Drew Hays to Lead Fort Worth Sports Commission

Drew Hays, who previously served as executive director of the Austin Sports Commission at Visit Austin, has been chosen by Visit Fort Worth to lead the Fort Worth Sports Commission.

Hays will serve as vice president of sports for Visit Fort Worth and executive director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission. He will serve on Visit Fort Worth’s Leadership Team, reporting to chief operating officer Mitch Whitten.

”The Fort Worth Sports Commission, Visit Fort Worth, and the city have built an incredible foundation that has positioned Fort Worth as a premier sports destination,” Hays said. ”I am honored to join such a talented and accomplished team, and I look forward to building on their momentum to showcase Fort Worth on an even greater national and international stage.”

Hays joins the Sports Commission as Fort Worth next year will host the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championship for the seventh consecutive year; NCAA Women’s Basketball Sweet 16 and Elite 8; the FEI World Cup Finals 2026 sponsored by Longines and international esports events.

The Sports Commission also supports the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, National Cutting Horse Association, Texas Motor Speedway, Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial and the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. 

The Sports Commission is composed of Cassie Poss, director of business development; Heath Aucoin, director of operations; Becca Berger, director of marketing & public relations; Katie Heldreth, sports sales manager; Gabby Nassans, sports marketing coordinator; and Adrain Armstrong, convention sales & sports coordinator. 

“Drew’s experience and reputation in the sports tourism industry will be a tremendous asset to Fort Worth,” said Bob Jameson, president and chief executive officer of Visit Fort Worth. “He brings the right combination of national relationships, strategic planning and passion for showcasing a city’s community through sports. We’re excited to welcome Drew and his family to Fort Worth.” 

At the Austin Sports Commission, Hays led the recruitment of more than 350 sporting events, championed sports facility development and built partnerships with national organizations including the NCAA, NBA, MLS, PGA, NASCAR and the U.S. Olympic Committee.