Jackfish Highlight Economic Contributions to Local Community
Welland, ON – The Jackfish drew over 54,000 fans to Welland Stadium during the 2024 season, generating a significant economic boost for the Niagara Region, contributing over $1.9 million in economic impact.
Approximately 10% of attendees were from out of the region, hailing from 4 different provinces and 6 different states.
The Jackfish employ a core staff of three full-time employees, along with 6 interns, 30 game-day workers, and several volunteers during the 2024 season. In total, these jobs contributed more than $469,435 in labour income. Many teens from the Niagara region found their first jobs with the Jackfish, with 9 new workers joining the workforce for the first time this season.
A total of 34 baseball players passed through Welland to play for the Jackfish, most coming from outside the region, further enhancing the local economy with their presence and spending.
In addition to bringing in visitors, the Jackfish supported local businesses by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, including stadium signage, apparel, concessions, and transportation. These partnerships infused the Niagara economy with $803,898 in 2024.
The Fish also had a record year giving back to the community, raising over $80,000 to local charities, including:
- $63,777 raised for Crimestoppers of Niagara through the 2023 season 50/50 draws
- $4,358 raised for Ronald McDonald House Charity through the Strikeout for Families Campaign
- $3,266 raised for YMCA Niagara through our pitching tunnel program
- 139 VIP tickets donated to honour military members
- $1,000 donated to youth baseball organizations
- $7,222 raised for Youth Baseball teams through our The Challenge campaign
- $708 raised from in support of Hospice Niagara
- 574 Tickets Donated to Local Charities and Non-For-Profits
The Jackfish are excited to continue supporting the local economy in the coming years.
The Welland Jackfish are a member of Canada’s best league, the Intercounty Baseball League. The over 100-year old summer league is one of the oldest baseball leagues in the world, with the league established in 1919, drawing significantly more fans, in a friendly ballpark experience, than any league of its kind. For more information, visit www.wellandjackfish.com or follow the Jackfish on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @wellandjackfish