RALEIGH, N.C. — September 1, 2026 — The North Carolina Sports Association (NCSA) and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Schmidt as the association’s new Executive Director, effective September 1, 2026.

Schmidt brings 33 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry to the role, with a career spanning hotels, academia, destination sales and marketing, destination management and industry advocacy. He most recently served as President & CEO of Visit Greenville, NC, from November 2014 through June 2026, where he led efforts to promote Greenville and Pitt County as a destination for visitors, meetings, events and sporting competitions.

Throughout his career, Schmidt has been actively involved in industry organizations and community leadership, serving on numerous boards and committees across the hospitality and tourism sectors. His work has allowed him to build extensive relationships throughout North Carolina and across the Southeastern United States.

Schmidt also brings significant experience with the North Carolina sports tourism industry and the NCSA itself. He is a former chair of the North Carolina Sports Association and has served as a board member and past President of the North Carolina Travel Industry Association. His combination of destination leadership, industry advocacy and firsthand experience with sports tourism provides a strong foundation for his new role with the association.

As Executive Director, Schmidt will work with the NCSA Board of Directors and membership to expand the association’s reach, strengthen and grow membership offerings, increase outreach and engagement, and advocate for the continued growth and importance of sports tourism throughout North Carolina.

“I am excited to return to the sports tourism industry in this capacity and to have the opportunity to work on behalf of the North Carolina Sports Association,” said Schmidt. “Sports tourism continues to be an important economic driver for communities across our state, and I look forward to helping the NCSA continue its work to highlight the value and impact of this industry. I’m especially excited to reconnect with colleagues and friends throughout the industry, welcome new members and partners, and help build on the strong foundation the association has established.”

Bonny Bernat, Senior Sports Development Manager with Visit Winston-Salem and Chair of the NCSA Board of Directors, said Schmidt’s experience and industry relationships will be invaluable as the association enters its next chapter.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Andrew step into this role,” said Bernat. “His 33 years of experience in hospitality and tourism, his deep knowledge of destination marketing and sports tourism, and his longstanding relationships throughout North Carolina and beyond make him an incredible asset to the NCSA. Andrew understands this industry

he understands the importance of sports tourism to our communities, and he understands the NCSA because he has been part of its leadership. We are excited to have him leading the association as we look for new ways to expand our reach, strengthen our membership, and continue advocating for the sports tourism industry across North Carolina.”

Schmidt officially retired from Visit Greenville, NC, on June 30, 2026, concluding more than 30 years of service in the local government and tourism sectors. He will begin his duties as Executive Director of the North Carolina Sports Association on September 1, 2026.

The North Carolina Sports Association is a statewide organization dedicated to promoting and advancing sports tourism in North Carolina. Through advocacy, education, networking, and industry collaboration, the NCSA works to support communities and organizations involved in attracting and hosting sporting events across the state.

For more information about the North Carolina Sports Association, visit http://www.competenorthcarolina.com.

About the North Carolina Sports Association

The North Carolina Sports Association (NCSA) is dedicated to advancing sports tourism across North Carolina by connecting industry professionals, providing resources and education, advocating for the sports tourism industry, and promoting the state’s outstanding destinations and facilities. Through collaboration and shared expertise, NCSA works to strengthen the impact of sporting events on communities throughout North Carolina.

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Media Contacts:

Bonny Bernat, Chair, NCSA

Bonny@visitwinstonsalem.com

Sarah Jones, Treasurer, NCSA

Sarah@visithickorync.com