For Immediate Release – January 15, 2026
Battle of the Belt Showcases Growth of Sport Tourism in Coles County
The Battle of the Belt Mattoon Youth Wrestling Tournament, held on January 4 at Emerald Acres Sports Connection, delivered an unforgettable day of competition and community impact. With 919 wrestlers registered, the event marked the largest tournament ever hosted by the Mattoon Youth Wrestling Club. From early morning weigh-ins to the final matches of the night, the facility was buzzing with nonstop action and energy.
Over the course of the day, 1,214 matches were wrestled across the mats, supported by 280 coaches and thousands of families, and spectators. In total, the event brought more than 2,750 attendees through Emerald Acres, 1,200 guests parked on-site and showcasing the scale that youth wrestling continues to reach in Central Illinois. Events of this scale continue to highlight the growing role sports tourism plays in Coles County, bringing visitors into the community and supporting local businesses throughout the region.
Beyond competition, the tournament delivered a strong community and economic impact. Guests packed the facility throughout the day, with concessions selling more than 1,000 chicken strips as families settled in for a full day of wrestling. The success of the Battle of the Belt reflects the dedication of the Mattoon Youth Wrestling Club, the support of the local wrestling community, and all of the local businesses that allow us to bring tournaments to Coles County.
