Kick off Luncheon
2024 Kick Off Luncheon | August 22 | Baylor Club at McLane Stadium | 11:30 a.m.
For over 30 years, the Greater Waco Chamber has hosted luncheons to excite the community for upcoming sports seasons. Held annually in August, the Kick Off Sports Luncheon celebrates the start of football season.
About the Kick Off Luncheon
Each year during the luncheon, attendees hear a preview from Baylor University coaches, a look at the upcoming high school football season and a special guest speaker.
Prior speakers have included Ed "Too Tall" Jones (former Dallas Cowboy defensive end), Dat Nguyen, (former Dallas Cowboy linebacker and member of the Texas A&M Wrecking Crew), Gary Baxter (former American football cornerback and Baylor football player), Charles Davis (an American football analyst on Foxsports.com and former player), Bill Hancock (first executive director of the BCS), Bobby Bowden, Charlie Ward, Trey Wingo (ESPN), Brad Sham (voice of the Dallas Cowboys), R. C. Slocum (former Texas A&M Head Coach), Gene Stallings (former A&M and Alabama Coach) and Grant Teaff (former Baylor University Coach).
Speaker
Mack Rhoades, Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for Baylor University
Mack B. Rhoades, IV, became Baylor University's Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics in 2016, following successful leadership roles at three NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision programs. Under his guidance, Baylor Athletics achieved 24 Big 12 titles and seven national championships. Rhoades has emphasized "Preparing Champions for Life," shaping Baylor's athletic culture around academic excellence, athletic success, character development, and spiritual growth. His tenure includes notable fundraising achievements, facility upgrades like the Paul and Alejandra Foster Basketball Pavilion, and continued athletic success across various sports.
Join us for a conversation with Mack Rhoades as he shares his thoughts on the shifting landscape of college sports.
About the Dave Campbell Award
The Dave Campbell Award is presented annually at the Kick Off Luncheon to recognize someone who has made a significant impact on football in McLennan County.
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