Springfield Sports Commission leader exits

The longtime leader of the Greater Springfield Area Sports Commission, aka the Springfield Sports Commission, is out of the organization.

Lance Kettering's exit was announced in a news release, which noted he was the Springfield Sports Commission's executive director for 16 years. Stan Adams, director of sports business development for the Springfield Sports Commission, has been named interim executive director effective immediately, according to the July 17 release.

"During his tenure, Lance played an important role in advancing sports tourism throughout the Springfield region and helping establish the Sports Commission as a valued community partner," officials said in the release.

The Springfield Sports Commission, which is managed under Visit Springfield, Missouri, noted in the release that Adams would oversee day-to-day operations. 

"As we look to the future, the board is excited about the opportunities ahead for the Sports Commission and sports tourism in our community," said Dan Reiter, chair of the Greater Springfield Area Sports Commission Board of Directors, in the release. "Stan's leadership and experience will provide stability during this transition.

"We also see tremendous opportunity to build upon our longstanding partnership with Visit Springfield and our many community partners as we continue attracting sporting events that generate economic impact and showcase our community."

Reiter declined to say why Kettering exited, citing personnel policies. Kettering's last day was July 14, Reiter said.