In 1971, nine local business leaders gained approval from NCAA on the idea of an Arizona-based college football bowl game to enhance the stature of the state. Today, that game is the iconic Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, which this year will usher in a new era as its hosts the first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal game on Dec. 31. The Fiesta Bowl’s Yellow Jacket — worn by volunteers — symbolized the sunshine that characterized the Valley, plus it was a way for committee members to really attract attention for what became the 12th college football bowl game in 1971.
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Beyond the game, however, the Fiesta Bowl is also a local organization made up of more than 3,000 business and civic leaders that — through the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, Rate Bowl and its year-round events, such as the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe — provide critical funds to nonprofit organizations across Arizona that positively impact through youth, sports, and education. The Yellow Jacket Committee are among those leading the charge on behalf of the organization and have “suited up” in the iconic yellow jacket — as among to the sunshine that characterizes the Valley — for more than 50 years.
We sat down with nine local business leaders, each active members of the Yellow Jackets, each sharing the “why” behind their commitment to the Fiesta Bowl:
Lindsay Brist, senior business development lead, Western USA, Renew Energy Partners
It is important to me to give back to local charities, and I also am very passionate about college football and the value that comes with team sports. As an athlete, I learned that these skills and values learned as an athlete help you your entire life both personally and professionally. Additionally, the Fiesta Bowl Family that you gain is priceless.
Ryan Hatch, senior vice president and market manager, Bonneville Phoenix
The Fiesta Bowl has created an indelible 53-year-old legacy driven by an innovative spirit that has led to become being the “Bowl of Firsts.” With the organization’s maniacal focus on meaningfully improving the Arizona community, I can’t think of a better way to serve than combining my passion for sports and hosting world class events with giving back to those in need. We do all that and more here at the Fiesta Bowl.
Kirk McClure, vice president, JE Dunn
I volunteer at the Fiesta Bowl because I love to find things to give back to. It’s so cool to see Teachers receiving grants for their classrooms through Wishes for Teachers or veterans come to our game through the Send-A-Vet program. I also enjoy the camaraderie of my fellow Yellow Jackets and Bowl staff.
Greg Stark, financial advisor, Crux Wealth Advisors
The Fiesta Bowl is one of the great ambassadors for the development of the Valley. So many, like myself, have seen or participated in this game and eventually live or vacation in Arizona because of it. To now serve as a representative of the Bowl and all the great aspects of Arizona is very gratifying and fun.
Darius Green, co-founder and partner, Keyser
The Fiesta Bowl Committee fulfills several important value buckets in my life. Everything we produce at the Fiesta Bowl is with the goal of giving back to support our Arizona community through grants to Arizona charities and the economic impact our bowl games bring to the state. I love sports and the Fiesta Bowl allows me to feel connected to big time athletics. I love serving our guests and partners with world class hospitality, carrying on a rich tradition for our players, coaches, staff, families, partners and fans.
DJ Downs, senior director of marketing, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
I serve the Fiesta Bowl because of the difference it makes in the community through a nationally recognized event which happens to be in a sport that is a huge passion of mine.
Andy Western, partner, Osborn Maledon
The Fiesta Bowl is such a unique Arizona organization and unlike any other group locally. Being a YJ feels like you are part of the history of the Valley. It is incredible to have as much fun as we have producing our events, hosting our guests, and donating millions of dollars to local nonprofits.
Samantha Spadaro, director of project development, AECOM Hunt
I serve on the Fiesta Bowl because it has provided me the opportunity to be a part of college football postseason games and participate in exciting events like the Par 3 Challenge and packing meals for charity with my fellow Yellow Jackets. The YJ committee is synonymous with hospitality and creating community. The iconic events throughout the year that enable us to give back to different charities and celebrate wins outside of the games are why I am proud to be a part of the organization.
Kelly Peru, Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket Committee chair-elect
I joined the Fiesta Bowl Committee to get a change from my professional trade organizations. From my first year until now, I have met so many exceptional people who love being a part of this organization and making a difference in the community. I feel it’s important to continue to volunteer to be a good example for our kids and maybe down the road, we will have three more Yellow Jackets in our family!
