Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament Extends Stay in Fort Dodge Through 2045

The Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament will continue to be held at the Harlan and Hazel Rogers Sports Complex in Fort Dodge through 2045 following a 20-year contract extension announced by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU). The complex has hosted the tournament since 1970 and is recognized as the longest-running venue for IGHSAU state tournaments. Fort Dodge recently completed a $6 million renovation including three new fields, lighting on all five competition fields, a new press box, and expanded parking, enhancements that will allow the tournament to adopt a double-elimination format starting in 2026. The IGHSAU praised Fort Dodge's commitment and investment in maintaining and improving the venue, calling it the premier softball complex in Iowa and the best high school softball tournament in the United States. The partnership with Iowa Central Community College will also continue to provide housing for teams during the tournament. Attendance is robust, with 17,000 to 20,000 fans annually, and the one millionth spectator is expected to attend in 2026.