The Ultimate Frisbee Association has elected Tim DeByl as its new chief executive officer and commissioner effective immediately.
Previously the league’s chief operating officer, DeByl becomes the fourth commissioner in UFA history, taking over for Steve Hall, who has held the role since 2018. DeByl will also continue as the co-owner and head coach of the UFA’s Madison Radicals.
“It’s been incredible to watch the league’s growth since 2012,” said DeByl. “We couldn’t be where we are today without our players, team owners, partners and, of course, the fans. So much of our growth recently can also be attributed to Steve. He’s set a foundation for global reach and built the UFA into a truly professional experience for everyone involved. I’m excited to lead the next growth phase of the league.”
DeByl’s knowledge of the league’s business initiatives and growth plan has positioned him to make impacts in marketing, content distribution, game scheduling and rules. He previously has overseen development of the league’s mobile app, statistics data center and video game.
“Tim has played and coached in our league,” said Rob Lloyd, UFA managing member and chairman. “He has owned one of our most successful teams in Madison, and he’s helped grow the UFA into the most advanced professional ultimate frisbee league in the world. Succeeding Steve Hall and his accomplishments over the past six years will not be easy, but there is no one more deserving and qualified than Tim.”
Hall will remain with UFA’s parent company and shift his focus to expanding investments in the league. Under Hall’s leadership, the UFA has grown its social media reach, established the Inclusion Initiative, navigated the pandemic while supporting the formation of the Athletic Care Network and initiated strategic league partnerships with Sport Dimension Inc. to successfully license the “Ultimate” and “Frisbee” trademarks that led to the rebranding of the league as the Ultimate Frisbee Association.