Arash Izadi Joins DLR Group as Sports Leader
Arash Izadi Joins DLR Group as Sports Leader
(SAN FRANSISCO, February 28, 2025) – DLR Group announces the appointment of Principal Arash Izadi, PLA, LEED AP BD+C, as Sports Leader. Based in the firm’s San Francisco office, Izadi will spearhead sports project development on the West Coast and a national scale. With an extensive background and profound expertise in managing many recreation and athletic sports projects across California, Izadi will drive innovation and excellence for the firm’s sports sector.
As Sports Leader, Izadi brings a technical focus on athletics, recreation and aquatics programming, as well as synthetic turf analysis and design. Over his 30+ year career, Izadi has reshaped campuses and communities across the nation, with a research-driven approach that develops resilient, flexible spaces designed to thrive.

“His leadership will enhance our sports initiatives, driving measurable outcomes such as increased community engagement and optimized facility performance,” continued Barnum. A frequent speaker at industry events and a published author in national outlets such as Athletic Business, Parks and Recreation magazine, and the Los Angeles Times, Izadi advocates for deep community and stakeholder engagement throughout the design process. His thoughtful leadership and attention to detail have shaped groundbreaking projects such as the Athletic Fitness Complex for El Camino College and the Bulldog Aquatic Center for the College of San Mateo.
“Joining DLR Group, I bring a wealth of experience in sports and recreation design from Texas to California and the Northwest. Over my career, I’ve been involved in designing 40 stadiums and aquatic facilities, encompassing 15 million square feet of synthetic turf,” said Izadi. “In my new role, I aim to enhance our visibility within the sports industry as a top tier firm.”
Izadi is an active member of organizations including the National Intramural Recreation and Sports Administration, California Parks and Recreation Society, and Community College Facilities Coalition, staying connected to industry trends and innovations that inform his research-driven approach to design.