Columbia Recognized for Economic Impact in Sports Tourism; Midstate Classic Set for March

The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department has been named a 2025 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management. The award recognizes the national impact of the Ridley Sports Complex, which draws thousands of athletes and visitors each year and supports local hotels, restaurants, retailers, and small businesses. Across all 2025 champions nationwide, more than $1.4 billion in economic activity was generated.

Honored in the Small Market category, the Ridley Sports Complex will host the 11th Annual Midstate Classic on March 10, 2026. The collegiate softball showcase features:

• 10:00 a.m. – Columbia Central vs. Spring Hill

• 1:30 p.m. – Columbia State vs. Calhoun Community College

• 5:30 p.m. – University of Tennessee vs. Austin Peay

Gates open at 7:30 a.m. General admission is $10 and includes access to all three games. Tickets are available at columbiatn.gov.

The city said it looks forward to continued growth in sports tourism and ensuring the Ridley Sports Complex remains one of Tennessee’s premier sports destinations.