Beach Ball Classic a Boost to Economy

Justin Felder - WMBF News

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) – Two days into the 29th Annual Beach Ball Classic, local businesses are seeing a boost from the crowds the tournament brings in.

"The last couple days we have picked up with business from the tournament coming in," said Damon's Grill office manager Connie Howenstine. "It's real nice. It definitely helps us out some."

The tournament draws 16 teams from all over the country, just two of which are from our area: Socastee and Myrtle Beach High School. The rest are from as far away as Las Vegas, and the friends, family members, trainers, coaches and others do more than just attend games.

"Of course we went shopping," said Paul White, whose grandson plays for JL Mann High School in Greenville. "We went to the mall, bought a few things. We went to a local restaurant, too."

The tournament, however, is not immune to a down economy. It's too early to tell exactly how this year's tournament compares to those in the past, but veterans of the event see a difference.

"The economy has definitely had an effect on our sponsorships and we don't have as many sponsors as we had two years ago, but we've seen some recovery this year," said Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes, who also serves as Beach Ball Classic Director.

The Beach Ball Classic runs through New Year's Eve at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

For more information, visit wmbfnews.com.