In the weeks leading up to the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl – which is set for Saturday, December 31 at State Farm Stadium and will serve as the first-ever a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal Game – AZ Big Media is sitting down with a member of the Fiesta Bowl family every Friday to shine a light on the event itself but also all the ways that the organization drives economic growth and champions charitable causes, inspiring pride in all Arizonans during and outside of college football Bowl Season. Today we sit down with our friend
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In the weeks leading up to the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl – which is set for Saturday, December 31 at State Farm Stadium and will serve as the first-ever a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal Game – AZ Big Media is sitting down with a member of the Fiesta Bowl family every Friday to shine a light on the event itself but also all the ways that the organization drives economic growth and champions charitable causes, inspiring pride in all Arizonans during and outside of college football Bowl Season. Today we sit down with our friend Steven Davis, Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket committee member and managing partner at RD Enterprises.
Az Business: When and why did you begin volunteering for the Fiesta Bowl? Please provide the year and details on why you did so.
Steven Davis: I began volunteering for the Fiesta Bowl in 2022. Growing up, attending the Fiesta Bowl was a significant part of my childhood and a symbol of our vibrant community. Having been blessed by the opportunities and support this community has provided me, it was important to give back. Volunteering allowed me to reciprocate those blessings and contribute to an event that has brought so much joy and connection to our area
Az Business: Tell us about your role this year, and what are your general goals with the position?
Steven Davis: This year, my role with the Fiesta Bowl focuses on media operations during Bowl Season, where I support the digital media area and prioritize creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for the media members covering both of our games. My primary goal is hospitality—making sure members of the media feel valued and truly part of the Fiesta Bowl family. By providing seamless support, clear communication and a warm experience, I aim to foster strong relationships and ensure the media has everything they need to cover the event effectively. It’s about blending professionalism with a personal touch to reflect the spirit of the Fiesta Bowl.
Az Business: What has been your favorite Fiesta Bowl game to date as a spectator and why? Be sure to name the year and the teams who played.
Steven Davis: My favorite Fiesta Bowl as a spectator was the 2003 game between Ohio State and Miami. It was an incredible experience watching two powerhouse teams battle it out for the national championship. The double-overtime finish was unforgettable; everyone was on the edge of their seats. Ohio State’s underdog victory over the heavily favored Miami Hurricanes was exciting and emotional. Being there to witness history unfold was something I’ll never forget. The stadium’s energy and the game’s sheer drama made it one of the best sports moments of my life.
Az Business: Any memorable moments while working the Fiesta Bowl game itself?
Steven Davis: One of my most memorable moments volunteering with the Fiesta Bowl was dedicating the 2023 Rate Bowl field at Luke Air Force Base. Seeing the joy and excitement on everyone’s faces was incredibly rewarding as we unveiled a space that will serve the community for years to come. Another standout moment was sizing and providing shoes for kids at Luke Air Force Base as part of the Back-to-School initiative. Seeing their smiles and knowing we were making a positive impact in their lives was truly heartwarming. Moments like these remind me why the Fiesta Bowl is more than just a game. It’s about community, connection and giving back.
Az Business: Given it is the holiday season – the time when we all want to give back as much as possible – please share an example of how the Fiesta Bowl helped make spirits merrier and brighter this year?
Steven Davis: This holiday season, the Fiesta Bowl truly embodied the spirit of giving through its Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers initiative. This incredible program granted funding to Arizona teachers, empowering them to bring their classroom dreams to life. From classroom supplies to special projects that enhance learning experiences, the impact of this initiative has been deeply felt. Knowing that these grants are helping educators and students across the state makes the season even more meaningful. It’s heartwarming to see the Fiesta Bowl spreading joy and support to those who shape the future—our teachers.
Az Business: Tell us something interesting about you outside of work and your Fiesta Bowl role?
Steven Davis: Outside of work and my role with the Fiesta Bowl, I stay busy with a variety of activities that I’m passionate about. I love coaching youth flag football—it’s incredibly rewarding to help kids develop skills, teamwork and confidence on the field. Spending quality time with my family is always a priority, whether we’re riding through the desert in our side-by-side or enjoying a day out on the lake on our boat. These moments help me stay grounded and give me the balance to bring my best self to everything I do.
