The inaugural Savannah Invitational, hosted by Top Court Events at the Savannah Convention Center, generated an estimated $3,383,797 in economic impact for the Savannah/Chatham County community from May 22–24, underscoring the significant value sports tourism brings to the local economy.

The three-day volleyball tournament welcomed 206 teams from 13 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. More than 82% of participating teams traveled from outside the region, bringing thousands of athletes, coaches, and family members to Savannah over Memorial Day weekend.

The event produced more than $3.3 million in visitor spending, including $934,356 in lodging expenditures. Additional spending benefited restaurants, retail establishments, transportation providers, attractions, and other local businesses throughout the destination.

“Sports tourism is a vital part of Savannah’s customer mix, helping us diversify visitation and create demand beyond traditional leisure travel,” said Joseph Marinelli, President and CEO of Visit Savannah and the Savannah Sports Council. “Events like the Savannah Invitational fill hotel rooms, support local businesses, and introduce Savannah to athletes and families who may become repeat visitors for years to come.”

The Savannah Invitational highlights the growing role of sports tourism as an economic driver for the region. Events of this scale help fill hotel rooms, increase customer traffic for local businesses, and generate tax revenue to support community services and infrastructure.

By attracting visitors who may not otherwise travel to Savannah, tournaments like the Savannah Invitational create lasting economic benefits while showcasing the destination to new audiences. The Savannah Invitational is committed to returning to Savannah in 2027, with the potential to expand in both size and duration.