Squash Australia welcomes new President
Published Mon 28 Nov 2022
Matt Schmidt was announced on Sunday as the new President of Squash Australia, after being elected by the Squash Australia Board following the Annual General Meeting. Schmidt replaces exiting President Jo Brodie in the position following her decision to stand down after 5 years of service.
New Directors Carmel Ackerly (VIC) and John Cowling (NSW) were elected by State and Territory Members at the AGM, while Greg Blycha (WA) was re-elected to maintain his director role.
Schmidt will use the wealth of his personal experience and knowledge of the sport to provide a seamless transition and continuity of leadership to the Board. First joining the Board of Squash Australia as an elected Director in 2019, and re-elected in 2021, Schmidt has also previously spent four years on the Squash South Australia board.
With over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, stakeholder management and governance leadership and having spent 10 years in director roles of various public, private, and not-for-profit organisations, Schmidt is especially passionate about raising the profile of Squash in schools and community settings.
Squash Australia CEO Robert Donaghue welcomed the appointments of Schmidt, Ackerly, and Cowling and also wanted to congratulate re-elected Board member Greg Blycha.
“Matt Schmidt brings to the Board a significant understanding of our sport, effective Governance experience combined with expertise in his own professional life,” said Donaghue.
“Schmidt, Ackerly, Blycha and Cowling bring diverse skills to the table that will provide a good balance to our Board and will help us assist in delivering on our Strategic Plan.
Donaghue also took the opportunity to recognise outgoing Board members’ contributions to Squash Australia, thanking them for their commitment to lead the organisation and developing the sport.
“On behalf of the Board, I’d like to thank outgoing President Jo Brodie and board member Selina Steele, who have provided substantial contributions during their term,” Donaghue said.
