Nebraska Athletics Launches Dedicated Special Events Team

Nebraska Athletics has launched a new Special Events department aimed at increasing the use of its facilities throughout the year.

This initiative seeks to generate more revenue and provide greater public access to Husker venues, with operations commencing in mid-August.

The department’s primary focus will be on external rentals, opening up opportunities for various public and corporate functions.

Memorial Stadium is slated to host large-scale events during the offseason, broadening its utility beyond football season.

Other competition spaces and facilities will also be available for rentals, including conferences, banquets, galas, private receptions, and corporate events.

“We have talked regularly about engaging Memorial stadium more than just seven home games in the fall and making all our facilities more available to the public,” stated Nebraska Director of Athletics Troy Dannen.

Dannen believes this move will help the university play a more active role in driving events and engagement within the Lincoln community.

Arek Olson has been appointed to led the new department as the assistant Athletic Director of Special Events.

Olson brings extensive experience from his previous role as Director of Event Operations at the University of Arkansas, where he managed approximately 175 revenue-generating events annually.

His past work includes overseeing the first public ticketed concert held in Arkansas’s football stadium,demonstrating a strong track record in diverse event execution.

Kaci Natale joins the team as Assistant Director of Special Events, bringing a background in project management and a degree in hospitality.

Natale’s recent experience includes serving as a marketing specialist for Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, in addition to her six years as an Events Services Manager at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

Both Olson and Natale are scheduled to begin their roles with Nebraska Athletics on August 11.

A dedicated rental page detailing all available spaces and opportunities will soon be accessible on Huskers.com.

In the interim, inquiries and rental requests can be directed to Arek olson at [email protected].

How will teh new Special Events Team utilize data analytics to improve the fan experience?

Elevating the Fan Experience: A New Era for Husker Events

Nebraska Athletics has announced the formation of a dedicated Special Events Team, a strategic move designed to enhance and streamline the planning and execution of all non-customary athletic events. This initiative signifies a significant investment in the overall fan experience and aims to position Nebraska as a leader in collegiate athletic event management. The team will operate under the direction of Associate Athletic Director, Ryan Roberts, and will be responsible for a wide range of events beyond the core football, basketball, and volleyball schedules.

What Does This Mean for Husker Fans?

The creation of this team promises a more polished and engaging experience for fans attending special events. Expect improvements in areas like:

Event Planning & Logistics: More efficient organization, leading to smoother entry, better seating arrangements, and reduced wait times.

Fan Engagement Activities: Increased pre- and post-event entertainment, interactive experiences, and opportunities to connect with Husker athletes and coaches.

Event promotion & marketing: Targeted campaigns to raise awareness and drive attendance for all special events.

Enhanced Event Atmosphere: Improved sound, lighting, and overall ambiance to create a more memorable experience.

Premium Event Offerings: Development of exclusive packages and VIP experiences for dedicated fans.

Scope of Events Managed by the New Team

The special Events Team will oversee a diverse portfolio of events, including but not limited to:

National Championships & NCAA Tournament Events: Hosting bids and executing large-scale championship events across various sports.

Specialty Games & Promotions: Theme nights, alumni weekends, and unique game-day experiences. Think “salute to Service” games or throwback uniform nights.

Fundraising Events: Galas, auctions, and other events supporting Nebraska Athletics’ fundraising efforts.

community Outreach Programs: Events designed to connect Husker athletes with the local community.

Facility Events: Utilizing athletic facilities for non-athletic events, such as concerts or conferences.

Golf Tournaments & clinics: Expanding opportunities for fan participation in golf-related activities.

Team Structure and Key Personnel

The team is comprised of experienced event professionals with backgrounds in collegiate athletics, event management, and hospitality. Key roles within the team include:

Ryan Roberts – Associate Athletic Director, Special Events: Oversees all aspects of the team’s operations and strategy.

Event Coordinators: Responsible for the logistical planning and execution of individual events.

Marketing & Promotion Specialists: Focus on creating and implementing marketing campaigns to drive event attendance.

Operations Staff: Provide on-site support during events, ensuring smooth operations.

Volunteer Management: Coordinating and managing volunteer efforts for larger events.

Benefits of a Dedicated Special Events team

Investing in a dedicated team offers several key benefits for Nebraska Athletics:

Increased Revenue Generation: Triumphant events can generate significant revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise.

Enhanced Brand Reputation: Well-executed events enhance the reputation of Nebraska Athletics and the University as a whole.

Improved Fan Loyalty: Positive event experiences foster fan loyalty and encourage repeat attendance.

Stronger Community Engagement: Events provide opportunities to connect with the local community and build goodwill.

Streamlined Operations: A dedicated team streamlines event planning and execution, freeing up other athletic department staff to focus on their core responsibilities.

Real-World examples & Best Practices

Many successful collegiate athletic programs have already implemented dedicated special events teams. For example, the University of Oregon is renowned for its innovative and engaging game-day experiences, largely due to a focused event management strategy. Key takeaways from these programs include:

Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data analytics to understand fan preferences and optimize event planning.

Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with local businesses and organizations to enhance event offerings.

Continuous Advancement: Regularly evaluating event performance and making adjustments based on feedback.

* Focus on Innovation: Constantly seeking new and creative ways to enhance the fan experience.

Future Outlook: Expanding the Husker Event Landscape

The launch of the Special Events Team is just the begining. Nebraska Athletics plans to continue investing in this area, with a focus on expanding the range of events offered and creating even more memorable experiences for Husker fans. This commitment to excellence will solidify Nebraska’s position as a premier destination for collegiate athletics and entertainment. Expect to see more announcements regarding innovative event concepts and expanded fan engagement