Erik Logan Named CEO Of WSL

There are big changes in Santa Monica as WSL Chief Executive Officer Sophie Goldschmidt is stepping down and will be replaced by the WSL’s President of Content, Media and Studios Erik Logan. The change goes into effect this week. 

“The power of the organization’s platform, the history of championing the world’s best surfers, the global fan base and the opportunity to accelerate the WSL as an international sport and media powerhouse is absolutely incredible,” said Logan in the press statement released by the WSL.

Goldschmidt was named CEO in 2017. Accomplishments during her tenure include equal prize money for men and women, the first CT events in an artificial wave since Tom Carroll went ham in Allentown, and elevating the role and visability of WSL PURE. She will now sit on the company’s advisory board.  

“It’s been a privilege to collaborate with the caliber of colleagues, athletes, partners and communities around the world that I have during my time at the WSL,” Goldschmidt said in the press release. “Surfing is unique, captivating and inspiring and leading the WSL has been a professional highlight for me.”

Based on the information released, look for Logan to leverage his media experience to steer the WSL as a “more focused content and media company.” 

Previously, Logan sat as the President of the Oprah Winfrey Network and will undoubtedly continue to lean on that experience and those relationships. He started at the WSL in early 2019 and will now oversee “all three business units of the World Surf League – Tours, Studios and WaveCo.”

“Surfing is powerful. As someone who came to it later in life, I personally understand the impact surfing can have on individuals, communities and the world at large,” Logan continued. “To be able to lead world-class people at the WSL and combine my professional and personal passions is a dream come true.”

Logan will be the first CEO of the WSL that actually surfs, and that’s a good thing. Where the sport goes from here is in his hands.