COLLEGE STATION – The Savannah Bananas' historic game at Texas A&M's Kyle Field generated more than $21 million in direct economic impact for the city of College Station and much of the Brazos Valley, emphasizing the power of collaboration between the university, Texas A&M Athletics and the surrounding communities.
Tabbed as the biggest game in Banana Ball history, more than 102,000 people flocked to a transformed Kyle Field for the Saturday evening showdown with the Texas Tailgaters on May 2. The family-friendly day began in Aggie Park, where more than 25,000 fans gathered for pregame festivities. The game attendance eclipsed the previous single-game record by more than 20,000 attendees to help deliver a significant boost to the local economy. The $21 million in direct economic impact included money spent by visitors for hotels, parking, concessions and transportation. In addition, the event generated an estimated $3.5 million in gross revenue for Texas A&M.
The event drew more than 35,000 overnight visitors that generated an estimated $8 million in lodging, adding more than $4.3 million for local restaurants.
The success of the Savannah Bananas' gameday festivities and community events leading into the weekend showcased Texas A&M Athletics' commitment to maximizing its reach beyond traditional collegiate athletics events. Athletics, along with the university and city of College Station, aim to continue utilizing iconic venues like Kyle Field to attract new audiences, generate economic impact and create memorable experiences for those in attendance and in the community.
Economic impact breakdown
College Station direct economic impact: $21,000,000
Kyle Field attendance: 102,000
Overnight attendance: 35,000
Lodging impact (est.): $8,000,000
Restaurant impact (est.): $4,350,000
Texas A&M gross revenue (est.): $3,500,000
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Texas AandM University
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