dallas rising By Stephen Evans
One day we’ll all have stories to tell our kids and grandkids about the day the world came to a halt, and the days, weeks, and months of desolation and isolation that followed. It was an eerie emptiness cast upon a thriving metropolis. That quiet stillness that pervaded the streets of downtown Dallas and its massive convention center. The deserted soccer fields dotting the DFW landscape, stirred only by the lonely Texas breeze. The magnificent stadiums and arenas which help make Dallas America’s Premier Sports Destination devoid of the fans and the competition that make them come to life. The heartbeat of our region had slowed to a mere murmur.
Like every destination city across the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on our region. ‘Normalcy’ was redefined, and then redefined again. But even as the pandemic raged and tightened its grips, paralyzing the sports tourism industry, there was never any question – yes, Dallas would be back. Now, that eerie emptiness is finally lifting in Dallas and throughout the country. Normalcy is beginning to look more recognizable. And within the sports industry, it was our region that led the way back. Without question, Dallas is rising again. “I’ve learned to never doubt the will of the people and the corporate community in our area,” said Monica Paul, Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission.