TAPS has hired Michael Pardy as their new Executive Director. Michael Pardy brings over 23 years of experience in paddle sports to his new post. Most recently, Michael was a Director at SKILS. Previously, Michael has worked in various sectors of the paddle sports industry including retail, outfitting, rentals, and manufacturing.
The post started on October 1st, 2006. “My first priority is to get up to speed on the ongoing merger talks through the Paddlesports Industry Unification Working Group”, said Michael Pardy.
He also restated TAPS commitment to Outdoor Retailer and the West Coast Sea Kayak Symposium for 2007. Nikki Rekman will continue as an Administrative Assistant.
“I am thrilled to have someone of Michaels caliber on board at TAPS. He is articulate, passionate and committed to our industry and I look forward to working with him,” said Rekman.
As the Trade Association of Paddlesports Board representatives head into meetings at the upcoming OIA Rendezvous to discuss the potential forming of one trade organization they have confidence in their new Executive Director.
TAPS Board Member, Tom Kimmet elaborates, “Michael is the right person for the job. He comes to TAPS with a great Paddlesports background and, more importantly, a desire to make a positive impact in the industry. Michael has shown the ability to move along a process by asking the hard questions. I look forward to seeing his impact on TAPS and the industry as a whole.”
In other TAPS news, Ray Fusco has left the organization due to health reasons. Ray was elected to the TAPS Board almost 5 years ago and early in his tenure moved to be the President of the Board. Ray has been very involved in the recent discussions in the industry concerning the creation of a new trade organization that represents all aspects of Paddlesports.
His experience and opinions will be missed in these discussions but the TAPS Board is confident in their new President, Tim Rosenhan of Innova Kayaks in Burlington, WA and in recently hired Executive Director, Michael Pardy.
“The last three weeks have been extremely difficult for Ray, his family, and those friends and supporters in the Paddlesports community. Ray is in good spirits, is positive and has plans to be involved fully in the Paddlesports Industry. He is in our thoughts and prayers and a full recovery is expected.” said Nikki Rekman.
