Read the full April 17 GSL newsletter

This past weekend, St. Louis streets teemed with sports fans. While big league teams dominate the region’s sports scene, smaller events and tournaments — like the Frozen Four, the NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey Championship — are bringing in new fans as well, thanks to the partnership of organizations like Explore St. Louis and the St. Louis Sports Commission.

“A big part of our role is to amplify and expand upon the brand of St. Louis, which is anchored in sports, and make it a great sports market that offers so much more entertainment,” said Explore’s new President and CEO Brad Dean.

The Bottom Line: Anchor sports teams St. Louis Cardinals, Blues, CITY SC, and the Battlehawks bring big crowds and dollars to the region while other teams and tournaments offer additional opportunity to grow the local economy — and St. Louis’ profile as a thriving, supportive sports town.