LITLE ROCK, Ark. (Oct. 16, 2014) – Mayor Mark Stodola announced today support from the City of Little Rock for this weekend’s Arkansas Razorback football game against the Georgia Bulldogs. The Oct. 18 game will be the only home game the Razorbacks will play in Little Rock this year.

The Little Rock game, played at War Memorial Stadium, delivers an important revenue boost for local business owners. According to the economic models provided by the National Association of Sports Commissions and the Destination Marketing Association International, the direct gross spending by spectators at this event is estimated at $3,757,875.

Mayor Stodola explained the importance of this sporting event to the City and its residents.

“As mayor of Little Rock, I am committed to the economic growth of our city,” said Stodola. “Razorback games hosted in Little Rock support our business community and increase our visibility as a destination. Local business owners in a wide variety of industries seize this opportunity to generate revenue and consequently strengthen our economy.”

Little Rock’s Razorback game also has a positive impact on the central Arkansas hospitality industry. Gretchen Hall, president and CEO of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, outlined the game’s weekend-long influence, with many Arkansans across the state making their way to the capital city on Friday night.

“Having the game at War Memorial Stadium provides a tremendous boost to the local economy,” said Hall. “Thousands of visiting Hog fans will be spending money on lodging, restaurants and other businesses throughout central Arkansas.”

The number of home games played in Little Rock has decreased over the years. Many believe the University of Arkansas will assess this weekend’s attendance to determine if the Little Rock game tradition will continue. Kevin Crass, chairman of the War Memorial Stadium Commission, stressed the importance of hosting a sold-out game.

“Little Rock has a long and great tradition of hosting the Razorback football team at War Memorial Stadium,” said Crass. “The games are part of the DNA of our community. It is critical that the fans help us make the Georgia game a sellout.”

Mayor Stodola also expressed his confidence in the Hogs’ ability to achieve yet another victory in Little Rock.

“The Razorbacks have a great winning tradition at War Memorial Stadium – I predict our team will win this match!”

The Arkansas vs. Georgia game will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. in War Memorial Stadium. Tickets are $65 and are still available online at www.arkansasrazorbacks.com, at the north end zone ticket office of the stadium or by calling (501) 663-6385.

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