In the current times, surfing has emerged to be immensely popular in the sports domain. The steady rise in participation at the pro events, by young athletes is a success for the pioneers. However, that was not the case in the past. The transfiguring of the most popular surf event, World Surf League, was led by former media head of notable star, Oprah Winfrey’s TV network, who is now the CEO of WSL, Erik Logan.  

In a recent report by The West Australian, the contributions made by Logan were highlighted that propelled the expansion of the fanbase all over the world. He also introduced a new rule that was subject to initial controversy, however, ended up popularizing the pro competition. 

How Erik Logan popularized the WSL

According to the publication, Logan utilized his expertise in the media sphere and perceived the pro surf league as a “media company.” He aspires to build the greatest platform for professional surfing and claimed that even though they are a long way from the goal, the organization is steadily getting there.

The former media executive started with WSL in 2019 and assisted WSL studios in launching the hit surf documentary, Make or Break. After a year he was fast promoted to the CEO position. Hence, he put the mid-season cut rule in place which didn’t sit well with many athletes. However, the move was perfect for the fans’ intrigue, thus, increasing its audience and reach as far as Australia. 

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“Our distribution platform in terms of ways people can consume the content is larger than it ever has been…The real key for us is keeping in mind that the media part of this is the vehicle by which we connect the fans to the sport. That for me is what really excites me,” he told sources. Although, it is interesting how Logan actually ended up in the surfing community. 

Erik Logan’s journey to surfing

The notable personality grew up in Oklahoma, far away from oceanic exposure. Nevertheless, he moved to Manhattan Beach, Los Angeles, and contemplated surfing at 41. Eventually, he fell in love with the ocean, per sources. Therefore, he shared, “I found this connection to the ocean and my health started improving and it became this unique opportunity to go work for the WSL from a media perspective.” 

His unquestionable expertise in the media industry along with his passion for the sport makes him a unique company employee. Although, the blend adds to his genuine evaluation of WSL’s needs. Likewise, Logan added, “If our surfers and our partners know that someone who is leading the company cares that deeply about it, I think that means something versus you are always in that big office.” Logan seems like a CEO who is passionate about the sport itself and that’s what makes the WSL a great pro surfing event, and not just the analytical or marketable data is what makes the . What do you think? Tell us in the comments. 

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