The NCS4 has concluded its 15th Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition with a reported record attendance.

The conference was held July 9-11 at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. The 2024 conference theme, “Make It Matter,” encouraged those working in sport and special event security to explore and transform ideas into tangible changes with lasting impacts. The event offered dynamic programming, solution provider engagement, and opportunities to network with fellow professionals.

The 2024 Conference was supported by Title Sponsor, inOrbit, a company which has developed a security program management software (SPMS). inOrbit is also one of the eight organization members of the NCS4 Technology Alliance, a consortium of individuals and organizations committed to spectator safety and security excellence through innovation.

“The NCS4 team thanks all the attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors for this year’s milestone conference success,” said Stacey Hall, Ph.D., professor of sport management and executive director, NCS4. “We had a 15-year record attendance of more than 600 participants, who heard from experts on topics at the forefront of our industry. The speakers and panelists were top-notch, and I’m positive attendees returned home with practical knowledge, tools, and new friends. Much credit should go to Lauren Cranford, NCS4 director of operations, for championing this event.”

The conference opened with a keynote from L. Vance Taylor, Chief, Office of Access and Functional Needs, California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, and a motivational presentation from Dave Delaney, CEO, Futureforth.com

General sessions covered broad topics with panel discussions relevant to sports safety and security professionals in today’s ever-changing landscape, including emerging threats in sports security, FIFA World Cup security preparation, and drone threats at sporting events, to name a few. In addition to general sessions, the conference boasted an Awards Luncheon, breakout sessions, and an exhibition hall that allowed attendees to explore emerging technologies and network with industry peers.

“The NCS4’s annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition allows the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with others, evaluate new technology, and share and compare best practices,” said G.B. Jones, chief safety and security officer, FIFA World Cup 2026.  “It also allows attendees to peek around the corner to see what new challenges and opportunities might be emerging. Sports safety and security is always evolving. The NCS4 helps the pros sharpen their skills so they are ready to tackle the issues.”

The Awards Luncheon on the second day of the conference recognized constituents for their work over the past year and their careers. The luncheon was sponsored by Evolv Technology, which provides weapons detection systems for security screening. “We are honored to recognize each award recipient and their commitment to safety and security within their organizations,” said Lauren Cranford, MPH, CHES, director of operations, NCS4.

During the Awards Luncheon, the NCS4 also recognized new Certified Sport Security Professionals (CSSP), a designation that sets those who have earned the certificate apart from other professionals and highlights their dedication to remaining current with industry trends.

Planning for the 2025 Annual Conference is underway, with details to be released later this year. The event will be held July 1-3, 2025, at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas. The NCS4 will host the National Marathon and Endurance Events Safety and Security Forum on December 3-4, 2024, at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia Beach, Va., and the National Intercollegiate Athletics Safety and Security Forum on January 28-29, 2025, at Duke University in Durham, N.C. Details will be released in the coming weeks.