Red Baron Arena and Expo helps put Marshall on the map
The Red Baron Arena and Expo opened in June of 2016 and has been an asset to Marshall’s tourism industry ever since. The arena is on par with facilities in the metropolitan area. Red Baron Arena and Expo hosts hockey tournaments, open skate, and as well as public and private events.
Red Baron Arena allows Marshall to host three new tournaments. There are waiting lists for tournaments, which is unprecedented. The arena has drawn interest locally and regionally, as Marshall’s success as a sports destination comes from its partnership with SMSU, Marshall Public Schools and its business community.
Marshall is one of twelve regional sports venues helped developed by the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission. Because Marshall lacks quality hotels, the town partners with Granite Falls, Canby and Morton to assist in its sports and tourism industry.
The commission is working on a strategic plan to enhance Marshall as a sports destination. The plan includes the completion of the ball field complex adjacent to Red Baron Arena and Expo. The completion of the fields will attract youth baseball and softball leagues as well as adult softball tournaments. Economic concentration and the development of hotels and restaurants is also a part of long-term plans.
The commission looks ahead to connecting all sports associations. The goal is to host expanded events and pursue the development of hotels. In August, Marshall will host the VFW Baseball Tournament. As the host site of the American Legion Field, Marshall continues to grow as a sports destination.