Updated February 1, 2024
For a complete listing of members, contact emails, and responsibilities, please click here
January 16, 2024
In an exciting leap towards inclusive governance and member engagement, the United States Padel Association (USPA) is delighted to share the outcome of its historic recent board elections. For the first time, the USPA board members were chosen through a democratic process, heralding a new chapter in the USPA's story. This event is not just a change in leadership but a stride towards engaging more voices in shaping the future of Padel in the USA.
The 2024 Board of Directors is
Martin Sweeney, President
Sid Newcomb, Secretary
Gabriel Perez Krieb, Vice President
Alison Withers
Bill Ullman
Gabriel Sanchez Iniesta
Nicolas Clerc
Ron Bobman
This diverse group of leaders, which blends three returning and five new members, is set to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the forefront of Padel in the USA. The eight board members are spread across the country, with two directors residing in each of the USPA's four geographic regions.
A Bright and Optimistic Future for Padel
With this new board at the helm, the USPA is excited about the potential for significant advances in player development, tournament structure, and bringing the Padel community together. Their combined experience and passion for the sport are vital to propelling Padel to new heights in the United States.
"We sincerely thank our outgoing board members - Pascal Collard, German Previsdomini, Armando Rodiel, and Scott Colebourne - whose dedication and efforts have been fundamental to the USPA's growth," stated USPA President Martin Sweeney. "Their hard work, and that of the board members before them, is the solid foundation from which we continue our journey."
A New Era for Padel in the USA
The USPA is now at a critical juncture, poised to tackle new challenges and seize opportunities with fresh leadership and vision. The USPA encourages all Padel players and enthusiasts to welcome the new board members warmly and invites everyone, whether new to Padel or a long-time fan, to join this exciting phase. Stay connected with the USPA for the latest updates and initiatives.
Martin Sweeney, President who lives in the USPA West region in Nevada, is entering his third year as a board member and will continue as the USPA President. Sweeney spent his professional career in the aviation logistics industry and first discovered Padel in 2009. Before moving to the USA, Sweeney lived in the Middle East and opened the first Padel club in Dubai in 2013. His passion eventually led to opening the first Las Vegas, Nevada club.
Sid Newcomb, Secretary who lives in Florida in the USPA Southeast region, is entering his third year as a board member and will be the association's secretary in 2024. Newcomb served on the Competition Committee in 2023 and has worked in racquet sports for his entire professional career.
Gabriel Perez Krieb, Vice President who lives in California in the USPA West Region and is entering his third year as a USPA board member. Perez Krieb has extensive professional experience at the C level and in board positions across various industries. Perez Krieb is deeply committed to Padel in the USA in many areas, including as a tournament player and opening the first Padel club in San Diego in 2021.
Alison Withers, who lives in Texas in the USPA South/Midwest region, joins the board for the first time. Withers has over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry and a strong background in executive stakeholder management. In addition, Withers has been playing in USPA tournaments since 2019 and volunteering since 2022.
Bill Ullman, who lives in New York in the USPA Northeast region, joins the board for the first time. Ullman has extensive experience on various boards, including Van Eck Global, and has secured vital corporate sponsors for US Padel Teams as a volunteer on the Team USA Committee. Ullman recently represented the USA at the Pan American Championships.
Gabriel Sanchez Iniesta, who lives in Texas in the South/Midwest region, joins the board for the first time. Sanchez Iniesta has held C-level positions professionally and has had a lifelong passion and dedication to Padel. Sanchez Iniesta competes on the Senior circuit and recently represented the USA at the Pan American Championships.
Ron Bobman, who lives in New York in the USPA Northeast region, joins the board for the first time. Bobman has vast professional experience in the financial industry and has been actively involved in Padel as a player and volunteer. In 2023, Bobman served on the Team USA Committee and represented the USA at the Pan American Championships.
Nicolas Clerc, who lives in Florida in the USPA Southeast region, is a top-ranked player and joins the board for the first time. Clerc has been very active in USPA tournaments and played the most events of any player in 2023, including the Master Finals. In addition, Clerc recently represented the USA as a coach at the Pan American Championships.
