Gene Canal has served as the Sr. Associate Athletics Director for Marketing and Fan Engagement since August of 2022.
In his role, Canal oversees the promotions and fan engagement team and leads the efforts in marketing all of UNLV’s athletics programs. He has played a close role in the planning and execution of UNLV’s football’s game day, as well as the year-round promotional efforts for the program. Canal has led the promotions and fan engagement team to an increase in student attendance and engagement for both the Runnin’ Rebel and Lady Rebel programs. In addition, Canal serves as the primary administrator for baseball, as well as the secondary administrator for both Rebel soccer programs.Â
Prior to his time with UNLV, Canal spent multiple seasons at Texas Tech University in the role of Assistant Athletics Director for Promotions and Fan Engagement. Prior to that, he served as the Director of Communications for Kent State University, where he oversaw athletics communications, social media and video production. Canal has also served in prior leadership roles at the University of New Mexico and Nova Southeastern University.
A double major as an undergrad, Canal earned bachelor's degrees in communication arts and religious studies from St. Thomas University in 2008. Canal would go on to earn his Masters of Education with a specialization in athletic administration from Nova Southeastern in 2011.
A native of the Tampa Bay area, Canal resides in Las Vegas with his family.
Â
