After an unprecedented, competitive bidding process, several major championship events are staying in Pierce County through 2028
 
TACOMA, WA – April 23, 2024: After simultaneously opening all high school championship events across Washington state for bids to host, the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has selected Pierce County venues to host Washington state high school basketball, wrestling, soccer and track and field championships through 2028. Today’s announcement from the WIAA, Tacoma Venues & Events representing the City of Tacoma’s Tacoma Dome, and Visit Tacoma-Pierce County – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports (Visit Tacoma-Pierce County) introduces a new four-year agreement covering the years 2025-2028, after the current agreement expires at the end of 2024.
 
With the agreement, the Tacoma Dome will continue to host Washington State’s 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, and Sparks Stadium in Puyallup will host the state’s annual 3A and 4A girls’ soccer championships. Drawing tens of thousands of diverse athletes and spectators from around the state, these events combine for an estimated $10.3 million in economic impact to the area annually.
 
Partnering on the successful bid were Tacoma Venues & Events, Visit Tacoma-Pierce County, Tacoma Public Schools, and the Puyallup School District.
 
"The WIAA is thrilled to host state championships in Tacoma and Pierce County for four more years. After a comprehensive bidding process, including a more competitive bid from Tacoma Venues & Events, Visit Tacoma-Pierce County, Tacoma Public Schools, and the Puyallup School District, we deemed there was nowhere else better suited to host these state championships," said Mick Hoffman, WIAA Executive Director. "The Tacoma Dome, Mount Tahoma High School and Sparks Stadium provide an outstanding atmosphere and experience for student-athletes, families, and fans from every corner of our state. We look forward to putting on unforgettable events in the region for years to come."
 
“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, Visit Tacoma-Pierce County – 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 Mayor Victoria Woodards. “We look forward to welcoming the athletes, their families, and fans to our city and providing an unforgettable championship experience.”
 
About WIAA
Founded in 1905, the WIAA is a membership organization of over 800 middle-level and high schools from every corner of the state with the goal of making memories through education-based activities. The WIAA supports and sponsors 23 sports along with five activities that incorporate over 500,000 student participants. The WIAA and its member schools believe in the value of extra-curricular activities that have been linked to better-standardized test scores, increased school attendance, improved physical and mental health, and a more positive student experience.
 
About Visit Tacoma-Pierce County - Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports: Visit Tacoma-Pierce County – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports is the official destination marketing organization for Tacoma and Pierce County, Washington. Accredited by Destinations International. For more information, visit www.traveltacoma.com.
 
About Tacoma Venues & Events
The City of Tacoma enhances quality of life for the community and drives economic vitality through its premier venues and diverse entertainment opportunities.  Tacoma Venues & Events manages these renowned venues which include the Tacoma Dome, one of the world’s largest wood domed structures with flexible seating configurations ranging from 5,000-21,500; the Greater Tacoma Convention Center, artful and modern with its trademark glass walls and 119,000 square feet of event space; Cheney Stadium, home of the Tacoma Rainiers; and the historic Pantages and Rialto Theaters, and Theater on the Square.  The department includes special events and film permitting.
 
For media inquiries, please contact:
Matt Wakefield
Chief Marketing and Data Officer
(253) 284-3253
 
Hillary Brenner
Marketing Director
(253) 593-7625