Sports Specialists Ltd. (SSL) named Scott Ford as its next president. Ford, a hardgoods buyer for Cole Sport, will step into the role September 27.

Ford started his career at Cole Sport in 1994 and has been its hardgoods buyers for the past 12 years. The vast experience he has gained in what is arguably one of the Top Ten Specialty Snowsports operations in North America will be invaluable to the members of SSL.

“The search process brought us many qualified candidates, but Scott Ford stood out among those who were interested in becoming the next President of SSL,” said Marsha Mather, president of Laacke & Joys, WI, and chairman of the board of SSL. “His vast knowledge of our industry, the respect he has within the vendor community, the special relationships he has within the SSL Shareholder organization, and his wonderful demeanor are some of the qualities the search committee and SSL Board were looking for in a new President. We feel Scott will move our organization forward, while leading with the integrity of our organization.”

Ford leaves Cole Sport with much gratitude and appreciation.

“I have had the honor to work with some of the best people in the industry day in and day out for 21 years,” Ford said. “Being a member of the Cole Sport family has been an amazing opportunity. During my time at Cole Sport, I have grown a strong appreciation for the specialty retailer as well a deep passion for what and whom SSL stands for. I am excited to begin this new chapter with SSL. Maintaining the values of SSL while representing the hard working retailer members will be an honor as we grow SSL into the future. I am fortunate to work with a seasoned, experienced team at SSL and I am confident we will grow and strengthen current and future relationships. The members of SSL are the finest in the industry and I am humbled to represent them as the next President.”

Outgoing SSL President Steve Rogers, who will transition to a part-time consulting role at SSL on October 2, said he was excited Scott accepted the position.

“Scott brings a renewed level of energy to the organization that will help propel our members and the organization to the next level,” said Rogers. “The specialty retailers in our organization will need to quickly address the multitude of challenges that will affect their businesses…with Scott’s guidance and direction, their future success will be assured.”

Established in 1971, SSL's 55 stockholders/members operate more than 140 retail outlets in 26 states and Washington DC. All members are specialists in snowsports retail with the average member tenure in SSL being 18 years. The company relocated to Golden, CO, in June, 2014.