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World Series returns to Toronto: York U experts available to provide insights on public safety, tourism and the local economy
By Nichole Jankowski
October 30, 2025
10:00 am
With the Toronto Blue Jays returning home for the World Series on Friday, the city is preparing for an influx of fans and celebrations across the downtown core. Adding to the excitement, Game Six in Toronto will coincide with Halloween night — bringing together thousands of baseball fans and costumed revellers for one of the busiest nights of the year.
From crowd safety and emergency planning to consumer behaviour and the economics of major sporting events, York experts are available to provide insight into how large-scale events impact Toronto's communities, businesses and public spaces.
Jack L. Rozdilsky is an associate professor of Disaster & Emergency Management. His research examines disaster response operations, hazard mitigation, and non-routine emergencies, including mass violence and terrorism, as well as representations of disaster in popular culture. Rozdilsky also provides media analysis on public safety and preparedness for mass gatherings, such as Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and major sporting events.
He is available to comment on:
Public safety and emergency planning for the World Series in Toronto
Crowd management, hazard mitigation, and response to potential fan unrest or riots
Vijay Setlur is a marketing instructor at the Schulich School of Business whose work focuses on the sport and tourism industries. He provides commentary on consumer behaviour, fan engagement, brand management, sponsorship marketing, event management, marketing communications, strategy, and the use of popular culture in sport marketing. In his course, Vijay has partnered with 159 leagues, teams, governing bodies, venues, media companies, and more on strategic partnerships that have enabled his students to work on marketing consulting projects that address challenging issues facing organizations.
He is available to comment on:
Merchandising trends and brand management — for example, rising demand for Blue Jays merch and issues around unauthorized logo use
Marketing and tourism opportunities surrounding the World Series in Toronto, including the impact of the club's success on the Blue Jays' brand and commercialization (ticket sales, sponsorship, merchandise) and the event's impact on the city's visitor economy and place brand
About York University
York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change, and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.
Media Contact: Nichole Jankowski, York University Media Relations and External Communications, 647-995-5013, jankown@yorku.ca
