Shaping CT's Future: Sports & Entertainment
Connecticut’s Sports Legacy: Fueling the Future
Thursday, April 24, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Foxwoods Resort Casino, 350 Trolley Line Blvd, Mashantucket, CT 06338
From Walter Camp revolutionizing football to the invention of the Wiffle Ball, Connecticut has always been a game-changer in sports. But what’s next? Shaping CT’s Future: Sports & Entertainment brings together the brightest minds in the industry—visionaries, entrepreneurs, and changemakers—to explore how we can push the boundaries of sports technology, fan engagement, and community connections. This isn’t just a conversation; it’s a call to action for the next big thing in sports.
A New Ambassador Program for Connecticut
During the event, we’re also launching an initiative to capture and share powerful stories from key leaders and industry voices, spotlighting what Connecticut means to them and why our state is a hub for innovation, sports, and tourism.
Through video cameos filmed at Shaping CT’s Future events and beyond, we’ll build a storytelling platform that fuels a broader ambassador network, leveraging the reach of industry giants like ESPN, NBC Sports, Mohegan Sun, UConn, Avelo Airlines, and more.
Avelo Giveaway
We invite you to register for the opportunity to participate in our giveaway of two Avelo Airline tickets.
Reserve your spot
Become Informed. Get Engaged. Shape the Future.
Stay tuned for further information on the upcoming theme and speakers. Together, let’s play a pivotal role in shaping Connecticut’s future.
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Discussion Topics
Topic 1: The Evolution of Sports Consumption
- How streaming, e-commerce, and AI are revolutionizing the fan experience.
- The evolving regulatory landscape shaping sports industries, from betting to digital rights management.
- Making sports more accessible through tech-driven innovation.
Topic 2: Elevating Fan & Workforce Engagement
- The cutting-edge tech transforming stadiums and at-home viewing.
- How college athletics are evolving—and what that means for Connecticut’s universities.
- Startups making waves in sports innovation, from VKTRY to Tater Bats.
- The role of public-private collaboration in fostering sports innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure investment.
Topic 3: The Future of Community Engagement in Sports
- How teams and universities can build lasting connections with local communities.
- What real fan engagement looks like beyond social media buzz.
- The economic and social impact of sports programs on Connecticut communities.
Hosts
Stay tuned for headliners, industry disruptors, and sports legends taking the stage.
This isn’t just about where sports have been—it’s about where they’re going. Be part of the conversation. Be part of the movement.
Sam Barrett
SVP Client Services, Rebellion Group & Executive Producer, Shaping CT's Future
Rob Thompson
Founder, CTSportsInnovation.com, GamePlanU.org
Event MC's
Jim Altman
Television Journalist, FOX61
Conor Geary
On-Field Host & Sponsorship Sales Manager, Hartford Yard Goats
Welcome Speakers
Rodney Butler
Tribal Council Chairman, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods
Sean Kimball
Town Manager, Cheshire
Heather Somers
Senator, Co-Chair of the Connecticut Tourism Caucus, State of Connecticut
Keynote Speakers
Suzanne McKenzie
Founder & CEO/CCO, Able Made
Dennis Deninger
Emmy Award-Winning Former ESPN Producer
Speakers
Lynn LaRocca
Head of Brand and Marketing, USGA
Steve Wasik
CEO, VKTRY
Freddie Vargas
CEO, Tater Baseball
Chris DiPentima
President and CEO, CBIA
Bruce Mandell
Chairman, Hartford Athletic
Jennifer Mathieu
Executive Director, Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, UCONN
Tim Restall
President, Hartford Yard Goats
Charles Okwandu
Former UCONN Basketball Player
Brian Shactman
WTIC 1080 Radio Host
Harrison Macris
Co-Founder & CEO, Princeton CarbonWorks
Jennifer Rizzotti
President, Connecticut Sun, WNBA
Chris Hetherington
CEO, Fathead
Nathan Grube
Tournament Director, Travelers Championship
Nick Carparelli
Executive Director, Bowl Season
Mike Fonseca
President, The Fonseca Group
Chris Wilkerson
Founder & General Partner, 51Ventures
André Swanston
Co-Owner, CT United
DJ Pereira
Vale West Director, Vale Sports Club, and Co-Founder, XG Sports Group
Darius Kirksey
Managing Director, Seaport Global Holdings LLC
Jonny Sonkin
Chief Operating Officer, Front Office Sports
Carol Stiff
President & Chair of Advisory Board, Women's Sports Network, Founder/President, Stiff Sports Media Consulting
Jack Betts
Founder, The Make Your Own Legacy Academy
Doug Fillis
Founder, Accelerate Sports Ventures
Dan Coonan
CEO, ECAC Sports
Watch to see what is in store for Shaping CT’s Future 2025
Join the Conversation
We’re bringing the conversation to life with live podcast sessions at our event featuring industry leaders, athletes, and entertainment insiders. These thought-provoking discussions will dive deep into the future of sports and entertainment in Connecticut—covering innovation, growth, and the impact on our communities. Plus — we’re on the lookout for some fresh voices! Stay tuned for more details on how to get involved.
Timely Topics with Rory McGloin and Jen Mathieu
Timely Topics is a monthly video podcast hosted by Rory and Jen, where their witty and lively perspectives bring fresh energy to conversations on current events and contemporary business trends. The show connects audiences with entrepreneurs, innovators, and business thought leaders from diverse industries, offering insightful and engaging discussions.
One Pour
Problems Podcast
One Pour Problems is a podcast by Charles IT where business solutions flow as smoothly as your favorite drink. Featuring local business leaders, each episode kicks off with a sip and a story behind the guest’s beverage of choice, leading into insightful, relaxed conversations about today’s most pressing business challenges.
Innovation Showcase
Connect with the businesses that are driving change and advances in Connecticut.
Take a look at our sponsors
Our current sponsors have been instrumental in making our events possible, providing the support needed to bring together influential leaders, policymakers, and industry pioneers. Their commitment not only enhances our gatherings but also underscores their dedication to fostering progress and driving Connecticut forward.
Past events
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Shaping CT’s Future: Entrepreneurship & Leadership
August 20, 2025 | 2:00 - 6:00 PMLocation: Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103Entrepreneurship is more than building a business—it’s about forging a path, solving real problems, and leading others through uncertainty. This Shaping CT’s...