Cajun Bats Ring Up Big Money For Acadiana Economy

We've gotten used to hearing the ping, ping, ping of softballs and baseballs hitting aluminum bats this spring in Acadiana. Now those pings are turning into the sounds of ringing cash registers according the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Bureau. With fans coming in from across the country, staying in our hotels and eating at our restaurants the economic impact is bigger than a Lexie Elkins home run.

It has been estimated that just by hosting an NCAA Regional and Super Regional Softball tournament in Lafayette the local economy was infused with an addition $600,000.00 in revenue. With more crowds expected this weekend for NCAA Regional Baseball that number should easily top the 1-million dollar mark by Monday.

Ben Berthelot is president of the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Bureau,

"This is so positive for our economy and there is a lot of excitement within the community, you've also got to factor in all this exposure we're getting from ESPN and all the other media that are coming in."

Berthelot's comments were reported by the Louisiana Radio Network. He went on to say that fans from nearby Jackson State and Mississippi State are expected to drive down and bring a big economic impact as well. San Diego State is the other team represented in this weekend's regional but it is expected the distance might decrease some of their fans ability to travel in support of their team.

Regardless as a host city it is our job to be as helpful and friendly as possible. If they come for the baseball and then return at later date for our food and festivals and down home hospitality then we've all come out winners.