Henrico to host 2 statewide sporting events this weekend

Henrico County this weekend will host the 2020 USA Softball Virginia State Championship at Dorey Park and the Glen Allen Softball Complex and the Virginia Pickleball Classic at Pouncey Tract Park.

The events mark the return of statewide competition to the county. Both will adhere strictly to the Phase Two requirements for recreational sports, according to Henrico officials. Those include physical distancing, enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices and increased workplace safety practices.

“Although athletic events may look different post-pandemic, we are still committed to safely supporting sports tourism in Henrico. We look forward to its return and everything it does for Henrico County,” said Three Chopt District Supervisor Tommy Branin, the chairman of the county’s Board of Supervisors.

“We are cautiously excited at our return to the diamonds in Henrico County for our long-awaited softball tournaments,” said John McPhail, USA Softball of Virginia Junior Olympic commissioner.  “As always, the games will be played in a competitive spirit, but more important this year is our compliance with the Commonwealth’s safety guidelines so that our athletes and spectators alike can participate in a safe environment. As the Richmond region’s hospitality industry begins to reopen, we also look forward to taking advantage of the area’s outstanding hotels, restaurants and attractions – and again, all in keeping within Governor Northam’s directives.”

There are currently, 33 sports tourism events booked throughout the region that are scheduled through Labor Day. The events should provide a boost to the region’s hospitality industry and are projected to bring a direct economic impact of $21 million.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming fans and athletes back to the region,” said Richmond Region Tourism President and CEO Jack Berry. "We understand how vital sports tourism is to the recovery of the region's hospitality industry and the positive economic impact these events have on our community. Regional partners and operators are working together to take every precaution to guarantee a safe environment for both players and fans by strictly adhering to the guidance offered by Virginia's governor and Department of Health.”