- Two part program to train Saudi sports professionals in event security
- Led by former U.S. Secret Service and emergency management experts
- Supports Saudi Vision 2030 and workforce development goals
The University of New Haven has partnered with the Leaders Development Institute in Riyadh to deliver a specialized training program on sports event security in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aims to equip middle management professionals in the sports sector with essential skills in risk management, crisis response, and event safety.
The Saudi Sports Security Program will run in two immersive, week-long modules, designed to train professionals managing national and international sports events. The training is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to strengthen its global sports presence under Vision 2030.
Dr. Mario T. Gaboury, Vice President for Government Affairs and Global Engagement at the University, said, “We’re proud to support the Kingdom’s commitment to hosting world class sporting events safely”. He added, “Our program brings decades of real-world expertise to build practical skills”.
The first module, 'Foundations of Sports Event Security', runs from October 19–23 and will be led by Robert E. McDonald, a retired U.S. Secret Service agent and former NBA global security head. It focuses on core areas like risk assessment, emergency planning, crowd safety, and crisis management.
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The second module, 'Advanced Seminar in Sports Event Security and Crisis Management', follows from November 9-13, led by Richard Fontana, West Haven’s emergency management director. This module deepens training through workshops and real-world scenarios, focusing on international event planning and threat response.
This program also builds on the University’s plans to open a branch campus in Riyadh by Fall 2026, aiming to serve up to 13,000 students. It marks a growing partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia in education and workforce development.
