Podcasts about tampa bay sports commission

THE KELLY FILE:Michael Kelly is the vice president for athletics at the University of South Florida, leading a transformative vision for USF Athletics that focuses on enhancing the student-athlete experience, fostering community engagement, and developing elite athletic facilities.Since joining USF in 2018, Kelly has nearly doubled the department's budget to $100 million and secured more than $100 million in philanthropic gifts. He has overseen major facility projects, including plans for the new $340 million on-campus stadium and training center set to open in 2027, the $22 million Porter Family Indoor Performance Facility, and a $3 million football locker room renovation.Under his leadership, USF Athletics has expanded to 21 varsity sports with the addition of women's lacrosse and beach volleyball. During Kelly's tenure, the Bulls have captured 20 American Athletic Conference team championships, two divisional titles, two NCAA championships, eight cheer national championships, and one cheer World Cup, while 27 student-athletes have been named All-Americans. USF student-athletes have excelled academically, maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher for 20 consecutive semesters.Kelly has prioritized student-athlete well-being by enhancing the nutrition program, adding multiple fueling stations and free breakfasts, and doubling the sports psychology program to support mental health. He established USF's NIL Strategy Unit to provide resources for student-athletes to maximize their opportunities and remain competitive at the highest levels. He also launched the Bulls+ Awards (Alston Awards) to reward academic achievement and founded the Stampede for Women initiative to empower female student-athletes. Additionally, he led USF's membership in the Green Sports Alliance to advance sustainability across athletic facilities.To increase USF's visibility, Kelly directed the construction of a $2 million broadcast facility. This facility enables the live streaming of more than 160 events annually on ESPN+, the most in the American Athletic Conference. The facility also serves as an educational resource for USF students and reflects Kelly's commitment to innovation, excellence, and equity in college athletics. Before returning to USF, Kelly served as the chief operating officer of the College Football Playoff, held leadership roles with the Atlantic Coast Conference, and directed Super Bowl host committees in Jacksonville, Tampa, and South Florida. Earlier in his career, Kelly served as USF's associate athletic director for development and external relations, as director of athletic operations and facilities at Wake Forest University, and as executive director of the 1999 Men's Basketball Final Four Organizing Committee, held at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla. In addition to his role at USF, Kelly serves in numerous NCAA leadership capacities, including the Division I Council and Sports Oversight Committee.A founding board member of the Collegiate Event and Facilities Management Association, he also serves on the Board of Trustees for St. John's College High School in Washington, D.C.; the President's Board of Advisors at St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens; the Board of Directors and Executive Committee for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission; and the Executive Committee of the Gasparilla Bowl.CHECK OUT - GOSFBULLS.COM FOLLOW ME: X - JWMediaDCIG - jimwilliams200COLUMNS https://athlonsports.com/author/jim-williams PODCAST Podcast Stream On with Jim Williams On Apple, Spotify, iHeartradio, TuneIn, Spreaker, or wherever you get your podcasts.If you are a cord cutter, you need to check out Sling TV. You want sports? Sling has it. How about news and entertainment?Once again, it's Sling.Check out Sling TV. www.sling.com Need a computer? We highly recommend you check out our friends at AAAPC in the link below. https://www.ebay.com/itm/335762770305Tell them you heard about them at Stream On with Jim Williams.Follow my social media X - JWMediaDC IG - jimwiliams200

Tampa Bay is a pro sports town. You've got the Lightning for Hockey, Buccaneers for Football, and the Rays for baseball. That attracts folks for hundreds of games in the area this year.But there's another huge presence: the numbers are in for the first IndyCar Series broadcast of the season for the audience that watched Alex Palou and Josef Newgarden battle  on the streets of St. Petersburg's waterfront.  1.4 million viewers watched, a steep increase from last year's race.And if you were anywhere near downtown St. Pete at the start of March, you probably heard it, as the streets alongside the marina were transformed into a racetrack for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.  For this episode, Florida Matters takes you to the Grand Prix, where motor racing fans talk about what keeps them coming back. And you'll hear what drivers like Hailie Deegan and Lochie Hughes think about racing in St. Pete. And- we talk with Chris Steinocher, President and CEO at St Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Claire Lessinger, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee hosting the Women's Final Four. They share insights into what it takes to bring marquee events to Tampa Bay, and how they help power the area's economy. 

Tampa Bay is a pro sports town. You've got the Lightning for Hockey, Buccaneers for Football, and the Rays for baseball. That attracts folks for hundreds of games in the area this year.But there's another huge presence: the numbers are in for the first IndyCar Series broadcast of the season for the audience that watched Alex Palou and Josef Newgarden battle  on the streets of St. Petersburg's waterfront.  1.4 million viewers watched, a steep increase from last year's race.And if you were anywhere near downtown St. Pete at the start of March, you probably heard it, as the streets alongside the marina were transformed into a racetrack for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.  For this episode, Florida Matters takes you to the Grand Prix, where motor racing fans talk about what keeps them coming back. And you'll hear what drivers like Hailie Deegan and Lochie Hughes think about racing in St. Pete. And- we talk with Chris Steinocher, President and CEO at St Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Claire Lessinger, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee hosting the Women's Final Four. They share insights into what it takes to bring marquee events to Tampa Bay, and how they help power the area's economy. 

TKras was joined by the great Rob Higgins, what big soccer match is taking place in Tampa on Friday? Can you see the GOAT? Tune in!

On Episode 22 of the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss the return of Red Bull Flugtag to Tampa with a little history lesson, and get you geared up for the Stateside Cup, West Ham United F.C. vs. Crystal Palace, coming to Raymond James Stadium on August 3. Ryan and Rob also give an update on the planning for the 2025 Women's Final Four at Amalie Arena, share the incredible success story of the Hillsborough County Tournament SportsPlex, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary, and give a salute to The Captain, Steven Stamkos, one of the greatest Team Tampa Bay ambassadors of all-time.

On Episode 21 of the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss the record-setting three-day stay for the Savannah Bananas in Tampa Bay, and Rob shares some incredible stories from Banana nation that made the trip to visit George Steinbrenner Field! Ryan and Rob also discuss the incredible community-wide effort hosting Royal Rumble and RAW, why the NCAA is visiting town, the plans to land another Super Bowl in Tampa and reveal some of the memorable moments from this year's Sneaker Soiree! Ryan and Rob also pay tribute to a pair of Team Tampa Bay treasures, Martin Fennelly and David Pizzo, who've been lost way too soon.

In the show's second hour, we spoke with Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, plus Brooks Kubena of The Athletic to preview the Eagles and Bucs! Plus, we also played NFL Pig Skin Pick 'Em. Get here!

The great Rob Higgins joined us LIVE from the Tampa Bay Sneaker Soirée. Join us!

On Episode 20 of the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, recap an unbelievable 2023 for sporting events in Tampa Bay, capped off by a record-setting NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Championships! Rob shares a cool anecdote from the festivities and the fellas look back on what made 2023 so special, including a two-day Banana Ball bonanza, an epic Frozen Four and much more! Ryan and Rob also look forward to the upcoming Sneaker Soiree, Royal Rumble weekend and what's on the horizon for 2024!

We chat with Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Rob Higgins, about the huge success around the Women's Volleyball Final Four and the excitement around WWE's Royal Rumble coming to St. Pete!

On Episode 19 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, introduce you to the newest member of Team Tampa Bay: The Tampa Bay Sun FC! Ryan and Rob welcome Sun FC President Christina Unkel and head coach Denise Schilte-Brown, the former USF Bulls head coach, to discuss how the league was formed, the theme behind the team's new logo and what the next 12 months will look like leading up to the inagural season!

On Episode 18 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss how Tampa Bay has become the epicenter of youth an amateur sporting events, spearheaded by our Senior Vice President for Sports Tourism Jason Aughey and Director of Sales and Events Tony Diaz, plus updates on NCAA Volleyball Championship and Royal Rumble tickets and Friday's Replay Tampa Bay drive across Hillsborough County!

On Episode 17 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, recap Rob's visit to Georgia for the Savannah Bananas 2024 World Tour Draft, where Tampa Bay was selected with the No. 1 overall pick! Rob chats with Bananas star and Pinellas County native Dan Oberst about his experience in Tampa Bay in 2023 and the excitement to return in 2024! Rob also chats about the plans for WWE's Royal Rumble in January 2024 and the plans around Gasparilla weekend! The crew also gives an update on the record demand for December's NCAA Volleyball Championships and chats with AVCA CEO Dr. Jaime Gordon!

On Episode 15 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, preview the opening match up on Aug. 25 of our Road to Tampa Bay Invitational, the host USF Bulls vs. Georgia Tech. Ryan and Rob give you a rundown of the big storylines, including Yellow Jackets coach Michelle Collier, a former USF All-American and a member of the school's Athletic Hall of Fame, returning to face her alma mater. Ryan and Rob are joined by USF's Ragan Kinard and Tatiana Johnson, as well as Georgia Tech's Liv Mogridge and Bella D'Amico -- who are all serving as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Brand Ambassadors, where they will promote the TBSC, its social impact initiatives and its commitment to growing the game of volleyball!

On Episode 16 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, preview the second match up on Aug. 25 of our Road to Tampa Bay Invitational, two Top-12 programs facing off in the Florida and Penn State! Ryan and Rob give you a rundown of the big storylines, including having the Nittany Lions back, who won it all in 2009 the last time the Women's Volleyball Championships were held in Tampa Bay! Ryan and Rob are joined by the Gators' Elli McKissock and Alexis Stucky, as well as Penn State's Mac Podraza and Taylor Trammell -- who are all serving as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Brand Ambassadors, where they will promote the TBSC, its social impact initiatives and its commitment to growing the game of volleyball! If you missed Part 1, previewing USF vs. Georgia Tech, go check out Episode 15!

On Episode 14 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, take the pod on the road to visit the University of South Florida for their volleyball Media Day, as we close in on the Road to Tampa Bay Invitational! Ryan and Rob unveil the new "Setting the Standard — Growing the Game" campaign, count down to the tournament's opening weekend and visit with USF Bulls head volleyball coach and Tampa Prep alum Jolene Shepardson, who gives us a preview of the 2023 season for the Bulls! We're also joined by the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Vice President of Events Claire Lessinger to elaborate on the new campaign and give us the details on final preps ahead of game day! Plus, Rob recaps his visit to Canton, Ohio for Ronde Barber's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction!

On Episode 13 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, count down to the 'Road to Tampa Bay Invitational' which is less than 40 days away! They discuss the impact of ABC's big announcement that they'll be broadcasting the 2023 NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Championship on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. ET.! Plus, we're joined by Penn State women's volleyball head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley and assistant coach and three-time champion Megan Hodge Easy, who played in the last volleyball championships in Tampa in 2009! Plus, Rob is excited about his upcoming trip the Canton, OH for Ronde Barber's Hall of Fame induction!

How Are You Wired? Is a leadership podcast developed by local high school basketball coaches, Joe Willis (Plant High School) and Billy Teeden (Plant City High School). In this episode, Coach Teeden and Coach Willis speak to Tampa Bay Sports Commission Executive Director, Rob Higgins about how he is wired and his goal of living like it's Game Day Everyday.We would enjoy your feedback for our podcast. Please reach out to us to let us know your thoughts.Joe Willis: Plant HS Basketball, plantbasketball@gmail.com or @CoachWillis20 (Twitter)Billy Teeden: Plant City HS Basketball, william.teeden@hcps.net or @CoachTeeden (Twitter)

On Episode 12 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, are BACK with the first episode of 2023! They recap a special two-night run for the Savanah Bananas in Tampa, discuss the impact of the Frozen Four on the Tampa Bay community and the quest to get a fourth, plus recap a busy April and introduce you to a new member of Team Tampa Bay! Rob and Ryan also discuss the hot start to the season for the Tampa Bay Rays! Rays Up!

Championship sporting events are a huge draw, with the Super Bowl regularly drawing 70,000 fans, the 2022 World Series averaging over 43,000 fans, and the 2022 Stanley Cup Finals averaging 18,000 fans in their respective six-game series. Naturally, these fans spend big money to get a seat, with the average Super Bowl LVII ticket costing $8,000. When paying those prices, fans expect an experience of a lifetime, and that's where today's WorkInSports Podcast guest comes in.Claire Lessinger is the Vice President of Events for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, where she has worked since 2012. In that time, the city of Tampa Bay has hosted the following professional sporting events:Super Bowl LV (won by the host Buccaneers)3 Stanley Cup Finals (2022 won by the Lightning)4 MLB Playoff Appearances by the Rays (who made the 2020 World Series that was played in Texas due to COVID)Lessinger played a major role in bringing Super Bowl LV to Tampa Bay, serving as Chief Operating Officer for the Super Bowl LV Committee. In addition to her duties with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, she is President of the Tampa Bay chapter of Women In Sports & Events (WISE). She talks with VP of Content and Engaged Learning Brian Clapp about:How her time as a student-athlete at Florida prepared her for the professional worldWhat she learned about the sports business from her tenure as USF's volleyball coachHow she transitioned out of coaching into the Tampa Bay Sports CommissionWhat goes into putting together a compelling bid for the Super BowlWhy it's important to pay it forward to women in sports in organizations such as WISEWhat sports career advice she has for people trying to get established or move up in the industryEnjoy the full episode to learn from Claire's depth of experience, and subscribe to the WorkInSports Podcast for more sports career advice. Additional content can be found on our YouTube channel.

In the 9a hour, NewsRadio WFLA Anchor Chris Trenkman runs through today's top stories, including Memphis leaders and law enforcement bracing for the release of video footage of the Tyre Nichols arrest. Co-Host of the Pat & Aaron Show on WDAE, Aaron Jacobson, stops by to preview the NFL Conference Championship games. A report claims that Tom Brady lost 15 pounds due to his divorce from Giselle. Tampa Bay Sports Commission Executive Director Rob Higgins joins the show to talk about what the commission does for the Tampa Bay area and tonight's Sneaker Soiree event. The University of Tampa is holding discussions about how to deal with ChatGPT.

On Episode 11, Part 2 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss the growth of women's volleyball ahead Tampa Bay's hosting efforts for the 2023 NCAA Volleyball Championship Final Four at Amalie Arena on Dec. 13-16! Ryan dives into his background and love for volleyball, while Rob shares the emotions of being a "VolleyDad"! We also sit down with Dr. Jodie Libadisos, USF's Senior Associate Athletic Director for Administration, and our good friend Claire Lessinger, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Vice President of Events, and former head volleyball coach for USF! Ryan and Rob also share their top memories from 2022 and look ahead to an exciting 2023!

On Episode 11, Part 1 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, get you ready for Team Tampa Bay's turn to host the 2023 NCAA Volleyball Championship Final Four at Amalie Arena on Dec. 13-16, which has been 14 years in the making! Rob recaps his visit to Omaha to take in the sights and sounds of the 2022 Final Four and announces the "The Road 2 Tampa Bay Volleyball Invitational", featuring the Florida Gators, Penn State Nittany Lions, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the host institution USF Bulls, set for Aug. 25-26 at Amalie Arena and USF's Yuengling Center! We also hear from NCAA Director of Championships Kristin Fasbender, Georgia Tech coach Michelle Collier and Gators coach Mary Wise on this episode! Part 2 will drop later on this week!

Hosting Major Sporting Events in Tampa Bay. The host for this show is Angela Hayslett. The guest is Jason Aughey. We discuss how the Tampa Bay Sports Commission facilitates hosting major sporting events that serve the Tampa Bay area. The ThinkTech YouTube Playlist for this show is https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQpkwcNJny6meZE3R0oHy_OBeomxTylhe Please visit our ThinkTech website at https://thinktechhawaii.com and see our Think Tech Advisories at https://thinktechadvisories.blogspot.com.

On Episode 10 of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, look back on 25 years of accomplishments for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission as Rob relives some of his favorite moments from his 18 years leading the way (2:00)! Rob and Ryan also recap recent in-town site visits for the Women's Final Four, Women's Volleyball and what's planned for hosting the Frozen Four folks in a few weeks (7:00)! Rob also takes us inside how Tampa Bay was able to land a spot on the Savannah Bananas 2023 "Banana Ball World Tour", which will hit 33 cities, and we're honored to be one of them (14:20)! Savannah Bananas Owner Jesse Cole also joins us for an inspiring conversation, looking back on how the Bananas came to be, his inspirations, the chance to come to Tampa Bay and more (17:00)! We also recap the Tampa Bay Tailgate Fest and Ryan and Rob are aging like fine wine (36:00)!

On Episode Nine of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss the success of the 2022 U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Tampa Bay and the highlights from the historic event, including the incredible run by Konnor McClain (4:00)! We also relive the incredible moment where Shilese Jones, McClain and Jordan Chiles made history on the podium, celebrating the all-around competition! Team Tampa Bay's Joey Johnston, the "Dean of Sports Journalism" in Tampa Bay, joins the podcast to share his favorite moments from USAG and honor Leonard Levy, who passed away this week (10:00). Rob and Joey open up about Leonard's legacy and share stories of his impact on the Tampa Bay sports community!

On episode eight of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, discuss Rob's dinner with Tom Brady at Berns (3:00), their emerging bromance, the new partnership between the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and the TB12 Foundation and Lisa Borges, the Executive Director of the TB12 Foundation, joins us to take us behind the scenes on all the incredible work the foundation does and what this new collaboration means for Tampa Bay (9:00)! Ryan and Rob also recap the busy summer for the sports commission (23:00) and look ahead to the USAG Championships in August!

On episode seven of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, relive the huge Tampa Bay Lightning win over the New York Rangers in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference Final and detail how Tampa Bay became a finalist, yet again, for the 2027-31 NCAA Women's Final Four (5:00)! Ryan and Rob also welcome Claire Lessinger, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission's VP of Events, to discuss the process for landing an event like the Women's Final Four and her involvement in planning the TBSC's "Beyond Barriers" event in collaboration with ESPN Fifty/50 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Title IX at Amalie Arena on June 23 (12:00)! The event will include an educational and thought-provoking sneak peek of ESPN Films' 37 Words, 4-part documentary series, chronicling the hard-fought battle of equal rights in education and athletics from award-winning directors Dawn Porter and Nicole Newnham (13:00)! Ryan and Rob are also joined by ESPN's Allison Glock, the Executive Producer of W. Studios and Fifty/50, to detail her two-year journey leading up to ESPN Fifty/50 and what she learned gearing up for the month-long celebration (27:00)!

On episode six of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, open up with the big broadcasting deal for Tom Brady and Ryan's new TV ventures! The pair gets you set for the 2022 U.S. Gymnastics Championships at Amalie Arena this August with an inside look at how the event came to be (7:00)! USA Gymnastics President and CEO Li Li Leung also stops by to share her journey to the top of USAG, the culture change within the organization and what we can expect at Amalie on August 18-21 (9:00)! Ryan and Rob are also joined by Cam and Brooke Brate, who dish out the details on their epic wedding and what life has been like for Tampa Bay's favorite newlyweds! Cam also shares his excitement for Tom Brady's return and the upcoming 2022 season (23:00)! Rob also gives us an update on his visit to ACC country and more events on the horizon for our home town (38:00)!

Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and CEO of the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee, are back to tell you about a fun new project that's similar to the Tampa Bay 55 podcast! It's called the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast and it's available RIGHT NOW on your favorite podcast platform. Just like with Super Bowl LV, Ryan and Rob take you behind the scenes of Team Tampa Bay's biggest sporting events, like the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament, NCAA Women's Final Four, NCAA Men's Basketball First and Second rounds, the NCAA Frozen Four, USA Gymnastics and many, many more! There's the familiar back and forth between Ryan and Rob, of course, but they also give you the inside scoop on all the events coming to town with plenty of special guests dropping by! Make sure you subscribe now by searching Gameday. Every Day. on your favorite podcast platform! 

On episode five of the "Gameday. Every Day" podcast, Local TV personality Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, give their take on Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians stepping aside and Todd Bowles taking over, plus chat about the wedding of Tampa's favorite newlyweds, Brooke and Cam Brate (4:45)! Rob also gives us the background on Tampa's first two rounds hosting the Frozen Four in 2012 and 2016, and we set the scene for Rob's scouting trip to Boston this weekend ahead of the event's return to our town in 2023 (7:00). NCAA Associate Director Championships and Alliances, Operations Chad Tolliver also joins the podcast to get us ready for this weekend's Frozen Four and to tell us why Tampa is such a special host site (11:00). We also chat with Replay Tampa Bay MVP Benjamin Mallin, who single-handedly set a Replay Tampa Bay record for the number of items collected during a stand-alone drive (24:00)!

Luke Mohamed is the Director, Partnership Sales for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Vandergrift, PA native joined the team in February 2020 and is responsible for generating new corporate partnerships. He also self-appointed himself somewhere on the emergency goalie depth chart. Prior to the Penguins, Luke spent five years with Major League Soccer's D.C. United. At D.C. United, he managed a sales team responsible for the Club's non-ticket revenue streams, including the 2018 opening of their new stadium, Audi Field. During his tenure, the team grew from last in MLS partnership revenue to a Top 5 club. Luke spent the remainder of his time in the nation's capital as an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown, a member of DC SCORES' Advisory Council, and reminding locals that the Penguins had won four more Stanley Cups than the Capitals. Before D.C. United, Luke had partnership roles with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and IRONMAN Triathlon, and the DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. Luke earned an MBA/MS in Sport & Entertainment Management from the University of South Florida in 2015 and his Bachelor's degree in Sport Management and Accounting from The Robert Morris University in 2010. In this episode, we discuss: - The amazing story behind Luke's career in sports management - What he learned from Wayne Rooney at D.C. United - How putting in the work and taking on tough roles allowed Luke to land his dream job - What it's like to be in the same organization as Sidney Crosby - The amazing work that Luke and the Penguins are doing for the community - Why we need to strive for greatness, and why that's different than being good enough

Want to know how Florida has become the epicenter for sports tourism since 2020? Jason Aughey ('03), senior VP of sports tourism at the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, shares his insight and journey.

On this week's episode of the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast, Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, takes us behind the scenes of the SEC Men's Basketball tournament at Amalie Arena, where Tennessee was crowned the SEC Champions! Local TV personality Ryan Bass chats with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey about the job Tampa did as a host city (4:20), plus we get you set for the 2022 Valspar Championship at the Copperhead Course! Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers great Rondé Barber, the General Chair of the Valspar Championship, joins us (16:00) to talk about what fans can expect at the tournament and the epic field coming to Innisbrook! Saturday's concert headliner Chris Young stops by as well to rag on Ryan and give us a preview of the set list for the show (33:50)! Ryan and Rob also give their Final Four picks for the NCAA Men's and Women's March Madness tournaments!

On this week's episode of the "Gameday. Every Day." podcast, Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, gives the background on how Tampa landed this year's SEC Men's Basketball tournament at Amalie Arena. Local TV personality Ryan Bass updates us on his new influencer lifestyle and we preview the upcoming 2022 SEC Men's Basketball Tournament with ESPN college basketball analyst and former USF Basketball coach Seth Greenberg, who also fills us in on the early days of "Higgy". Dan Leibovitz, a veteran basketball coach and the Associate Commissioner for SEC Men's Basketball, also joins the show to get us ready for the tournament! Plus, will Tampa be next to get the NHL's outdoor Stadium Series after a successful game last month in Nashville? Rob gives us the scoop.

Tracy chats with Jordyn Tramble, the Creative & Events Specialist for Tampa Bay Sports Commission, about the Tampa Tailgate TasteFest, coming up on Saturday, October 16th. This event features local restaurants showcasing their best tailgating dishes, live music, college games on a big screen, corn hole, and more. You don't want to miss it! Thanks […] The post Forking Around Town: Are You Ready To Tailgate???? appeared first on Radio Influence.

Tracy chats with Jordyn Tramble, the Creative & Events Specialist for Tampa Bay Sports Commission, about the Tampa Tailgate TasteFest, coming up on Saturday, October 16th. This event features local restaurants showcasing their best tailgating dishes, live music, college games on a big screen, corn hole, and more. You don't want to miss it! Thanks […] The post Forking Around Town: Are You Ready To Tailgate???? appeared first on Radio Influence.

Episode #2: Claire Lessinger, Chief Operating Officer - Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee | Vice President of Events - Tampa Bay Sports CommissionOn July 30, 2012, Claire Lessinger joined the Tampa Bay Sports Commission team and now serves as the Vice President of Events. Lessinger and the TBSC are responsible for driving economic and social impact by identifying, bidding on, and ultimately hosting sporting and entertainment events in Tampa Bay. Over the last seven years, Lessinger has served as the Tournament Manager for multiple NCAA Championship events. As the event's point guard, Lessinger was the liaison to the NCAA staff and the Tampa Bay community and helped manage day-to-day operations for the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee (TBLOC). In 2017, Lessinger and the TBLOC hosted the first College Football Playoff National Championship in the Southeast at Raymond James Stadium on January 9th, 2017. In 2018, Lessinger and Team Tampa Bay hosted a wildly successful NHL All-Star Weekend in partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning and most recently Lessinger served as the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Local Organizing Committee for the 2019 NCAA Women's Final Four which recorded the highest all-time attendance as a three-time host (123,039 fans).As Tampa Bay prepares to host its fifth Super Bowl in February 2021, Claire will help lead the effort by serving as Chief Operating Officer for the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee, overseeing internal operations, special events, legacy programming, and community engagement.Recognized as one of the most influential women in Tampa Bay sports by the Tampa Bay Times, Lessinger has been instrumental in piloting successful legacy programs and social impact initiatives like the “Beyond Series”, which focuses on gathering and empowering local women of influence in support of major sporting events hosted in Tampa Bay. As a result, thousands of women and girls have participated in the Beyond Series throughout the years.Active in the community, Claire serves on the Executive Boards of USF's Women in Leadership and Philanthropy, Positive Coaching Alliance – Tampa Bay, University of Florida Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute, and a founding member and Vice President of WISE Tampa Bay (Women in Sports and Event). Lessinger also served as a mentor for the USF Athletics – Selmon Mentoring Institute and is an active member of the Saint Leo Sport Business Advisory Council as well as the Athena Society.Lessinger came to the TBSC from the University of South Florida (USF) where she spent eight years as the head volleyball coach (2004-2012) and seven as the assistant volleyball coach (1996-2003).Prior to her coaching career at USF, Lessinger spent five years as a collegiate volleyball player at the University of Florida (UF) where she won five SEC Championships, participated in five NCAA Tournaments, and three Final Four Tournament appearances. In honor of her relentless effort, hard work, and dedication, the UF volleyball program established the "Claire Roach Defensive Award," which is still presented annually to the best defensive player on the team. She graduated from UF in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and sports science and a concentration in sports management.Raised in Clearwater, Florida Lessinger was named the Tampa Tribune's 1992 High School Athlete of the Year and the 1993 High School Female Athlete of the Year. Claire was inducted into Clearwater Central Catholic High School's inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame class in 2001 and most recently she was honored as a Distinguished Alumni and presented the Inspiring Excellence Award at her alma mater. Claire and her husband, Mike resides in Tampa with their two sons Tyler (12) and Tanner (9).Learn more about Claire Lessinger on LinkedIn:...

BONUS EPISODE - What goes into hosting and preparing for The Big Game during a pandemic? We head to Tampa, Florida for this special episode where we talk with Jenna Grooms, Director of Host Committee Events for the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee. In 2021, The Big Game is happening at Raymond James Stadium, marking a historic moment in NFL history, with Tampa being the first city to ever host their own team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus the Kansas City Chiefs. Listen as she dives into what it’s like planning the first major event to happen in a year, the pressure that comes along with setting the standard for future events, and the positive impact they are making in their community.

Ahead of Super Bowl LV, host city Tampa finds itself in all sorts of uncharted territory. There's the global pandemic and the extraordinary measures the city and the NFL are taking to ensure player and fan safety. There's the economic consequences of a scaled-down run-up. And there's the happy matter of having the home team playing in the game for the first time ever. We break all of that down with Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.

The Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission - and USF grad - is also running the city's Super Bowl planning. Michael and Rob go over all that goes into putting on such a massive production.

I can't wait for you to hear my interview with Tim Love, CEO of Alltrust Insurance on Monday, 1/25/21 at 5:30pm EST. See below for more info about Tim..... Tim, Alltrust's Chief Executive Officer is a long time resident of Florida, avid outdoorsman and brings over 32 years of experience in healthcare to the Alltrust family. Prior to joining Alltrust, Tim held leadership positions with organizations such as HUB, Humana, United Healthcare, Wells Fargo and Lincoln Financial. His wealth of knowledge in the insurance industry is an invaluable asset in his position. In his role of CEO at Alltrust, Tim's overall responsibility includes meeting the needs of employees, customers, communities and integrating company policy in day-to-day operations. A Little More About Tim Tim's additional responsibilities include: high level planning of operating plans, budgets, and strategy; promoting a culture that reflects Alltrust's values, encourages exceptional performance, and rewards productivity; high level management of employees; financial and budget management; HR management; community relationships; and planning for long –term success of Alltrust. Tim is actively involved in the community including Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Ryan Nece Foundation, Board of Directors for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, and Board of Directors of the Outback Bowl." Many thanks to our sponsor TieTechnology! Contact: To send me a voice message, click here: https://anchor.fm/thedoctorwhisperer/message To send me an email, click here: 13thavenuemedia@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thedoctorwhisperer/message

Rob Higgins, president/CEO of the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee, is joined by guest co-host Jason Aughey, senior vice president of sports tourism at the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. 10 Tampa Bay anchor Ryan Bass is off this week. Rob and Jason talk about how they expect the Buccaneers to fare this Sunday against the Packers in the NFC Championship Game. If the Bucs win, they'll become the first team in NFL history to play a Super Bowl in their home stadium. The guys talk about how construction is coming along on the Super Bowl Experience and what's being done to make this year special for fans, while also leaving behind a permanent and positive social legacy. They also highlight the importance of cybersecurity. This week's episode features four great guests: Brian Murphy (founder and CEO of Reliaquest), Ray Horal (co-owner of GameDay Vodka), Ernest Hooper (American Cancer Society communications director for Southwest Florida), and Karla Guzman-Mims (corporate social responsibility manager at The Mosaic Company).

Florida has been the center of nearly every major sports event in the past year. That has included serving as home to the bubble setups for the NBA and Major League Soccer in Orlando and as home to the College Football Playoff in Miami. But Tampa Bay has seen some of the most significant action when it comes to its professional sports teams. The area is home of the current Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning as well as the home of the American League champions Tampa Bay Rays and the Tom Brady-led Buccaneers. And now it will be home to one of the biggest events of all — the Super Bowl. In this podcast with SportsTravel Senior Editor Matt Traub, we chat with Rob Higgins, the executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and president and chief executive officer for the Tampa Bay Host Committee for Super Bowl LV, which is scheduled to kick off on February 7 at Raymond James Stadium. Higgins discusses what's on tap in the region around the game, what the past year has been like and how he and his team have kept their optimism in the face of challenging circumstances. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the 30th episode of Amplify Clearwater Show, powered by 13th Ave Media! We are very excited to take you on a journey to learn more about all of the incredible businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders. In this episode, we are featuring Tracy West, Tournament director for the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship! Tracy West is the tournament director for the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship. In her role she leads the strategic and overall management efforts for this official PGA TOUR professional golf tournament, played at Innisbrook Golf Resort. The event is the largest signature sporting event in Pinellas County, annually attracting over 130,000 patrons, 350 corporate partners and 2,000 volunteers and raising over $2 million annually for 80 regional charities. She is co-founder, executive vice president and partner of Pro Links Sports since 1993 and is responsible for the general oversight of the PGA TOUR’s Wells Fargo Championship and 3M Open and various other company projects. She has been involved in management of 60+ pro tournaments throughout her career including tournament management nationwide for PGA TOUR Champions Tour events and U.S. Senior Opens. Prior to joining the Valspar Championship in May 2014, for six years West took a break from pro golf tournament management to serve as the senior director of development and signature programs for the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program, leading the fundraising efforts for this clinical program at Massachusetts General Hospital. She developed multiple large signature fundraising events, including the Run to Home Base in Fenway Park, raising millions of dollars annually. West serves on the board for the PGA TOUR Tournament Advisory Council, Habitat for Humanity Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, The First Tee of Tampa Bay, AMPLIFY Clearwater (regional Chamber of Commerce), Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Truist Local Advisory Board (Pinellas County), National Leadership Council for Women of Color Golf and served on the 2019 NCAA Women’s Final Four Local Organizing Committee. She is a member of WISE Tampa (Women In Sports & Entertainment). West has an MBA in Marketing from Michigan State University and a B.S. Finance & Economics from Lake Superior State University. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/13th-ave-media/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/13th-ave-media/support

Ever wonder what it takes to plan sporting events, big and small? As the Chief Operating Officer of the Tampa Bay Super Bowl 55 Host Committee and the VP of Events for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Claire Lessinger can give you a crash course. Using her playing and coaching career to her advantage, Claire has climbed to the top of the leader board as the queen of event planning for Tampa. Her biggest test is still to come, but she is enjoying every minute of planning The Big Game.

In this week's episode, Mike and I interview Tino Martinez, former MLB All-Star. We talk to him about: -his collegiate career at the University of Tampa, where he was the Division 2 National Player of the Year -his MLB career with the Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, St Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays -his golf game -involvement with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission

Rob Higgins, Executive Director of Tampa Bay Sports Commission, joined AM Tampa Bay to discuss Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host committee announces agreement with iHeartMedia Tampa Bay.

10News anchor Ryan Bass and Rob Higgins, president/CEO of the Super Bowl LV Host Committee, welcome NFL All-Pro and Buccaneers legend Gerald McCoy to the podcast! McCoy opens up about his growth in the city of Tampa (6:09), Lee Roy Selmon's legacy and what it has meant to him (7:00), if he'll always consider himself a Buccaneer (8:40), his NFL future now that he's a free agent (9:30), the moment he found out his teammates went to his son's senior night (11:30), keeping an eye on the Bucs from Carolina and holding his ex-teammates accountable (13:25), his charitable efforts in Tampa Bay (15:20), how being a father has changed him (19:42), what it would mean to come full-circle and play in Super Bowl LV in Tampa (23:30) and a fun rookie hazing story (26:45). Also, Jason Aughey of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission joins the podcast to delve into the hotel and lodging aspect of Super Bowl 55 (37:00). Finally, LaKendria Robinson, who leads the Business Connect effort for LV, updates us ahead of Tuesday's pitch day!

Rob Higgins, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, joined AM Tampa Bay to discuss what economic impact Super Bowl 2021 will have on Tampa.

Rob Higgins, the executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, joined Pat and Aaron from Radio Row on Thursday. Higgins is in Miami to get a feel for how things should be run when Tampa hosts Super Bowl 55 next February. He also discussed how Tampa is primed to host a lot of major sporting events in the future.

Super Bowl LV is coming to Tampa Bay in 2021! That may seem like the distant future, but the prep is already underway. Long before the teams score at Raymond James Stadium, thousands of hours of work goes into the making of the big game and the amazing spectacle that accompanies it! Tampa Bay 55, a new podcast, is YOUR exclusive all-access pass, behind-the-scenes with the deal makers, hand shakers, celebrities and athletes.Listeners will go inside the planning meetings and hear firsthand from the people responsible for ensuring every detail is perfect. Our microphones will record the 55 weeks leading up to Super Bowl 55. They’ll be capturing not only what's being done for NFL fans -- but how organizers are giving back and making sure the spirit of Tampa Bay is showcased on the global stage. You’ll learn about that and other exclusive details right here on Tampa Bay 55!The podcast is hosted by Ryan Bass, anchor at 10News WTSP -- the CBS affiliated television station in the Tampa Bay area and Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and president/CEO of the Super Bowl LV Host Committee. They will be joined by special guests weekly as we countdown to the main event in the heart of Florida’s gorgeous west coast!New episodes will be released weekly. Super Bowl LV will be broadcast nationally on CBS.

Rob Higgins of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission joined Pat Donovan and Aaron Jacobson on Thursday afternoon. Rob told detailed the process of getting Wrestlemania 36 to Tampa Bay and went into the vault to discuss some of his favorite wrestling moments.

Ryan Gorman spoke with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission about a number of charitable programs and events connected to the upcoming Women's Final Four.

WeCOACH executive director and host, Megan Kahn, sits down with Claire Lessinger, director of special events for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. Their dynamic conversation spans Claire’s playing career at the University of Florida (appearances in 3 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Final Fours and 5 SEC titles), what it was like to play for legendary Coach Mary Wise, taking over and rebuilding a program in her hometown, and now her important work in the Tampa Bay community. Tune in to hear how Claire is part of the team bringing major championship events to the city, why and how she’s engaging the women of Tampa Bay through sports and leadership, and what to expect for the upcoming NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four and accompanying activities. No matter what sport you coach, or if you’re a fan, you’re sure to love Claire’s passion and enthusiasm for building community and leading from the heart. For show notes and related links for this episode click HERE. For more conversations from the world of women’s sport including articles, blogs, videos and podcasts visit wispsports.com. WiSP Sports is the World’s Largest Podcast Network for Women’s Sport with more than 20 hosts, 1000+ episodes across 30+ shows and a global audience of over 2 million. WiSP Sports is on all major podcast players. Follow WiSP Sports on social media @WiSPsports. Contact us at info@wispsports.com. 

The debut episode of the "Bros and Pros" podcast is here! On Episode 1, Ryan Bass and Justin Granit discuss Jameis Winston's return and the dilemma facing the Bucs, Earl Thomas and the value of hold outs and Rob Higgins, the Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, joins the pod!

Exec. Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Rob Higgins stops by to talk about the huge local event - The Sneaker Soiree w/ Ronnie & TKras! What celebs & athletes are attending and an update on Water Street Tampa!

Bobbi-Sue has another local woman in sports pop by her apartment for this week’s episode. Claire Lessinger is the Director of Special Events for the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. TBSC is the organization that attracts and puts on major sports and entertainment events in the Tampa Bay region such as the Super Bowl, Final Four, […] The post Leveling The Playing Field: Claire Lessinger of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission appeared first on Radio Influence.

The Consumer Quarterback Show is jammed packed full of information to help you win in the real estate world today. Our Mortgage Expert Mario Larrea of Mutual Mortgage is in the house today explaining knowing what debts to pay off and when could be the difference between approval and denial. Rob Higgins joins The Consumer Quarterback Show from the Tampa Bay Sports Commission explains how good relationships have played a huge part in award winning Tampa Bay. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Our buddy Rob Higgins from the Tampa Bay Sports Commission hops on to talk all the great events going on this weekend!!

Our buddy Rob Higgings from the Tampa Bay Sports Commission joins the guys to talk about what's next for Tampa Bay!!

This week, Lindsay had the pleasure to chat with the incredibly talented, award-winning athlete turned Director of Events for the Tampa Sports Commission, Claire Lessinger. Claire has had sports running through her veins since early childhood. Growing up, she played a variety of sports such as swimming, golf, tennis, basketball, and youth soccer and by the time she was a sophomore in high school, she fell in love with the game of volleyball.  Throughout college, at the University of Florida, she played as a volleyball player. Following her dream after college, she became the head coach of the University of South Florida’s volleyball team, transforming the team. During her tenure as the head coach, the USF has appeared in the conference tournament four out of her last five seasons and the team earned third place finishes in the 2007 and 2009 seasons.  On today’s show, Lindsay and Claire talk about the driving force behind her passion for the game, her major accomplishments and opportunities that she is most proud of, as well as her role as the Director of Events for the Tampa Sports Commission and their philanthropy project – “For Student Athletes, By Student Athletes.”    Highlights of Today’s Episode:  When did Claire’s passion and love of sports begin?  When did her love of volleyball officially take hold?  Is the balancing act that student athletes have to juggle difficult?  Did she plan to go into coaching after college, or was it an unexpected opportunity?  What did she plan for her future after transferring out of coaching?  What does her role at the Tampa Sports Commission entail?  How involved is she in the bidding and securing process of Tampa Bay sporting events?  What are some of the factors that come into play when securing sporting events?  Are there any skills she developed as a coach that she feels has served her well in her current career?  What accomplishments is she most proud of?  Who’s her favorite team in any sport?  What was the best sporting event she has ever seen live?  If she was a professional baseball player, what would her walk-up song be?    Claire’s Advice for Aspiring, Young Sports Athletes Seeking a Career in Sports:  Be strategic.  Networking – especially for women athletes. Build relationships along the way. You never know where it might lead.    Love the show? Join our fans and leave us your honest feedback!  Tweet Us  Follow Us on Facebook  Check Us Out on iTunes  Tune In on Stitcher  Hang Out with Us on SoundCloud  Visit Our Website 

Our guests on final Tuesday night edition of USCHO Live! on March 29 are ESPN and CBS Sports Network college hockey analyst Dave Starman, and Tampa Bay Sports Commission executive director Rob Higgins, each previewing next week’s NCAA Frozen Four in Tampa.