NCS⁴ to Host 2026 National Professional Sports and Entertainment Safety and Security Forum
The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS⁴) at The University of Southern Mississippi will host the 2026 National Professional Sports and Entertainment Safety and Security Forum Feb. 23 – 24, 2026, at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
The forum is presented in conjunction with Title Partner SkySafe, whose advanced drone detection technology enables organizations to identify, track and analyze drone activity.
The threat environment surrounding high-profile sport and entertainment events is continually evolving. Discussing current issues and exploring solutions in a forum environment helps safety and security managers, operations managers and local and state law enforcement enhance safety and security plans and operations.
“The Professional Sports and Entertainment Forum … sessions are engaging, highly relevant and grounded in real-world challenges,” said Todd Metro, director of security, the Miami Marlins. “Attendees walk away with actionable strategies, fresh perspectives and valuable connections with fellow professionals committed to advancing safety and security standards.”
Forum participants will hear from experienced professionals on topics including the evolving threat landscape, rising concerns of athlete harassment, AI and crowd communications, information sharing and analysis center operations, development of new sports and entertainment districts, and safety lessons learned from music festivals.
In addition to general programming sessions, attendees will participate in moderated discussions to review the NCS⁴ Best Practices for professional sports and entertainment venues.
Moderated discussion topics include:
- Staff Training and Development
- Fan Behavior
- Communications
- Perimeter Security
- Severe Weather Planning
- Command Center Operations
“We are excited to bring this group together again in person to focus on issues specific to their respective industries,” said Dr. Stacey A. Hall, executive director and professor of sport management, NCS⁴. “Emerging threats, business challenges and industry standards will be discussed to ensure continuous improvement.”
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Angie Nix, vice president of guest services, MetLife Stadium, said, “What makes this forum stand out is its focus; the smaller, more specialized groups create space for meaningful conversations and practical learning. One of my favorite aspects of the forum is the breakout sessions, which give participants the chance to contribute to NCS⁴’s best practices. The facilitated discussions are consistently relevant, engaging and inclusive.”
The target audience for the event includes safety and security managers, operations managers, event managers and facility operators, local and state law enforcement, emergency managers, fire, HAZMAT and emergency medical services, guest services, and government officials. Private sector companies may attend the forum only as Solution Partners.
Pricing for attendees is $550 per person. Click here to view the full agenda and register for the event. The room block ends on Jan. 22.Looking for a reprint of this article?
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