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Inside Dallas 2026: N o r t h Te x a s B e c o m e s H o m e B a s e f o r Wo r l d C u p H o p e f u l s S w e d e n and Czech Republic
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Senior Softball Delivers Football Showcase in Dallas
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Pros at Home
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Latest from the Commission
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Upcoming Events
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Vo l u n t e e r V i c t o r i e s The CJ Cup Byron Nelson
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inside Dallas 2026: North Texas Becomes Home Base for World Cup Hopefuls Sweden and Czech Republic Fresh off dramatic qualifying playoff runs, Sweden and the Czech Republic are headed to North Texas this summer, with both nations choosing DFW suburbs as their home base camps during the World Cup. Sweden will be based in Frisco, training at FC Dallas Stadium after securing qualification in dramatic fashion. Viktor Gyökeres delivered the decisive moment with an 88th-minute winner against Poland, sending Sweden through and completing a playoff run that showcased the urgency and form they now bring to Texas. Sweden’s presence in Frisco gives North Texas direct access to a European national team preparing for the sport’s biggest tournament over the course of June and July. The Czech Republic will set up in Mansfield as they return to the World Cup for the first time in 20 years. Their qualification path was demanding from start to finish. After finishing behind Croatia in group play, they advanced by winning back-to-back penalty shootouts against Ireland and Denmark. That run secured their return to the global stage and now places Mansfield at the center of their World Cup preparation this summer.
as they prepare for matches, manage recovery, conduct media responsibilities, and operate throughout the competition. Fans across the region will also see Dallas host a packed group stage schedule featuring some of the sport’s biggest names. • • • • •
Sunday, June 14: Netherlands vs. Japan Wednesday, June 17: England vs. Croatia Monday, June 22: Argentina vs. Austria Thursday, June 25: Japan vs. Sweden Saturday, June 27: Jordan vs. Argentina
To kick it all off, Virgil van Dijk and the Netherlands face Wataru Endo and Japan. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and defending champs Argentina host two group stage appearances against Austria and Jordan. England’s showdown with Croatia brings major star power, featuring Jude Bellingham and Ballon d’Or contender Harry Kane matched against Luka Modrić, who could be making his final major international tournament run with Croatia. Don’t miss out on the action; tickets are available now!
That means two European national teams will live and train in the region for weeks during the tournament. Frisco and Mansfield will serve as daily headquarters for these squads 4 | N o r t h Te x a s B e c o m e s H o m e B a s e f o r W o r l d C u p
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The North Texas FWC Organizing Committee Announces transportation Plans Getting to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches in North Texas will be a bit different from your usual gameday experience. Organizers are prioritizing smoother, faster, and less stressful transportation for the massive crowds expected at Arlington’s nine matches this summer. With hundreds of thousands of fans expected to pour into the region, public transit is shaping up to make the experience more convenient. The journey itself becomes part of the experience: hop aboard the Trinity Railway Express in Dallas or Fort Worth, ride it to CentrePort Station, then transfer to a charter bus that takes you close to the stadium. From there, it’s a short, half-mile walk, with just enough time to soak in the atmosphere as the crowd builds and the anticipation builds. To manage the influx of World Cup crowds, there will also be special transportation services running just for the event. These are designed to connect key spots around the area, including the stadium in Arlington and the FIFA Fan Festival at Fair Park. For those sticking with ride-share apps like Uber or Lyft, there’s a plan for that too. A designated pick-up and drop-off zone at the Esports Stadium in Arlington aims to keep traffic flowing and reduce the congestion that often happens surrounding the venue. Lastly, if you’re considering driving, it’s still an option, and parking will be available but do plan accordingly as traffic increases. At the end of the day, the goal is to keep things moving so fans can focus on what really matters, enjoying the World Cup.
CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL TRANSPORTATION MAPS
Making Dallas Greener Beyond 2026 At Churchill Park, volunteers and city leaders came together for a community tree planting that turned a simple morning into something with lasting impact. The effort, led by the North Texas FWC Organizing Committee in partnership with the City of Dallas and the Dallas Park and Recreation Department, focused on building a stronger, more sustainable city ahead of 2026.
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Community leaders on hand included Bill Roth representing the Dallas City Council, Brett Johnson representing Dallas Park and Recreation, and Thomas O’Sullivan representing Choctaw Casinos & Resorts. Together with volunteers, they helped plant trees that will benefit the park for years to come.
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SENIOR SOFTBALL DELIVERS MORE THAN COMPETITION By: Kim Esparza
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
On a typical weekend in Dallas, the sound of a softball connecting with a bat may seem ordinary. This week, though, during the Senior Softball USA Texas State Championships, those familiar sounds come from players who have spent decades around the game and still continue to compete.
and Canada. Through sanctioned tournaments, championships, player registration, rules, and national events, SSUSA provides athletes with a structured way to continue playing the game at a competitive level.
For these athletes, softball remains part of their routine. It keeps them active, brings them back together with longtime teammates, and gives them another opportunity to test themselves. Players traveling to Dallas from across the country are part of a committed senior softball community, with athletes age 50 and older competing in divisions, teams, and tournaments throughout the year. Senior Softball USA has helped make that possible. Founded in 1988, the organization has grown into one of the largest senior softball organizations in the country, with players and teams competing across the United States
That structure gives the Texas State Championships their purpose. Teams arrive in Dallas for a full week of softball where the fundamentals still matter. Clean defense, smart base
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running, timely hitting, and late-inning execution can still shape the outcome of a game. The players understand the pace, know the situations, and bring the same competitive mindset that has kept them connected to the sport for years. Meanwhile, Dallas aims to provide a strong setting for the event. Hosted on Dallas soil and played through Dallas Park and Recreation facilities, the tournament brings SSUSA teams to Kiest Park, a longtime part of the city’s softball landscape. “Dallas is one of about 20 premier tournaments that we do,” Senior Softball USA representative Terry Hennessy said.
with competitive softball while also bringing economic and community impact. Teams, families, and supporters travel into the region for a week of activity that extends beyond the fields. By the final pitch, the week leaves its mark not only through competition, but through the continued presence of an organization that helps keep softball visible, organized, and growing for the players who remain committed to it. To learn more about Senior Softball USA and their tournaments, check out the link below!
That designation reflects the trust SSUSA places in Dallas as a host city. Reliable fields, organization, and facilities capable of supporting teams throughout the week all help make the tournament a successful stop. “The Dallas Sports Commission has been an extremely strong partner,” Hennessy said. “That support really helps make these tournaments successful.” The Texas State Championships add another chapter to Dallas’ connection
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LEARN MORE We’re excited to share that the 2nd Annual Global Sports Business Summit (GSBS), presented by SMU and the Dallas Sports Commission, took place on Monday, April 2o, at James M. Collins Executive Education Center. Adding to the excitement, GSBS kicked off its second year with impressive panels, keynotes, and the best sports networking you could find. Attendees joined us for a full day of programming featuring panels on women’s sports, college athletics, the business of youth and amateur sport, and global expansion and strategy. This year, we built on the momentum of our inaugural summit by bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and future professionals to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas shaping the future of sports business. Want to be involved in the 2027 Global Sports Business Summit? Contact us at info@ dallassports.org.
Next Gen Cup This May, the future of soccer comes to Dallas at the Next Generation Cup 2026. Top boys’ and girls’ teams from across the country compete in one of the nation’s leading youth tournaments. More than a tournament, it is a platform to showcase rising talent, celebrate the game, and bring the community together. With hundreds of teams and thousands of athletes, the Next Generation Cup continues to elevate Dallas as a destination for elite youth soccer. Experience the future of the game.
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SENIOR SOFTBALL TEXAS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP APRIL 28 - MAY 3 KIEST PARK
TIGER TOURNAMENTS DALLAS SPRING SHOWCASE MAY 8 - 10 DALLAS SOCCER PARK
NEXT GENERATION CUP MAY 14 - 17 DALLAS SOCCER PARK - MCINNISH PARK THE ATHLETIC CLUB - VALLEY RIDGE PARK
DALLAS BIKE RIDE MAY 16 DALLAS CITY HALL
THE CJ CUP BYRON NELSON MAY 20-24 TPC CRAIG RANCH
IFLAG MEMORIAL BOWL MAY 22-24 UTD SOCCER COMPLEX
SURF CUP TEXAS 2026 MAY 22-24 DALLAS SOCCER PARK
Your dedication makes our mission possible, and this video is our heartfelt thank you. Join us in celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week by watching a special tribute to our DSC volunteers.
the CJ Cup byron nelson Get ready, North Texas. THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson returns May 20–24, 2026 at TPC Craig Ranch. Experience world-class PGA TOUR competition as the game’s top players compete in one of the most exciting stops of the season, including 2025 champion and Dallas native Scottie Scheffler as he returns to defend his title. From high-energy crowds to premium hospitality and fan-favorite viewing spots, this is more than a tournament. It is a can’t-miss event. Whether you are there for the golf, the atmosphere, or unforgettable moments, there is something for everyone.
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VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK
WITH THE DALLAS SPORTS COMMISSION By: Ben Harbuck
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports
Every April, Volunteer Appreciation Week gives organizations across the country a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who make everything possible.
students stepping into the spotlight, turning nerves into smiles and competition into celebration.
Behind every successful event, every seamless experience, and every unforgettable moment, there are volunteers. They are the first welcome, the Texas hospitality behind the scenes, and often the reason an experience feels bigger than the event itself. This year, we are proud to spotlight a group of individuals who embody that spirit. For Sharon Ray, volunteering is rooted in passion. A sports fan at heart and a proud ambassador for Dallas, she has spent the last three years bringing energy to every event she touches. Her most memorable experience came in an unexpected role as the spelling bee mascot. For two years, she helped create a joyful and encouraging environment for
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For Solomon King, volunteering is about connection. Since 2023, he has used his time to serve the community while learning about new cultures through sport. That perspective came into focus during Copa América, when he worked alongside Venezuelan volunteers during a Canada versus Venezuela quarterfinal match. Hearing their stories and witness-
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ing their passion gave him a deeper appreciation for soccer, not just as a game, but as a global language.
Norma Argueta thrives in the energy of major events. Since 2022, she has embraced her role as both volunteer and ambassador, proudly representing Dallas on some of the biggest stages. Her first experience working around WrestleMania 38 left a lasting impression. Seeing children light up as they encountered their favorite WWE superstars was a powerful reminder of how impactful these moments can be. For Clemmie Love, volunteering is about people. Since her first event at the Pickleball World Championships in 2023, she has found joy in the relationships built along the way. During the WBSC Softball World Championships, she volunteered for three consecutive days and formed meaningful connections with traveling families and fans, including visitors from Australia. One of them gifted her an Australian hat, a small gesture that now represents a lasting global connection. Gabriel Martinez brings a perspective shaped by new beginnings. Having recently moved to the United States for college, he began vol-
unteering in October 2025 as a way to understand Dallas, meet people, and pursue a future in sports. As part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Starting Lineup volunteer team, he has already found a community, building friendships and connections that extend far beyond the events themselves. And then there is Steve Bragg, whose nearly decade long journey reflects the long-term impact of volunteerism. Since the 2017 Women’s Final Four, he has been a steady presence, motivated by his love for sports and pride in Dallas. One of his standout roles, serving as a courtesy car driver, gave him the opportunity to interact with NCAA executives, showcase the city, and ensure every experience ran smoothly for them. Together, these stories paint a bigger picture. Volunteers shape experiences. They connect people and cultures, inspire communities, and create moments that last long after the event ends. Volunteer Appreciation Week is about recognizing that impact, not just in what gets done, but in how it is done, and who makes it possible. To our Community Champions, Sharon, Solomon, Norma, Clemmie, Gabriel, and Steve, thank you for showing what it means to serve with purpose.
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