City welcomes national tourney for the first time, preps for economic ‘surge’
DUNN – The city of Dunn announced its successful bid to host the 2025 Dixie Youth Baseball AA World Series.
This marks Dunn’s first ever opportunity to showcase its hospitality on a national stage and Mayor William Elmore expressed his pride in the city’s selection.
“We are thrilled to have been chosen to host the 2025 DYB World Series. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community,” he said.
“We look forward to showcasing Dunn’s warm hospitality and creating lasting memories for all participants.”
The DYB World Series is expected to bring a surge of economic activity to the area, welcoming 22 to 24 teams representing nearly a dozen states from the southern region. Previous host cities reported an estimated $3.4 million boost to the local economy, making it a significant opportunity for Dunn’s local businesses to thrive.
David Bradham, city councilman and chairman for the Dunn Area Tourism Authority, spoke about the potential financial impact.
“Having the World Series coming to Dunn is terrific news. This will be a great way to showcase what we have to offer here in Dunn, as well as an economic windfall for this area,” he said.
A delegation from the city — including Dunn Parks and Recreation Director Brian McNeill, Dunn Recreation Booster Carolyn Elmore and Dunn Area Tourism Authority Director Cristy Bullock — traveled to Ruston, Louisiana to present Dunn as the ideal host city. Their efforts, combined with the support of Mayor Elmore, the Dunn City Council, city staff, Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dunn Area Tourism Authority Board of Directors made this achievement possible.
“It has been a group effort making this a reality. I look forward to the city of Dunn hosting this event and now we will have to roll our sleeves up and get to work as the preparations begin,” Bradham said.
Dunn has hosted a number of DYB state tournaments in previous years and recently added Clarence Lee Tart Park to the festivities during last summer’s event.
It’s a positive reputation McNeill feels was important in landing his department’s first ever World Series.
“We’re ready for it, we’re looking to make a big statement with this because we don’t want it to be the only one,” he said during a recent phone interview with The Daily Record. “Once it comes, it’ll be big for the community. It’ll definitely showcase Dunn in a great way.”
The week-long competition runs two separate 8-and-under tournaments simultaneously, as Divisions I and II are expected to crown champions. McNeill says both Tart and Tyler parks will be available for use.
As preparations for the World Series get underway, Dunn is committed to ensuring a seamless and memorable event for all involved. The city’s hospitality industry, local businesses and community organizations are eagerly preparing to welcome the teams, their coaches and their families.
-Dunn Daily Record
