The area hosted the State Games in 2009 and 2010, and has also submitted a bid for the two-year hosting rights in 2017-18 and 2019-2020. Last year's event in Winston-Salem included 9,500 athletes.

Those partnering to bring the event to the area include Visit Lake Norman, Visit Charlotte, Charlotte Regional Sports Commission, Mooresville Convention and Visitors Bureau, Cornelius PARC Department, Huntersville Parks and Recreation and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation.

"We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with these outstanding communities again," said NCAS President Chuck Hobgood. "We are glad to share the economic impact benefits of the event and provide our participants with the opportunity to compete in the best facilities in North Carolina."

For more information on the State Games, visit www.ncsports.org.

— Staff