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WSIA names Kevin Michael executive director

Former racer takes over for Larry Meddock, who remains chairman

On a mission to promote and protect towed water sports long into the future, the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) announced Kevin Michael as the group’s new executive director, effective March 1.

WSIA president John Archer welcomed Michael to his new position in front of 170 industry members during the WSIA Summit in San Diego.

“Sometimes the person you’re looking for is right under your nose. Kevin’s lifelong immersion in the industry, starting as a show skier, then on to a career in water sports media and finally as assistant director of our association, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the WSIA,” Archer said.

Kevin Michael
Kevin Michael

Longtime WSIA mainstay Larry Meddock passes the torch, while remaining heavily involved with the WSIA as chairman of the board, specializing in waterway access issues and government affairs. Meddock was also appointed to the Boating Industry Risk Management Council (BIRMC) board of directors in February.

Meddock has been training Michael for nine months and has been a mentor to the new executive director for more than a decade.

“We were looking for someone to take the WSIA to that next level. Having known Kevin for a long time, I can tell you he brings passion to the WSIA, a deep understanding of all the sport disciplines, integrity and honesty. That next level is well within his grasp,” Medlock said.

Michael was thankful and appreciative as he addressed the crowd at the WSIA Summit.

“Towed water sports has given me everything. And now I have the chance to give back. Looking ahead, the WSIA isn’t about me, it’s about all of us in this room and many more out there looking to find our next step,” Michael said. “Our best chance of preserving the vitality of our activities is to work together. I vow to give this job everything I’ve got.”

 

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