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Content Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
PG. 04-05
Global Sports Business Summit: Innovation and Leadership Leading the way into the Future of Dallas Sports
PG. 06-07
DreamHack Dallas: Where Gaming Meets the Next Era of Live Entertainment
PG. 08
Pros at Home
PG. 09
Latest from the Commission
PG. 10
Upcoming Events
PG. 11
Vo l u n t e e r V i c t o r i e s - G o l d C u p
PG. 12-13
Empowering the Athletes of To m o r r o w : D a l l a s Yo u t h S p o r t s C o n n e c t s Thousands of Players Across the Region
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GLOBAL SPORTS BUSINESS SUMMIT:
INNOVATION AND LEADERSHIP LEADING THE WAY INTO THE FUTURE OF DALLAS SPORTS By: Alex Gilbert
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
It’s not often that the biggest leaders and innovators in sports get a chance to be under one roof. On May 5th, exactly that happened as the Dallas Sports Commission and SMU Sports Management presented the inaugural Global Sports Business Summit. The one-day event, designed to celebrate the dynamic Dallas sports community, brought together executives, innovators, and professionals for a rich agenda of learning and networking. The Summit showcased Dallas’s title as the No. 1 City for Sports Business, not only for major athletic events, but also for big ideas shaping the future of sports. Almost 300 local professionals convened at the event, gaining fresh insights directly from leaders influencing everything from fan engagement to investment in athletics. Hosted by Angela Lang (Tony Fay PR), The day opened with a thought-provoking panel on “Streaming Wars & Sports Media: The Future of Digital Fan Engagement,” where experts explored how streaming technology is transforming the ways teams and leagues connect with increasingly digital-savvy audiences. Gina Miller (FC Dallas), moderated the engaging panel. Panelists Spencer Markby (Endeavor Streaming), Neil Gruninger (APMC), and Ronnie Fauss (Dallas Mavericks), discussed changing consumer habits and the rise of OTT platforms, the discussion highlighted new playbooks for clubs looking to grow and retain their fan base in the new streaming age. Next, “Sponsorship 2.0: The Evolution of Brand Partnerships in Sports” took center
stage. Moderated by George Killebrew (Dundon Capital Partners – United Pickleball Association, PPA Tour, and Major Pickleball), the lively conversation covered the rapid evolution of sponsorship models and the increasing sophistication in how brands engage with sports properties. Panelists included Erica Kosemund (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma), Gillian Breidenbach (North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee), Paul McCormick (Genesco Sports), and Kern Egan (Multiplier). Emerging trends such as data-driven activations and collaborative storytelling took the forefront of the conversation. The momentum built as the conference transitioned into the realm of technology with “AI, Analytics & Automation: The Tech Revolutionizing Sports Business.” Here, moderator Lauren Allison (Multiplier), along with industry leaders Adam Grossman (Revenue Over and Above Replacement), Brandon Nutting (MVP), and Katie Morgan (Texas Rangers), demonstrated how artificial intelligence and predictive analytics are transforming team operations, player performance assessment, fan engagement, and new revenue streams. The panel provided a deeper understanding of how the next generation of tech can give sports organizations a competitive edge. Addressing the global dimension of sports business, a Fireside Chat with Greg Bibb (Dallas Wings), Brad Ramsey (TEGNA Inc.), and Carolyn Mungo (WFAA/KFAA) titled “Women’s Sports & Broadcasting: Expanding Leagues,
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Revenue Streams, and Fandom,” explored how leagues are extending their reach and revenue around the world. This conversation reinforced Dallas’s strategic position as both a host city and an innovation hub in the increasingly interconnected international sports market. Then came a timely discussion with “Major Events: FIFA World Cup 26™, the Olympics & the Future of Mega Sports Events.” As Dallas ramps up for an extraordinary decade – hosting not just the World Cup but also two NCAA Final Fours and other international competitions. Moderator Monica Paul (Dallas Sports Commission and North Texas FIA World Cup Organizing Committee), guided the panel through the logistical and economic opportunities these spectacles bring to the region. Panelists Chad Estis (Dallas Cowboys), Dan Hunt (FC Dallas and North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee Board), and Jason Mengel (PGA of America), shared insights that underscored how Dallas can leverage its unique assets to set new standards on the global stage. Finally, “The New Playbook: Private Equity, Credit & the Future of College Athletics” shone a spotlight on investment and innovation in collegiate sports—a sector undergoing significant transformation in the era of NIL rights and private capital. Moderator Ryan Luckey (Arluck Advisors), joined Chad Hutchinson (Arctos Partners), Damon Evans (SMU), and David Schmidt (Goldman Sachs & Co.) to share essential perspectives on financial trends
reshaping university athletics, with key lessons for local programs and stakeholders looking to navigate the shifting landscape. Beyond its content-rich panels, the Summit delivered substantial value for Dallas’s sports business ecosystem. Networking opportunities, capped by an informal happy hour, enabled attendees to develop new relationships, identify potential collaborators, and foster mentorships that will help shape the next generation of sports leadership in North Texas. As the day wrapped up, the sentiment was clear: the lessons, connections, and inspiration gained from the inaugural Global Sports Business Summit will resonate across Dallas’s stadiums, boardrooms, and playing fields for years to come. The city is not just hosting major events – it’s leading the conversation about the future of sports. Thank you to all our incredible partners and attendees for participating in this first iteration of the Global Sports Business Summit. We can’t wait to grow it with you for years to come.
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DREAMHACK DALLAS:
WHERE E-SPORTS MEETS THE NEXT ERA OF LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
By: Ben Harbuck
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sport
This Memorial Day Weekend, fifty thousand fans will walk through the doors of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Some will come for the professional esports tournaments. Others will be there for the creators, the cosplay, or the community. But they’ll all be part of something bigger: a festival that’s redefining what entertainment looks like in 2025. DreamHack Dallas isn’t just a gaming event, it’s a festival experience at the intersection of esports, tech, community, and culture. Over the past five years, it’s evolved into one of the most anticipated stops on the global DreamHack tour. What started as an ambitious experiment in 2019 has grown into a flagship weekend powered by local fans, international talent, and a destination that’s become an unexpected leader in the esports space.
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For three days (May 23–25), DreamHack Dallas will host some of the world’s top competitive teams. The Intel® Extreme Masters arena will stage a $1 million Counter-Strike tournament. The Call of Duty League’s Major IV will bring 12 pro teams to Dallas to battle for playoff positioning.
But DreamHack has always been about more than what happens in the professional arena. Fans will have the chance to meet creators the likes of Nadeshot, DrLupo, and AJ & Big Justice. They’ll
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explore indie game showcases, compete in grassroots tournaments, and experience activations from major tech and lifestyle brands. There’s even a Lamborghini booth somewhere in the fold. It’s the kind of mix you only find at DreamHack and it works, beautifully. “Dallas has truly become a second home for DreamHack,” said Guy Blomberg, Senior Director of DreamHack Festivals. “The support we’ve received from the Dallas Sports Commission and the local community has played a huge role in making this one of our strongest and most dynamic events anywhere in the world.”
The growth speaks for itself. Attendance has risen year after year, with the event now drawing international travelers and major brand partners. But its roots remain firmly in the community. Local creators, students, families, and longtime fans all have a place at DreamHack. It’s a festival where someone might come to meet their favorite streamer and end up discovering a whole new corner of the industry they never knew existed. That inclusivity and scale are what set DreamHack apart. It’s not niche. It’s not underground. It’s a reflection of how gaming has moved from subculture to mainstream and how destinations like Dallas are leaning into the opportunity. In a market known for sports and major entertainment moments, DreamHack Dallas has found its footing. And in 2025, it’s helping lead the way. So, whether you’re a lifelong gamer, a curious parent, or a brand looking to understand what’s next, DreamHack Dallas offers a frontrow seat to the future. Tickets for DreamHack Dallas 2025 are available now. Visit dreamhack.com/ dallas to learn more.
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PROS AT HOME IN
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THE COMMISSION DALLAS MARKET HALL TO HOST THE ULTIMATE NINJA WORLD FINALS Get ready for the ultimate indoor obstacle competition at the Ultimate 3K OCR, part of the Ultimate Ninja World Finals (July, 11, 2025). This fast-paced 3K course features 20–25 obstacles and welcomes athletes of all skill levels (ages 7+). All finishers receive medals and shirts, with large medals for podium winners and a $4,000 cash payout for elites. With over 21 countries represented, this is your chance to compete on a global stage in the heart of Dallas. LEARN MORE
LIV GOLF RETURNS TO MARIDOE GOLF CLUB LIV Golf is coming right in the heart of the season June 27-29, at Maridoe Golf Club. With instant action on every hole, faster play throughout the day, and teams that let you put skin in the game. And whether they drop your dream headliner or not, you’ll enjoy three days of DJs plucked from Dallas’s bustlin’ EDM scene for you to dance the day away. What to Expect: The world’s top golfers battling it out under the Texas sun, Live music, fan experiences, and festival vibes all weekend. Get your tickets now and don’t miss the action! SECURE YOUR SEATS
Join the Mayor’s Youth Sports Ticket Program Sign up the youth in your life for a chance to attend local sporting events for FREE! Dallas youth ages 12-17 are eligible to receive FREE tickets to local sporting events through the program. Find out more about the program today at DallasSports.org
APPLY TO BE PART OF THE PROGRAM
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ESPORTS NEXT MAY 22 - MAY 23 OMNI DALLAS HOTEL
DREAMHACK DALLAS
MAY 23 - MAY 25 KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON CONVENTION CENTER
CONCACAF GOLD CUP JUNE 18 - JUNE 22 AT&T STADIUM
USA VOLLEYBALL GIRLS’ JUNIOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP JUNE 24 - JULY 3 KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON CONVENTION CENTER
USA YOUTH SOCCER SOUTHERN REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP JUNE 27 - JULY 3 MONEYGRAM SOCCER PARK
ULTIMATE NINJA WORLD FINALS JULY 10 - JULY 12 DALLAS MARKET HALL
UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: •
Concacaf Gold Cup 6/16 – 6/22
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AJGA Under Armour Jordan Spieth Championship 6/23 – 6/26
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LIV Golf Dallas 6/27 – 6/29
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Southern Regional Championships 6/27 – 7/2
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Concacaf Gold Cup
Tickets Still Available This summer, international soccer takes over AT&T Stadium in Arlington as the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup brings worldclass competition to DFW! On June 18, catch a thrilling doubleheader featuring Costa Rica vs. Dominican Republic and a powerhouse matchup between Suriname and Mexico. Then on June 22, the excitement continues as Team USA faces Haiti, followed by Dominican Republic vs Suriname. SECURE YOUR SEATS
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EMPOWERING THE ATHLETES OF TOMORROW: DALLAS YOUTH SPORTS CONNECTS THOUSANDS OF PLAYERS ACROSS THE REGION By: Peyton Lawrence
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports
Dallas is a hub for sports: major international competitions happen every week, and worldclass professional teams compete at the highest levels. Beyond this, however, there are thousands of talented young athletes in the DFW area, and many institutions exist to provide these athletes with the experience of being on a team. One such organization was founded in 2004 by JR Huerta, and now two decades later, this organization, Dallas Youth Sports, is more impactful than ever and shows no signs of stopping. Huerta and his wife, Claudia, first founded the Dallas Youth Sports baseball league in 2004 to provide an opportunity for their son, Jacob, to participate in team sports. In their inaugural season, the Oak Cliff based baseball league only had thirty-six participants and had to work with another area league to make games possible. Throughout the years,
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however, the program grew tremendously, with Dallas Youth Sports adding leagues for soccer in the late 2000s and flag football in 2022. Recently, there has also been a push to expand further into girls’ sports by establishing a softball league. The program now serves over four thousand youth athletes every year, and they expect their participation to continue to grow. Dallas Youth Sports has offered a home for kids to spend their summers since the very beginning, but in the last three years, they’ve begun offering a formal summer camp program. This program operates for nine weeks every summer, and includes not just sports and competitions, but also chances for youth to learn about math, science, and the arts. Each week offers a new field trip to exciting DFW destinations like the Perot Museum, the Dallas Zoo, or Dallas Cowboys Kids Day.
Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports Commission • Dallas Sports
The program, despite its incredible growth both in leagues and camps, has not lost sight of the original five guiding pillars outlined in 2004. Huerta explained in an interview that “...the mission is to promote education, leadership, discipline, health, and wellness.” Dallas Youth Sports aims to teach lifelong skills to participants in leagues and summer camps that help them even beyond their time in sports- skills like maintaining a positive mindset, practicing healthy living habits, and leading others through teamwork. Community engagement is one of the other foundational elements of Dallas Youth Sports. Many athletes’ parents volunteer as coaches or team managers. In 2014, the Huerta family established a scholarship program that helps DYS participants access higher education. Every year, DYS hosts a back-to-school backpack giveaway. One initiative that Huerta shared he is proudest of, however, is the annual Christmas toy giveaway. In 2024, Huerta estimates that close to nine thousand youth, from newborn to seventeen years old, received Christmas gifts completely free of charge. The program has no age limit, as Huerta shares that often teens are overlooked and do not receive the same support as younger children. A recent hit amongst teenage girls who received gifts were Chia Pets, donated by a local business. Beyond toys, however, the program offers families essentials like electric razors or toilet paper. Many local businesses have begun to donate toys, essential goods, or funds to support the event, and with each year, the Christmas event expands even further.
based on where they are from or what their individual circumstances may be. Athletes and volunteers come from all walks of life, but each person comes together to participate in a community that feels like a large family. In fact, many DYS alumni are now enrolling their own children or returning to coach teams now that they have grown into community leaders. The son that JR Huerta first established the original baseball league for now serves as Dallas Youth Sports’ Director of Sports, and JR’s daughter is now the Director of Community Impact. The future looks bright for Dallas Youth Sports, with Huerta sharing that in the upcoming fall season, a new basketball league will begin its inaugural season. Beyond that? “Hopefully in two years, we’re going to start street hockey.” With each new expansion, Dallas Youth Sports hopes to reach more area youth, especially young women. In the meantime, the DYS team continues to embody their mission and values, and they continue to positively shape the lives of the Dallas athletes of tomorrow. For those looking to become involved in Dallas Youth Sports, volunteer applications are always open. Please reach out to info@dallasyouthsports. org for more information. For families interested in registering their children in sports leagues or summer camps, please visit www. dallasyouthsports.org for registration details.
Unique to Dallas Youth Sports is the opendoor policy: no family will be turned away
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