NCS⁴ Announces 2026 Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition


The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at The University of Southern Mississippi will host the 2026 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition, in partnership with title sponsor ASSA ABLOY, June 23–25 at the J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, Calif.

The premier event will bring together industry leaders, security professionals and key stakeholders dedicated to enhancing the safety and security of sports and entertainment venues. Attendees will include representatives from professional sports, intercollegiate and interscholastic athletics, endurance events, sports and entertainment facilities, law enforcement, emergency management, and safety and security solution providers.

The 2026 conference theme, “Honoring the Past, Securing the Future,” recognizes the leaders and partners who have shaped the sports and special events safety industry while highlighting emerging challenges, technologies and strategies defining its future. The conference will also mark NCS4’s 20 years of advancing safety and security across sports and special events. Read more

The NCS⁴ Hosts Successful Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition


The NCS⁴ has successfully concluded its 15th Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition with a record attendance.

The conference was held July 9-11, 2024, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. The 2024 conference theme, “Make It Matter,” encouraged those working in sport and special event security to explore and transform ideas into tangible changes with lasting impacts. The event offered dynamic programming, solution provider engagement, and opportunities to network with fellow professionals. Read More

Dr. Walter Cooper Named Recipient of the NCS⁴ Cornerstone Award


Dr. Walter Cooper was awarded the second-ever Cornerstone Award at the NCS⁴ 15th Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition Award Luncheon held in Phoenix on July 10. The Awards Luncheon was sponsored by Evolv Technology, which provides weapons detection systems for security screening. 

The Cornerstone Award recognizes individuals who have played an integral role in the foundation of the NCS⁴ and/or provided leadership in the development and growth of NCS⁴ programs. Read More 

Friend of NCS⁴ Awards to be presented at 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition


Four professionals in the safety and security industry will be recognized for their invaluable contributions to the advancement of the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS⁴) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) with the Friend of NCS⁴ Award at the 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition July 9-11 in Phoenix, Ariz. This event is presented annually by NCS⁴. Read More

Emerging Industry Leaders to be Honored at 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition


Eight professionals will be recognized for their leadership in addressing safety and security issues during the 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition July 9-11 in Phoenix, Ariz., presented annually by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS⁴) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM).

The Emerging Industry Leader Award recognizes a young professional who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in addressing safety and security issues. In addition to the enhanced safety and security of their venue/event, the recipient’s contributions have set an example for others to follow. Read More

Sports Facilities to Receive Recognition During 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference


Six sports facilities will be recognized for their leadership in addressing safety and security issues as part of the 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition on July 9-11 in Phoenix, AZ. The event is presented annually by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS⁴) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM).

The Facility of Merit Award recognizes a sports facility that has demonstrated an innovative approach to enhancing safety and security beyond its normal operations or addressed a significant safety/security concern. Read More