Ryan Smith: The Game Changer in Utah Sports
Salt Lake City, a vibrant hub of transformation, has been experiencing a surge in sports enthusiasm, largely thanks to Ryan Smith's visionary pursuits. The city, a historic site renowned for its picturesque landscapes and spirited communities, now boasts four professional sports clubs, positioning it as a formidable location on the sports map.
A New Era for Salt Lake City
The city’s sports landscape was dramatically redefined when Smith acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. Displaying bold entrepreneurship, he relocated and rebranded them as the Utah Hockey Club, marking their debut in October in the heart of Salt Lake City. This bold move not only signified a significant shift in Utah’s sports culture but also highlighted Smith’s relentless commitment to diversify and expand the local sports scene. Dwyane Wade, who serves as a limited partner of the Utah Jazz, quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," perfectly capturing the excitement and novelty of this new chapter.
Growing Influence in Sports
Smith's influence isn’t confined to just one arena. As a major stakeholder in the Utah Jazz, his strategic insights have been pivotal since he purchased the team for an impressive $1.66 billion in 2020. Alongside his wife, Ashley Smith, they hold stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, further cementing their integral role in the sports industry in Utah and beyond.
The Smiths' collaborative efforts extend beyond mere ownership. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," shared Ashley Smith, reflecting on the dynamic duo's approach to managing their diverse sports portfolio.
Vision for Urban Revival and Education
Beyond sports, Ryan Smith is also a driving force in the redevelopment plans for downtown Salt Lake City. While these plans have faced public scrutiny, Smith’s vision is transformative, aiming to marry urban resurgence with flourishing community engagement. His involvement in the city's redevelopment indicates a broader commitment to improving the local living experience, with sports acting as a crucial catalyst.
Smith also nurtures educational ties, notably with Brigham Young University, where he co-teaches a business class. His affiliation with BYU is deeply personal. As Smith candidly expressed, “I’m not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I’m there because I owe them a lot.” His involvement has also attracted top talents like A.J. Dybantsa, a high school basketball sensation who was drawn to BYU by a significant NIL financial package, further showcasing Smith’s influence in nurturing future sports talents.
An Ambitious Vision
Smith’s ambitions do not stop at sports team ownership or urban advocacy. His dreams reach the Olympic stage as he actively pursues bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah. Such an endeavor could once again place Salt Lake City in the global sports spotlight, following the success of hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics.
The central theme underpinning Smith’s wide array of projects is a commitment to inclusivity and community participation. "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," Ryan Smith articulated, emphasizing a core philosophy of engagement and proactive involvement.
Impact on the Community
The blend of sports, business, and community engagement has not gone unnoticed. Local fans, like Gentry Anderson, voice excitement about the new proliferation of professional sports in the area, stating, “It’s been surreal to have three sports teams here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans.” This closeness and accessibility highlight Ryan Smith’s approachable leadership style—a rarity in the world of sports magnates.
In a relatively short span, Ryan Smith has transitioned from a successful entrepreneur with Qualtrics to an indispensable figure in Utah’s sports and urban landscapes. His vision continues to reshape Salt Lake City, ensuring that it stands as a beacon of growth, sportsmanship, and bold innovation.