Monthly News & Updates

April 2025 | Vol. 35

- Empowering The Heart of Central Texas through Sport -

Introducing TEAM Waco 2025

The Greater Waco Sports Commission is excited to announce TEAM Waco 2025! In collaboration with local businesses, the GWSC has created sponsorships to help these athletes prepare and participate in the IRONMAN 70.3 Waco on October 5th, 2025. Launched four years ago, TEAM Waco has united our community to support local athletes. Out of nearly 50 applicants, five McLennan County residents were chosen, each ready to share their inspiring story.

Meet the dedicated athletes of TEAM Waco, ready to represent and uplift our community:

(From the left) Dawn Jones, Rafael Medina, Drew Greenway, Long Nguyen, Cesia Sanchez

Waco Trivia: Who did the Baylor Men's Basketball team play in the championship game to win the national title in 2021?

(See below for the answer!)

Waco Highlights

Baylor Basketball

Both the Baylor Men's and Women's Basketball teams secured their positions in this year's NCAA tournament, marking the 10th time in the last 11 years that both programs have made an appearance in March Madness. The women’s team had the added excitement of hosting their games at home in Foster Pavilion, making it the first NCAA tournament played in the new venue. Both programs, unfortunately, fell short in the second round—the women in a tight matchup with Ole Miss, and the men to #1 ranked Duke.

Bearathon

On March 29, the Baylor Student Foundation's Bearathon, known as "the toughest half in Texas," once again proved its reputation with a demanding course. Nearly 2,000 participants took on the 6K and half marathon, weaving through downtown Waco and the rolling hills of Cameron Park. Organized entirely by students, the event raised funds to support Baylor students through scholarships.

A Word from Dr. Adesina

Pre-participation Examinations

Pre-participation sports physicals (PPEs) are essential for athletes of all ages. These exams assess an individual’s overall health, fitness level, and ability to safely engage in sports activities. They also help identify underlying medical conditions and promote long-term wellness.

PPEs are required for participation in school sports in all 50 states. In Texas, the University Interscholastic League (UIL) requires an exam for incoming 7th, 9th, and 11th graders for athletes participating in UIL sports (including band and cheer).

A thorough examination involves evaluation of the musculoskeletal system, visual acuity and fields, hearing, and cardiac screening. Any issues that are identified may require further evaluation by a specialist. It is important that PPEs are performed at least 6 weeks prior to the start of competition to allow time for any further evaluations.

For appointments, click or please call 254-752-9638

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Unbound Now's Light Up the Dark 5K Presented By Chick-fil-A

April 12th, 2025

There is still time to register for Unbound Now's Light Up the Dark 5K Presented By Chick-fil-A. This glow-in-the-dark 5K will benefit Unbound Now's mission to serve survivors and resource the community to fight human tafficking. The event will take place at Cameron Park Zoo and feature 1K and 5K race options, as well as food trucks, music, zoo experiences, and a "glowing good time."

International Tournament of Texas

April 18th-19th, 2025

The International Tournament of Texas is an annual softball tournament held in Waco, featuring elite teams from around the world including the Czech Republic, Mexico, Philippines, and Canada, along with teams from across the United States. Come support these 6U to 14U athletes compete for international recognition, on a global stage!

More Information

Mike's Message

Executive Director,

Greater Waco Sports Commission

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Friends,

March has been nothing short of amazing! Waco has been the backdrop for world-class events like the Pro Disc Golf Tournament (Waco Annual Charity Open), the March Mayhem Volleyball Tournament, table tennis matches, the high-energy Cameron Park Blowout presented by The Bear Mountain (mountain biking), and the NCAA Tournament’s debut at The Foster Pavilion, hosted by the Baylor Women Basketball team. We even kicked off the running season with the Bearathon, Waco’s first big half marathon of the year!

But the excitement doesn’t end there—April is bringing even more to the table! Mark your calendars for several community 5Ks, including Unbound Now’s Light Up the Dark 5K Presented by Chick-fil-A at the Zoo on April 12th. This glow run promises an unforgettable evening for over 1,500 participants—perfect for families and friends, whether you're looking for a fun, laid-back experience or an exciting, competitive challenge!

As we enjoy these incredible events, our team is hard at work planning for the future. We’re collaborating with local and national partners to secure top-tier competitions that would bring a significant economic impact to our community. Stay tuned for more!

Waco’s growth is unstoppable! Thank you for being part of this journey and helping us elevate our city as a premier destination for sports and events while making a lasting impact on our community.