Tennis Australia yesterday announced Harold Mitchell is retiring from the board having served his full term.
The former ad man was involved in controversy during his time with the sport. Mitchell led a series of broadcast rights negotiations exclusively with Seven in 2013 at the same time he was chairman of Free TV Australia with accusations of conflict of interest. At the time it was claimed Nine and Ten never had an opportunity to bid for the rights. ASIC subsequently investigated the contact renewal.
Fast forward to earlier this year though and Nine won the tennis broadcast rights and is now the new home of tennis in Australia.
Tennis Australia yesterday said Mitchell has been a key member of the Tennis Australia board during the last 10 years, driving business throughout the greatest growth period in its history.
Tennis Australia president and chair Jayne Hrdlicka paid tribute to her Vice President during the company’s AGM in Melbourne.
“The contribution Harold has made to our sport and organisation is significant. We are deeply grateful for his hugely generous spirit, commitment to strengthening the sport and importantly his focus on ensuring the long-term financial health of our balance sheet. The benefits of Harold’s commitment to tennis will be enjoyed for generations to come,” she said.
Sitting board member Greg Hutchinson was re-elected at the AGM for another three years.
The Tennis Australia board now comprises: Jayne Hrdlicka, president and chair, Graham Bradley, Diane Grady, Greg Hutchinson, Ken Laffey, Elizabeth Minogue, Peter Robertson and Janice van Reyk.