The Hawaii Tourism Authority announced that the Pro Bowl will return to Hawaii in 2009. The state-sponsored Pro Bowl is administered and coordinated for the state of Hawaii through the HTA.

“We are very pleased that the National Football League will bring the Pro Bowl to Hawaii for the 30th consecutive year,” said David Uchiyama, vice president of marketing for HTA. “The Pro Bowl has a tremendous financial impact on our community and provides significant worldwide exposure for Hawaii as a visitor destination. HTA views the Pro Bowl as an important marketing vehicle for our state.”

In 2007, the Pro Bowl accounted for more than $28 million in spending. In addition to the economic contributions to the state, the NFL provides other important benefits to Hawaii, including clinics that allow children to train with NFL players. This year’s Pro Bowl will be played February 10.