Stark catches big break
Gold Coaster named boss of World Surf League
GOLD Coast remains the home of the World Surf League following the appointment of Andrew Stark as the new general manager.
Stark served as Surfing Australia chief executive officer for nearly a decade but says the chance to move into the global body proved too appealing.
“I am genuinely excited by this opportunity to join the WSL leadership team and grow the sport globally to new heights over the coming years,” said Gold Coast-based Stark. “The next few years ahead represent what I believe to be the most exciting growth opportunity and period for global professional surfing in the history of the sport.
“To be able to work with the WSL and Kelly Slater Wave Co team during this exciting period for the sport is something I am extremely motivated and passionate about.
“I leave Surfing Australia after 9½ years with absolute satisfaction and pride in the true legacy we have built as a team and I look forward to working with Surfing Australia in my new role at WSL to grow the region further.”
Stark is an experienced, passionate surfer and joins after building a reputation as a world-class sports administrator, growing Surfing Australia commercially and starting the now thriving High Performance Centre at Casuarina Beach on the Tweed Coast.
“WSL is fortunate to attract another exceptionally well respected leader in world sport, as we continue to build out our leadership team,” WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt said.
“We are very lucky to have so many loyal Australian fans, a territory where Andrew will be critical for us as we further develop the surf markets in this country and the fastevolving Oceania territory.
“Andrew brings unrivalled surf experience and pedigree from this region and will accelerate the opportunities that exist. We can’t wait to see the positive influence he has on the region and WSL.”
The world’s best surfers will next be seen at the Founders’ Cup of Surfing this weekend.