Tennis Canada head takes leading role in British Tennis

Montreal, September 24, 2013 – Michael Downey has informed the Board of Directors of his decision to resign as President and Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Canada effective December 31, 2013. He will become Chief Executive of the Lawn Tennis Association in England as of January 1, 2014.

Michael Downey

“Since joining the organization in 2004, Michael has done an outstanding job. He has helped strengthen Tennis Canada and grow tennis in Canada with a clear focus on performance. His leadership will be sorely missed as well as his passion for the sport. On behalf of the Board of Tennis Canada, I wish Michael well in his next challenge and thank him for his contribution”, said John LeBoutillier, Chair of the Board.

Sports Media Canada President Steve McAllister pointed out that Tennis Canada and Sports Media Canada have forged a complimentary relationship over the years thanks to Michael Downey. It was his initiative to rename the Tennis Canada media centre in the Rexall Centre after the death of Sports Media Canada founding president George Gross as the George Gross Media Centre. Tennis Canada remains a significant supporter of Sports Media Canada and Michael Downey is expected to be a guest at the President’s Table at the 2013 Sports Media Canada Achievement Awards presentation Luncheon on October 21.

“It has been nothing but an honour to lead Tennis Canada for nearly a decade. I leave knowing that Canada is making great progress in becoming a world leading tennis nation. I am so proud of what we have done together with our partners to grow the sport across all disciplines in Canada. I depart with mixed feelings because Tennis Canada is a great organization comprised of great people including a best in class board of directors. I wish the organization and sport even greater success under a new leader. I will be cheering from the sidelines,” said Michael Downey.

The Board has appointed a search committee which will retain the services of a professional recruitment firm to secure the new President and CEO of Tennis Canada. The formal search process is expected to start immediately with the goal of having a new leader in place before the new year.