Issuu

HCHSA

Q1 Snapshot

Q1 Social Snapshot

The year began with strong momentum in January, setting the tone for a busy first quarter across Houston’s sports landscape. Social media content highlighted major events, including Houston Sports Hall of Fame Announcement Tour presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods, USA BMX Lone Star Nationals, the World Baseball Classic, NCAA Men’s Basketball South Regional, RODEOHOUSTON, and multiple professional sports teams season openers. This steady stream of marquee moments helped expand reach and drive consistent engagement throughout Q1.

1,337,758 IMPRESSIONS

663 NET AUDIENCE GROWTH

55,481 VIDEO VIEWS

22,520 TOTAL ENGAGEMENTS

5,846 POST CLICKS

1.7% ENGAGEMENT RATE

AUDIENCE GROWTH: Increased 16.7% year-over-year. VIDEO VIEWS: Increased 56.2% year-over-year.

Data Source: Sprout - Cross-Network Profile Performance

Dynamo & Dash

Houston’s professional soccer season kicked off on February 21 as Houston Dynamo FC hosted Chicago Fire FC at Shell Energy Stadium, welcoming fans back for another exciting year of Major League Soccer. The Dynamo opened with a 2–1 victory, setting the tone for the season ahead. The match marked the start of a busy soccer calendar across the region as Houston continues building momentum toward the FIFA World Cup 26™.

The Houston Dash opened their home slate on March 21, defeating Boston Legacy FC 3–0 at Shell Energy Stadium after starting their season with a road victory in San Diego. The win marked the first time in club history the Dash have opened the season with back-toback victories. In front of a franchiserecord home opener crowd of 10,259 fans, the team also secured its second consecutive shutout, with captain Jane Campbell recording her 44th career clean sheet.

OPENING DAY Astros

The Houston Astros opened their 2026 campaign in strong form, winning five straight home games against the Los Angeles Angels and Boston Red Sox. The homestand was highlighted by a commanding 9–2 victory over Boston, as the Astros showcased early offensive power and solid pitching. With momentum on their side, the team now heads west to take on the Athletics, Rockies, and Mariners as the season continues.

finishes from Heston Novotny (11 Expert), Ryan Tougas (2nd on Friday), and Payton Ridenour (3rd on Friday).

The USA BMX National Series returned to Houston March 6–8 as the Lone Star Nationals took over the H-Town BMX Supercross Track at the Rockstar Energy Bike Park. Riders from across the country competed throughout the weekend at one of the premier stops on the national BMX calendar. The event also serves as Stop No. 1 on the USA BMX Pro Series and a key qualifier toward the 2026 Team USA World Championships. Notable performances included Barry Nobles winning Day 1 in Vet Pro, Izaac Kennedy finishing second in Elite Pro, and strong RODEOHOUSTON returned to NRG Stadium this quarter, continuing its tradition as one of Houston’s most iconic and widely attended annual events. The multi-week celebration combines world-class rodeo competition with concerts, entertainment, and community programming, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond while generating significant economic impact for the city.

Baseball excitement arrived early in Houston as Daikin Park hosted Group B play of the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Teams representing Brazil, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico, and the United States competed in Houston during the tournament’s opening round. Italy and the United States advanced from Group B and faced Puerto Rico and Canada, respectively, in quarterfinal matchups held in Houston. Both Italy and the United States secured wins to advance to the semifinals, with Team USA continuing on to the championship game. Venezuela ultimately claimed its first World Baseball Classic title with a dramatic 3–2 victory over Team USA.

Houston hosted the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball South Regional at Toyota Center, bringing two of the tournament’s most exciting rounds to the city. The Sweet 16 featured electric matchups between Iowa vs. Nebraska and Illinois vs. Houston on March 26, with Iowa and Illinois advancing to the Elite Eight on March 28. The high-intensity showdown between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Illinois Fighting Illini brought an electric atmosphere to Toyota Center, with Illinois claiming the NCAA Men’s South Regional title. Houston welcomed fans from across the country for a weekend of top-tier college basketball.

JJ Watt

One of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history, JJ Watt redefined excellence during his time with the Houston Texans. A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt became the face of the franchise and a symbol of resilience for the city. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, his historic fundraising efforts united Houston and raised more than $41 million for relief, solidifying his legacy as both a Houston icon and a true leader in the community.

Brian Ching

Houston soccer legend Brian Ching played a foundational role in establishing professional soccer in the city. As an original member of the Houston Dynamo, Ching helped lead the club to back-to-back MLS Cup titles in 2006 and 2007, earning MLS Cup MVP honors in the inaugural championship run. A consistent leader on and off the pitch, Ching remains the Dynamo’s all-time leading scorer and has continued to make a lasting impact through his deep connection to the Houston community.

Billy Wagner

One of the most dominant closers in Major League Baseball history, Billy Wagner made a lasting impact during his time with the Houston Astros. Known for his electric fastball and fierce competitiveness, Wagner recorded 422 career saves and earned seven All-Star selections over a 16-year career. A key figure in an era of success for the Astros, Wagner’s consistency on the mound and lasting contributions to the game have solidified his place among baseball’s elite.

Looking Ahead to Q2

APRIL

Planning and operational preparations continue across the region as Houston gears up for a busy spring and summer of major events. Highlights include the inaugural Fleet Week Houston, the Chevron Championship at Memorial Park Golf Course, and the Houston Gamblers home opener, bringing fans together across multiple venues while maintaining strong momentum throughout the city’s sports calendar.

MAY

Daikin Park takes center stage on May 2 as the Astros Race to the Pennant, presented by Houston Methodist, energizes fans throughout the region. Houston will also host the FIFA World Cup 26™ Trophy Tour, presented by Coca-Cola, from May 1–3. Fans can sign up online for your chance to see the iconic trophy up close before it continues its global journey ahead of the tournament.

JUNE

Houston moves onto the global stage in June with five FIFA World Cup 26™ group stage matches hosted at NRG Stadium, followed by two knockout round matches. These historic events will bring international attention and visitors to the region, marking one of the most significant moments in Houston’s sports history. Complementing the matches, the FIFA Fan Festival™ will take place in East Downtown (EaDo), creating a 34-day, citywide celebration featuring watch parties, live entertainment, and cultural programming.