Walker (l) said that Brener's longterm vision sold him on the opportunity to join the clubHOUSTON CHRONICLE
The Dynamo and NWSL Dash named Grizzlies Exec VP/Business Operations John Walker as the "organization's new president," according to Glynn Hill of the HOUSTON CHRONICLE. The move comes a week after former Dynamo and Dash President Chris Canetti resigned after 13 years to "become president of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority's World Cup Bid Committee." Walker will "oversee all aspects of the soccer clubs' business operations," while also "fostering their relationship with youth and affiliate clubs." Walker said what "really sold me on this opportunity" was the vision of Dynamo/Dash Majority Owner Gabriel Brener. Walker: "It's a vision that I share: that we shouldn't just ride the wave but actually should be creating and writing that narrative." Walker "emphasized the importance of engaging fans and capitalizing on the city's demographics to grow the base of the Dynamo and Dash, neither of which made the postseason" in '18. He "intends to visit with Dynamo support groups in the coming week" (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 11/2). In Houston, Chris Mathews noted Walker is a "sports business veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the field." He also has "experience working with collegiate athletics in various ticketing capacities." Walker was California-based third-party ticketing company Tickets.com President & CEO from '10-14. In addition to the Dynamo and Dash, Walker will "manage the business operations" of BBVA Compass Stadium and Houston Sports Park. He will also be "tasked with maintaining the club's relationships" with both USL club Rio Grande Valley FC and USL League Two club Brazos Valley FC (BIZJOURNALS.com, 11/1).
