(CASPER, WY) Jan. 26, 2024– The WYO Sports Ranch (WSR) and Sports Facilities Companies are thrilled to announce the appointment of accomplished local professional Sam Bird as the new Director of Operations. The proven leader, with a diverse background in business administration residing right here in Casper, will begin his role immediately to support the WSR in its pre-opening phase. Casper’s newest state-of-the-art indoor sports facility, a 131,000-square-foot complex designed to host youth and amateur events for the community and for national opportunities, is slated to open in 2025.
Bird brings a wealth of experience in business and sports management to this new position. He is an accomplished professional who has, over the past decade, successfully managed many projects, operations, and cross-functional teams in the sport and fitness industry across Kentucky, Arizona, and Wyoming. He is beyond excited and blessed to bring his education, experience, and values to the WSR.
Bird’s local roots make him uniquely positioned to understand and cater to the needs of the community. As a resident of Casper, his firsthand experience and deep connections to the community will provide invaluable insights as he leads operations at the WSR. As he transitions into his role, he is eager to use his local perspective to enrich the WYO Sports Ranch and the community it will serve.
“My belief and goal for the WYO Sports Ranch is to be a beacon of light for the community of Casper, Wyoming, and the Mountain West,” says Bird. “Its presence will illuminate the darkness and let our youth shine. The WSR will develop the mental, emotional, and physical health of our youth and community at large, and I am privileged to play a part in that.” His passionate determination to create a positive, enriching environment at the WSR is sure to establish the facility as a leading center for sports, community spirit, and personal growth.
Bird graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Sciences in Economics. Currently nearing completion of his Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Wyoming, Sam’s track record exemplifies his keen ability to drive operational excellence and implement strategic initiatives that promote growth and success.
Bird’s journey in sports began with his passion for various athletic pursuits during his childhood. He grew up playing numerous sports but fell in love with soccer. He played competitively in local club and school teams all throughout his youth. His love for the sport propelled him to a collegiate soccer career at Spring Arbor University, coaching many teams along the way. After graduating college, he switched to competitive fitness (CrossFit) and has enjoyed bridging the gap between developing sport-specific skills and relevant strength and conditioning needed for that sport. This personal connection to sports, coupled with his professional know-how, makes him uniquely qualified to lead operations at the WYO Sports Ranch.
