Charleston, W.Va. – The Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau is shifting its focus to sports tourism this fall and winter following successful spring and summer events. Tim Brady, President and CEO, highlighted key upcoming events:

– **USA Karate All American Classic**: Scheduled for October 25-27 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center, expected to attract approximately 800 youth athletes competing for national titles.
– **Statewide High School Tournaments**: Including volleyball, cheer championships, and the revived WVSSAC High School Football Championships on December 6-7, returning to Charleston after 30 years.

Brady emphasized the importance of youth sports for tourism, noting the economic impact from events like the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships, which generated an estimated $4.6 million in May. With hotel revenues and rental bookings up 19% year-over-year, Brady aims to build on this momentum and capitalize on youth sporting events, attracting families and increasing travel to the area. He expressed confidence that sports tourism will continue to flourish in Charleston, particularly with future opportunities at the new Capital Sports Center.