Bryan/College Station hosting more than 500 sports teams this weekend

This podcast is a visit with Destination Bryan tourism office director John Friebele and WTAW's Bill Oliver.Thursday (February 5) begins four days of sports tourism events in Bryan/College Station where three events will combine to bring in as many as 545 teams.The director of the Destination Bryan tourism office, John Friebele, says the popularity of sports tourism is a testament to local cooperation. That includes city departments, Bryan and College Station ISD's for allowing the use of their facilities, the operators of Legends Events Center and Veterans Park, and volunteer ambassadors assisting the out of town teams and fans.Thursday and Friday, Friebele says 45 teams are competing in a UIL wrestling regional. Saturday and Sunday, 300 volleyball teams and 200 soccer teams are playing at various locations.Friebele says the events will generate multiple millions of dollars in local economic impact.The timing of these events takes place during February's First Friday event in downtown Bryan. This month's list of activities includes a Valentine’s Day card station at the Destination Bryan booth, a free photo booth at the Carnegie History Center, and extended hours at the Brazos Valley African American Museum.