Cornhole, once a casual backyard pastime, has evolved into a professional sport with the establishment of the American Cornhole League (ACL) in 2015. Headquartered in Rock Hill, South Carolina, the ACL has transformed the game into a competitive league with over 250 professional athletes and more than 25,000 tournaments held annually across various levels of competition.
The ACL’s growth can be attributed to its strategic efforts to professionalize the sport. By standardizing rules, securing sponsorships, and broadcasting events on major sports networks, the league has increased visibility and legitimacy. Notably, the ACL has hosted celebrity pro-am tournaments, further elevating its profile and attracting a broader audience. The league’s ambition doesn’t stop there; it aims to expand internationally and is actively working towards making cornhole an Olympic sport.
The rise of the ACL exemplifies how traditional games can be reinvented and embraced on a global scale. Its success underscores the importance of innovation, community engagement, and strategic marketing in transforming a simple game into a professional sport. As the ACL continues to grow, it not only offers new opportunities for athletes but also enriches the diverse landscape of professional sports.
