If you want to nominate an event (or more than one event) for SDM's 2025 awards program, Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism, now's the time! The application is live NOW and entry is free. Don't wait: Deadline is September 8!

Summer is for baseball and softball. Firecracker Sports has made this the time to seek out some new hosts for the 25-plus showcase events it puts on annually throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Firecracker is willing to use multi-field complexes as well as multiple venues scattered around the hosting city. Step up to the plate here.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), often linked to structural or electrical abnormalities in the heart, is the leading cause of death in young athletes since such abnormalities often go undetected until it is too late. In recent weeks, new laws passed in at least three states take sharp aim at increasing heart safety for high school student-athletes.

Summertime means movie theaters are crowded with the latest action flicks and kids’ entertainment. They're not generally the venues to take in a marching band competition – despite the fact that high school band is bigger than ever. But Drum Corps International has found a way to bring its high-energy show to those who can’t make its nationwide tour.

Is there an echo in here? Qatar wants to host the 2036 Summer Games but because of the heat, is proposing to move them to the fall. History has already recorded the 2022 World Cup, held in midwinter, as an all-time low for FIFA and the tipping point for an investigation into corruption. Will the IOC flex or will it stay fixed on its July/August dates?

Combat sports are flourishing. Two big developments this year that will help them grow include the NCAA’s announcement that the inaugural women’s wrestling championship is expected next spring. Also, the International Boxing Association has added the discipline of bare knuckle boxing; its edgy, raw vibe is expected to attract new fans. Here’s more.