Detroit Sports Commission Receives Sports ETA’s Event of the Year for 2024 NFL Draft

TULSA, OK — [April 15, 2025] – The Detroit Sports Commission has been awarded the Sports ETA Event of the Year Award for a population over 500,000, recognizing the transformational impact of the 2024 NFL Draft hosted in Detroit in April 2024.

Detroit welcomed over 775,000 fans, yielding a $213 million economic impact and $40 million in media value. Their “Living Legacy” program directed $1.7 million to more than 50 youth-focused nonprofits, creating a meaningful footprint that extended far beyond the event itself.

“Detroit not only hosted a world-class event but also ensured its impact was deeply rooted in community investment,” said John David, President & CEO of Sports ETA. “Their legacy work is an inspiration to all of us in the sports events tourism industry.”

Sports ETA Member Awards are presented by Team Travel Source.

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About Sports ETA: As the only trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, Sports ETA is the most trusted resource for sports commissions, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and sports event owners. Sports ETA is committed to the success of more than 700 member organizations and 2,400 sports event professionals. We promise to deliver quality education, ample networking opportunities, and exceptional event management and marketing know-how to our members to protect the integrity of the sports events and tourism industry. For more information, visit SportsETA.org.