Columbus is a sports town. It's been home to professional teams in several leagues and college programs at all three NCAA divisions. Additionally, Ohio's capital city has hosted hundreds of events spanning dozens of sports. From the big ones like hockey, baseball, soccer, college football and basketball to Olympic sports to growing sports like pickleball and lacrosse. Here's a short history on several sports with a long history in Columbus.
Golf
Jack Nicklaus was born here. The Memorial Tournament, in Dublin, is one of the top events on the PGA Tour. Three local courses made GOLF's top 100 list in 2022.
Baseball
Pro ball was first played here in 1877 and the Clippers have called Columbus home since 1977. The AAA All-Star Game, Big Ten Tourney and HS State Championships have been held at…
Soccer
"The spiritual home of the USMNT." The city that saved the Crew. Where the first soccer-specific stadium in the U.S. was built. Columbus is a soccer city.
Figure Skating
Sanctioned figure skating has had its place in Central Ohio since the 1960s. Some stars have roots in the city, while others have left their mark while gliding through.
Running / Track & Field
The Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon has been held annually in October since 1980 and the Cap City Half-Marathon is celebrating its 20th anniversary in May 2023.
Football
The Ohio State Buckeyes reign supreme, but football’s history runs much deeper here. Did you know the first NFL game was played in Columbus?
Hockey
Home of the NHL's Blue Jackets and the 2021-22 NCAA Women's Hockey champion Buckeyes, Columbus is a hockey town.
Basketball
Host of NCAA Women's Championships in all three divisions and several Men's March Madness First & Second rounds, Columbus loves hoops.
Volleyball
Nearly 20 national tournaments have been held here since 2000, including the 2021 NCAA DI Women's Volleyball Championship. The Ohio Valley Region is the largest USA Volleyball…
Pickleball
The sport is growing fast and Columbus is at the forefront, with two permanent venues and another opening in 2023. Major League Pickleball hosted its championship here in 2022.
Lacrosse
Columbus has been home to pro lacrosse events & teams, HS state championships and NCAA Quarterfinals.
Softball
Berliner Sports Park is the largest ball diamond complex in the country with 31 fields. Columbus is the only three-time host of the NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series.