WE BELIEVE IN SPORTS
WHO WE ARE
The Greater Seattle Region is a world-class sports market that is home to major league sports teams and host to premier sporting events that contribute positively and inclusively to our economy, community and quality of life. The Seattle Sports Commission (SSC) serves to connect and activate the sports industry around inclusive, equitable access to sports in the Greater Seattle region. From youth to amateur to professional, and from athletes to spectators to sponsors, we aim to set the standard for what a vibrant sports landscape looks like.
The SSC serves as a one-stop resource to our professional sports teams, university athletic departments, sports venues and youth sports organizations, as well as event organizers interested in the Seattle market.
Our sports culture is a priority in Seattle – we believe in human rights, inclusiveness and equal access to sports regardless of gender, race or geographical location. We care for our environment and the legacy we leave for the next generation.
We believe in Seattle and we believe in the power of Sports.
OUR HISTORY
Formerly the Sports and Events Council, the Seattle Sports Commission was a department of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce throughout the 1990s. After a brief restructuring period, the Sports Commission launched the new moniker under the umbrella of Visit Seattle in 2002, with offices inside the Seattle Convention Center.
In 2020, the SSC evolved once more. Led by current President and CEO, Beth Knox, the SSC became an independently-run 501c6 organization. This shift allowed for the SSC to focus on growing the sports landscape and seek targeted sporting event bids into the next decade.
Since then, the SSC has played an active role in announcing Seattle’s host city role in five NCAA championship events, the 2023 MLB All-Star Game, the 2024 NHL Winter Classic, the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and several others. SSC currently has a team of six employees and a budget of $1.8M in gross revenue generated from annual membership dues, corporate partnerships, event income and public funding.
SSC proudly produces the annual Sports Star of the Year Awards Show gala, SSC Open Golf Tournament, the Women in Leadership Breakfast, and the Region Ready Summit.
SSC works with its charitable nonprofit, the SSC Foundation, to empower play by supporting and building capacity in programs dedicated to equitable access to youth sports in Washington State.
A member-based organization, the SSC is a convener of sports, business and community partners who believe that sports is a driver of positive social and economic impact. Learn more about the Seattle Sports Commission and apply to become a Commissioner here.