Brevard County leaders are wasting no time in finding a new use for Space Coast Stadium, now that it appears the Washington Nationals will leave.
Both the Nationals and the Houston Astros in Kissimmee are close to leaving Central Florida, for a new Spring Training stadium in West Palm Beach.
The Nationals will still have Spring Training in Viera this year and next year.
But after that, they’ve made it clear; they’re ready to leave Space Coast Stadium.
Brevard County Commission Chairman Robin Fisher says that he’s had conversations with the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), which currently has its national headquarters in Kissimmee.
The association overseas 13 amateur sports, including softball, soccer, volleyball and basketball.
Fisher says hundreds of teams could visit Viera every weekend, bringing even more people than the Nationals could.
"(USSSA has) the ability to bring 250-300 team tournaments at one time, one weekend, and we know that’s good for the economy," said Fisher. "Because one thing we know is people do travel with their kids, and they do stay overnight and watch them play.
USSSA couldn’t be reached for comment.
Fisher is hoping the association would use Space Coast Stadium and the surrounding training facilities.
Osceola County leaders say they’re talking to other Major League Teams and amateur event organizers, hoping they can find a fit for their stadium as well.