The Hoover Met Complex in Hoover, Alabama, has solidified its position as a premier sports and events destination, driving significant economic impact and providing valuable community resources. This state-of-the-art facility, comprising eight separate venues, including the Hoover Met Stadium, Finley Center, and various sports fields, has become a cornerstone of both local and regional development.
Economic Impact and Visitor Numbers
In the 2024 fiscal year (October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024), the Hoover Met Complex generated a remarkable $91.3 million in total economic impact, surpassing the previous year’s figure of $90.4 million by $912,238.
The complex’s ability to increase economic impact despite slightly lower attendance in 2024 (712,131 guests this year vs. 712,968 in FY2023) is attributed to a strategic focus on high-impact events and tournaments. For instance, while local events like Hoover High School Football saw reduced participation due to not qualifying for home playoff games, the complex compensated with increased attendance at major events such as the SEC Baseball Tournament.
Key Events and Partnerships
The Hoover Met Complex’s success in 2024 was driven by several marquee events:
- SEC Baseball Tournament
- Perfect Game National Baseball Tournaments
- Blue Chips Battle of the Magic City Classic Basketball Tournament
- BUSA Soccer Tournaments
These events not only brought in significant revenue but also generated 92,074 hotel room nights in the Hoover and regional area, further boosting the local economy.
The complex’s partnership with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau has been instrumental in recruiting events, while Away Team Travel has provided a turnkey solution for hotel stays. These collaborations, along with a robust sponsorship program, have been crucial in maximizing the facility’s economic impact.
Community Engagement and Local Usage
Despite its focus on large-scale events, the Hoover Met Complex remains committed to serving the local community. In 2024, 74,384 local individuals utilized the various facilities within the complex:
– Explore Playground & Splash Pad: 41,430 visitors
– Indoor Walking Track: 14,753 users
– Tennis Center: 6,530 players
– Indoor Pickleball Courts: 6,006 pickleballers
– Hoover Heights Climbing Center: 4,210 climbers
– Open Gym: 797 participants
– Summer Camp: 658 attendees
Additionally, 181,405 local participants engaged in activities ranging from little league practices to parks and recreation programming, demonstrating the complex’s vital role in community recreation.
Employment and Economic Contribution
The Hoover Met Complex is also a significant employer in the region, directly supporting 18 full-time staff members and maintaining a part-time workforce of approximately 170 people. This employment not only provides job opportunities but also contributes to the overall economic vitality of the area.
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright for the Hoover Met Complex, with several new high-profile events secured for the coming year, including Adidas 3SSB Girls Basketball, NXTPRO Hoops, and MADE Hoops tournaments. The complex will also host Victory Event Series Lacrosse and another Deep South Cheer competition.
Furthermore, the extension of the agreement to host the SEC Baseball Tournament for four more years, with options to extend, ensures a continued influx of visitors and economic benefits. This event alone drew 180,000 spectators in 2024.
The Hoover Met Complex has proven itself to be a versatile and dynamic facility, balancing the needs of the local community with the economic benefits of hosting major events. As it continues to evolve and attract new opportunities, the complex is poised to remain a significant driver of economic growth and community engagement in Hoover and the surrounding region.
