by Nathan Hall (SMBA ‘23)
On February 3rd, the Sports MBA Class of 2023 toured the beautiful Snapdragon Stadium in Mission Valley. The venue’s general manager, Adam Millar of OVG360, guided students on a substantial tour of every part of the facility. Assisting Millar with the tour were his OVG360 colleagues Brian Smith, Director of Operations, Gracie Pugliese, Director of Marketing and PR, and recent Sports MBA alumna Claudia Cox (SMBA ‘22), an Event Manager.
The tour gave the class a chance to see the entirety of the stadium, starting with the front-of-the-house features that shape the fan experience, such as suites, lounges, and concession stands. Next, students observed the operational areas utilized by stadium staff and partners, such as security, housekeeping, and guest services, and more. The facility was designed to host myriad sports, from Aztec football to professional soccer, rugby and lacrosse, or dirt events like motocross and Monster Jam. The venue will host a number of high profile concerts in 2023 and beyond. Recently, the SDSU Sports MBA Class of 2022 and program faculty hosted graduation at the facility, with 41 graduates and their families gathering at the venue for commencement in December 2022.
Sports MBA students learned about the various design elements of Snapdragon Stadium that are unique to San Diego, and heard about the future plans for the SDSU West campus in Mission Valley. The class took in a view from elevated areas such as the Sycuan Piers and the Cutwater Bar, two open-air viewpoints that take advantage of San Diego’s sunshine. Other aspects of the stadium incorporated the San Diego community, such as a number of beautiful murals painted by local artists around the concourse. Finally, the stadium features a number of well known San Diego restaurants and an unmatched selection of local craft beer.
There’s truly no bad seat in the house, as Snapdragon Stadium brings all fans, including those in premium seating, much closer to the field. One end zone seating area was designed as a home for The Show, SDSU’s student section, Wave FC’s San Diego Sirens Supporters Group, and any ultras of a future MLS club. This area incorporates safe-standing seating and offers great sightlines for fans to stand and enjoy the event.
The Sports MBA Class of 2023 cohort was very appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about this outstanding stadium. We wish to thank Adam Millar and all of our great hosts from OVG360 for their hospitality.
