COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Tony Driscoll, who has spent the last six seasons as vice president for business development for the Oklahoma City Thunder of the NBA, has been named assistant executive director of marketing, communications and events for USA Hockey it was announced today.
“We’re excited to welcome Tony and his family to USA Hockey,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “He brings varied experience that will greatly benefit our organization. While he hasn’t worked directly in hockey, he has been involved in the sport as a player and coach throughout his life and his knowledge of the game, coupled with his business experience, is an appealing combination.”
Driscoll led the partnership and media sales efforts for Oklahoma City that resulted in the team ranking at or near the top of league performers in partnership revenue in what is considered the smallest NBA market. He also played a leading role in negotiating the Thunder’s media rights package with Fox Sports that resulted in one of the largest increases in the NBA in recent team renewals.
“I’m thrilled to be joining USA Hockey,” said Driscoll. “As a lifelong hockey fan, I’m excited to have the chance to contribute to an organization that has the sterling reputation that USA Hockey enjoys. I look forward to getting to know and work with our staff, volunteers, business partners and the many other constituent groups USA Hockey is engaged with.”
Prior to his time with Oklahoma City, Driscoll served two years as the vice president of sales and business development for the National Hot Rod Association where he helped lead the partnership and media sales efforts of the largest motorsports association in the United States.
Driscoll, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing from Eastern Michigan University in 1999, also spent 10 years in various capacities with the International Speedway Corporation, which owns and/or operates 13 NASCAR racetracks around the country. His final three years with ISC were spent as senior director of partnership and integrated media sales.
Driscoll will officially begin his duties with USA Hockey on Monday (Aug. 6). He replaces Mike Bertsch, who retired this past March.
