LI Ducks generate $501 million over 25 years: Report

The Long Island Ducks baseball team has generated more than $501 million over the past 25 years, highlighting the growing role of sports tourism in the region, according to a Discover Long Island reports that

The economic impact report, released April 16, found the Ducks have contributed to the local economy since the team began playing at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in 2000. According to the study, the team generated approximately $20 million in annual revenue.

The report found more than $12 million in direct spending each year through ticket sales, concessions, sponsorships, payroll and operations. Another $6 million comes from indirect spending, including local vendors and businesses that support the team.

Beyond the stadium, Ducks fans generate about $15 million annually in off-site spending at nearby restaurants, retail shops and other businesses, further boosting the local economy — particularly in Suffolk County, where the ballpark is located.

“The $501 million is the total impact over 25 years, based on about $20 million generated each year,” said Courtney Guiry, director of public relations and communications. “That annual number includes direct spending, indirect spending and induced spending, using conservative, industry-standard multipliers to estimate the ripple effects.”

The study was conducted internally by Discover Long Island. Officials said the estimates were intentionally conservative to ensure credibility.

While the report looked at Long Island as a whole, officials said most of the economic benefits occur in Suffolk County.

“While the report looks at Long Island as a whole, most of the impact occurs in Suffolk County since that’s where the stadium, vendors, and the majority of fan spending are located,” Guiry said.

Since their first season, the Ducks have welcomed nearly 9.5 million fans.

Officials also noted that tourism plays an important role in the overall economic impact. Although most fans are Long Island residents, out-of-town visitors often spend more money during their trips.

Source: LI Press