FORT DODGE, Iowa — A contract extension means the Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament will remain in Fort Dodge for the next 20 years.

The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union announced Wednesday that its Board of Directors signed the contract extension for the tournament to be held at Harlan and Hazel Rogers Sports Park through 2045.

“This is very exciting news,” said IGHSAU Executive Director Erin Gerlich. “The City of Fort Dodge, Fort Dodge Parks and Recreation, and Iowa Central Community College have made the Rogers Sports Complex the premier softball complex in Iowa. Fort Dodge has consistently demonstrated its commitment to our softball tournament through the millions of dollars invested in improving Rogers Park over the years. This extension cements our commitment to Fort Dodge and all the great things they have done—and continue to do—to make the Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament the best high school softball tournament in the United States.”

Rogers Park has been the home of the Iowa Girls State Softball Tournament since 1970.

The city of Fort Dodge recently invested $6 million in renovations to the park, which included three new fields, lights on all the competition fields, a new press box, and more parking.

The extension also continues a partnership with Iowa Central Community College that provides housing for the teams during the tournament.

“The State Softball Tournament is our crown jewel, and we are committed to preserving its excellence for generations to come. The dedication of our staff, city council and administration, Iowa Central Community College, Visit Fort Dodge, and our entire community make this investment possible – benefiting our partners, student-athletes, and fans alike,” said Fort Dodge Parks and Recreation Director Lori Branderhorst.

The IGHSAU said the state softball tournament brings 17,000-20,000 fans to Rogers Park each year.