Proven executive brings over 30 years of sports business experience to the Ocean State
PAWTUCKET, R.I. (May 31, 2024) – Rhode Island FC announced today the appointment of David Peart as its new Club President. Peart adds a wealth of experience and a distinguished career in professional sports and media to Rhode Island FC, promising to lead the club into a new, exciting era.
Peart’s accomplished career in senior-level positions includes a number of well-known, major league sports organizations, notably the Dallas Stars (NHL), Texas Rangers (MLB), Houston Texans (NFL), San Francisco 49ers (NFL) and Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL). Most recently, Peart served as the General Manager of AT&T Sports Network/Space City Sports Network, the regional sports network for the Houston Astros and Houston Rockets, where he spent the past decade.
“I am thrilled and honored to join Rhode Island FC as the club’s new President,” said Peart. “I want to extend my gratitude to Brett Johnson and his ownership group for this incredible opportunity. My family and I are excited to move to Rhode Island and get involved with the local community. I am eager to use my experience in sports and entertainment to help the organization achieve its goals of becoming champions on the pitch, in the community and with our valued partners. I look forward to earning the trust and confidence of our club’s fans and supporters, and building a culture that reflects the values and traditions of the state and community we call home. I share Brett’s commitment to creating a best-in-class experience at the Stadium at Tidewater Landing, where every RIFC match will be thrilling and fun for families, soccer fans and our dedicated supporters.”
In his previous roles, Peart was responsible for all local revenue and business development initiatives, including ticket sales, corporate sales, premium seat sales, broadcasting, new media, promotions, retail merchandise, concession sales and publications. He also spearheaded youth sports initiatives and community engagement programs, showcasing his commitment to fostering strong community ties through sports.
“As we step into this next phase of Rhode Island FC’s journey, our executive committee and ownership group is thrilled to have someone with David’s decades of proven experience at the helm,” said Rhode Island FC Co-Founder and Chairman Brett Johnson. “Throughout his career, David has built sports brands that reflect the values and culture of the communities they are a part of, and we expect he will do the same in Rhode Island. David has a well-earned reputation amongst his colleagues in professional sports and I am confident that his leadership will accelerate Rhode Island FC’s growth and development in the Ocean State and within the ecosystem of North American soccer.”
Peart will join Rhode Island FC full-time in mid-June, bringing his extensive expertise and passion for sports to guide the club towards a promising future.
Rhode Island FC makes its inaugural Rhode Trip to Hartford Athletic on Saturday, June 1, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. Fans can watch the match at the Official Rhode Island FC Watch Party at Moniker Brewery. Following the match in Hartford, Rhode Island FC returns to Beirne Stadium on Saturday, June 8, to welcome Detroit City FC at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available now at rhodeislandfc.com/tickets.