Hruska: 'It’s been a great run'

Ed Hruska is stepping down from the top post at Rochester Sports.

The organization, formerly known as the Rochester Amateur Sports Commission, made the announcement Thursday. Hruska will stay on part-time to focus on sports facility development, the announcement said.

The transition will take effect in early 2019.

Chris Terry, president of the Rochester Sports board, said Thursday that the organization has already set up a committee to find Hruska's replacement.

“Ed has worked with the leadership team to put a succession plan in place," said Terry. "He is working closely with us to assure the organization has a smooth transition to the new director. We are grateful for his leadership throughout the years.”

Hruska has been the commission's executive director since its founding in February 2003 (when a lodging tax was earmarked to support and increase sports tourism). In the time since, the economic impact of sports has grown from $1 million each year to a nearly $25 million annual industry.

 “It’s been a great run,” Hruska said in a statement. “From the early days of the World Tug of War, Clash Wrestling Duals, AAU National Basketball, USA Hockey Junior Nationals and more — I have many fond memories of the events and people who worked to make them happen. I don’t want to overstay my welcome. It is time to move on.” 

The decision for Hruska, who turns 62 in November, follows an announcement earlier this year to retire from his position on the Rochester City Council. Hruska has served Ward 1 for much of the past two decades.

Cover photo courtesy Rochester Sports