Professional Sport Venue Threats, Security Measures, and Technological Solutions

Authors

Brandon Allen, The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at The University of Southern MississippiFollow
Laurajean Holmgren, Columbia UniversityFollow
Stacey A. Hall, The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at The University of Southern MississippiFollow

Abstract

Several incidents involving large crowds have led venue security directors to adopt preventive strategies. Venue organizers should foster a safe and secure environment, which requires assessing risk levels, recruiting and training staff, exercising plans and protocols, and leveraging technology solutions. The purpose of this study is to explore professional sport venue threats, security measures, and technology utilization. Security directors (n=52) from five major sports leagues in the United States (MLB, MLS, NBA, NFL, and NHL) participated in the study. Key findings focus on staffing, training and development, fan behavior, and facility operations. Recommendations include investing in multiple strategies to enhance venue safety and security, including staff retention and training strategies, utilization of multiple communication platforms, incorporating robust policies and procedures, and investment of technological and analytical tools as budgets and needs permit. Understanding the current status of professional sport venue safety and security concerns and potential solutions can assist venue directors in developing best practices, policies, and procedures to enhance security and provide a safe environment for patrons and participants.

Recommended Citation

Allen, Brandon; Holmgren, Laurajean; and Hall, Stacey A. (2025) "Professional Sport Venue Threats, Security Measures, and Technological Solutions," Global Sport Business Journal: Vol. 10: Iss. 1, Article 2.
Available at: https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/gsbj/vol10/iss1/2