MondayJuly 6, 2026

QC gets lessons on power of sports tourism

Industry leader discusses the trends, field’s future 
By: Dave Thompson|February 12, 2026
|6 min read
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    • John David, the president and CEO of the Sports Events & Tourism Association, talks with attendees Wednesday, Feb. 11, after “The Power of Sports Tourism” presentation at Vibrant Arena at The Mark in downtown Moline. CREDIT DAVE THOMPSON

    John David wants people in the business community to remember this: Sports tourism is more than just getting people to a community and putting heads in beds in local hotels.

    Sports tourism is about education, quality of life, creating jobs, health and wellness, spurring economic development and especially creating great memories for young people.

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