The American Cornhole Organization is bringing the ACO Cornhole Pros to Peoria, IL and has opened the event to the public. March 28-29.
The ACO Peoria Major cornhole tournament is March 28-29 at the Four Points by Sheraton, 500 Hamilton Blvd., Peoria, IL 61602. A Big Blind Draw is scheduled for Friday March 28 at 6:00 pm and is open to the public. The Peoria Community can test back yard cornhole skills with others having the same skills in a Pro Cornhole level environment.
“We are thrilled to include Peoria as one of the over 40 cities in the ACO Season 20 PRO Tour” said Frank Geers President of American Cornhole LLC. The ACO Peoria Major includes events on Friday March 28 including Seniors, Womens, and Juniors competition in the morning, coed at noon, Bag Masters Quads at 3:00 pm, and the open to the public Big Blind Draw at 6:00 pm.
The ACO Peoria Major Cornhole Tournament Event schedule for Saturday March 29 includes ACO World Doubles action beginning 8:00 am, and the ACO World Singles action is an afternoon event beginning 2:00 pm. For more information visit ACO Peoria Majors Cornhole Event
The Rise of Competitive Cornhole: ACO at the Helm
The American Cornhole Organization (ACO) has transformed cornhole from a casual pastime into a recognized competitive sport. Founded in 2005 by Frank Geers, “The Cornhole Dude,” the ACO has standardized equipment, cornhole rules, and formats, establishing itself as the sport's governing body.
From its early days, the ACO focused on formalizing cornhole. In 2006, it hosted the Carson Palmer Cornhole Classic and the first Nationals Championship in Northern Kentucky, introducing individual competition with the King or Queen of Cornhole titles. This innovation paved the way for a nationwide tour and elevated the sport's competitive landscape.
A major turning point was the ACO’s development of specialized equipment. The shift from corn-filled to resin-filled bags improved durability and performance, while the dual-sided ACO PlayersChoice Cornhole Bag, introduced in 2008, allowed players to make more strategic shots. Other innovations, like the Frame Game and airmail box, added depth to gameplay.
The ACO has also created ranking and handicapping systems to ensure fairness and transparency. Its signature events, such as the ACO Majors and Pro Series Tours, attract players nationwide. In March 2024, the ACO held its first international tournament, the ACO Europe Major in Manchester, UK, highlighting its growing global reach.
Inclusivity has been central to the ACO’s mission. Partnering with the National Senior Games Association, the ACO included cornhole in senior events and developed Adaptive Cornhole formats for players of all abilities, ensuring the sport remains accessible to everyone.
Media has played a significant role in the ACO’s growth. Notable milestones include ESPN coverage of the ACO World Championships and Cornhole: The Movie, which featured ACO branding. Digital platforms like YouTube, @AmericanCornhole and podcasts, including ACO Hole Nation and TACO (Talkin’ ACO), further expand the organization’s reach, engaging fans and fostering community.
A hallmark achievement was the declaration of ACO World Cornhole Day in 2020, celebrated annually on the last Saturday of July. This day honors the sport's history, community, and evolution, underscoring the ACO’s efforts to promote cornhole as a celebration of skill, tradition, and camaraderie.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0DCg9siTFY
Today, the ACO continues to lead the sport with a blend of tradition and innovation. By fostering inclusivity, maximizing media opportunities, and introducing groundbreaking changes, the ACO shapes cornhole’s future while honoring its roots. "We Are Cornhole."
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For more information about ACO Peoria Major, contact the company here:
ACO Peoria Major
Michael "Fin" Walter
513.919.1001
fin@americancornhole.com
American Cornhole Organization (ACO)
7832 Glendale Milford Rd
Camp Dennison, Ohio 45111
United States
