Who's behind the curtain?
It's been a few crazy months for the staff at McLane Stadium but in a rare few minutes of down time, SMG General Manager, Scott Neal and SMG Event & Operations Manager, Sandi Carretero were able to sit down for quick Q & A.
How did you find yourself in Waco, Texas?
Sandi: I was working in Philadelphia at the Wells Fargo Center and I saw the job on SMG’s website. It was a great opportunity to advance my career while gaining invaluable experience in venue management; and being part of the team that opened this state-of-the-art building was a chance I couldn’t pass up.
Scott: I was offered a position with SMG to be a part of this stadium and the community and it was a great opportunity. My family and I are from the Midwest so it was nice to be closer to our family.
What was it like the first time you walked into McLane Stadium?
Scott: The first time I walked into the stadium it was eight months into construction. I had the privilege of visiting the site almost every day and seeing the progress to completion.
Sandi: Muddy! It was the day of my interview and we were in the middle of one of those Texas rainstorms. All kidding aside it was breathtaking.
What is your favorite thing about the stadium?
Scott: The entire venue is so photogenic. There are so many great views of campus and the surrounding areas from a lot of locations within the venue. Whether it be daylight or night time, the stadium shines.
Sandi: This may sound funny but I love the passage way from the home team locker room to the post-game interview room.
Scott, I've heard rumors that you actually have your degree in education. How did you end up managing arenas and stadiums across the country?
I have a M.S. in Educational Policy & Leadership (University Administration). While earning my M.S. degree I was heavily involved in student activities at the University of Kansas and made a lot of contacts in the entertainment industry. The rest is history.
What’s your favorite things about Texas?
Sandi: The people for sure.
Scott: I love the pride that everyone takes in being a Texan.
Sandi, we were told that you are quite the seasoned Rugby player. Is this true?
It is! I was recruited to college to swim, which is the least contact sport ever when you think about it. When I met the coach he wasn’t the most positive or inspiring leader so I decided not to swim but I knew I wouldn’t be happy if I wasn’t a part of a team.
So I did a complete 180 and tried out for the most contact sport ever- Rugby! I’ve never looked back, I’m now going on my 11th year of playing; I love it.
Thank you for taking the time for this little Q&A; now for the final question. If you could create one event, with no limitations, to bring to the stadium what would it be?
Sandi: I would love to do a bowl game but make it a two day event with a fan fest and really showcase the whole site.
Scott: The next concert we do!
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