For 75 years, Nebraska has stood as the dedicated host of the College World Series (CWS) in Omaha, a reflection of the enduring spirit of competition and community. The College World Series Inc. has played an integral role in nurturing this legacy, ensuring that Omaha remains the heartland of college baseball.
At Omaha Magazine, we pride ourselves on being the voice of our vibrant city, offering our readers a compelling blend of stories that celebrate Omaha's businesses and community. In this special Omaha Magazine Podcast episode, we tackle a topic deeply woven into the fabric of Omaha's identity: the NCAA College World Series. We spoke with Jack Diesing Jr., Chairman of College World Series Inc., and his daughter, Lisa Diesing, Vice President of the organization, to explore the College World Series’ economic impact on our community, the history of the tournament, and the legacy that has made the event a national sporting jewel.
From Humble Beginnings to a Baseball Mecca
The journey of the NCAA College World Series found its true and lasting home in Omaha after initial years in Kalamazoo and Wichita. While these early locations laid the groundwork, it was Omaha's vision and infrastructure that provided the stability and growth the event needed.
The pivotal moment arrived when Omaha, boasting a newly constructed, substantial stadium, stepped forward as a capable and enthusiastic host city. The foresight of key figures within the Omaha community, recognizing the potential for both sporting prestige and economic vitality, was crucial in securing the CWS in Omaha. Their early devotion and firm belief in Omaha’s ability to deliver a premier championship experience set the stage for decades of success.
The Growth of CWS in Omaha
The CWS in Omaha has witnessed an impressive evolution over the years, with the tournament format adapting and the overall experience becoming richer. A defining moment in ensuring the longevity and success of the event was the establishment of the College World Series of Omaha, Inc. in 1967.
This dedicated local organizing committee provided the essential framework for managing and promoting the NCAA College World Series. The foresight in creating such an organization, potentially a pioneering model for national sporting championships, facilitated effective fundraising, marketing, and seamless coordination with both the NCAA and the city of Omaha.
The establishment of long-term, rolling contracts with the NCAA cemented Omaha's position as the permanent home, a clear indication of the trust and reliability our community consistently demonstrated. This period was instrumental in building the enduring legacy of the CWS in Omaha.
Rosenblatt Stadium
For generations of college baseball fans, Rosenblatt Stadium remains an iconic symbol of the NCAA College World Series. This beloved venue served as the championship's cherished home for many decades, hosting countless unforgettable games and creating a rich tapestry of College World Series history.
Over the years, significant upgrades and investments were made to Rosenblatt, ensuring it remained a suitable stage for the nation's top college baseball talent. Jack stated, "We the city spent $43 million on Rosenblatt in that period of time, from 1990 to 2010, putting in a new front facade, new press box, new stadium club, new outfield seating... created box seats, created suites up in the press box area, and... the plaza out front of the stadium.”
These improvements enhanced the fan experience and solidified Rosenblatt's place in the hearts of those who witnessed the magic within its walls. However, as the landscape of college baseball evolved and the demand for modern amenities grew, the necessity for a new, state-of-the-art facility became increasingly apparent.
The Move Downtown to Charles Schwab Field
The decision to relocate the CWS to a new, state-of-the-art facility in the downtown area marked a significant new chapter for the tournament. Charles Schwab Field Omaha emerged as the result of a dedicated collaborative effort involving College World Series Inc., the city of Omaha, and numerous other stakeholders, all united in their commitment to the event's continued success.
This modern stadium boasts enhanced features and amenities, including improved concourses, state-of-the-art technology, and superior facilities for both players and fans, further elevating the overall experience of the NCAA College World Series. The continued strong partnership with the NCAA and the long-term commitment to Omaha are clearly evident in this significant investment in the championship's future. Charles Schwab Field in Omaha now stands as a reflection of our city’s dedication to hosting this prestigious national event.
The Tremendous College World Series Economic Impact
The annual College World Series economic impact on Omaha is substantial and deeply felt throughout our community. Estimates consistently place this impact at over $120 million each year, underscoring the event's vital contribution to our local economy.
This significant influx of visitors directly supports a wide range of local jobs across various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, retail, and entertainment. The NCAA College World Series generates millions of dollars in state and local tax revenue, contributing to the overall financial well-being of Nebraska.
The positive influence on Omaha tourism is undeniable, with hotels experiencing near-peak occupancy rates and local businesses witnessing a significant surge in customer activity and spending. The national exposure generated by the CWS in Omaha also enhances the city’s image and awareness on a national scale, potentially attracting future visitors, businesses, and investments. Impressive College World Series attendance figures serve as a clear indicator of the event's popularity and its significant role in driving our local economy.
Cultural Significance and Community Engagement
The phrase "Road to Omaha" has transcended its literal meaning, becoming an iconic and deeply resonant symbol within the culture of college baseball, representing the ultimate aspiration for teams and players nationwide. Jack recalls, "In 1999 when we had the 50th... College World Series came up with the idea of creating a statue... the iconic image of the College World Series. We paid for it. We came up with the name Road Omaha. We donated the statue to the city."
Traditions uniquely associated with the CWS, such as the memorable opening ceremonies and the renowned hospitality of our community, contribute to its special and enduring atmosphere. The strong and dedicated involvement of local service clubs, who warmly welcome and host the participating teams each year, exemplifies the deep connection between the NCAA College World Series and the people of Omaha. Jack stated, “Our service clubs…host each team, welcome them when they come into town... They feel a little bit like a family home away from home when the teams are here."
Looking to the Future
College World Series Inc. remains strong in its commitment to innovation and long-term sustainability, ensuring that the CWS in Omaha continues to flourish for many years to come. Their strategic plan places a strong emphasis on continuously enhancing both the athlete and the fan experience, proactively exploring new ways to elevate every aspect of the event.
Ongoing and planned investments in the Charles Schwab Field Omaha and its surrounding facilities underscore this dedication to providing a world-class setting for the NCAA College World Series. The collaborative partnerships with local universities, such as Creighton University and the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), further strengthen the integral ties between the championship and our community’s educational institutions.
The overarching goal remains clear and resolute: to host the NCAA Men's College World Series in Omaha forever, building upon the rich and storied College World Series history established over the past 75 remarkable years.
Celebrating 75 Years
As we proudly celebrate this momentous 75th anniversary of the CWS in Omaha, the College World Series Inc. extends its deepest gratitude to the very heart of this cherished event – the dedicated and passionate fans. Special celebrations are planned to commemorate this significant milestone, including a fan appreciation event designed to thank the Omaha community for its support and the consistently impressive College World Series attendance witnessed over the decades.
Souvenirs and events are ways we can show thanks for how much the people of Omaha and college baseball fans everywhere love the sport and have stuck with it. Their constant support is a big reason why the NCAA College World Series keeps doing so well here in our city.
The Bond Between Omaha and the College World Series
The remarkable 75-year legacy of the CWS in Omaha stands as a testament to the spirit of our community and the allure of college baseball. The event's rich history and significant economic impact have become intertwined with the very identity of our city, significantly bolstering Omaha tourism and creating a deep and abiding sense of civic pride. The future of the CWS shines brightly, promising continued excitement, community engagement, and economic prosperity for our beloved city.
At Omaha Magazine, we are proud to share the stories that make our city so special. We invite you to explore more about Omaha's vibrant culture, its influential leaders, and the events that shape our community by listening to the rest of our Omaha Magazine Podcast!
