Jessi Miley-Dyer has been named the new commissioner of the World Surf League (WSL). The former professional surfer made her announcement at Sportico and SheMedia’s “Winning: Women & Sports” event. Miley-Dyer is making history as the league’s first woman commissioner, representing a step forward in gender equity within the sports industry. Previously serving as the chief of sport for the dual-gender league, Miley-Dyer has been a strong advocate for equal prize money, positioning the WSL as the first North American sports league to implement this policy.
During her announcement, Miley-Dyer highlighted recent investments made in women’s sports and emphasized that they are not a charity but rather a high-yielding investment opportunity when given proper support. She stressed that it is important to recognize women’s sports’ financial potential and reframed the narrative around them.
Miley-Dyer’s promotion to WSL commissioner marks a significant milestone in her career, especially after removing “chief of sport” from her social media accounts sparked rumors among surfing fans. Born in Sydney, Australia, she became the first to hold the WSL commissioner title since Kieren Perrow’s departure in 2019. Having joined the WSL in 2012, she has taken on various roles within the organization and is now focused on using creative storytelling and engaging content to promote it.
As part of WSL’s ongoing leadership changes, former Riot Games president of publishing Ryan Crosby recently assumed the role of CEO. These transitions come in the wake of Erik Logan’s sudden departure from the league last year. Additionally, an exciting media rights deal with ESPN was agreed upon earlier this year that will see ESPN+ streaming men’s and women’s championship tour competitions. The appointment of Jessi Miley-Dyer as new commissioner signals a new era for WSL with a strong emphasis on gender equity and innovative approaches to growing surfing.
The promotion of Jessi Miley-Dyer marks a significant milestone in her career as well as for women’s sports. Her dedication to promoting gender equality within sport continues to make waves both inside and outside of surfing communities.
In conclusion, Jessi Miley-Dyer’s promotion to commissioner at WSL represents more than just a leadership change – it is an opportunity for progress in gender equity within sports industry. With recent investments made in women’s sports and an exciting media rights deal with ESPN+ streaming men’s and women’s championship tour competitions, there has never been a better time for surfing – or any other female athlete – community to flourish.