"I don't want to lose it," said Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell.

At the launch of Pro Bowl week on Tuesday at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, there was a renewed commitment and hope that the Pro Bowl legacy will not only live on, but continue to make Hawaii its home.

Hawaii Tourism Authority CEO Mike McCartney said negotiations will resume over a possible longer-term contract after the Super Bowl.

"Hawaii's committed to having the game here, it's a natural fit, and we’re working with the NFL to make sure they all understand Hawaii is the best place for the game," he said.

"It results in more tourism and more revenue, which helps us live better here on the islands," said Mayor Caldwell.

The state paid about $4 million to host the game this year, but the payback is expected to be huge.

The Pro Bowl will host 21 youth clinics on five islands, five major events on military bases, community outings, and drop another $100,000 in grant money to local non-profits.

"There are a lot of different legacy things, but more youth events than ever before," said e2k producer Mike Olmstead.

But heavy criticism over lackluster play has clouded the pros of the Pro Bowl in recent years. So much so, the NFL and its players made sure, this year, they scored extra points off the field, too.

Pro Bowl Game Day 2012

SHOW THUMBNAILS

Previous

Next