Ryan Smith's Vision Transforms Salt Lake City's Sports Scene
In the heart of the American West, Salt Lake City is rapidly transforming into a vibrant hub for professional sports, thanks in large part to the ambition and investment of Ryan Smith. As co-founder of Qualtrics and a major stakeholder in a variety of sports franchises, Smith has set his sights on making Salt Lake City a destination for sports enthusiasts.
The Revival of Hockey in Salt Lake City
The energy in Salt Lake City reached a new high with the debut of the Utah Hockey Club this October. This significant moment came after Ryan Smith's acquisition of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, which he subsequently rebranded and relocated to Utah. The move signifies more than just a team change; it marks a revival of interest in hockey within Utah, bringing a fresh pulse to the city’s sports culture.
Dwyane Wade's Unexpected Connection
Notably, Dwyane Wade, renowned for his career in the NBA, is also a limited partner of the Utah Jazz. Wade was caught up in the city’s hockey excitement, stating, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life." His involvement with the Jazz and newfound interest in hockey illustrates the expansive sports enthusiasm spreading throughout Salt Lake City.
Ryan Smith: Beyond the Arena
Ryan Smith’s influence extends beyond the confines of sports arenas. He has played a vital role in the ambitious redevelopment plans for downtown Salt Lake City, a strategy intertwined with the city's preparation for the 2034 Winter Olympics. While these plans have faced some public scrutiny, Smith remains a steadfast advocate for the transformation, committed to the notion of long-term benefits for the community.
Expanding the Sports Empire
Under Smith's watchful eye, Salt Lake City now boasts four professional sports clubs, including stakes in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women’s Soccer League’s Utah Royals. He stands at the frontier of a sports renaissance, with his ventures not just expanding the local sports landscape but invigorating community spirit.
Ashley Smith, Ryan's partner in both business and life, acknowledges their collaborative success, noting, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths." Their partnership is a driving force behind the strategic decisions steering Utah’s sports scene toward greater heights.
A Commitment to Education
Smith’s ties with Brigham Young University further highlight his multifaceted commitment to Utah. He actively engages with the institution by co-teaching a business class, describing his involvement with, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot." This connection recently attracted A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, drawn to BYU through a noteworthy NIL financial package, lured partly by Smith’s influence.
A Vision for Community Engagement
Smith’s vision transcends conventional team ownership. He has expressed his dream to one day become an NBA owner, declaring, "My dream is to become an NBA owner." Meanwhile, in his current roles, he is championing a culture of inclusivity and engagement among fans and stakeholders alike. "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," Smith remarked, underscoring his philosophy of open dialogue and participation.
Gentry Anderson, a local fan, emphasizes the impact of Smith’s ownership, "It's been surreal to have three sports teams [four professional clubs] here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans." Smith’s presence is not just an executive force but also a relatable figure within the Utah community.
Ryan Smith's dynamic approach to sports and community development has undeniably reshaped the landscape of Salt Lake City. By weaving together his business acumen, passion for sports, and dedication to community engagement, he has created a robust platform that exemplifies what it means to blend sportsmanship with visionary leadership. As Salt Lake City continues to evolve, it is clear that the Smith's fingerprints will be felt across Utah's sporting and cultural canvas for years to come.