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Content Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
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More Than a Campus Inside Look at SMU’s Ecosystem of Athletic Facilities
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D a l l a s Vo l u n t e e r s P r e p a r e t o We l c o m e t h e Wo r l d
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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 - S t a t e Fair Classic
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Community Champion Dallas Firefighter AJ Glover Ready to Shine at Firefighter Challenge Wo r l d C h a m p i o n s h i p
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s Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission •
MORE THAN A CAMPUS INSIDE LOOK AT SMU’S ECOSYSTEM OF ATHLETIC FACILITIES
By: Ben Harbuck
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport SMU sits in the heart of Dallas, one of the premier destinations in the country for sports business. While the spotlight often shines on downtown’s American Airlines Center or across I-30 at AT&T Stadium, SMU quietly offers something just as valuable: a contained, versatile ecosystem of venues, all professionally managed and positioned within a 12 mile radius. For event organizers, it’s a world-class option hiding in plain sight. What makes SMU exceptional isn’t just the caliber of its facilities, but how conveniently they work together. The campus is compact and walkable, with two major airports less than 25 miles away. Surrounding the university is an array of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment districts, giving athletes, officials, media, and fans the convenience of staying close to competition without the strain of complicated logistics. How about that Texas hospitality, though? Behind the venues is a staff with extensive experience balancing NCAA calendars, professional tournaments, broadcast operations, and community events. Their reputation stems from precision, locker rooms ready when promised, parking plans that flow smoothly, and proactive communication that anticipates challenges before they arise. “We pride ourselves on providing a first-class service from the time you arrive on campus. That service ensures that all visitors have the best possible experience during their time at SMU and in our city.” - Senior Associate AD for Facilities and Event Operations Brian Chepulis
The variety of events SMU has hosted illustrates its versatility. Gerald J. Ford Stadium is home to Mustang football, but since 2019, when bowl season rolls around, the stadium transforms into the stage for the Servpro First Responders Bowl. The Styslinger-Altec Tennis Complex showcased its international pedigree by hosting the ATP Dallas Open from 2022 to 2024, praised by fans and players for its intimacy and professional atmosphere. Washburne Soccer and Track Stadium, renovated in 2022 and resurfaced in 2025, earned the honor of being named a FIFA World Cup 26 training site, with modernized locker rooms, media facilities, and spectator seating. Moody Coliseum is a versatile arena that has hosted NCAA volleyball championships, cheer competitions, and college basketball. Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center has become a dependable hub for collegiate and grassroots events alike, from AAC Swimming & Diving Championships to USA Water Polo Regionals. The Crum Basketball Center, while off-limits to fans, is a trusted training ground for visiting NCAA and NBA teams seeking privacy and professional practice space just minutes from downtown. Beyond campus, SMU’s partnership with Trinity Forest Golf Club adds a championship-tested course, set to host the 2027 NCAA Women’s Golf Regional after years of staging PGA Tour and USGA events.
4 | I n s i d e Lo o k a t S M U ’s Ec o s y s t e m o f At h l e t i c Fa c i l i t i e s
s Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission •
What ties these venues together is SMU’s willingness to collaborate. The university doesn’t simply rent facilities, they partner with event owners, adapt to evolving needs, and invest in creating positive experiences for athletes, coaches, and fans. Through collaboration with the Dallas Sports Commission, SMU has become an integral part of the city’s larger sports-landscape.
“SMU has some of the best facilities in the country. We
are proud to be an integral part of the Dallas sports landscape and to help bring championship events to this world-class city.” - SMU Director of Athletics Damon Evans
For organizers seeking an athlete-friendly, selfcontained campus without sacrificing the resources of a major market, SMU offers the best of both worlds. Its central location, experienced staff, and culture of collaboration have already been showcased through collegiate championships, professional tournaments, and international training camp. With that track record, SMU is wellpositioned to continue serving as a reliable partner in Dallas’s sports tourism landscape. SMU FACILITY PAGE
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DALLAS VOLUNTEERS PREPARE TO WELCOME THE WORLD
FIFA WORLD CUP ‘26 VOLUNTEER APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW By: Peyton Lawrence
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
From a spectator’s perspective, a massive global sporting event looks like a well-oiled machine. Every element falls into place exactly how it should — not a single moment is missed, and everything seems effortless. This level of cohesion is hard-earned, however, and behind every event, there is a team that works tirelessly to bring the energy to life. A critical piece of these teams are dedicated volunteers — people who selflessly give their time and expertise to support the success of games, matches, competitions, and more. In 1994, the FIFA World Cup first came to Dallas, and with it, thousands of Texans stepped up to volunteer for this incredible display of global connection and camaraderie. Now, as the region prepares to welcome the world once more, everyday people are once again called upon to make history. The Dallas Sports Commission volunteer program has existed for more than a decade, and in those years, volunteers have had the opportunity to participate in some of the world’s largest sporting events. Whether it’s WrestleMania, the NFL Draft, the CONCACAF Gold Cup, the NCAA Final Four, or any one of the 80+ events that the DSC hosts annually, volunteers are a crucial part of building unforgettable experiences. That being said, the tradition of volunteering for sporting events in North Texas goes back much further, with one major event standing out in the city’s history. Geri
England is an executive coach and entrepreneur who moved to Dallas when she was very young, and in 1994, she volunteered as part of a guest welcome team when the World Cup was hosted by the United States. “Everybody was excited to have an international event like that and to be in Dallas.” She shares. “I wanted to participate in whatever capacity just so I could witness some of the historical event.” In many cases, FIFA volunteers are one of the first points of contact that an international visitor may have in Dallas, and their contribution can make all the difference in ensuring an event is a memorable and seamless experience for teams, staff, and spectators. With an event as expansive and complex as the World Cup, there are dozens of volunteer teams with specific roles, so no two experiences will be identical. This is especially true in Dallas, as there will be a 39-day straight Fan Fest held in Fair Park, and the tournament’s International Broadcast Center will be located in our own Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. There are eighteen functional areas that a volunteer may be asked to support, including Hospitality, Media Operations, Guest Operations, and more. Volunteers may have the chance to work in many venues, from the stadium or broadcast center to one of the region’s airports or team training sites. There is no shortage of excitement or opportunities for the group of passionate fans selected to volunteer.
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s Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission •
So, what can a volunteer expect when they join the FIFA World Cup 26™ Dallasvolunteer team? First, there are a few basic qualifications that all World Cup volunteers must have:
program is a unique initiative that allows community members to bring the greatest game to life and make memorable moments for spectators, competitors, guests, and more.
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Must be 18 years old or older at the time of application
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Must have a strong grasp of the English language (additional languages are a bonus)
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Must be able to commit to a minimum of eight shifts throughout the duration of the event.
For more details on registering to volunteer, visit dallasfwc26.com/volunteer/. The application window is only open through mid-September, so all prospective volunteers should submit their applications before it’s too late. Don’t miss the chance to become a part of history, register to volunteer today!
Applying is simple and straightforward- new volunteers create an account within the FIFA volunteer portal and provide information about themselves, their passions, and their skills by mid-September 2025. Select applicants will be contacted to participate in Volunteer Team Tryouts beginning in October. Applicants with successful tryouts will be contacted with their Role Offer, at which point they will become an official FIFA volunteer and begin preparing for the World Cup! According to Geri, new volunteers should, “Be cordial and welcoming. Make people feel accepted and at home. Kindness and friendliness go a long way.” The FIFA World Cup 26™ Dallas volunteer
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PROS AT HOME IN
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L a t e st
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THE COMMISSION
Recently, Dallas Sports Commission Executive Director Monica Paul sat down with Business Decoded host Ronnie Spellman to discuss the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the growth of youth and professional sports in Dallas, how sports generate economic impact, and more. Listen to Monica and Ronnie’s conversation for an insider look into the business of sports in the Dallas region. Click here to view the episode, or stream the Business Decoded podcast on your favorite platform today.”
STATE FAIR CLÁSICO DALLAS TRINITY FC VS. CLUB AMERICA FEMENIL
“Dallas’ very own women’s professional soccer team, Dallas Trinity FC, is hosting Club América Femenil this October for the first-ever State Fair Clásico, an international friendly match that showcases some of the world’s most talented female athletes. The match will take place on Saturday, October 18th at the newly-renovated Cotton Bowl Stadium in Fair Park. Each ticket purchased will include admission to both the Clásico game and the Texas State Fair on match day. Tickets begin as low as $27, so purchase yours today to secure your spot at this celebration of women’s sports, soccer, and the cultural connection between Texas and Mexico.” FIND TICKETS
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STATE FAIR CLASSIC 100TH ANNIVERSARY SEPTEMBER 27 COTTON BOWL STADIUM
NATIONAL POWER LIFTING LEAGUE - NATIONALS OCTOBER 3 - 5 CROWNE PLAZA DOWNTOWN
UDMA DANCE TEACHER RESOURCE EXPO OCTOBER 4-5 DALLAS MARKET CENTER
RED RIVER RIVALRY: TEXAS VS OKLAHOMA OCTOBER 11 COTTON BOWL STADIUM
MEXTOUR: MEXICO VS COLOMBIA OCTOBER 11 AT&T STADIUM
CCM DALLAS 200X85 HOCKEY
OCTOBER 11-13 CHILDREN’S HEALTH STARCENTERS & COMERICA CENTER
STATE FAIR CLÁSICO: DALLAS TRINITY FC VS. CLUB AMERICA FEMENIL OCTOBER 18 COTTON BOWL STADIUM
FIRE FIGHTER CHALLENGE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OCTOBER 20-25 DALLAS COLLEGE: BROOKHAVEN CAMPUS
UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Interested in becoming a part of some of the world’s biggest sporting events from right here in our backyard? Register to volunteer with the Dallas Sports Commission today! Some upcoming volunteer opportunities include: • • •
Firefighter Challenge World Championship; October 20-25 Jenius Bank Pickleball World Championship; November 3-9 Dallas Trinity FC Home Games; August 2025 - May 2026 LEARN MORE
State Fair Classic Tickets on Sale Join us on this fall for the 100th anniversary of the State Fair Classic! This fairtime tradition returns in 2025, and the fierce rivalry between Prairie View A&M and Grambling State continues at the Cotton Bowl on September 27th at 6:00 PM.
Click here for more information on where to buy tickets!
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CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: DALLAS FIREFIGHTER AJ GLOVER READY TO SHINE AT FIREFIGHTER CHALLENGE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP By: David Lee
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports
This October, the global firefighting community will converge on Dallas College’s Brookhaven campus in North Texas for the World Firefighter Challenge Championship. Dubbed “the toughest two minutes in sports” by ESPN, this prestigious event will feature more than 400 firefighters from nearly 20 countries competing in a grueling test of strength, skill and athleticism. AJ Glover, a Dallas Fire-Rescue rookie from the Oak Cliff area, is poised to represent his city with pride on the international stage. Glover, nearing his two-year anniversary with Dallas Fire-Rescue, embodies the tenacity of South Dallas firefighters. Working in an area where the fire stations are known as “hot houses”— where significant fire activity fuels their mission—he takes deep pride in his service. “Oak Cliff firefighters take a lot of
pride in what we do and the citizens we serve,” Glover said. “It would mean the world to me to represent the whole city well by placing high at an event like this. It’s less about me and more about the city I represent.” The World Championship, managed by the First Responder Institute under the Firefighter Challenge League (FCL), has grown remarkably in its 34-year history. Russell Jackson, CEO of the Institute, noted its expansion: “Since we rebranded and restructured the program at the end of 2022, we’ve seen an increase of more than 65 percent, and still have more plans to ensure our sport is accessible in communities across the country.” With more than 400 competitors expected, the event draws and stretches
12 | Dallas Firefighter AJ Glover Ready to Shine at Firefighter Challenge
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports
the limits of the world’s fittest firefighters. Jackson explained the Dallas choice: “When Dallas College reached out inquiring about hosting the world event, we knew the location would be well-received by our U.S. and international athletes.” The region’s vibrant attractions enhance its appeal. Glover’s path to this moment is uniquely inspiring. With no prior FCL experience, he qualified directly. His 18-year fitness journey shifted from superficial workouts to functional training—olympic lifts, HIIT, and gear-intensive drills—after joining the department. “This job requires you to be able to efficiently move in very unique ways, with a ton of gear on, while remaining calm,” Glover said. Overcoming motocross injuries to his knee, foot, and ankle, he’s adapted with resilience, mirroring South Dallas’s demands. The championship’s course— climbing a 41-foot tower with a 42-pound hose pack, simulating forcible entry, and dragging a 165-pound victim 106 feet—will push Glover’s limits. Despite no competitive experience since high school, he’s driven by the challenge. “I love working out, and the job demands high physical standards of us anyway, so I’d like to represent our city well,” he said. A strong showing could inspire peers, as he pondered, “If I can place well, then just imagine what some of my physical superiors could do.” Hosting in Farmers Branch boosts the local economy, with athletes and families spending in the area. “As a nonprofit,
our mission is threefold: showcase the strength and readiness of the fire service, inspire the next generation of firefighters, and promote the importance of firefighters being ready to respond to those long enduring emergency calls,” Jackson explains. For Dallas, this raises firefighter fitness awareness, a cause Glover champions. “Maybe I can motivate others to give it a try if I do well,” he added. The event’s “family feeling,” as Jackson described—“Everyone is supportive of one another!”—resonates with Glover, where rookies gain tips from the more seasoned vets. Jackson says experienced competitors spend their time on the sidelines while they’re not competing giving rookies tips and cheer on the other athletes. He says many first-timers are surprised at how difficult the course is. “The pros in our program make themselves available to answer questions, give tips, walk them through the course, etc. None of them feel they are better than anyone else,” he says. With categories for all ages and genders, including 60-75-year-olds outpacing younger competitors, it celebrates diversity and lasting athleticism. Glover’s story of perseverance and pride positions him as a beacon of Dallas’s firefighting spirit, ready to leave a mark on the world stage. EVENT WEBSITE VOLUNTEER
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