College and high school baseball, softball, and lacrosse teams from across the U.S. descend on Cocoa Beach each spring for the Cocoa Beach Spring Training, a program that has operated for over 50 years and brings an estimated $15 million annually to Brevard County. The event, which runs from late February to early April, fills local hotels, restaurants, and sports facilities, creating a ripple effect throughout the Space Coast economy. "This isn't just about sports—it's about bringing people here who spend money and build connections," said Coach Loren McClanahan, director of scheduling for the training program. "We've had teams from New York, California, and even Japan participate over the years."
The training program uses 12 fields across Cocoa Beach and surrounding areas, including the Cocoa Beach High School complex and the Space Coast Sports Complex. Teams stay in local hotels, eat at area restaurants, and often visit nearby attractions like the Brevard Zoo and the Kennedy Space Center. In 2025, the program hosted 240 teams, with over 10,000 athletes and coaches participating. "We're one of the largest spring training programs in the country," McClanahan said. "It's a big deal for our community."
Local businesses have seen measurable benefits. The Cocoa Beach Restaurant Association reported a 25% increase in revenue during the training season compared to other times of the year. Hotels in the area often book out months in advance, with some charging up to $300 per night for rooms during peak weeks. "It's a lifeline for small businesses," said Maria Gonzalez, owner of a family-run seafood restaurant on the Cocoa Beach boardwalk. "We rely on these teams to keep our doors open."
The event also strengthens the region's sports culture. Local youth leagues partner with visiting teams for clinics and scrimmages, and area high schools often host exhibition games. The training has become a tradition for many families, with some returning every year to watch their favorite teams. "It's like a mini-Olympics here," McClanahan said. "You see kids from different backgrounds coming together, learning from each other, and building friendships."