JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Mike Cunningham, R-Rogersville, has introduced Senate Resolution 254, enlisting the Missouri Senate’s support in attracting the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Division I National Volleyball Tournament to the city of West Plains.
Home to Missouri State University-West Plains, the city has submitted a bid to host the tournament in 2020, 2021 and 2022. West Plains was the site of nine previous NJCAA national championships between 2001 and 2012.
“West Plains has a proven track record of hosting this tournament in the past, and there is strong community support for welcoming the event back,” Sen. Cunningham said as he presented his resolution to the Senate Rules Committee. “This would be a multi-million-dollar boost to West Plains and the surrounding area. A resolution from the Senate would send a strong message of support for the community’s bid.”
West Plains is well positioned to host the tournament, the senator said. The city boasts numerous restaurants and shopping opportunities, and additional hotel rooms have been added since the Howell County community last welcomed the NJCAA. West Plain’s proximity to several major airports and location within a short drive to Branson attractions also appeal to out-of-state visitors, Sen. Cunningham said.
The House of Representatives has also voiced its support for the NJCAA tournament bid, with a resolution sponsored by Rep. Dave Evans, R-West Plains.
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