Sunbelt Classic provides an economic “kick”

The Sunbelt Classic is wrapping up in Pueblo and 162 soccer teams are headed home, but not without making an impact on the community first.

It’s the 19th year the tournament has been in Pueblo, and along with the 162 teams came more than $1 million to the economy.

The tournament not only benefits competing teams but also local vendors like the Sugar Shack.

“It’s great to see everybody from other cities come here to Pueblo, cause we need that here,” said Shawna Nunez, owner of the Sugar Shack.

Nunez was at the Langoni Sports Complex and said her business has been steady over the weekend.

“You know, being in this area, there’s not a whole lot around here so I’m happy to be able to provide that for them,” said Nunez.

Across town Jason Herrera with Romero’s had a chance to give people a taste of Pueblo while in the city.

“We like to help all the youngsters, support Pueblo, the local economy. So we’re trying to get our business out there and serve our award winning green chile,” said Hererra.

Hererra said it means a lot to them as a small business to be a part of the long-standing tournament.

“Pueblo is a big part of Romero’s family, we’re born and raised here so we want to make sure that we get back out there and pay back the community what they gave us,” said Hererra.

Teams that competed in the tournament were from all over Colorado. One team was from Texas.