Coliseum Summit US
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
June 5-6, 2024


Register

Summit Program

 
 
  • 2-7 pm

    Join us for an exclusive day featuring tours of two iconic stadiums, followed by a networking evening. This day is complimentary for Coliseum Summit US 2024 delegates only. Reserving a spot is on first-come, first-served basis.

    Reserve your spot for behind-the-scene tours of the Children’s Mercy Park and the CPKC Stadium as well as the networking evening. Please register here.

  • 2 pm

    Behind-the-scenes of Children’s Mercy Park, in association with:

    Thornton Tomasetti

    Enrapturing Children’s Mercy Park

    Children's Mercy Park tourImage: Coliseum GSVA

    The 18,467-capacity Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas (US) - home of the Major League (MLS) team Sporting Kansas City - is not just another Major League Soccer (MLS) stadium. The celebrated design studio Populous-designed facility opened in the year 2011 and is based on the concept of stop-motion photography.

    The design of the Children’s Mercy Park captures movement and motion by celebrating both the body and the ball. The signature 145,000-square-foot roof canopy, meanwhile, mimics the long floating arc of a soccer ball as it soars across the field.

    To create a fan-oriented experience various club spaces have been created in the stadium to facilitate fans-players’ interactions. In totality, the Children’s Mercy Park is iconic, fun, intimate, authentic, and awe‐inspiring.

  •  

    Thornton Tomasetti

    Thornton Tomasetti

  • 4:30 pm

    Behind-the-scenes of CPKC Stadium, in association with:

    Generator Studio
    Thornton Tomasetti
    Dimensional Innovations

    Drop-in-a-swoon CPKC Stadium

    CPKC Stadium tourImage: KC Current

    The 11,500-capacity CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (US) is the first privately-financed stadium purpose-built exclusively for a professional women’s soccer team - the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The facility is the ‘crown jewel’ for Kansas City and opened on March 16th, 2024.

    The CPKC Stadium is the anchor of the ongoing riverfront development project at the Berkley Riverfront Park undertaken by Port KC. With this stadium, the KC Current not only signals its commitment to its athletes and fans, but also its commitment to Kansas City.

    The stadium has been so designed by Generator Studio that one will not miss a moment of action. Fans also have access to all-inclusive grab ‘n’ go appetizers located in the concourse club and the spiffy facility boasts premium seating with breathable mesh to keep one cool on a hot Summer matchday. With premium hospitality offerings, the fans will also feel the speed and the energy of the action on the pitch of the drop-in-a-swoon CPKC Stadium.

  •  

    US 2024 tour visual - Generator Studio (CPKC Stadium)Image: Generator Studio

    Christina Franklin, during a tour of the 11,500-capacity CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (US), will inform the delegates that the Generator Studio, the Architect of Record, was responsible for the architectural and interior design of the CPKC Stadium.

    Franklin will further inform the delegates that the Generator Studio worked closely with the ownership group and the collective team to forge a venue focused on the athletes, embodying the spirit and energy of Kansas City to create an inclusive experience that is welcoming to all.

    Christina Franklin

    Christina Franklin bio Director of Interior Design, Generator Studio, US

  •  

    Thornton Tomasetti

    Thornton Tomasetti

  •  

    US 2024 tour visual - Dimensional Innovations (KC Current)Image: Dimensional Innovations

    Justin Wood will explain to the delegates during the venue tour of the 11,500-capacity CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (US) that after helping bring to life the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team Kansas City Current’s team headquarters and training complex, Dimensional Innovations considered it a privilege to partner with the local Kansas City firms to help build the world’s first purpose-built women’s professional sports stadium - the CPKC Stadium, home field of the KC Current.

    Wood will further inform the assembled delegates that Dimensional Innovations had a women-led experience design team that was responsible for comprehensive signage and wayfinding efforts, fabrication and installation of branded graphics and design elements, and sponsorship activations throughout the venue, including the naming rights stadium branding for the CPKC Stadium.

    Justin Wood

    Justin Wood bio Principal, Dimensional Innovations, US

  • 5:30-7 pm

    Post-tour-ice-breaker – Networking evening at CPKC Stadium, in association with:

    JE Dunn Construction
    Coliseum Summit US 2024 - Post-tour-ice-breaker locationImage: CPKC Stadium
  • 8 am

    Welcome: Pick up your pre-printed delegate badge from the allocated reception desk

  • 8-9 am

    Morning coffee & networking snacks, in association with:

    Fenagh Engineering and Testing
  • 9 am

    Welcome to Coliseum Summit US

    Coliseum Summit US 2024 visual Image: Coliseum GSVA

    Introduction of Coliseum’s Chair and master of ceremony

    Michael Rennschmied, MA

    Michael Rennschmied, MA bio Founder, Coliseum, GSVA, Dubai, UAE

  • 9:05 am

    Opening key-note

    Arrowhead Stadium blue-chip rejig plans

    US 2024 - Kansas City ChiefsImage: Kansas City Chiefs

    Matt Kenny and Brandon Hamilton will tell James A. Renne in their key-note talk in this conference how the National Football League (NFL) team Kansas City Chiefs are planning a $800 million renovation to their digs – the 76,416-capacity GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (US) - the third-oldest stadium in the NFL - that would begin after the stadium hosts games for the 2026 World Cup. The renovation would take about four years to complete.

    The duo will further inform Renne that the renovation project would touch every aspect of the 52-year-old building, from the seating bowl to the luxury amenities to the tailgating scene. A new parking deck will be built to help provide the players, the VIPs and the other special guests with a better access point. The new pedestrian bridges would help the fans get from the parking lots to the stadium. There would be new ribbon boards, the videoboards at each end would triple and quadruple in size and the existing suites around the stadium would be renovated.

    Matt Kenny

    Matt Kenny bio EVP, Operations & Events, Kansas City Chiefs, US


    Brandon Hamilton

    Brandon Hamilton bio VP, Stadium Operations & Facilities, Kansas City Chiefs, US


    James A. Renne, AIA

    James A. Renne, AIA bio National Director, Sports & Entertainment, JLL, US

  • 9:30 am

    Conference stream: Venue DESIGN

    This segment of the conference streams is about the most exciting and innovative newly planned stadiums and arena projects of the future - in one phrase, the next generation of venues. Listen about the newest trends in stadium design. How a stadium is no longer an isolated project but deeply integrated with multiuse urban development models to include hotels, conference centers, retail outlets, and entertainment zones. Also, learn about the huge demand on training centers. Overlay, after all, is a huge part of the buzzword legacy in major event planning.

  •  

    Barclays Center set for major overhaul

    US 2024 - Barclays CenterImage: BSE Global

    Adina Erwin will speak in this conference on major renovation plans close at hand for the 19,000-capacity Barclays Center in New York (US).

    Erwin will further inform that the transformation work will cover a reconfiguration of the arena’s premium offerings, including its existing suites as well as new B-level suites and new premium membership clubs. As part of the largest renovation in the venue’s history, the arena will revise its current Suite Level B, which will be converted into The Row, a 12,060 square-foot VIP club.

    Adina Erwin

    Adina Erwin bio GM, Barclays Center, US

  • 9:45 am

    Creating a catalyst for cohesive expansion – Boise State University North Endzone

    Opsis Architecture (BSU NEZ East Corner) - topic visualImage: Opsis Architecture

    Chris Roberts and Edward Mills will inform in this colloquium that the Boise State University in Boise, Idaho (US) is advancing its efforts to enhance the 36,363-capacity Albertsons Stadium located in its campus, aiming to deliver an elevated gameday atmosphere for the fans and the student-athletes alike. The upcoming phase of this evolution centers on completing the North Endzone, with focus on completing the lower seating bowl. This includes the integration of premium seating options to elevate fan engagement and satisfaction. The project will tackle operational issues that have accumulated over time due to previous expansions. By addressing these deficiencies, the aim is to create a more cohesive stadium environment that sets the stage for future developments over the next decade.

    In this session, Roberts-Mills will further underscore the importance of working together to establish a design foundation aligned with the Boise State University’s long-term goals of enhancing the infrastructure, boosting the revenue streams, enriching the student-athlete experience, and increasing the marketability. Moreover, the discussions will delve into the challenges inherent in stadium additions, exploring a range of solutions tailored to the project’s unique requirements. By examining these complexities in detail, the duo will aim to chart a strategic course for the stadium’s evolution, ensuring it remains a focal point of pride and excitement for the Boise State community.

    Opsis Architecture

    Chris Roberts bio Principal, Opsis Architecture, US


    Edward Mills

    Edward Mills bio Project Director, Sports, Recreation & Entertainment, HOK, US

  • 10 am

     

    US 2024 - HNTB (KU Memorial Stadium)Image: HNTB
    Travis Goff

    Travis Goff bio Director of Athletics, University of Kansas, US


    Gerardo Prado

    Gerardo Prado bio National Sports Practice Leader, HNTB, US

  • 10:15 am

    Sener trailblazing tech for stadia architecture-engineering

    Sener - topic visual US 2024Image: Sener

    Jorge Vizcaya Pérez will highlight in his presentation at the colloquium the cutting-edge solutions developed by Sener for stadium architecture and engineering, aimed at transforming the stadia into real multipurpose venues without the facilities losing their sporting essence.

    Pérez will further explore how these innovations enable a swift, secure and efficient adaptation of the stadiums to be used for a variety of events on a 365 use basis. Additionally, a current project being developed by Sener will be presented as a tangible demonstration of these solutions.

    Jorge Vizcaya Pérez

    Jorge Vizcaya Pérez bio Head of Sports & Recreation Area, Sener, Spain

  • 10:30 am

    Conference stream: Venue CONSTRUCTION

    This segment of the conference focuses on risks and challenges during the construction process. It deliberates on the procurement process and puts the contractors in the center stage. It also focuses on stadiums and arenas under renovation. If your stadium is not new anymore, what are the ways to extend its life for years to come? Different concepts and add-ons in order to optimize the spaces within your venue are also discussed. We also deliberate on the myriad of other construction tools required for the stadium sector.

  •  

    KC Current ‘power’-packed stadium district plans

    KC Current (CPKC Stadium) - topic visual US 2024Image: KC Current (Facebook)

    Raven Jemison will tell Rob Hunden in a face-to-face in this meet how the ownership group of the 11,500-capacity CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri (US), home ground of the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), is planning a development of the Missouri River waterfront. It is the first privately-financed stadium purpose-built exclusively for a professional women’s soccer team.

    Jemison will also tell Hunden that the CPKC Stadium will serve as the hub for the project which will break ground later this year and include residential units, public recreation and gathering spaces and restaurant locations designed to create a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood setting.

    Raven Jemison

    Raven Jemison bio President, KC Current, US


    Rob Hunden

    Rob Hunden bio President, Hunden Partners, US

  • 10:45-11:30 am

    Coffee break & networking, in association with:

    Fenagh Engineering and Testing
  • 11:30 am

    Off-season rush: Citi Field’s four fast-track renovations

    US 2024 - Shawmut Design and ConstructionImage: Shawmut Design and Construction

    Terry McIntyre will reveal in this summit that the first phase of the 41,800-capacity Citi Field (New York, US) master plan included upgrades to four fan experiences, from a premier club to a completely new gathering space - and started and finished in less than six months.

    McIntyre will further inform that working against the non-negotiable deadline of Opening Day, the team of the construction firm Shawmut Design and Construction focused on continuous, transparent communication and creative problem-solving to complete the project on time despite procurement delays.

    In his presentation, McIntyre will also share how the team met this extremely fast-track timeline while achieving the goals of each space - resulting in sell-through rates that exceeded all projections.

    Terry McIntyre

    Terry McIntyre bio Director, Sports Venues, Shawmut Design and Construction, US

  • 11:45 am

    Camden Yards Sports Complex Master Plan journey

    Maryland Stadium Authority - topic visualImage: Maryland Stadium Authority

    In this assembly, Jeffrey Provenzano will talk about how two professional sports stadiums and teams (the National Football League [NFL] team Baltimore Ravens and the Major League Baseball [MLB] team Baltimore Orioles) with two separate leases, a revenue generating office building structure (the Warehouse) and the Camden Station all located on the 30-year-old, State of Maryland-managed 89-acre Camden Yards Sports Complex in downtown Baltimore City, Maryland (US) are about to begin a 1.2 billion dollar (600 million each) State-funded Master Plan journey.

    He will further mention how does this journey begin for the Facilities Operations Team, how will it flow and what is the vision for its conclusion in the 21st century?

    Jeffrey Provenzano

    Jeffrey Provenzano bio Vice-President, Facilities, Maryland Stadium Authority, US

  • 12 pm

    Rogers Centre CAD transformation

    PCL Construction (Rogers Centre) - topic visualImage: Toronto Blue Jays

    Sanj Perera will inform John Schmalz in a tête-à-tête in this conference how the 49,286-capacity Rogers Centre in Ontario, Canada - the home of the Major League Baseball (MLB) team Toronto Blue Jays - underwent a multiyear, nearly $400 million computer-aided design (CAD), privately-funded renovation that progressively transitioned the 35-year-old multipurpose stadium to a ballpark through a series of projects aimed at bringing fans closer to the action, introducing modern fan experiences and overhauling the player facilities.

    Perera will further tell Schmalz that work was completed on a fast-tracked timeline in two distinct phases that took place over the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 offseasons. The first phase of work focused on the outfield from foul pole to foul pole, introducing five distinct Outfield District social spaces, available to all fans with a game ticket, as well as raised bullpens and new outfield and 500 level seats. The second phase of work overhauled the 100 level infield by demolishing and excavating the original bowl and redesigning and rebuilding a new seating bowl, along with adding world-class player facilities and premium clubs and amenities. The second phase required 18 months of work completed in five months, opening on time for the club’s Home Opener.

    Sanj Perera

    Sanj Perera bio Dir., Project Development & Construction, Toronto Blue Jays, Canada


    John Schmalz

    John Schmalz bio Senior Project Manager, PCL Construction, US

  • 12:15 pm

    Ensuring longevity and flexibility in a multipurpose arena – a structural perspective

    US 2024 - Geiger EngineersImage: Geiger Engineers

    Karen Lynch will inform the distinguished gathering in this symposium that in today’s dynamic sports and entertainment landscape, the stadiums and arenas must remain adaptable to the evolving trends, lest they risk falling behind. While initially tailored to the specific tenants or the sponsors, these venues often require adjustments to accommodate changing demands, such as alterations in luxury suite layouts, food services, or other amenities.

    Lynch will further inform the gathering that the demands placed on the arena roofs continue to escalate with the increasing weight and complexity of concert and show rigging. From the expansive video walls to the intricate speaker arrays and moving effects, the requirements seem limitless. Therefore, it’s imperative that the structural design of the new stadium not only considers the total show weight but also offers convenient rigging capabilities for all potential configurations.

    How can the stadium’s structural design ensure this adaptability and maximize their investment?

    Karen Lynch

    Karen Lynch bio Principal & CEO, Geiger Engineers, US

  • 12:30 pm

    Conference stream: Venue BUSINESS

    Is your stadium able to turn each customer into a fan and make them come back again and again? Do you know your fan to begin with? Learn the right tools to elevate your service delivery. Are there ways to create the right content and while doing so creating more event days in the process? Are you focused on ticket sales of the future: Selling through Customer Relations Management (CRM) and social media? How about brand activation? And, how to draw a fine balance among perfect venue, capital expenditure and lasting legacy? This and much more…

  •  

    Hunden Partners au fait with sports venue industry information

    US 2024 - Chicago Bears (rendering) - Hunden PartnersImage: Chicago Bears rendering

    Join Rob Hunden in this assembly as he guides the gathering on an exciting journey through the latest developments in the sports venues, the ongoing construction projects, team relocations, naming rights changes, and the Cities vying to attract teams.

    Hunden’s dynamic presentation will bring you up to speed with the most current information. In a landscape of constantly emerging projects and rumors, staying informed is crucial. Be in the know with this fast-paced update!

    Rob Hunden

    Rob Hunden bio President, Hunden Partners, US

  • 12:45 pm

    Futuristic venues keep coffers clinking

    US 2024 - Kansas City RoyalsImage: Coliseum GSVA

    Jason Sinnarajah will tell James A. Renne in a one-on-one in this session how technology is critical to promoting and boosting the venue business. A venue boasting cutting-edge technology with plum offerings will draw fans by droves thus reaping rewards in the form of revenue.

    Sinnarajah will also tell Renne how technology plays a crucial role in driving the attendee experience and helps in streamlining the ticketing process, and the mobile apps enable the fans to access the event schedules, cashless payments and you name it! A futuristic venue thus helps drive the venue business too as zoomers will definitely be drawn towards a stadium which boasts first-in-class tech offerings.

    Jason Sinnarajah

    Jason Sinnarajah bio COO, Kansas City Royals, US


    James A. Renne, AIA

    James A. Renne, AIA bio National Director, Sports & Entertainment, JLL, US

  • 1-2 pm

    Lunch break & networking, in association with:

    Stats Perform

    (Open to everyone with a Coliseum badge in our dedicated main networking area)

    Network and collaborate with the stadium business experts and enjoy great food!

  • 2 pm

    VITEC IPTV platform scales to deliver engaging experiences for Kansas City Royals fans

    US 2024 - VITECImage: VITEC

    Brian M. Himstedt will narrate to Mark Robison in this conference in an one on one interaction how in 2009, the 37,903-capacity Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, US, the beloved home of the Major League Baseball (MLB) team Kansas City Royals, underwent a remarkable $250 million renovation. This extensive overhaul not only revitalized the physical structure but also prioritized enhancing the visual experience for the fans, spanning from concourses to luxury suites. In pursuit of a cutting-edge solution to meet the burgeoning demand for Internet Protocol (IP) channels within the venue and to facilitate dynamic digital signage across all the fan-centric areas, VITEC’s Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) platform was carefully chosen. Its adaptable, open-architecture seamlessly integrated with the evolving needs of the renovation phase, while also possessing the scalability to accommodate future video enhancements.

    Join Robison and Himstedt as the representatives from VITEC and the Royals illuminate the journey of the IPTV platform’s evolution within the Kauffman Stadium. Experience firsthand how it has expanded to power an array of displays throughout the stadium, including an impressive 5x5 video wall. Discover how these advancements are not only enriching fan engagement but also fortifying relationships with the valued sponsors.

    Brian M. Himstedt

    Brian M. Himstedt bio Vice-President - Technology & Business Analytics, Kansas City Royals, US


    Mark Robison

    Mark Robison bio Vice-President of Sales - Sports & Entertainment, VITEC, US

  • 2:15 pm

    Kansas varsity mixed-use stadium projects

    US 2024 - University of Kansas (rendering)Image: University of Kansas rendering

    Learn from Heather L. Blanck as she tells Rob Hunden in this meet the process currently being undertaken for a major mixed-use and stadium public-private partnership (P3) projects at the University of Kansas (US). From the initial planning to feasibility and financing studies to the developer and operator selection processes, hear the lessons learned and recommendations from Blanck.

    Blanck will further tell Hunden that many universities and their host communities are looking to such partnerships to generate placemaking success, yet hurdles require creativity, great partners and best practices learned from the other deals in order to be successful.

    Heather L. Blanck

    Heather L. Blanck bio Chief Procurement Officer & Director of Strategic Sourcing, University of Kansas, US


    Rob Hunden

    Rob Hunden bio President, Hunden Partners, US

  • 2:30 pm

    Conference stream: Venue TECHNOLOGY

    It seems IT and venue technology is taking over the whole venue business. Technology will no doubt change the fan experience in stadiums and arenas forever. The general question is: How much technology can be implemented? How can a tech platform help organizations understand their fans’ behavior and spending? What kind of content the fans produce from within the venue? How venue technology platforms generate revenue for a compelling return on interest (ROI) model and justify the investment? Learn more…

  •  

    Alfred Technologies-Tampa Bay Lightning profit formula

    US 2024 - Alfred TechnologiesImage: Alfred Technologies

    Guy Doucet and Pierre-Sébastien Gauthier will explain in this summit how artificial intelligence (AI) can help maximize expected profits and also help to arrive at a decision where to stock the arriving inventory lots.

    The duo will also narrate how Alfred Technologies and Tampa Bay Lightning’s innovative and pioneering methods on the above is helping coffers jingle.

    Guy Doucet

    Guy Doucet bio President & CEO, Alfred Technologies, Canada


    Pierre-Sébastien Gauthier

    Pierre-Sébastien Gauthier bio Partner & CRO, Alfred Technologies, Canada

  • 2:45 pm

    Enhancing the guest experience with the latest in venue technology

    US 2024 - ASM GlobalImage: ASM Global

    In this future-focused presentation, Gary Jacobus will uncover in this assembly how the leading venue management company ASM Global is implementing tomorrow’s technology today.

    From proprietary in-house solutions to industry-leading technology partnerships, Jacobus will further explain how one can use innovative technology to enhance the guest experience and reduce the bottom line. Discover how autonomous concessions streamline service, touchless security enhances safety and wireless solutions elevate every aspect of the guest journey.

    Gary Jacobus

    Gary Jacobus bio President BD Americas, ASM Global, US

  • 3 pm

    IPTV is just the beginning

    Havrion visual - US 2024Image: Havrion

    Susan Grossweiler will share in this forum her insights into the growing use of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) in the sports venues, drawing on their experiences of working with a Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium. The benefits on the club will be analyzed in terms of revenue generation, infrastructure and cost reductions.

    Grossweiler will also discuss the broader topic of how this technology can help support growth throughout a venue, drawing on the experiences of other markets such as retail.

    Susan Grossweiler

    Susan Grossweiler bio VP, Product & Operations, Havrion, US

  • 3:15-4 pm

    Coffee break & networking, in association with:

    Fenagh Engineering and Testing
  • 4 pm

    Conference stream: Venue DESIGN

    This segment of the conference streams is about the most exciting and innovative newly planned stadiums and arena projects of the future - in one phrase, the next generation of venues. Listen about the newest trends in stadium design. How a stadium is no longer an isolated project but deeply integrated with multiuse urban development models to include hotels, conference centers, retail outlets, and entertainment zones. Also, learn about the huge demand on training centers. Overlay, after all, is a huge part of the buzzword legacy in major event planning.

  •  

     

    Scott Radecic

    Scott Radecic bio Senior Principal / Founder, Populous, US

  • 4:15 pm

    Conference stream: GREEN Venue

    Green initiatives are no longer the provinces of hippies and tree-huggers. Going Green is a staple of the sports and entertainment venue industry and it can be profitable too. This is the segment that evaluates costs, attempts to understand from a community relations perspective and articulate a Green initiatives policy. How innovative Green technology is changing the way we look at our stadiums and sports arenas, and transforming them into a model of sustainable projects. Going Green is not just an option in the stadium business, it is the way forward.

  •  

    ASM Global put best sustainability foot forward

    ASM Global (State Farm Stadium) visual - US 2024Image: State Farm Stadium

    Lindsay Arell will narrate in this conference how the ASM Global takes its responsibility towards the planet - as regards sustainability - very seriously going by the increasing global warming resulting in scorching Summer and harsher Winter.

    Arell will inform how the leading venue management company has announced an intensified ramp-up of its efforts to convert its entire collection of 400 venues to the most sustainable on earth. With over 50 Green certified venues, the ASM Global has the largest portfolio of such properties in the world.

    Lindsay Arell

    Lindsay Arell bio Chief Sustainability Officer, ASM Global, US

  • 4:30 pm

    Fatzer wallet-friendly lightweight structures

    FATZER AG Wire Ropes - topic visual 2024Image: Fatzer AG & Allegiant Stadium

    Malte Kabelitz will inform the august audience in this conference how Fatzer, the manufacturer of architectural ropes for lightweight construction, help save a lot of materials and is wallet-friendly as the lightweight structures are economically sustainable.

    Kabelitz will also inform that even in the field of energy generation, the lightweight structures will help the people involved in power projects enjoy an edge from the economic point of view.

    Malte Kabelitz

    Malte Kabelitz bio Technical Sales Director, FATZER AG Wire Ropes, Switzerland

  • 4:45 pm

    Conference stream: HOST CITY Venues

    How should the perfect Host City- and the venues within it, prepare for a major sporting event? If a Host City’s venues are important, equally important are its planning services, transport logistics, safety and security protocols, Citywide activation, and the multiplicity of considerations which form the crux of pulling off a successful event. Event organizers/rights holders like FIFA, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, Asian Games, etc., are hosting mega multisport events in multiyear cycles, and every sport runs its World Cups and annual National Championships. Rather than creating event venues, sustainability directives dictate adaptation and creativity - what are the trends?

  •  

    In-stadia tech drive rich fan experience

    Veridas visual - US 2024Image: Veridas

    Alfonso Urrizburu Santos will reflect on in this meet on how sport is advancing amidst the digital revolution, showcasing innovative strategies and technologies that deliver personalized and unparalleled matchday experiences.

    The key topics that Santos will cover include the pivotal role of in-venue technology in driving the fan engagement, the revenue-driving potential of technology and innovation on gamedays and the significance of in-stadia tech as a fundamental element in meeting evolving fan expectations of their matchday experience.

    Alfonso Urrizburu Santos

    Alfonso Urrizburu Santos bio Head of Identity, Veridas, US

  • 5 pm

    Sports storytelling propel fan engagement-interaction

    Stats Perform visual - US 2024Image: Stats Perform

    Brian Orefice will narrate in this assembly how sports storytelling drives huge engagement and fan interaction on the digital channels. Are you telling the same, rich stories in person inside your stadium when your fellow sporting family are together?

    Orefice will examine the role of sports content within the matchday experience and how it can make the gameday more entertaining for the fans, bring them earlier and make them louder, elevate the VIP experience, and attract new sponsors.

    Brian Orefice

    Brian Orefice bio VP of Product, Stats Perform, US

  • 5:15 pm

    Sports Architecture Panel
    presented by ME Engineers

    ME Engineers

    The crème-de-la-crème of Kansas City’s sports architects will join this fascinating panel to share their knowledge and expertise of sports venue development projects. Visionaries from Gensler, HOK, HNTB and DLR Group will light up the stage in a panel moderated by ME-Engineers.

    This session will shine a spotlight on the design and planning of innovative sports venues of the future. Kansas City itself, the home of sports architecture, is going into overdrive with a raft of new stadium projects and renovations on the horizon. Find out how these new venues will fit with the new wave of integrated multiuse urban development models which are now de rigueur.

    Jon Niemuth

    Jon Niemuth bio Director of Sports, Gensler, US


    Nate Appleman

    Nate Appleman bio Director of Sports/Recreation/Entmt., HOK, US


    Bob Carlson

    Bob Carlson bio Sports Design Leader | Principal, DLR Group, US


    Ryan Gedney

    Ryan Gedney bio Director of Design, HNTB, US


    Jeff Ewens

    Jeff Ewens bio Principal & KC Office Director, ME Engineers, US

  • 6 pm

    End of conference Day 1

  • 6 pm

    Meet at the conference area

  • 6 pm

    Behind the Scenes of Arrowhead Stadium, in association with:

    Boldyn Networks
    AiFi

    Architectural showpiece GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium

    Arrowhead Stadium tourImage: Coliseum GSVA

    The 76,416-capacity GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri US) - home to the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League (NFL) - holds the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium for hitting 142.2 decibels.

    The stadium is part of the Truman Sports Complex in Kansas City. The 37,903-capacity Kauffman Stadium, the home of the Major League Baseball (MLB) team Kansas City Royals, sits adjacent to it. The two stadiums share utilities, parking and underground storage.

    In the heart of the Midwest, amidst the hustle-bustle of modern life, stands the colossal structure of the Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City’s crowning glory. It is a two-stadium complex with a shared parking lot and the Arrowhead Stadium is an architectural marvel that resonates with the fans and the players alike. The innovative design of the venue includes expanded concourses and unobstructed sighlines ensuring that every seat in the house offers a clear view of the field.

    The GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium is not just a stadium but is also an architectural marvel and personifies Kansas City’s vibrant spirit.

  •  

    Boldyn Networks

    Boldyn Networks

  •  

    US 2024 - AiFi (Tour speaker)Image: AiFi

    Join Brad Putch, Account Executive at AiFi during the Arrowhead Stadium Venue tour. During the tour, we'll stop at the AiFi store and Brad will share the success the store has had since its opening and how its maximizing fan experience & profits by getting more fans in, out and back to their seats.

    AiFi works with top stadiums and food and beverage providers worldwide, such as Levy Restaurants, Oak View Group, Footprint Center, LCFC, Brighton & Hove, FC Copenhagen, and more. The company has raised a total of $80 million from investors, including Verizon Ventures, Qualcomm Ventures, HP Tech Ventures, Mithril Capital, Cervin Ventures, TransLink Capital, Plum Alley, and more.

    Brad Putch

    Brad Putch bio Account Executive (Stadiums), AiFi, US

  • 7 pm

    End of venue tour

  • 7-8:30 pm

    International networking reception at Arrowhead Stadium

    We cordially invite you to be our esteemed guest at the Coliseum Evening Networking Reception at the Arrowhead Stadium, taking place on the opening day of the summit on the 5th of June. As a delegate, your pass grants you exclusive access to this engaging gathering, to be held from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, where you can relish refreshments and engage in valuable networking opportunities with the fellow delegates.

    Coliseum Summit US 2024 Networking reception - Arrowhead StadiumImage: Coliseum GSVA
  • 8 am

    Welcome: Pick up your pre-printed delegate badge from the allocated reception desk

  • 8-9 am

    Morning coffee & networking snacks

  • 9 am

    Opening key-note

    Enthralling fan experience at Children’s Mercy Park

    Sporting KC - topic visualImage: Coliseum GSVA

    Josh Blackford will tell James A. Renne in his key-note talk in this meet how the Major League Soccer (MLS) team Sporting Kansas City has made a host of enhancements to their home arena - the 18,467-capacity Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas (US) - for the fans to enjoy an exalted experience.

    Blackford will inform Renne that the club has installed new light emitting diode (LED) sports lighting, allowing the club to create lighting movement and effects before, during and after the matches. Several new hospitality offerings and concessions have been made available for the fans to enjoy. Guests at the Children’s Mercy Park are being treated to an unparalleled viewing experience, including enhanced clarity and color rendering while every moment at the stadium will be illuminated with stunning and dynamic lighting effects to create lasting memories for all Sporting fans. This will help in creating a special matchday experience for the fans.

    He will also inform Renne in his key-note that the MLS team offers an array of premium seating experiences at the world-class Children’s Mercy Park. From corporate networkers to elegant event planners to beer drinking buddies and everyone in between, Sporting’s spaces are tailorable to any audience.

    Josh Blackford

    Josh Blackford General Manager, Children's Mercy Park, Sporting KC, US


    James A. Renne, AIA

    James A. Renne, AIA bio National Director, Sports & Entertainment, JLL, US

  • 9:30 am

    Conference stream: Venue OPERATIONS

    Venues require large capital investments and are expected to produce a substantial return on investment (ROI). In addition to the initial investment, operating stadiums and arenas require year-round capital expenditure. The venues have to be maintained in the best possible way, at the lowest cost, while still keeping up the aesthetic appeal and profitability. How does a successful asset management plan work in such a scenario? Does a venue need ISO or LEED certifications? How to solve the parking headaches? Customized facilities management may offer the right answers.

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    Shawn Hutcheson

    Shawn Hutcheson bio BDM North America Sports & Live Events, Ross Video, US

  • 9:45 am

     

    Latasha Causey

    Latasha Causey bio President, Phoenix Raceway, US

  • 10 am

    Allegiant Stadium smart network enhance in-venue experience

    US 2024 - MatSingImage: MatSing

    Dick Bickford will inform the distinguished gathering in this session that the 65K+ seating capacity Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, US, hosts 100+ sporting events and music events every year. In February 2024, the venue hosted the Big Game which was also the first time the showcase event was held in Las Vegas. Preparations began early with the venue investing in an advanced 5G network and engaging with the lead carriers and involving the best-of-breed vendors to deliver high-capacity 5G connectivity both inside and outside the stadium.

    He will further inform that the venues need to design their network for uplink alongside downlink and scale adequately to satiate the connectivity needs of the fan base who instantly share their experiences with others via videos and multimedia content realtime.

    Bickford will detail the steps taken by the venue in conjunction with its integrator partner to design and build multicarrier network for a superior gameday experience.

    Dick Bickford

    Dick Bickford bio Director of BD, MatSing, US

  • 10:15 am

    Conference stream: Venue HEALTH, SAFETY & SECURITY

    At a time of heightened risks, security of venues and the safety of fans have become paramount. Sports venues are targets of opportunity. Here, we discuss the steps to protect venues from the new bad guys. How to react in case of a bomb threat for instance? We also attempt to differentiate between safety (crowd management) and security (crowd control). How can modern IT support safety and security? Is your training sufficient? Does it train staff on today’s threats and not those of yesterdays?

    COVID-19 has also thrown up the biggest challenge to the sports venue sector. Fans have come back into the stadia fold but with the various virus variants rearing their ugly heads from time to time, venues will have to adopt stringent COVID-19 protocols and leave nothing to chance for the greater safety and security of the spectators. In this segment, we will discuss how social distancing norms will have to be strictly imposed in stadia, and how entry/exit protocols in and out of the venue should be touchless and in the form of biometrics. How will futuristic technology facilitate contactless service?

    We will also deliberate how enhanced sanitation and safety will have to be priorities in venues and how sports and entertainment venues should adopt mobile ordering and order-ahead capabilities for foodservices with designated pickup times. In a COVID-19 world, crowding around a food or drink counters is no longer acceptable and a scenario could arrive when food will be given in packets to spectators keeping in mind the health factor of both players and supporters.

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    Stadium and arena preparedness for protesters and game interruptions

    US 2024 - AMB Sports + Entertainment (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)Image: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

    In this session, Joseph Coomer will tell Rob Hunden in a one on one the strategies and protocols implemented by the sports venues to handle potential disruptions caused by protests or unexpected incidents during games or events. This includes measures to ensure the safety of the spectators, players and the staff, as well as the protection of the property and the continuity of the event.

    Coomer will further reveal to Hunden that the key elements of the preparedness may include security assessments, crowd management plans, communication strategies, collaboration with the law enforcement agencies, and training for the staff on handling the various scenarios that might emerge. The goal is to strike a balance between maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for the attendees while respecting the rights of the individuals to express themselves peacefully. This topic has gained significance due to the increased visibility of the social and the political issues intersecting with sports, prompting the venues to proactively address the potential challenges.

    Joseph Coomer

    Joseph Coomer bio VP, Security, AMB Sports + Entertainment, US


    Rob Hunden

    Rob Hunden bio President, Hunden Partners, US

  • 10:30 am

     

    Mandi King

    Mandi King bio BDM, Arena/Stadium, Hanwha Vision, US

  • 10:45-11:30 am

    Coffee break & networking

  • 11:30 am

    Conference stream: Venue VIP

    Does your stadium offer dog-friendly box seats? Does it have luxurious cabanas, swimming pools and night clubs catering to the needs of the discerning VIP clientele? The VIPs are among the main patrons of a stadium, and therefore, the management needs to pay close attention to their basic comforts. Are stadiums geared up to offer customized experience vis-à-vis seating and hospitality packages to different target groups? How do you create right products and offer right services for the right market and achieve the right results for the venue? Tune in…

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    Kevin Gessay

    Kevin Gessay bio VP, Chargers LUX, Los Angeles Chargers, US

  • 11:45 am

    Revolutionizing venue experiences with digital ordering

    App8 - topic visualImage: App8

    Elias Hage will explore the transformative impact of digital ordering systems on stadium and arena operations, highlighting how these solutions elevate the fan experience and streamline venue management. His presentation will focus on digital technology that enables fans to enjoy a VIP experience by enhancing in-seat and suite ordering, while automating operational processes.

    Additionally, Elias will discuss how these technologies increase revenue and improve service efficiency, as demonstrated by recent implementations at leading sports and entertainment venues. Join us to discover how digital ordering is reshaping the way venues operate and engage with their audience.

    Elias Hage

    Elias Hage bio CEO, App8, Canada

  • 12 pm

    T-Mobile Arena redefining entertainment

    T-Mobile Arena - topic visualImage: T-Mobile Arena

    The 20,000-capacity T-Mobile Arena is a multipurpose indoor arena in Paradise, Nevada (US). Opened on April 6th, 2016, it is the home arena of the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League (NHL).

    Matthew Bown will inform the distinguished gathering in this assembly as to how the T-Mobile Arena is the go-to destination in Las Vegas for live events. From amazing music acts to thrilling sporting events, it sets a new standard for what entertainment means in the City that does it best.

    Matthew Bown

    Matthew Bown bio VP, Partnerships, T-Mobile Arena, US

  • 12:15 pm

    Conference stream: Venue EXPERIENCE

    How do we define fan experience? Is it just about ordering a beer with a click on a smartphone or the thrill of betting on your favorite teams? What are the strategies of stadiums/arenas that cater to the needs of fans and add values to their experiences? Do we have tools or techniques to measure fan experience? What about the right prices? Do venue apps really deliver valuable content? Are loyalty programs of venues any better or worse than the ones run by airlines and rent-a-car firms? Find the answers to all these questions, and much more…

  •  

    Sound system formats for stadiums and arenas

    L-Acoustics (Allianz Arena) - US 2024Image: L-Acoustics

    Ross Brett will deliver a talk in this colloquium on how the concert grade sound system can be implemented in various formats for a premium fan experience. A well-designed sound system can deliver exceptional fan engagement found only in the stadia.

    Brett will also observe that serving powerful and clear sound is key to captivating the audience and living up to the fan expectations thus leaving an indelible mark on every spectator.

    Ross Brett

    Ross Brett bio Application Manager, Sports Facilities, L-Acoustics, France

  • 12:30 pm

    Nokia Arena tech trappings drive fan experience

    Nokia Arena Finland - topic visual 2023Image: Abloy

    Marko Hurme will talk in this assembly at length about the 13,455-capacity Nokia Arena in Tampere, Finland, as a platform and how it is elevating the customer experience and boosting the event organizers’ success story.

    Hurme will also discuss the cutting-edge technology of the Nokia Arena and how futuristic technology is used to enhance the fan experience during the events and also how these solutions are used by the event organizers to lower cost and create new opportunities for their business.

    Marko Hurme

    Marko Hurme bio CEO, Nokia Arena, Finland

  • 12:45-1:45 pm

    Lunch break & networking, in association with:

    C360

    Presenting the C360 video which will visually show a patented stadium technological innovation which will enhance fan engagement and offer incremental revenue opportunities.

    (Open to everyone with a Coliseum badge; in our dedicated main networking area)

    Network and collaborate with the stadium business experts and enjoy great food!

    Glen Hoddle

    Glenn Hoddle Director, C360, UK

  • 1:45 pm

    Disney magical timeless approach-execution

    Disney Institute visual - US 2024Image: Disney Institute

    Leslyle Silverberg will inform the distinguished gathering in this meet how at Disney, exceptional experiences don’t operate just like magic. From security to parking to ticketing to food and beverage (F&B) and more, Disney’s timeless approach includes a strategic focus on how people, process and place come together for customer experiences that are not only cherished, but also remembered.

    Silverberg will further inform the gathering that while Disney is in the business of creating happiness for the Guests day in and day out, one should visit Disney to find out how the timelessness of their approach creates magic through the timeliness of their execution.

    Leslye Silverberg

    Leslye Silverberg bio Engagement Manager, Disney Institute, US

  • 2 pm

     

    Yagya Mahadevan

    Yagya Mahadevan bio Enterprise Project Manager, Atomic Data, US

  • 2:15 pm

    Conference stream: AUDIOVISUAL Solutions & BRAND Development

    AUDIOVISUAL Solutions

    No longer is it enough for the fans to come to a stadium, sit in a seat and watch a game or other event. The venues face competition from the fans’ own homes, where they have high-definition TVs and easy access to snacks, beverages and other amenities. To get fans on the door, the sports teams and venues must offer much more than a game, they need to deliver a compelling experience. The new audiovisual (AV) technologies are the foundation of modern fan engagement.

    A wide range of AV solutions is essential to these efforts. The stadiums and arenas are employing massive videoboards as the centerpiece of many venues, giving the fans a central place to focus their attention when it’s not on the action. The video walls, ribbons and individual displays, advanced audio systems, mobile applications - even next-generation technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) - are coming into play. The use cases for these technologies vary just as widely. In addition to providing in-house entertainment for fans, they are used for wayfinding, advertising, digital menus, fan information, and even security.

    BRAND Development

    Over the years, branding has become one of the core strategies of any business. It plays a pivotal role in marketing and business development. In the field of stadium business, it isn’t the stadium alone that needs brand development. In fact, much of the branding strategy involves the sports clubs that the stadiums represent. As clubs go about increasingly looking for international investors, the focus on brand visibility seems to have gained prominence.

    Most clubs these days employ a strong squad of international business development professionals in a bid to come up with innovative and unique branding solutions. After all, branding could be the key difference between striking a deal or losing one. Ultimately, the stadium business sector becomes the true beneficiary of such branding exercise. The new funding and revenues generated by brand development is eventually ploughed back into building the training grounds and the new stadiums.

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    Charles Adkinson

    Charles Adkinson bio Principal, SVP, Sports Development, Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon & Williams (WJHW), US

  • 2:30 pm

    Animated sports lighting leg-up to events

    Sportsbeams Lighting visual - US 2024Image: Sportsbeams Lighting

    Russ Schroader will speak in this assembly about the innovations in sports lighting that are making the live events more exciting and profitable than ever.

    Schroader will further state that as the stadiums transition to light-emitting diode (LED) lighting, there are more options for entertainment than have ever been available before. He will speak specifically about transformations his company has made to the stadiums and arenas around the world that have increased attendance and revenue. This includes the 67,594-capacity Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia (US) that hosts a variety of events that have been enhanced with this animated sports lighting.

    Russ Schroader

    Russ Schroader bio President, Sportsbeams Lighting, Inc., US

  • 2:45 pm

     

    T-Mobile Center visual - US 2024Image: Coliseum GSVA
    Brian Doll

    Brian Doll bio Director, Facilities Presentation, T-Mobile Center, US


    Rob Hunden

    Rob Hunden bio President, Hunden Partners, US

  • 3 pm

    Conference stream: Venue DESTINATION

    Sports sell places. How do you ensure that the spectators come to the venue earlier, stay longer, have more fun and in the process help generate more revenue? Many stadiums nowadays are conceptualized as destinations - for visitors and the neighborhood, the so-called community stadiums. These stadiums will have to respond to the local needs else they will never make profit. Stadiums are more than just a place to watch the game. Involving theme parks is bound to add value to the best practices and experiences for destination creation.

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    Michael Conner

    Michael Conner bio Sports Venues Global Market Leader, Solotech, US

  • 3:15 pm

    End of Coliseum Summit US, see you in 2025.

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