LAKE CHARLES, Louisiana – Visit Lake Charles is pleased to announce the formation of the Lake Charles Regional Sports Authority (LCRSA). The new division of Visit Lake Charles further strengthens its commitment to sports and appeals to event rights holders seeking destinations focused on hosting and promoting sports and recreational events of all sizes.
“Visit Lake Charles is an established leader in sports tourism,” said Kyle Edmiston, President and CEO of Visit Lake Charles. “The formation of the LCRSA underscores our commitment to sports organizers to attract more high-profile events and strengthen partnerships.”
Lake Charles is one of Louisiana’s premier sports destinations, hosting numerous sporting events including the U.S. Olympic Boxing Qualifiers for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, as well as numerous youth events such as the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) boys’ basketball, swimming, baseball and softball championships, the American Junior Golf Association’s Lake Charles Junior Championship and the Southland Conference basketball championships. Most recently, it was announced that Visit Lake Charles will host the 2026, 2027 and 2028 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Women’s Division I Basketball Championships.
The LCRSA will partner with local, state and national sports organizations, as well as local venues and facilities, to bring more events to the region. This approach will help Southwest Louisiana remain competitive in the sports tourism industry by growing and improving events to ensure operational and financial success.
In addition to his current position as Senior Vice President of Sports at Visit Lake Charles, Eric Zartler will also serve as Executive Director of the LCRSA.
“We want to make Southwest Louisiana a center for sports tourism,” Zartler said. “Our goal is to provide athletes and fans with unforgettable experiences while showcasing the energy and passion of our community.”
About Visit Lake Charles:
Visit Lake Charles, the official destination marketing organization for Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana, is the only organization in Southwest Louisiana that advocates for, promotes, and educates the tourism industry. For more information about Visit Lake Charles and what to see and do in Louisiana’s Playground, visit www.visitlakecharles.org.
