Jon Lugbill, the founding executive director of Sports Backers, will retire June 30, 2025, after 31 years leading the nonprofit organization. Since its inception in 1993, Lugbill has overseen the growth of Sports Backers into a leading promoter of active living in the Richmond region.

During his tenure, the organization has gained national recognition for its programs and events, which have attracted hundreds of thousands of participants. Lugbill highlighted the role of teamwork in the organization’s success.

“Our achievements reflect the collective efforts of our staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and local government partners,” said Lugbill. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to have worked with so many dedicated individuals.”

Under Lugbill’s leadership, Sports Backers was named the best sports commission in the country four times by the Sports Events and Tourism Association.

Its Bike Walk RVA program was recognized with Bicycling Magazine’s People’s Choice Advocacy Award, and its Kids On the Move initiative was honored by Running USA. In 2024, Lugbill was awarded Leadership Metro Richmond’s Ukrop’s Community Vision Award.

Roy Grier, chair of the Sports Backers Board, commended Lugbill’s leadership, noting his focus on setting ambitious goalswhile ensuring attention to detail.

“Jon brings an energy to Sports Backers that emanates through the staff, board of directors, volunteers, and everyone who engages with our events and programs.

His pursuit of excellence is evident in his focus on getting the details right while simultaneously setting lofty goals that challenge us,” he said.

Lugbill’s retirement coincides with the organization’s move to a new headquarters in early 2025. A search committee, with the assistance of the firm Warren Whitney, will oversee the process of selecting his successor, with the search to begin in January.