O.C. Executive Supports Middletown’s Bid to Host Future State Playoff Games

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus announced that the County will support Middletown School District’s proposals to secure future New York State high school championships with $6,000 in County assistance.

Since 2010, Middletown High School has hosted the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) boys’ soccer semifinals and championships. Middletown will host the boys’ lacrosse finals this June and the boys’ and girls’ track and field championships in 2019.

“These events at Middletown are well-attended and create a tremendous amount of revenue for Orange County,” Neuhaus said. “Hotels are booked and restaurants seats are filled as a result of these athletic events. The state championships held at Middletown highlight our county in a variety of ways and I think it is important to keep them here. Middletown has some of the best athletic facilities in the state and it is great to be able to showcase them.”

According to the Orange County Executive’s office the state boys’ soccer semifinals and championships at Middletown have generated about $500,000 annually for Orange County’s economy. The boys’ lacrosse final is expected to add about $250,000. The boys’ and girls’ track and field championship should generate approximately $500,000.

The boys’ soccer event will remain in Middletown through 2017 and the school district is planning to bid to host them from 2018-2020. Middletown is also going to bid to host the boys’ lacrosse championships in 2017-18, and the boys’ and girls’ track and field championships in 2020-22.

With sectional approval any venue in the state can bid to host a state championship. The NYSPHSAA considers future sites based on location, size of the venue, quality of the facility, effectiveness of site committee, spectator interest, handicap accessibility, proposed expenses, parking, volunteerism, hotel room rates & availability, restaurants, security and sponsorship/community financial commitment.

“We have a strong and proud tradition of hosting NYSPHSAA championships at Middletown,” said David Coates, Middletown’s Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics. “The additional support provided by County Executive Neuhaus will help us continue that tradition.”