December 2023 Newsletter | Greater Waco Sports Commission

Monthly News & Updates

December 2023 | Vol. 20

December’s Game Plan: Unveiling Wins

Mike’s Message

Executive Director, Greater Waco Sports Commission

As we approach the year’s end, it’s a valuable moment to reflect on past achievements and consider new challenges for the future. This year signifies a significant milestone by unveiling our inaugural Annual Review Report, providing a snapshot of our 2023 achievements and critical partnerships. As 2023 concludes, the Board of Directors and the GWSC have been actively planning for 2024 and beyond.Looking ahead, we’re excited to announce the return of the much-anticipated TEAM Waco scholarship (read below) and introduce new competitions on the horizon. Among these events is the upcoming Glow Over Waco (5K and Fun Run Glow Run) on Saturday night, April 6th, aligning with the Solar Eclipse Weekend. This eclipse run promises to be a blast for families, while Waco is drawing visitors for a weekend filled with eclipse-themed events.

As 2023 nears its end, Waco continues to shine as a top destination for sports. This weekend (12/2-3) at BASE near the ExtraCo Events Center, we proudly host the IBJJF (Jiu-Jitsu) competition, featuring 23+ local athletes competing against participants from across the county and internationally. Looking ahead, the CenTex Challenge Goodwill Games (Youth Volleyball) at BASE, two weekends later, will draw 5,000 attendees. This event allows local clubs to compete against teams from Dallas, Austin, Houston, and beyond, allowing our community to participate while enjoying the comforts of home.

We sincerely thank you for your ongoing support as we strive to enhance the sporting landscape and contribute to the economic vitality of the Greater Waco Region going into 2024.

Waco Rowing Regatta

The 2nd Annual Waco Regatta experienced a remarkable 15% growth compared to the previous year, attracting participants from nearly every club in Texas and expanding its reach to Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, and even New Jersey. The University of Texas, winners of two out of the last three DI Rowing Championships, demonstrated strong support by bringing their entire team and coaching staff to the event. Notably, La Vega athletes, representing Waco Rowing Center, achieved a significant milestone as the first high school athletes in McLennan County to row and compete in a USRowing sanctioned regatta.

Strategic Planning Sessions

Amidst a vast number of future plans and opportunities, the 18-member board of directors recently gathered for an extensive strategic planning session at the newly inaugurated Paula Hurd Center. The meeting involved evaluation, dreaming, and strategic discussions about the ongoing and future impact of GWSC on the community. A big thanks is extended to Rick Tullis for skillfully moderating our planning session. One of the results of that meeting was the creation of a new committee to further serve this city and community. For those interested in becoming a part of our new Community Outreach or Facility Development committee, please reach out to us to explore further.

Upcoming Events

Check out what events are coming up in Waco and how you can get involved.

Sponsorship Opportunities

We are always looking for new community partners! Please email [email protected] if you are interested in learning about sponsorship opportunities with new events for your business.

GWSC Volunteer Opportunities

Click here to check out upcoming opportunities.

Team Waco 2024 Applications OPENING SOON

We are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated TEAM Waco scholarship opportunity, with applications opening on January 1st via our website. With the continued support of our existing sponsors and the addition of new partners, we look forward to offering this opportunity to five county residents. We encourage everyone to apply or reapply, highlighting the story of Jen Harms, who, after not being selected initially, seized the opportunity the following year.

Learn More

In the pipeline for Waco Sports

WACO INTERNATIONAL OPEN IBJJF JIU-JITSU CHAMPIONSHIP 2023

(12/02/23 – 12/03/23 @ BASE)

CEN-TEX CHALLENGE GOOD WILL GAMES (Volleyball)

(12/16/23 – 12/17/23 @ BASE)

GLOW OVER WACO: 5K & FUN RUN

(4/6/24 – Details coming soon for Eclipse weekend)

* See calendar with more info on each event *

or * post your event *

A Word from Dr. Adesina

Young athletes should regularly include stretching in their routine to enhance flexibility and prevent injuries. The AAP advises stretching at least 3 days a week, holding each stretch for 15-30 seconds, both before and after physical activity. Dynamic stretching, like leg swings and arm circles, is recommended before activity, while static stretching, like the seated forward bend, is best for after activity.

It’s crucial to target all major muscle groups gently and without bouncing to avoid muscle strain. Additionally, the AAP recommends a warm-up with light cardiovascular activity and dynamic stretches before exercise, followed by a cool-down with light cardiovascular activity and static stretches.

In summary, incorporating stretching into their routine helps young athletes improve flexibility, range of motion, and reduce the risk of injuries, following AAP guidelines for a safe and effective approach.