BINGHAMTON, NY (607NewsNow) – Youth sports are an economic driver in the Southern Tier.

According to the Broome County Industrial Development Agency and Local Development Corporation, the recent boys’ High School Basketball State Championships in Binghamton generated $1.6 million in economic impact.

It includes revenue from hotel stays, dining, transportation, local services, and shopping. Players, coaches, family, and fans from 24 school districts across the state made their way to Binghamton for the tournament, held from March 19 to 22 at Visions Veteran Memorial Arena.

According to Fox 40, it was the second year of a 3-year deal hosting the championships.