Ex-Sports Authority chair named ceo of GolfsmithEx-Sports Authority chair named ceo of Golfsmith

AUSTIN, Texas Former Sports Authority chairman Martin Hanaka has been named ceo of Golfsmith International Holdings. Hanaka had been serving as interim ceo since Jan. 9, and has been chairman of the board since April 2007.

“I am excited to lead this high-quality organization, with its respected brands and broad geographic footprint, into the future,” said Hanaka. “Despite a challenging operating environment, I believe favorable demographic trends, coupled with our ability to lead the consolidation of the off-course retail sector, will continue to provide Golfsmith with substantial growth opportunities.” 

Hanaka was the chairman of the board of The Sports Authority from November 1999 until June 2004 and was its ceo from September 1998 until August 2003. Hanaka joined The Sports Authority's board of directors in February 1998. From 1994 to 1997, he served as president, coo and a director of Staples, Inc.