News Release from City of Branson:

The United States Sports Specialty Association (USSSA) has announced it will be holding its 2009 girls ages 10 and under World Series Fast Pitch Softball Championship in Branson July 20-26. According to Branson Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Shook, this is the first time the event has been held in Branson.

"We are very excited to be hosting this girls’ World Series Tournament," said Shook. "We have had the boys’ 11 and under World Series here the past five years, and now we have the opportunity to show the girls’ teams why Branson is an ideal location for their tournaments."

All games will be played at the Branson RecPlex ball fields. The USSSA Fast Pitch program will use a 5-game guarantee format in the World Series Tournament.

Silver Dollar City will host the opening day ceremonies July 20 at its Echo Hollow amphitheater and provide entertainment for the young athletes, coaches and their families.

More than 35 teams from around the country will be participating in the World Series and that adds up to about 2,000 visitors staying, eating and being entertained in Branson over the seven day period.

"The economic impact of this World Series to the Branson business community is over $850, 000,"said Shook.

During the months of July and August, the Branson RecPlex will be hosting 17 state, regional and national tournaments. In addition to providing recreation activities to area residents, the Branson RecPlex has become an economic development engine that has generated additional visitors and revenue to the Branson area.