Swanger Sports Complex Generates $6.5 Million From Texarkana Visitors
Texarkana's Swanger Sports Complex is making a growing impact on the local economy, with tournaments during the 2026 summer season generating an estimated $6.5 million in direct visitor spending.
A new economic impact report prepared by Texarkana native and Texas A&M University graduate Derek Murphy analyzed tournament and visitor data from February through June 2026.
During that time, Swanger hosted 15 tournaments featuring 420 teams and an estimated 43,000 visitors from across Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma. About 61% of those visitors traveled from outside the local area, bringing new money to Texarkana hotels, restaurants, retailers, and other businesses.
The report also shows significant growth since the complex was renovated, including a 431% increase in visitors traveling 100 or more miles and a 68% increase in dining visits following tournament events.
Sports Tourism Brings New Visitors to Texarkana
Texarkana City Manager David Orr said the impact of Swanger extends well beyond the playing fields.
“These tournaments are bringing thousands of visitors to Texarkana who are staying in our hotels, eating at local restaurants, shopping locally, and experiencing our community,” Orr said.
He added that the growth shows the complex is both an asset for local youth sports and an important part of Texarkana’s future economic growth.
Swanger will host five tournaments this fall, while six additional tournaments are scheduled at the Grady T. Wallace Complex. League games will also continue at both facilities, bringing thousands of additional visitors to the area.
Parks Department Sees Continued Growth
Texarkana Parks Director Keith Beason said the department is proud to see local teams and visiting players using the facilities.
“This growth reflects the work that has gone into making this complex a destination that teams want to keep returning to each season,” Beason said.
The full 2026 Summer Season Economic Development Report is available through the City of Texarkana website, along with the upcoming Swanger tournament schedule.
The economic impact estimate is based on Sports ETA's reported average spending of $883 per traveling family.
For more information about tournaments, contact Parks and Recreation Sports and League Manager Ross Cowling at 903-798-3978 or rcowling@texarkanatexas.gov.
LOOK: These Things in the 1980s Scared the Heck Out of Kids
Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz