The Salem Area Sports Commission’s Sports Council is an advisory group to the Salem Area Sports Commission, supporting efforts to grow Salem and the Mid-Willamette Valley as a premier sports destination. Council members represent a cross-section of industries, organizations, and community leaders who share a passion for sports and a commitment to advancing sports tourism in the region.

Council members are nominated by the Executive Director of the Salem Area Sports Commission and approved by the CEO of Travel Salem and the Travel Salem Board.

The Sports Council provides strategic guidance, community connections, and on-the-ground support for hosted events. Their involvement helps ensure that Salem delivers exceptional experiences for athletes, spectators, and event organizers alike.

• Participating in quarterly meetings and contributing to strategic discussions.
• Advising on long-term planning, venue development, and facility needs.
• Supporting community engagement, marketing efforts, and public relations initiatives.
• Serving on Local Organizing Committees for major events.
• Assisting with event planning logistics and hosting responsibilities.
• Helping identify financial or in-kind resources that benefit events and the local economy.
• Through their work, Council members play a vital role in strengthening Salem’s reputation as Oregon’s Sports Capital and a welcoming, capable host for sporting events of all kinds.

• Jason Unruh (CHAIR)- Hoopla Association & Oregon Beverage Services
• Kim Grewe-Powell - Oregon State Fair & Expo Center
• Collin Box - Capital FC
• David Abderhalden - Chemeketa Community College
• Ty Benny - NPJ Sports Complex
• Chrissie Bertsch - Salem Convention Center
• Arun Butta - Howard Johnson
• Soraida Cross - Hotel Salem
• Luke Emanuel - Salem Baseball Club
• Rip Horsey - Western Oregon University
• Bill Fletcher - Salem Tennis and Swim Club
• Toby Olsen - Elevara Hospitality
• Bill Pilgeram - Corban University
• Billy Powers - City of Salem