport York program lured USA Judo and its national championship event to York County. Other Team USA events held in York County in the past decade include USA Handball, USA Softball, USA Judo and USA Taekwondo.
“Hosting a national championship event, especially for an organization tied to Team USA, will increase York County’s exposure to people from all over the United States,” Gurreri said. “The influx of youth athletes also presents an excellent opportunity to showcase York County to a younger generation of guest who may decide to visit us again in the future.”
Anne Druck, president of the York County CVB said the event will be open to the public. “Hosting youth sports offers the greatest return on investment, considering the compounding economic potential for our community. Youth athletes have the greatest opportunities to return as visitors, students and residents, ensuring York County’s vitality for years to come.”
