New USA Swimming CEO
USA Swimming has officially appointed Kevin M. Ring as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal moment for the organization as it prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Ring begins his tenure on September 17, stepping into a role that has seen frequent turnover and controversy in recent years.
From the Golf Course to the Pool Deck
Ring arrives from the world of golf, where he built a reputation as a sharp business strategist. At the PGA of America, he was instrumental in securing landmark sponsorships and expanding the Ryder Cup’s commercial reach. Most recently, as President of Golf at Legends, he oversaw media rights, global partnerships, and event experiences.
Though he is new to the sport of swimming, Ring has emphasized the importance of listening first and learning from the athletes, coaches, and officials who make the sport thrive. “My job isn’t to pretend I know what it feels like to be behind the blocks,” Ring said. “My job is to make sure those who do have the best possible support system.”
Strategic Timing for USA Swimming
Ring’s appointment comes at a crucial moment. The U.S. team delivered strong results in Paris 2024, but the lead-up to those Games was clouded by leadership instability and organizational criticism. With Los Angeles 2028 approaching, USA Swimming is looking for stability, commercial growth, and renewed trust from its members.
Board Chair Chris Brearton noted: “Kevin brings the right mix of commercial expertise and leadership experience. The sport is bigger than medals—it’s about building opportunities for swimmers at every level. Kevin understands that.”
Learning from Past Missteps
The leadership transition follows a difficult stretch. Former CEO Tim Hinchey resigned shortly after Paris 2024, citing personal reasons amid ongoing scrutiny of SafeSport processes and athlete welfare. His successor, Chrissi Rawak, stepped aside within months of being named CEO, after athlete concerns about her track record in handling abuse allegations gained traction.
These setbacks left many swimmers questioning whether USA Swimming’s leadership truly reflected their needs. Interim leadership managed the organization throughout the spring of 2025, but uncertainty persisted—until now.
Athletes and Coaches React
Olympic legend Natalie Coughlin, now Board Chair-Elect, welcomed the hire: “Kevin doesn’t come from within the swimming bubble, and that’s a strength. He’s not weighed down by old politics. He has the chance to focus on what’s best for athletes.”
Michael Phelps, who has frequently criticized USA Swimming’s governance, said in a statement: “What athletes want is transparency, accountability, and progress. If Kevin is serious about listening, he has my support.”
Coaches across the country expressed cautious optimism. “The proof will be in how he communicates with clubs, parents, and athletes,” said David Marsh, Olympic coach. “We don’t need a CEO who hides in Colorado Springs. We need one who’s visible, engaged, and proactive.”
Focus on Athlete-Centered Growth
Ring has pledged to prioritize athlete development pathways, SafeSport improvements, and community-building. He also aims to expand sponsorship revenue and broadcast reach, ensuring that swimming can capture mainstream attention outside of the Olympic window.
“Swimming is an Olympic powerhouse, but its stories are year-round,” Ring explained. “We want fans to follow their favorite athletes in February, not just every four summers.”
The Road Ahead
With less than three years until the next Olympics in Los Angeles, the pressure is on. Ring inherits a strong team in the pool but a fragile trust outside of it. His challenge is to unify the swimming community, balance athlete advocacy with commercial growth, and guide the sport through its most visible Olympic cycle in decades.
For USA Swimming, Kevin Ring’s appointment is more than a leadership change—it’s a chance to reset its culture, restore confidence, and chart a bold new course toward 2028 and beyond.
By SwimGoals News Staff