For Immediate Release

Governor Carney visits new sports complex, cheering its early successes

Frederica, Del. (May 26, 2017) – Governor John Carney visited DE Turf Sports Complex on Wednesday, meeting with DE Turf’s Board Chair, William (Bill) Strickland, and Executive Director, Chris Giacomucci. Governor Carney and guests toured the 85-acre complex’s fields and championship stadium. Additional guests included Cerron Cade, Delaware Economic Development Office's Acting Director and Linda Parkowski, Delaware Tourism Director.

Only days before, DE Turf Sports Complex held a robust ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by a large crowd of supporters, sports enthusiasts, community leaders and government officials.

“We are actively driving the economy already,” said Bill Strickland, chairman of the DE Turf Board of Directors. “Our first major showcase last month brought in more than 4,000 visitors to Delaware in one weekend. 84 field hockey teams played on our fantastic all-turf fields, supported by their families, friends, and the community.”

A feasibility study estimated DE Turf would have an economic impact of $18 million annually, based on 10 events per year. DE Turf has doubled that estimate with 20 events book its first year.

“DE Turf is off to a great start and delivering on the promise to provide economic impact to Delaware," said Linda Parkowski, Delaware Tourism Director.

“As we head into the summer, we are focused on continuing to provide world-class service as well as garnering new partnerships. We want to be seen as a major economic and community driver here in Delaware. We are very encouraged by our first year and are already fielding calls for additional events and sponsorships,” said Chris Giacomucci, DE Turf’s Executive Director.

DE Turf and Governor Carney are committed to expanding economic opportunities for Delaware residents and the tourism industry.

“Delaware’s tourism industry contributes $3.1 billion to our economy and supports 42,000 jobs across our state. This facility will attract young athletes and families from across the region, bringing even more visitors to experience everything Delaware has to offer. Thank you to DE Turf for the tour, and for your efforts to strengthen our economy,” said Governor Carney.

For information about registering for a DE Turf camp or becoming a sponsor of the complex, call 302-330-TURF (8873) or email info@deturf.com.

About DE Turf

The award-winning, state-of-the-art sports complex is the largest all-turf, multi-use venue of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic. It features 12 synthetic turf fields located in Frederica, Delaware. The mission of DE Turf is to serve as an economic engine for central Delaware, providing a first-class sports destination venue that attracts sports tourism to the area, as well as services the local community needs for youth to play, learn, compete and grow. For more information on the facility, visit www.DETurf.com, like DE Turf on Facebook and follow @DE_Turf on Twitter (#DETurf).

Media Contact:

Lisa Flowers

media@deturf.com

302-233-2915