Good news, 253: Several WIAA high school state championships staying in Pierce County

Several important high school athletics state championship events are staying in Pierce County through 2028, which is good news for the local economy.

It’s good news for the proud residents of the 253, too.

After opening its championship events across Washington for bids to host, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) selected Pierce County venues to host state basketball, wrestling, soccer and track-and-field championships through 2028.

“The WIAA is thrilled to host state championships in Tacoma and Pierce County for four more years,” WIAA executive director Mick Hoffman said in a statement. “After a comprehensive bidding process, including a more competitive bid from Tacoma Venues & Events, Travel Tacoma, Tacoma Public Schools, and the Puyallup School District, we deemed there was nowhere else better suited to host these state championships.”

With the agreement, the following events will remain in Pierce County:

• The Tacoma Dome will continue to host Washington State’s Class 3A-4A high school basketball and 1A-4A wrestling championships.
• Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma will host 1A and 2A high school girls’ soccer championships as well as 2A-4A track and field championships.
• Sparks Stadium in Puyallup will host the state’s annual 3A and 4A girls’ soccer championships.

Travel Tacoma and Tacoma Venues & Events estimate these events, which draw tens of thousands of athletes and spectators from around the state, combine for an estimated $10.3 million in economic impact to the area annually.

“With competing cities from around the state eyeing these events, we’re thrilled Tacoma Venues & Events, Tacoma Public Schools and the Puyallup School District stepped up to ensure basketball, wrestling, soccer, and track will remain here,” said Dean Burke, President and CEO, Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier. “These athletes, families and their friends bring a lot of energy, excitement and meaningful impact to our communities and businesses across Pierce County. During the tournament, they’re athletes and spectators, but when they’re not competing, they’re welcome visitors.”

“The return of the state championships to Tacoma and Pierce County marks an exciting chapter in our region’s sporting history. We are thrilled to partner with the WIAA to host these prestigious events for four more years. This not only showcases our commitment to fostering athletic excellence but also highlight’s Tacoma’s reputation as a premier destination for top-tier competition,” said Tacoma mayor Victoria Woodards. “We look forward to welcoming the athletes, their families, and fans to our city and providing an unforgettable championship experience.”