Mayor Mufi Hannemann announced yesterday the formation of a Honolulu County Sports Commission to help "identify opportunities for the city to be proactive in developing sports tourism."

Speaking at a press conference at Senor Frog's restaurant in Waikiki, Hannemann said sports events are "a proven revenue generator for the state," and the collective expertise of the 34-person commission will help find ways to maximize that revenue source.

The group includes University of Hawai'i athletic director Herman Frazier, First Hawaiian Bank executive Tony Guerrero, UH football coach June Jones and Hawaii Winter Baseball chairman and chief executive officer Duane Kurisu.

"The potential is limitless as far as what this group can do," Hannemann said.

The mayor cited the Pro Bowl, Honolulu Marathon and professional golf tournaments as examples of how sports events can boost tourism and contribute to the state's economy, and suggested an NFL preseason game, Major League Baseball exhibitions and national high school all-star games as future possibilities.

Hannemann said he also would like to explore ways in which Hawai'i can take advantage of next year's Olympics being held in Beijing, perhaps serving as a stopover point before or after the Summer Games.

He said major sporting events in Hawai'i not only draw tourists and the money they spend, but also provide opportunities for national and international exposure.

"You cannot quantify the extensive media attention we receive from these events," Hannemann said.

The mayor said the city council approved $100,000 to be set aside for the commission's use.

Reach Wes Nakama at wnakama@honoluluadvertiser.com.