MEMPHIS — Wayne Dowdle was elected president of the 2026 AutoZone Liberty Bowl Festival Association. Bowl officials announced the election results on June 23, 2026.

"The opportunity to serve the AutoZone Liberty Bowl is a great honor and I look forward to continuing the Bowl's success and its mission of showcasing Memphis and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through the many year-round events hosted by the Association," Dowdle said.

Steve Ehrhart, executive director of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, commented on the election. "Wayne has been a dedicated supporter, volunteer and board member of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl and all our activities for many years," Ehrhart said. "We're excited about the experience, enthusiasm and dedication he brings to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl Festival Association."

Dowdle is a graduate of White Station High School and the University of Memphis, where he played football as a wide receiver. He spent 25 years coaching middle school and high school football in the Memphis area. In 2023, Dowdle received the AutoZone Liberty Bowl's "Volunteer of the Year" Award.

Dowdle led Dowdle Sporting Goods for 27 years after its founding in the early 1900s. He sold the company in 2012. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Memphis Touchdown Club and Deeper Still Missions.

The 68th annual AutoZone Liberty Bowl is scheduled to be played at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis on Jan. 2 at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ABC.