The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security – at The University of Southern Mississippi

National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security

at The University of Southern Mississippi

Established in 2006, the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security is the nation’s only academic center devoted to the study and practice of spectator sports safety and security.

Mission

We support the sports and entertainment industries through innovative research, training, and outreach programs. Our mission is realized by working closely with a diverse group of organizations and subject matter experts to better understand the threat environment, identify vulnerabilities, communicate risk-mitigation techniques, and close capability gaps.

Vision

We will be a leading partner with government, private sector, and sports and entertainment organizations to create and deliver critical resources for enhancing safety and security.

The NCS⁴ mission centers around three pillars: Training & Education, Research, and Outreach

Instructor leading training to a group of people seated around a table

Training & Education

The NCS⁴’s national and international training programs focus on risk management, incident management, evacuation and protective measures, crowd management, and crisis communications. In addition, professional development certifications are available for all staff levels, and educational degree and certificate programs are provided through the USM’s nationally-recognized College of Business and Economic Development.

Research

The NCS⁴ applied research goals are accomplished through partnerships with industry professionals and academic programs. Industry research reports are published on national surveys and a research seminar series shares interdisciplinary research on sports safety and security topics.

Event with attendees seated facing the front of the room

Outreach

The NCS⁴ collaborates with professional associations, government agencies, academic entities, and the private sector to develop and deliver critical resources and networking opportunities, such as the annual conference and forums, as well as best practices, guidelines, and technology solution white papers.

More than 95k individuals trained across all training and educational programs

21 Research Affiliates producing 140+ scholarly publications

Best Practices available online with 9,000+ views over the past year