SportsTravel

USA Water Ski & Wake Sports has hired Kevin Michael as the organization’s next executive director.

Michael, 48, comes to the national governing body with more than 30 years of experience in the towed water sports industry. He most recently served as the executive director of the Water Sports Industry Association during a nine-year tenure with the association. Michael takes over for Nate Boudreaux, who stepped down in November after five years with the organization.

“This organization has such a rich history and that is what attracted me to organized skiing as a kid,” said Michael. “I am so impressed with the intelligence and experience of our core staff, and the volunteer support throughout all sport disciplines is incredible. I can’t think of a more exciting role to play than orchestrating a new revolution and manning the spotlight for all towed water sports and the great individuals who participate. Together, we are creating a very bright future for water skiing and wake sports.”

A native of Wisconsin, Michael received his B.S. in Mass Communications from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in 1997. He is a former professional water skier for Marine World, Sea World and Stars of Florida, He served as editor of Wakeboarding Magazine for more than a decade.

“Kevin comes to us with boating industry knowledge and ties to water sports manufacturers as well as experience initiating programs to bring a variety of water sports back to life.” said Bob Archambeau, president of USA Water Ski & Wake Sports. “He has strong skill sets in association and event management as well as in-depth knowledge in media, digital marketing and branding.”