IGHSAU, Fort Dodge agree upon a 20-year extension for the state softball tournament

FORT DODGE — As far contract extensions go, this one is mammoth.

The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union signed a 20-year extension with the city of Fort Dodge, which will keep the state softball tournament at the Rogers Sports Complex through 2045.

“This is very exciting news,” IGHSAU Executive Director Erin Gerlich said in a statement released by the Union. “The City of Fort Dodge, Fort Dodge Parks and Recreation, and Iowa Central Community College have made the Rogers Sports Complex the premier softball complex in Iowa.

“Fort Dodge has consistently demonstrated its commitment to our softball tournament through the millions of dollars invested in improving Rogers Park over the years. This extension cements our commitment to Fort Dodge and all the great things they have done, and continue to do, to make the Iowa girls’ state softball tournament the best in the United States.”

Fort Dodge has hosted the tournament since 1970.

The extension comes on the heels of a $6 million renovation project that Fort Dodge has invested in Rogers Park, which will include three new fields, lights on all five competition fields, a new press box and expanded parking.

The tournament will go to a double-elimination format in 2026.

“We are grateful for the confidence that (IGHSAU) has placed in us through this extension,” Fort Dodge parks and recreation director Lori Branderhorst said. “The state softball tournament is our crown jewel, and we are committed to preserving its excellence for generations to come.”

The tournament annually between 17,000 and 20,000 fans to Rogers Park. Projections show that the 1 millionth spectator will walk through the gates during the 2026 tournament.

Comments: jeff.linder@thegazette.com