By R.V. Baugus and Mario Coutinho
Ron Labinski, renowned as one of the world’s first sports venue architects, passed away on New Year’s Day. He was 86.
The news was shared by Mario Coutinho, Board President of the Stadium Managers Association, of which Labinski was recognized with the SMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. A scholarship is also established in Labinski’s name. The Populous founder was a long-time sponsor of SMA and was one of the first to lend his support to the organization starting in the 1980’s.
“Ron will always be known for his contributions to the sport business industry and his many innovations in 
design, revenue generation, and fan experience,” Coutinho said.
“Ron was an old friend and truly the Godfather of Sports Architecture throughout the World,” said Chris Bigelow, FCSI, CFSP, President of Bigelow Consulting in Naples, Florida. “It is funny that no matter where I travel, whether here in North America, Europe, or Asia, folks in the stadium and arena industry always ask me how Kansas City became the sports capital of the world. And my response always starts with Ron’s name.”
Indeed, Labinski’s sports career began in Kansas City in 1970 when he served as a project architect on Arrowhead Stadium, home of the NFL Kansas City Chiefs. He left the small Kivett & Myers firm in 1973 to form Devine, James, Labinski & Myers. Ten years later, he co-founded HOK Sport (now Populous). It was there where the public venue management industry had its first true architecture firm that made its name in sport venue design.
Labinski retired in 2000 but his work and career ensured he would never be forgotten
“Most of today’s leading architects point to Ron as their inspirational leader of the industry, putting KC on the map,” Bigelow said. “While he has been retired for some time now, his legacy still lives on.”
“Ron’s legacy will be part of our stadiums for many years to come,” said Coutinho, who added that per Labinski’s family’s wishes, no memorial service or remembrance is planned. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Photo courtesy of Populous
