Erika Nardini, chief executive of US digital media company Barstool Sports, has been elected to the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) board.
Nardini was named Barstool’s first female boss in 2016. During her tenure, the company claims its revenue grew by more than 1,200% and also claims to now generate 2.5 billion social views and 1, 8 billion monthly video views on its platforms.
Nardini also played a leading role in the deal which saw casino operator Penn National Gaming take an initial 36% stake in Barstool for $163 million in 2020.
Nardini already sits on the board of World Wresting Entertainment (WWE) and Torchy’s Tacos. She was also previously listed as one of SportsPro’s top ten influencers for 2021.
“Erika is one of the most innovative leaders in engaging audiences, building partnerships, and building media businesses like anyone I’ve spent time with,” said the co-founder and CEO. by PLL, Michael Rabil.
“His voice and strategic insights will be invaluable to our Board of Directors as we build the future of the company.”
Nardini added, “The opportunity to take a sport to the national stage and rethink every aspect of coverage, of distribution is exciting. They have done a phenomenal job of mixing sports and entertainment while putting fans and players first. I couldn’t be happier to be more involved with the board and the whole league.
Elsewhere, the American stock car racing series Nascar promoted Steve O’Donnell to the chief operating officer, while Ben Kennedy is back on the competition team as senior vice president, development and race strategy.
The postponed Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021) unveiled its new revenue and communications team. The first will be led by Mick Hogan and he will be joined by Upneet Thandiwho will assume the role of Marketing Manager. Rob Meaden arrives as Head of Communications and will work alongside Abby Burton. LucyJones also comes as head of match operations, while Jenn Stock will lead to culture and well-being.
the Women’s Sports Network the streaming channel has been added Allyson Felix, Catherine Francis, China Robinson, Lindsay Amstutz, Renata Simril and Stacey Allaster to its advisory board.
Esports and entertainment company Overactive media promoted Rikesh Shah to the financial director, Tyler Keenan to the Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Revenue, and Amy Williams to the Vice President of Partnerships.
Also in competitive games, G2 Esports named Thuy Ha as responsible for the content and Sasha Alexandrov as media officer.
Leading English rugby club sale sharks have named Claire Butters as Director of Sales and Marketing, and Paige Edwards as a digital marketing manager.
Appointment
Cindy Parlow Cone
President, United States Soccer Federation (USSF)
Notes: Parlow Cone was re-elected for a four-year term until 2026, defeating her predecessor Carlos Cordeiro.
Brandon Snow
Chief Commercial Officer, Formula 1
Previously: Chief Commercial Officer, Global Head of Esports, Activision Blizzard
Alessandro Alunni Bravi
Managing Director, Sauber Group
Notes: Alunni Bravi has been involved with Sauber, the company behind the Alfa Romeo Formula 1 team, as legal counsel and board member since 2017.
Nick Sakiewicz
Business Manager, Arizona Coyotes
Previously: Commissioner, National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Liz Montano
Chief Operating Officer, Arizona Coyotes
Previously: Chief Strategy Officer, Arizona Coyotes
David Garth
Vice President of Commercial Revenue, Legends International
Previously: Managing Director, Optimize Sports Management
Kelah Raymond
People and Talent Manager, Buzzer
Previously: Associate Director, People and Culture, MotoRefi
departures
Rachel Lewis
Chief Operating Officer, Vancouver Whitecaps
Note: Lewis has left the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise for a “new opportunity”.
Nathan Prendergast
Managing Director of Television and Content, Supercars
Notes: Prendergast is leaving the company after 18 years, citing a desire for a new challenge outside Australia.
