David Balyeat: A Lifetime of World Cup Volunteering from 1994 to 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off six months from Thursday, and few people are looking forward to the nine matches coming to North Texas more than David Balyeat. Balyeat’s journey began in 1994 when he stepped in as a volunteer for the World Cup that arrived at the Cotton Bowl. He was recognized for his outstanding service, earning a certificate that still hangs on the wall of his home, surrounded by more than 100 framed pieces of memorabilia.

A Legacy of Service

Balyeat’s early volunteer work set the tone for a career defined by dedication. He has attended four World Cups and coached soccer at Dallas Baptist University during the 1994 tournament. “To me, it’s huge. The World Cup is probably the biggest sporting event in the world,” said Balyeat, underscoring the magnitude of the event in his eyes.

Roots in Argentina

Growing up in Argentina, a nation that produced legends like Maradona and Messi and has won three World Cups, soccer is in Balyeat’s blood. He describes the sport as “a game that everybody wants to play,” reflecting the passion that drives his volunteer work.

Expanding Horizons

From 1994 onward, Balyeat’s volunteer role expanded to include assistance for Argentina, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria, South Korea, and Brazil. He became the representative of the Dallas venue for both Saudi Arabia and Brazil, a role that brought new responsibilities and challenges. “I became the rep of the Dallas venue to both Saudi Arabia and Brazil, and it’s like wow, what a privilege,” said Balyeat.

A Moment of Faith

The most memorable moment came when Brazil’s Romario made an urgent request. The head of security approached Balyeat and said, “Uh, hey, we need to take Romario to the Catholic church. He needs to be blessed by a priest, and of course, as a good Baptist, I was like, Where’s a Catholic Church?” Balyeat replied, “So all four of us pile in the car, and I peel out, and we go, and we find the Catholic church. I’ve always known to sprinkle the holy water, but he also backed up and sprinkled his feet, and so, of course, he scored that day, so I’m sure that’s his lucky charm or something.” Romario’s goal that day helped Brazil secure the championship in Los Angeles.

Closing Gifts

After the match, Balyeat helped load the team’s gear onto a plane, ensuring everything arrived safely for the next stage of the tournament. Before parting ways, the Brazilian squad handed him a magazine signed by the entire team, a token of gratitude that he still cherishes. “Wow, what great memories,” said Balyeat.

Looking Ahead to 2026

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Balyeat remains as enthusiastic as ever. He sees the upcoming nine matches in North Texas as a chance to give back to the community that has supported him for decades. Thousands of volunteers will again walk away with their own stories, and Balyeat’s legacy will be part of that narrative.

Key Takeaways

• David Balyeat has volunteered at four World Cups, starting with the 1994 tournament at the Cotton Bowl.
• He served as the Dallas venue representative for Saudi Arabia and Brazil, including a memorable moment with Romario.
• Balyeat’s passion for soccer stems from his Argentine roots and continues to inspire his volunteer work.

Balyeat’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism that keeps the World Cup alive beyond the field and into the hearts of communities across the United States.