Chris Brearton Named Chair of USA Swimming Board of Directors
Former University of Georgia swimmer and MGM Chief Operating Officer steps into role after two years as Vice-Chair
Posted On: December 6, 2021 By :Chris Brearton has stepped into his role effective Monday as chair of the USA Swimming Board of Directors after having served two years as the organization’s vice-chair/chair-elect.
Brearton is chief operating officer of MGM Studios. Prior to joining MGM, he was the managing partner of the Century City office of the law firm Latham & Watkins. Over the course of more than 20 years as an entertainment, sports and media attorney, Brearton advised motion picture studios, television and digital networks and sports organizations such as the International Olympic Committee and the NCAA.
“I am honored to serve as the chair of USA Swimming and I look forward to building on our incredible foundation,” Brearton said. “As LA 2028 approaches, I look forward to expanding USA Swimming’s reach, broadening awareness and access to our sport. I am committed to ensuring that our athletes have everything they need to be the very best in the world. Our mandate begins with learn to swim and continues through a child’s development and maturation. The fundamental skill of swimming not only saves lives but fosters and builds champions. We have the most tremendous group of coaches and volunteers. Our mission is to serve the greatest swimmers in the world.”
Brearton first became involved with swimming as an age group swimmer before competing collegiately at the University of Georgia. He was elected to the Board of Directors in September 2018 and became vice chair/chair-elect in 2019.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have so many passionate people volunteering their time in service to the organization and the sport of swimming,” outgoing Chair Bob Vincent said. “Chris’s experience as a collegiate athlete and swim parent, coupled with his professional background and in-depth knowledge of the Olympic movement will further position USA Swimming as a world-class servant leadership organization.”
USA Swimming is governed by a 15-member Board of Directors, which oversees more than 330,000 members including coaches, volunteers and over 300,000 athletes.
“I’m proud to mark the first time the organization has ever been led by former competitive swimmers at both the board and staff levels,” USA Swimming President and Chief Executive Officer Tim Hinchey said. “Bob was an exceptional board leader and I thank him for his work and guidance, and I know he will continue to lend his support to Chris as our new chair guides our organization into the future. Chris has a proven track record of success in the Olympic Movement, and coupling that with his first-hand experience at all levels of our sport will pay dividends as, like many, we rebound from the global pandemic and build back our base.”
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