Waste Management (WM) Phoenix Open is one of the premiere stops on the PGA Tour, known for its raucous crowds that engulf the 16th hole.
As the largest zero-waste sporting event in the world, WM’s operations team faced critical connectivity challenges. Public cellular networks quickly became congested as golf fans looked for vital moments that have becoming a calling card for the event.
With traditional Wi-Fi often falling short in coverage, reliability, and security, WM needed a secure, high-capacity solution to ensure staff could communicate seamlessly across expansive event grounds, from command centers to VIP areas.
Seeking a Solution
WM officials sought a private cellular networks to deliver enterprise-grade security, reliability, and scalability in high-density environments.
This led to a partnership with Ericsson and Sparro, a subsidiary of WorldVue and a B2B networking and applications solutions provider that partners with leading global technology companies to deliver single-source solutions.
Private Cellular Networks
The two companies deployed private cellular networks (PCNs) supplemented by enterprise-grade Wi-Fi. Four CBRS-based PCNs were strategically installed across the course, providing reliable connectivity for WM executives, operations staff, and VIP areas. Using eSIMs on staff devices, the solution offered fast, interference-free performance while reducing reliance on radios and walkie-talkies.
As a systems integrator, Sparro implemented IoT sensors and GPS tracking devices for golf carts through Verizon Connect, enhancing operational efficiency and safety for materials on site.
WM Open officials raved on how the deployment delivered seamless, secure communications that transformed WM’s event operations. Staff described the connectivity as a “game-changer,” with 50-70% in each deployed location calling PCN access a “must-have.” Daily usage reached 130GB without a single complaint about performance.
Phoenix Open Success
“The private cellular network performed exceptionally, providing reliable data connectivity to over 70 WM managers and support staff precisely when and where they needed it most,” said WM’s Brian Looper. “The enhanced connectivity, or ‘super Wi-Fi’ as I like to call it, was particularly beneficial for the WM Command Center, Hole 16, and Thunderdome working areas, significantly improving operational efficiency.”
At the WM Phoenix Open, Sparro and Ericsson demonstrated the power of private cellular to keep mission-critical operations online, proving that organizations don’t have to settle for unreliable networks during large events.
“This network enabled our team to stay connected throughout the entire tournament – an achievement that was previously impossible due to cellular congestion on the course,” said Looper.