How Sports Backers is Changing RVA: Insights From New Executive Director Will Dixon

By Billy Briefman · February 18, 2026 · 36:13 read

Category: Leadership

Show: Leading The Way in RVA

💡 Like, subscribe, and comment: Which RVA leader should we feature next? 👥 Book a complimentary leadership coaching call → https://fulfilledcc.com/ Welcome back listeners! In this insightful episode of the Leading the Way in RVA podcast, host KC Long interviews Will Dixon, the newly appointed E

💡 Like, subscribe, and comment: Which RVA leader should we feature next?

👥 Book a complimentary leadership coaching call → https://fulfilledcc.com/

Welcome back listeners!

In this insightful episode of the Leading the Way in RVA podcast, host KC Long interviews Will Dixon, the newly appointed Executive Director of Sports Backers, a pivotal organization in Richmond dedicated to promoting physical activity and community engagement through sports events. Will shares his personal journey from a West End Richmond native and James Madison University graduate to becoming a key figure in Richmond’s sports community. Starting with an internship at Richmond Kickers and volunteering with Sports Backers, Will’s story highlights the power of passion, persistence, and stepping out of comfort zones to grow professionally. Over nearly two decades, he evolved from an event production assistant doing manual labor and answering phones to roles in sponsorship, fundraising, and finally executive leadership.

Will emphasizes the importance of transferable skills, relationship-building, and embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth. He candidly discusses the challenges of transitioning from peer to manager within a close-knit, long-tenured staff, underscoring the value of curiosity, vulnerability, empowerment, and accountability in effective leadership. He also highlights the unique, passionate Richmond community and how physical activity serves as a unifying force that cuts across demographics to improve lives and foster connection.