El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2022: Brian Kennedy

EL PASO, Texas - Brian Kennedy wasn't an athlete, but sports was his passion.

A jack of all trades, Kennedy has worn many hats throughout his career.

From a being a radio disc jockey, to a play-by-play announcer, and most recently an attorney.

Kennedy's biggest responsibility came as CEO of the El Paso Sports Commission.

A position he held from 2003 to 2021.

Kennedy was responsible for bringing various events to the El Paso County Coliseum.

From concerts, to sporting events, Kennedy made the coliseum an attractive venue to be for various acts.

He also gave a big push to sports tourism in El Paso.

Due to the hard work of Kennedy and his staff it resulted in hundreds of sporting events coming to the Borderland.

From figure skating, flag football, basketball, hockey, wrestling, boxing, martial arts, bull riding, cycling, triathlons, indoor soccer, slow-pitch softball, cheerleading and more.

Kennedy saw the potential in El Paso even when others thought it was impossible.

Kennedy was able to bring a national bowling tournament to the El Paso Convention Center, and he was able to secure the Conference USA basketball tournaments in 2011 and then again in 2014.

With every major event Kennedy was able to bring to town it was further proof that El Paso could compete with bigger cities for major events.

For all of his work and accomplishments, Kennedy will be inducted into the El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame as part of the supporter of athletics category.

"I was shocked because I was not nominated as an athlete," Kennedy said. "I was nominated as a supporter and someone who has tried to help sports in this town for decades. "I'm honored to join some of my friends in the hall of fame." 

The induction ceremony will be June 22, and will be livestreamed at kvia.com.