Behind the Banner October 2024

BEHIND THE BANNER October

THE HEART OF THE DSC: MEET THE VOLUNTEERS BEHIND THE MAGIC.

BY: JENNIFER SIMONSON

At the Dallas Sports Commission (DSC), it’s no secret that volunteers are the heartbeat of every event.

Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at WrestleMania or the excitement of watching LSU win their first-ever national title during the NCAA Women’s Final Four, it’s the volunteers who help create unforgettable experiences. Hosting more than 70 events annually,

the Dallas Sports Commission recruits anywhere from 40-2000 volunteers for various roles at major events and their database comprises over 7,700 volunteers in total.

DSC has become a powerhouse in the sports world, and much of its success can be credited to the dedicated individuals who give their time and energy.

What motivates someone to volunteer?

For Marvin Bonner, it’s a deep passion for sports and community. After returning from a three-year tour of duty in South Korea, Marvin sought a way to give back. “Since I have such a passion for sports, I researched sports commissions in the DFW area and decided the DSC was where I wanted to volunteer,” he shared. His journey started at WrestleMania where he instantly felt welcomed. “You would have thought we had known each other before that event,” he recalled about meeting fellow DSC staff members. This sense of community and connection is what has kept him coming back year after year.

Another volunteer, Hugo Salazar, saw DSC as his gateway into the sports industry. “I knew that since my degree wasn’t in sports management, I needed another way to get involved,” Hugo said. His volunteering opened doors to fulltime employment in the field. “I started as a volunteer at a soccer tournament, and now I’m working full-time with that same company.” For Hugo, volunteering wasn’t just a chance to give back; it was a career move. He believes volunteering is an invaluable experience for anyone looking to get their foot in the door of the sports world, especially with major events like the FIFA World Cup coming to Dallas in 2026.

Sharon Ray, another loyal DSC volunteer, emphasized the joy of giving back. She has helped with everything from accreditation to checking in athletes and volunteers. Sharon’s favorite moments include interacting with international athletes at events like the Women’s Softball Tournament. “Seeing girls from all different countries was exciting,” she shared. Sharon’s advice for anyone on the fence about volunteering? “It doesn’t cost anything to give your time, and the rewards are priceless.”

For former soccer mom Norma Argueta volunteering filled a void after becoming an empty nester. Her favorite roles have been at WrestleMania FanFest and various soccer games, where she gets to greet fans and assist VIP guests. “The experience is priceless,” Norma said. “I love the energy, the passion, and the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything come together.”

The stories of Marvin, Hugo, Sharon, and Norma are just a glimpse into the vital role DSC volunteers play. Not only do they provide much-needed support to make events run smoothly, but they also serve as ambassadors for the city by sharing their Texas-sized hospitality with visitors from around the world. Volunteering with DSC offers a frontrow seat to some of the most exciting sports events in the country, from major championships to local tournaments.

So, what’s in it for you if you decide to volunteer? Whether you’re looking to give back, meet new people, or get a foot in the door of the sports industry, DSC provides countless opportunities.

You’ll be part of a community that shares your passion, while also gaining experiences you’ll never forget—like Marvin, who had the honor of serving as a PA announcer at the WBSC U18 Softball World Cup.

“It was EPIC!” he exclaimed. “I had never done anything like that, but I’m so glad I took on the challenge.” Volunteering with DSC isn’t just about filling a role at an event—it’s about becoming part of a bigger story. A story of community, passion, and shared experiences.

As Marvin, Hugo, Sharon, and Novrma can attest, volunteering not only enriches the lives of others but also provides unforgettable memories for those who step up to help.

If you’re ready to join this dynamic team of volunteers, now’s the perfect time. With major events always on the horizon, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Dallas Sport Commission needs passionate people like you to make every moment count.

To learn about the latest DSC Volunteer opportunities Click Here

FORE THE LOVE OF SPORTS

DALLAS CONTINUES NCAA PARTNERSHIP WITH WOMEN’S GOLF AND MEN’S BASKETBALL REGIONALS.

BY: BEN HARBUCK

As Dallas gears up to host two major NCAA events—the 2027 Division I Women’s Golf Regional and the 2028 Men’s Basketball South Regional—the city further cements its reputation as a premier destination for sports. These tournaments not only showcase Dallas’s capacity for largescale events but also bring substantial economic benefits and underscore the city’s deep-rooted passion for collegiate sports.

Dallas grow, as fans and teams gather to experience some of college sports’ most thrilling spectacles.

Dallas and the NCAA share a longstanding partnership that has only strengthened over time, marked by an impressive record of unforgettable tournaments and milestone moments. This relationship began with early NCAA events that highlighted Dallas’s excellent venues, adept organization, and enthusiastic fan base. Each tournament has helped both the NCAA and

A pivotal moment in Dallas’s NCAA history came in 1986, when the city hosted its first-ever NCAA Final Four. That tournament proved North Texas could be a top-tier site for NCAA events. The 2014 Men’s Final Four, held at AT&T Stadium, brought an even larger crowd, drawing over 79,000 fans to watch UConn defeat Kentucky. This record-breaking event cemented Dallas’s capability for hosting massive, impactful events.

Women’s collegiate sports have also left a powerful mark in Dallas with two historic Women’s Final Fours at American

Airlines Center (AAC). The first, in 2017, saw Mississippi State break UConn’s 111 game winning streak, while Dawn Staley, alongside A’ja Wilson, led South Carolina to the championship—a defining moment in women’s college basketball. Many thought 2017 was peak drama, only to be proven wrong by the electrifying 2023 Women’s Final Four. That year, Caitlin Clark and Iowa faced off against Angel Reese and LSU in a championship game that drew record-breaking viewership, marking a turning point for women’s sports nationwide.

The 2027 DI Women’s Golf Regional in Dallas is anticipated to be a significant event for both the city and the sport. As women’s sports continue to gain visibility, this tournament offers a unique platform to celebrate and advance women’s athletics. With support from local partners at SMU, and Trinity Forest Golf Club, the event will not only showcase elite collegiate talent but hopefully also will inspire future generations of young female golfers in the region.

On the men’s side, the AAC promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans in 2028. As fore mentioned, the venue is all too familiar with the excitement of March Madness drama. Just last year, the city witnessed 12-seed NC State stun in-state rival Duke, propelling them to their first Final Four since 1986. Under the leadership of the Big 12 Conference and Conference USA as participating host institutions, fans are in for more drama-filled march madness come 2028.

Looking ahead, Dallas’s ambitions extend well beyond 2027 and 2028. The city is set to host both the Men’s Final Four in 2030 and the Women’s Final Four in 2031. With these and other future events, Dallas’s legacy as a vibrant hub for NCAA events and college sports fandom remains strong, ensuring the city will continue to be a cherished destination for athletes, fans, and the collegiate sports community.

To read more about upcoming NCAA events in Dallas Click here.

pros at home in November

Baylor-Arkansas Showdown

Coming to American Airlines Center

The new college basketball season tips-off with a bang when Baylor battles Arkansas on the first Saturday of the new season. The game will be the sole focus for both fanbases with both Arkansas and Baylor football programs being on a bye that weekend while also honoring the nation’s military a few days prior to Veteran’s Day.

The action tips at 6:30 p.m. CT at American Airlines Center and will be broadcast on ESPNU. Tickets for the game are still available via the link below. Complete event information can be found at www.baylorarkansas.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

LAPIPLASTY PICKLEBALL

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

NOVEMBER 3 - NOVEMBER 10

BROOKHAVEN COUNTRY CLUB

ARKANSAS VS. BAYLOR

NOVEMBER 9

AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES SHOWCASE

NOVEMBER 11 - NOVEMBER 13

CEDAR CREST GOLF COURSE

JAKE PAUL VS. MIKE TYSON

NOVEMBER 15

AT&T STADIUM

DUEL AT DALLAS (FENCING)

NOVEMBER 16

DALLAS MARKET HALL

CRUZ AZUL VS. TIGRES UANL

NOVEMBER 16

COTTON BOWL STADIUM

BEST OF TEXAS ROBOTICS

DECEMBER 5

FAIR PARK COLISEUM

UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

• To learn about the latest DSC Volunteer opportunities Click Here

WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR THE FIRST TIME? SIGN UP IN OUR VOLUNTEER PORTAL, ROSTERFY!

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES SHOWCASE AT CEDAR CREST!

Get ready for an epic weekend of golf and good times! From November 11-13, join us at Cedar Crest Golf Course for FREE Admission and a day packed with excitement— think delicious bites from three food trucks, a live DJ bringing the energy, awesome giveaways, and, of course, spectacular All-Star golf!

Watch as 21 men and 21 women All-Stars, representing over 30 colleges and universities from 21 states, compete in an intense 54-hole tournament. Catch every swing live or on replay on GOLF Channel each day. Don’t miss your chance to see the future stars of golf in action!

FREE ADMISSION MORE INFORMATION

CLAY’S COLOR CREW

BY: NANCY RODRIGUEZ

communities in South Dallas. Monica McCar ley, founder of Clay’s Color Crew and mother of nine-year-old Clayton Roberts, and Texas Longhorns star linebacker Colin Simmons, is turning this dream into reality.

Clayton was diagnosed with autism at the age of five in 2020. One of the significant challenges his family faced was the lack of accessible services tailored to his unique needs. “In our part of town, there aren’t many resources for children with special needs,” Monica shared. This realization made navigating daily life increasingly difficult. “I had to drive downtown

was nothing within a 20-mile radius.”

With 1 in 36 children in the United States affected by autism—boys being four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls—the need for local resources is urgent.

Colin Simmons, a standout player for the Texas Longhorns, has always had a clear vision: to support his brother and the autism community while pursuing his dream of playing professional football. Family remains his top priority. He wanted to excel on the field while ensuring that Clayton could thrive and lead a fulfilling life.

Confident in his ability to reach the NFL, Colin chose The University of Texas at Austin after seeing how the staff engaged with Clayton, embracing his differences. This decision marked a significant milestone for their family—finding a supportive university where they could all flourish together.

In 2024, Colin and Monica officially launched Clay’s Color Crew, a foundation dedicated to supporting the entire autism spectrum disorder community. The foundation’s name is inspired by Clayton’s love for art: “Clayton enjoys drawing stick figures and naming them. When we asked what their names were, he said they are ‘Clay’s Color Crew,’” Monica recalled.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Monica, her family, and mentors like Ariel Clarkson, Ken Womak, and Mike Stamper, the organization is gaining much-needed exposure. “Ariel is my right hand; Ken and Mike are very hands-on with everything happening at the foundation,” Monica said.

Despite the demands of football season, Colin actively supports the foundation, using his platform to raise awareness and promote their mission. “He is a busy student-athlete but does his best to shine a light on the foundation,” Monica noted.

Colin partnered with Texas-based artist Ken Womack to create the Art for Autism initiative,

promoting art with a purpose. Inspired by Colin’s story about Clayton, Ken offered to donate 25% of sales from a photoshoot featuring Colin’s art to the foundation. “This collaboration was a perfect fit for us,” Monica explained.

Exciting plans are underway for the organization’s launch, including a merchandise store featuring t-shirts, coffee mugs, tote bags, and eventually a special line of shoes designed for kids with autism.

Monica envisions Clay’s Color Crew as a legacy of support and understanding. “I hope someone sees this and decides to create a space for kids with special needs—a place where they feel comfortable, safe, and empowered to lead fulfilling lives,” she expressed.

Her mission extends beyond resources; she aims to create a supportive environment for parents and children alike, fostering understanding and changing attitudes toward the autism community.

Once the foundation officially launches, they plan to organize field trips, park outings, movie nights, skating events, and picnics. Colin will also host a football clinic for children with special needs during the summer. While their goals are expansive, Monica emphasizes that they must first secure funding to initiate these programs: “Right now, we need capital to get started, community partners to help spread the word, and, most importantly, donations,” she urged.

For more information on how to get involved and support Clay’s Color Crew, visit their official website. www.Clayscolorcrew.org