State Wrestling Tournament Attendees Take Notice: Atlantic City’s Safer, Cleaner, and Stronger Than Ever

This past weekend, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Wrestling Tournament brought thousands of athletes, families, and fans to Atlantic City, marking one of the most anticipated sporting events in the region. As competitors took to the mats inside Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, visitors also enjoyed everything the city had to offer—from its casinos and restaurants to its renowned Boardwalk.

A growing sentiment among attendees was clear: Atlantic City felt safer and cleaner than ever.

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A City Committed to Safety & Progress

In recent years, Atlantic City has made significant strides in improving public safety and reshaping perceptions. Under the leadership of Atlantic City Police Chief James Sarkos and Mayor Marty Small Sr., crime in the city decreased by over 8% in 2024, while calls for service dropped 16% and arrests rose by 20.7%. These improvements have strengthened public confidence in the city, with many visitors noticing the increased police presence and enhanced atmosphere.

The hiring of former Pleasantville Police Chief Sean Riggin as Atlantic City’s new Public Safety Director—a role not filled since 2013—demonstrated the city’s ongoing commitment to making public safety a top priority. The Atlantic City Police Department (ACPD) played a critical role in these efforts, ensuring that high-profile events like the state wrestling tournament were well-patrolled and secure. Officers stationed in and around Boardwalk Hall provided a reassuring presence for residents and visitors alike.

The Press of Atlantic City recently reported that many attendees of this year’s tournament noticed the city’s positive changes. One visitor, Joe Lewis of Cranford, Union County, shared that although he once had a negative perception of the city based on past reports, the statistics showing crime reduction have changed his outlook. “That’s the type of stuff people need to hear,” he said, emphasizing that as Atlantic City continues to improve, so will its public image.

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Economic Boost & Tourism Impact

Beyond the competition itself, the tournament remained a significant driver of economic activity in the city. The event contributed over $3.7 million in customer spending, with 71% of attendees spending more than $200 at local businesses. Many visitors opted to stay at Boardwalk hotels and casinos, taking advantage of the walkability, nightlife, and entertainment options.

According to that recent article, longtime tournament attendee Gary Hutchinson makes multiple trips to Atlantic City each year, both for the wrestling tournament and summer getaways. He, like many others, noticed the city’s efforts to maintain well-lit streets, a stronger police presence, and an overall improved atmosphere. Visitors reported feeling safer and more comfortable navigating the Boardwalk and surrounding areas, with enhanced lighting and law enforcement visibility contributing to an improved experience.

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A Changing Narrative

Atlantic City has long been a destination for world-class events, and with continued investments in safety and infrastructure, its reputation is evolving. Thanks to the Atlantic City Police Department, Chief James Sarkos, and the leadership of Mayor Marty Small Sr., the city is taking proactive steps to ensure that residents and visitors alike feel secure.

With crime rates trending downward and new efforts to maintain safety and cleanliness, more visitors are recognizing the positive changes. As Lewis noted in The Press of Atlantic City, when people hear the facts, their perception of the city begins to shift.

And for those who may still be skeptical, Hutchinson offered this perspective in The Press of Atlantic City:
“Just give the city a chance. Sure, it might have the perception of being unsafe, but there is also a lot of good here, and I know city officials are working hard to improve its image. I’ve seen the improvements firsthand.”

The 2025 NJSIAA State Wrestling Tournament showcased more than just top-tier competition—it highlighted Atlantic City’s progress and reinforced its status as a premier destination for major events. With a stronger, safer city taking shape, Atlantic City continues to prove that its best days are still ahead.

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