Amplified by UNO’s role as co-host, the Men’s College World Series fuels Omaha’s economy and shapes its identity.
by JOHN FEY
The college baseball season comes to a climax with the Men’s College World Series, when all eyes turn to Omaha. Since moving to Omaha in 1950, the MCWS has become the longest-running NCAA championship event held at the same site and a defining part of the city’s summer rhythm and identity.
UNO plays a prominent role as co-host alongside Creighton University.
The Mavericks bring a strong postseason history to that role, highlighted by 16 national tournament appearances and the program’s first-ever NCAA Division I Baseball Championship berth in 2019.
While the nation tunes in and thousands of visitors come to Omaha for the MCWS, the university’s presence will be felt downtown as UNO enters its second year as a co-host.
So how did UNO become involved? It started last year with the announcement of the partnership with College World Series of Omaha, Inc., and the NCAA, while also celebrating the 75th anniversary of “The Greatest Show on Dirt” in Omaha.
As part of the partnership, the iconic ‘O’ logo is prominently displayed on the right-center field wall of Charles Schwab Field Omaha, providing UNO a new national footprint across ESPN Networks and beyond.
UNO’s role as co-host extends behind the scenes, with the university supporting the MCWS across communications, game management, athletic training, and facilities. Tal Anderson Field serves as the primary practice facility for the eight participating teams.
“Serving as a co-host is an example of UNO living out its mission as Omaha’s metropolitan university,” Li said. “It strengthens our visibility and reinforces the role we play in shaping the future of this city. When UNO is at the table as co-host, it sends a clear message to the community that we are invested in our partnerships and Omaha’s long-term success.”
Adrian Dowell, vice chancellor/director of athletics, said serving as MCWS co-host gives UNO an additional chance to increase its nationwide presence.
“The NCAA Men’s College World Series is the mecca of college baseball,” Dowell said. “Serving as co-host of the CWS provides an invaluable yield for UNO’s brand.”
The impact is also measurable. A 2026 report from College World Series of Omaha, Inc. showed a record $147.6 million economic impact for the metropolitan area and $136.4 million for the state of Nebraska.
Those stunning numbers aren’t lost on Omaha mayor John Ewing, Jr.
“The College World Series is a grand slam for economic impact, proving that if you build it, sustain it, support it, and welcome it, they will come,” Ewing said. “Omaha has been home base for the Greatest Show on Dirt for 76 years, and its history is an important part of Omaha identity. The event brings people together, whether you’re in the stands, downtown or just in spirit. We roll out the welcome mat for visitors and fans, and we celebrate the joy that comes from such a fun, competitive summer event.”
The influx of visitors supports local businesses, fills hotels, and energizes neighborhoods, underscoring how deeply the event is woven into the region’s economic and cultural fabric.
Chancellor Li pointed to the overall boost the university gets on such a large national stage.
“The impact is significant across several areas of UNO,” she said. “It helps strengthen our reputation as a collaborative, forward-thinking institution. That visibility supports everything from student recruitment to partnerships and philanthropic engagement.”
UNO’s role also includes innovation. The university’s Pitching Lab has been featured during the MCWS, using advanced technology and analysis to help athletes refine their mechanics.
“It also creates more opportunities for our learners,” said Li. “Whether it’s through networking, internships, or research connections, students benefit when UNO is actively engaged in major community conversations and initiatives. This kind of partnership opens doors for new collaborations and aligns directly with our strategic priorities around workforce development and community engagement.”
Now that’s a grand slam — for Omaha and UNO.
