Meet Your Events Team
Talent. Experience. A local Team with Stamina and Power.
It's what today’s best teams are made of, including the one behind Spokane Sports. We’re local with global experience. We’re passionate about ensuring every sporting event we host is the best it can be. And we’re always one step ahead with innovative thinking and ideas that turn ordinary into out-of-this-world.
Ashley Blake | Chief Executive Officer
With a focus on organizational strategy, Ashley sets the overall vision for Spokane Sports. In addition, Ashley plays an essential role in implementing bid strategies and marketing programs that enhance Spokane’s acquisition of sports conferences and events. Ashley also oversees the financial and legislative aspects of the organization, while maintaining prominent relationships on a local, national, and international level.
Cherie Gwinn | Senior Director of Events
A seasoned veteran in hosting and planning events Cherie’ helps recruit new events as well as develop local events and grassroots programming. In addition, she works collaboratively with our hotel partners in contracting and negotiating rates. Cherie’ plays an integral part in overseeing our events and operations logistics.
Focusing on vision and key strategic marketing initiatives for the organization, Keytra plays in integral role in the success of Spokane Sports. Keytra creates and implements comprehensive marketing and communication programs that elevate and amplify the organization. In addition, Keytra oversees the development of brand standards, and implements city-wide marketing campaigns.
Anna’s overall focus is on event management and recruitment. She oversees all Indoor Track & Field logistics to ensure there is a legacy of successful Indoor Track & Field events at The Podium. In addition, Anna also manages bid processes and maintains project timelines.
Marit oversees all aspects of sponsorships by nurturing win-win relationships with partners, clients, and community members. In addition, Marit also maintains stakeholder partnerships while enhancing donor benefits and perks of working with Spokane Sports.
Carmen assists with bid research, building out event framework, as well as writing proposals and partnership agreements. Additionally, Carmen provides administrative assistance and oversees the organization's CRM system.
Assisting with Indoor Track & Field meet operations, field of play, and flow of events, Jessie supports win-win relationships throughout events. Jessie also assists with coordination of athlete experiences element that ensure an amazing event.
A sought-after addition to the organization, TJ brings 18 years of collegiate track and field experience and expertise to the team. TJ's responsibilities include management of event logistics and client needs, in addition to design and implementation of our robust internship program. TJ also oversees the volunteer recruitment programs.
Media is in Dana’s blood. She still loves to dig up a good story. After twenty years in the local television industry, Dana now pours her energy into generating media for Spokane’s sporting events. She works side by side with event organizers to highlight the colorful stories that will draw media to a sporting event.
Haley is responsible for special event coordination and execution, including planning all hospitality needs for the organization. She also collaborates with local vendors on catering and hotels to ensure any stay in Spokane in a seamless experience.
Board of Directors
Spokane Sports is led by a 13-person board comprised of leaders in the community—each dedicated to the future of sports in our region.
Board of Directors
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Jeff Geldien
Board Chair | Gonzaga University
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Rustin L. Hall, AIAList Item 2
ALSC Architects
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Mike Ekins
Interface Commercial Capital
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Alexis AlexanderList Item 4
Avista Corp
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Brooke Baker Spink
Treasurer I Baker Construction
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Danielle Beaudine
The Davenport Autograph Collection
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Chris Bell
NAI Black
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Catherine Brazil
University of Washington
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Stephanie Curran
Spokane Public Facilities District
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Brandon Haugen
Vice Chair | Kalispel Development Company
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Valerie Santillanes
Best Western Peppertree Inns
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Bryn West
Secretary | River Park Square & Cowles Real Estate
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Dan Zimmerer
Ruby Hospitality
Volunteers and Internships
There are many ways to support Spokane Sports. As nonprofit organization, we rely on individuals who volunteer their time to help make our events run smoothly. We also accept applications for seasonal interns. If you are interested in being involved, please submit your information below.
