Compete Sports network
Meet the team
Team Member Since 2006
Eric Carlyle, SDLT
CEO | Sports Advocate
Eric Carlyle, SDLT, is the CEO of Compete Sports Network, where he leads with a bold vision: Sports For All™. Committed to breaking down barriers and fostering meaningful connections, he champions inclusivity across the sports industry.
With an extensive background in the sector, Eric has collaborated with major organizations, including the National Retired Basketball Players Association (NBRPA), the National Football League (NFL), and the United States Tennis Association (USTA), driving impactful change toward a more diverse and welcoming sports community.
Before founding Compete Sports Network, Eric held leadership roles as CEO of Cirrus Realty Group, Inc., Foreign Exchange Cash Manager at Bank of America, and Accounting Vice President at American International Airways—an international airline founded by NHRA Hall of Fame inductee Connie Kalitta.
Eric earned a
Bachelor of Science in Business from Western International University and is currently pursuing an
MBA at Butler University.
Trayer Martinez, SDLT
Vice President of Sports | Sports Advocate
As Vice President of Sports at Compete Sports Network, Trayer Martinez, SDLT, leads the company’s sales and service operations, forging strategic partnerships that elevate sports initiatives.
A dedicated athlete and advocate, Trayer actively participates in the Phoenix Gay Flag Football League, competing as an ally on its prestigious travel team. His passion for sports extends beyond the field—he is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and empowering others through both his professional and personal endeavors.
Beyond his work, Trayer is a devoted father and competitor, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to advocacy and sportsmanship.
Team Member Since 2019
Team Member Since 2025
Cyruss Meeks, SDL
SPORTS SALES SPECIALIST | Sports Advocate
Cyruss Meeks earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Sports Industry from Colorado State University of Pueblo. A former collegiate wrestler and 2020 Wyoming State Champion, Cyruss was also a 2021 Team State Champion, 2x Regional Placer, and 2024 NCAA DII National Qualifier. He was recognized as an Academic All-American for his achievements both on the mat and in the classroom.
Cyruss brings his competitive spirit and passion for sports into his role in sales. He enjoys the dynamic nature of the field—especially the flexibility, daily competition, and constant opportunities to meet new people. His sports role model is the late Demaryius Thomas, whose perseverance and impact continue to inspire him.
Carlos ARenas, sdlt
Marketing Specialist | Sports Advocate
Carlos plays a key role at Compete Sports Network as the company’s Marketing Specialist, managing brand identity, website development, and social media strategy while also supporting the sales team. With a passion for sports and diversity, he brings creativity and strategic insight to the organization’s marketing efforts.
Carlos earned his Bachelor’s degree in Audiovisual and Multimedia Communication at Universidad de La Sabana in Chía, Colombia, and has a diploma in Audience Monetization and Branding from the same university.
Team Member Since 2024
Team Member Since 2006
Connie WARDMAN, M.a, SDLT
Executive Editor | Education Director Emerita | Sports Advocate
Connie Wardman, SDLT, serves as Executive Editor of Compete Sports Network, bringing decades of experience in media, adult education, and advocacy. As a leader in diversity and inclusion initiatives, she has been instrumental in shaping educational programs that drive meaningful change within the sports industry.
Her extensive background in higher education and corporate consulting includes serving as an education consultant for Alcoa and leading instructional development programs. Connie holds a B.A. in English with a business minor from Chatham University and an M.A. in Adult and Community Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, underscoring her lifelong dedication to professional growth and learning.
David “Dirk” Smith, SDLT
Managing Editor | Sports Advocate
David "Dirk" Smith, SDLT, is the Managing Editor and Associate Education Director at Compete Sports Network, blending expertise in sport/exercise science and psychology with a passion for advocacy.
A decorated athlete, Dirk has earned three national swimming championships and 16 Gay Games medals. His expertise spans coaching, sport psychology, and research, and he actively organizes workshops and delivers lectures on diversity and inclusion in sports.
Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the German Sports University in Cologne, where he also earned his master’s degree, Dirk's career extends across multiple disciplines—including coaching, sports science, filmmaking, and writing—all aimed at promoting inclusivity and empowerment in the global sports community.
