(Spokane, WA, November 16, 2022) – A national search for the new Chief Executive Officer of Spokane Sports garnished more than 100 applicants, but one person stood out from the candidate pool and no cross-country move was needed. Ashley Blake has been named as the new Spokane Sports CEO. Formerly, the Vice President of Spokane Sports, Blake takes over for Eric Sawyer who is retiring after 30 years at the helm. “Ashley has great relationships with sport governing bodies, she knows what they are looking for through the lens of our Sports Commission, and no one else could come close to that,” says Rustin Hall, Spokane Sports Board Chair. “We talked to people who were CEOs of other sports commissions across this country, great experience and references, but she brought a vision that made everyone else pale in comparison.”
 

Blake has been with Spokane Sports since 2011. Her passion for sports tourism has allowed Spokane Sports to increase the quantity, caliber, and variety of sporting events coming to Spokane. Even during the pandemic, she never took her foot off the gas, problem-solving and collaborating to tackle challenges brought by cancelled and postponed events. Her leadership at Spokane Sports helped the organization navigate a very challenging time and execute a highly successful first year of sports inside The Podium powered by STCU. “To be selected to serve as CEO of Spokane Sports is an incredible honor. I have a deep seeded belief in the power of sports tourism to move this region forward,” says Blake. “I look forward to working alongside our board of directors, community stakeholders, and high-performing staff to help Spokane Sports reach its full potential.”
 

Blake has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Elmira College and a Master of Arts in Sport and Athletic Administration from Gonzaga University. She has served as an adjunct instructor in the Sports Management program and sits on the advisory board for the School of Education at Gonzaga. Nationally, Ashley belongs to several organizations for sports management professionals including the Association of Chief Executives for Sport. 

About Spokane Sports

Founded in 1989, Spokane Sports is a non-profit, economic development organization responsible for recruiting, retaining, and facilitating sports events for the Spokane region. As advocates for sports development, our efforts help our region realize the economic, social, and community development benefits of sports. Learn more by visiting us online. 

About The Podium Powered by STCU
Spokane is proud to announce an all new, indoor multi-sport venue. Completed in Fall 2021, this world-class facility is located in the heart of downtown, giving athletes front-door access to restaurants, hotels, and entertainment. The project forged several unique partnerships and funding approaches, all with the intent to generate economic impact and put Spokane on the map for sports tourism. 

To learn more about Spokane Sports and sports tourism efforts underway, please reach out to Ashley Blake.