Sports Backers Announces New Executive Director, Will dixon

Dixon to succeed Lugbill as tenure ends in June

RICHMOND, VA – Sports Backers, the award-winning nonprofit organization committed to inspiring active living in the Richmond region and beyond, announced the selection of its new Executive Director following a nationwide search. The organization proudly welcomes Will Dixon, who will assume the role in June following the departure of current Executive Director Jon Lugbill. Dixon currently serves as the Chief Administrative Officer at Sports Backers. This transition comes as Lugbill prepares to retire after 32 years of leadership.

A background in sports

Dixon, a Richmond native, has been an integral part of Sports Backers for over 17 years. He currently serves as the Chief Administrative Officer and has steadily advanced through the organization, previously holding roles as Sponsorship Manager and Director of Sponsorship. In June 2020, he was promoted to Chief Administrative Officer. He earned his degree from James Madison University in 2007, returning to Richmond to begin his career at Sports Backers in 2008. Beyond his professional commitments, Dixon has served on several local boards, including SwimRVA and Greater Richmond Fit4Kids, demonstrating his passion for health and wellness within the community.

He has played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization’s marketing, sponsorship, and fundraising initiatives to maximize its impact on the health and vibrancy of the Richmond region. With a deep commitment to Sports Backers’ mission, he looks forward to leading the organization into its next chapter.

“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to lead Sports Backers and build upon its remarkable legacy. Thanks to Jon’s visionary leadership, the Richmond region has become nationally recognized as a vibrant, active, and healthy community, transforming countless lives along the way,” said Dixon. “Throughout my career, I have seen first-hand the powerful and lasting impact of this organization, and I am excited to advance our mission, inspire even more people to live actively, and continue strengthening our region as Executive Director.”

Praise for Dixon’s leadership

Lugbill, who has overseen significant growth and milestones during his tenure, expressed his confidence in Dixon’s leadership.

“Sports Backers is a special organization that has a meaningful impact on our community,” said Lugbill. “Will has been instrumental in our success, bringing leadership, innovation, and a deep passion for active living. His vision will be invaluable to both the organization and the Richmond region for years to come.”

Roy Grier, former Sports Backers Board Chair and chair of the search committee, emphasized the strong choice in Dixon’s appointment.

“Will has demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout his tenure at Sports Backers,” said Grier. “His knowledge of our programs and events, his passion for the mission, and his ability to lead the staff made him the ideal candidate for the Executive Director role.”

Dan Gecker, Sports Backers’ current Board Chair, echoed this sentiment, stating that the future of the organization is in excellent hands.

“The decision to appoint Will as Executive Director is an exciting one for our organization, our event participants, volunteers, and all who advocate for active living in Richmond,” said Gecker. “He has shown an unwavering dedication to making our community more active and is continually exploring ways for Sports Backers to expand and improve its impact.”

Dixon recently spearheaded Sports Backers’ headquarters relocation to Lakeside, a project he oversaw from conception to completion. The new Active Living Hub, located at the Henrico trailhead of the Fall Line trail, features a multi-purpose activity room for fitness classes provided by Sports Backers’ Fitness Warriors and volunteer training sessions. Dixon played a crucial role in ensuring the project’s success.

The Sports Backers Board of Directors established a search committee to oversee the Executive Director transition process. The committee engaged the firm Warren Whitney to assist with succession planning and manage the nationwide search, which began in January. Their goal was to select a candidate who would continue advancing the organization’s mission while building on Lugbill’s remarkable legacy.

Lugbill and Dixon will work closely together throughout the transition period to ensure a seamless handover of leadership.