District 8 Councilmember Manny Pelaez filed a request Wednesday to consider dedicating the airport in honor of the beloved former Spurs coach.
SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio city councilmember wants to rename the San Antonio International Airport in honor of Gregg Popovich.
District 8 Councilmember Manny Pelaez filed a request with the city manager Wednesday to consider dedicating the airport in honor of the beloved former Spurs coach.
“As our city continues to grow and welcome visitors from around the world through the San Antonio International Airport, we believe it would be a fitting and lasting tribute to dedicate this vital gateway in honor of Coach Gregg Popovich,” Pelaez said in the request. “Renaming the airport to ‘Gregg Popovich International Airport’ would serve as a constant reminder of his extraordinary legacy and the positive impact he has had on our city and beyond.”
Four other city councilmembers also signed the request in support of the dedication.
Popovich stepped down as Spurs head coach on May 2 after 29 years leading the Silver & Black. He will now serve as team president.
During his tenure, he won five championships and instilled a culture in the Alamo City that made the team stand out from other teams in the NBA.
“Coach Popovich’s impact on San Antonio is immeasurable,” Pelaez said. “He has not only brought unparalleled success and recognition to our city and his legendary coaching, but he has also become a deeply respected and admired figure in our community. […] his genuine care for the people of San Antonio have made him a true icon.”
The request also argues that Popovich’s influence transcends the local level due to his distinction as the U.S. Men’s National Basketball Team as well as his career in the Air Force.
“His service instilled in him the values of leadership, discipline and teamwork that has been hallmarks of his coaching success,” Pelaez said. “This connection resonates deeply within San Antonio, a city with a rich and proud history intertwined with the Air Force.”
Pelaez goes on to say that dedicating the airport would serve as a powerful symbol of San Antonio’s relationship and respect for the U.S. Air Force.
“We request that this matter be placed on the next Governance Committee meeting agenda for discussion and consideration,” the request concludes.