Monthly News & Updates

February 2025 | Vol. 34

- Empowering The Heart of Central Texas through Sport -

Unbound Now's Light Up The Dark 5K

Presented By Chick-fil-A

The Greater Waco Sports Commission has partnered with Unbound Now to host Unbound Now's Light Up The Dark 5K Presented by Chick-fil-A on April 12, 2025, at Cameron Park Zoo. Unbound Now is an organization dedicated to combating human trafficking. This family friendly event supports crucial programs that support survivors and resources the community to end human trafficking. With both 1K and 5K race options, it’s a great opportunity for everyone—whether you’re a runner, walker, or just someone who wants to make a difference. The 1K race will kick off at 7:00 PM, followed by the 5K at 7:30 PM.


Can’t make it in person? You can still be part of the cause through our Sofa Edition (virtual race). Register as an individual or create a team, and you’ll receive a Glow Global box with glow in the dark gear for you and your crew, as long as you register by March 17th at 11:59 PM.


Interested in giving back by volunteering? Visit the Unbound Now's Light Up the Dark 5K Presented by Chick-fil-a Volunteer Page to explore various volunteer opportunities and help make this event a success.

Register Today!

Waco Trivia: What is the name of the bike race that the Bearathon replaced in 2003? (See below for the answer!)

Waco Highlights

TEAM Waco

2025 Applications


The application period for TEAM Waco 2025 officially closed on January 31st, 2025. TEAM Waco is an initiative designed to remove physical, mental, and financial barriers for five local athletes who wish to participate in IRONMAN 70.3 Waco. Through partnerships with local businesses, Waco Sports has created a unique sponsorship program to empower these athletes, with each sponsorship valued at $6,500. On January 23rd, Waco Sports and Bear Mountain hosted a Meet and Greet event, offering an opportunity for community members to learn more about the TEAM Waco initiative and its impact. In the coming weeks, a selection committee will carefully review all applications, and the names of the five selected athletes will be announced in early March.


Doris Miller Community Pool Grand Opening


On January 25th, 2025, the Doris Miller Community Center celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated Doris Miller Community Pool. The upgraded indoor facility features four competitive swim lanes, along with ample space for fitness classes, swim lessons, and community programs. The event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, where members of the public were invited to enjoy refreshments, giveaways, and a free open swim to experience the new space firsthand. This exciting upgrade marks a new chapter for the center, providing even more opportunities for fitness, recreation, and community engagement. The Doris Miller Community Center continues to serve as a hub for health, wellness, and connection within the Waco community.

A Word from Dr. Adesina​


Osteochondritis dissecans


Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition that primarily affects children and adolescents, typically involving the knee joint, though it can also occur in other joints such as the elbow or ankle. OCD occurs when a small segment of bone and its overlying cartilage become detached from the surrounding bone due to a loss of blood supply. This can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected joint.


The exact cause of OCD is still not fully understood, but it is believed to result from repetitive trauma or stress to the joint, often seen in young athletes who engage in high-impact sports like basketball or soccer. Symptoms commonly include joint pain, swelling, locking, or a feeling of instability. Early diagnosis is essential, as untreated lesions can result in long-term joint damage and arthritis.



Treatment for OCD in children typically begins with conservative methods such as rest, physical therapy, and activity modification. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove or repair the damaged cartilage and bone. The prognosis for children with OCD is generally positive if treated early, with many individuals returning to normal activity levels after appropriate intervention.



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

UPCOMING EVENTS:

YMCA Indoor Reverse Triathlon

February 22nd, 2025

The Greater Waco YMCA will host its exciting 3rd Annual Indoor Reverse Triathlon on February 22nd, 2025. This unique twist on the traditional triathlon is designed for individuals of all fitness levels, ages 14 and up, who are looking for a fun and challenging way to test their endurance. The event kicks off with a 20-minute run, followed by a 20-minute bike ride, and wraps up with a 10-minute swim. Your position in the race will be determined by how far you can go in each segment within the time limits. Space is limited so register now to reserve your place and let the training begin!

Register Here

The Bearathon

March 29th, 2025

On March 29th, 2025, the Baylor Student Foundation will host it's annual Bearathon and Sic Em 6K. In the 2003 inagural event, just over 100 people participated. Now, two decades later, over 2,000 participants are expected to toe the line. The 13.1 mile half marathon course passes through the Baylor campus, downtown Waco, and the rigorous hills of Cameron Park, which have earned the course it's long standing title of "The Toughest Half in Texas." The event is entirely hosted by students and all proceeds benefit Baylor students through scholarships.

Register Here

Mike's Message

Executive Director,

Greater Waco Sports Commission

_________________________________________

Friends,


I can’t tell you how excited I am about our new Waco Sports Corporate Cup, presented by Ascension Providence. It’s an epic team-building event—think adult field day fun (tug-of-war, cornhole, dodgeball), but with tailgating and friendly competition against other businesses in town! Mark your calendar for June 7th at MCC, with divisions for businesses of all sizes, there’s room for everyone to join the action.


Incredible partners like Ascension Providence, KWTX, Baylor University, TFNB Your Bank for Life, and many more are already on board. Don’t miss out and have FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)! If your boss or HR manager needs details, have them email me at Mike@WacoSports.org. Let’s connect over coffee or I can swing by the office to visit.


As Henry Ford said, "Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success." Let’s make it happen!

Trivia Answer: Bear Downs

Other Events:


YMCA INDOOR REVERSE TRI

(02/27/25 - 03/01/25)


THE FAITH & SPORTS INSTITUTE'S YOUTH SPORTS SUMMIT

(02/07/25 - 02/08/25)


FIRST IN TEXAS WACO DISTRICT EVENT

(02/27/25 - 03/01/25)


MARCH MAYHEM VOLLEYBALL

(03/29/25 - 03/30/25)


UNBOUND NOW'S LIGHT UP THE DARK 5K PRESENTED BY CHCIK-FIL-A

(04/12/2025)


INTERNATONAL TOURNAMENT OF TEXAS

(04/18/2025 - 04/20/2025)


NCAA TEAM MEN'S AND WOMEN'S TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

(05/16/25 - 05/19/25)


BADASS TEXAS HALF MARATHON, 10K & 5K

(05/25/25)


WACO SPORTS CORPORATE CUP PRESENTED BY ASCENSION PROVIDENCE

(06/07/2025)



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