TAMPA, FL (April 3, 2025) -– The Sports Events & Tourism Association (Sports ETA) announced today that Marissa Werner, Director of Sports Milwaukee at VISIT Milwaukee, has been named the 2025 Sports ETA Woman of the Year. The award was presented today during the annual Sports ETA Women’s Summit, as part of the NCAA Women’s Final Four.

This prestigious honor celebrates a woman who has demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and commitment in the sports events and tourism industry.

Werner, who launched and now leads Sports Milwaukee, a division of VISIT Milwaukee, has played an instrumental role in elevating Milwaukee as a destination for premier sporting events and advocating for health and wellness through community engagement.

“Marissa Werner’s recognition as Sports ETA’s Woman of the Year is a testament to her incredible passion for health and wellness in our community as well as her relentless dedication to bringing world-class sporting events to Milwaukee,” said Peggy Williams-Smith, President and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee. “We are so proud of her and grateful for the impact she continues to make—not only on our city but on the entire sports tourism industry.”

Under Werner’s leadership, Milwaukee has hosted and secured high-profile events that drive economic impact and community pride. She is known for her strategic partnerships, commitment to inclusivity, and her unwavering energy in growing the local sports scene.

Over the last 10 years with VISIT Milwaukee, Werner has assisted in hosting the following major events: NCAA Men's Basketball Championships, PGA Championships, USA Triathlon Age Group National Championships, USA Volleyball 18's Girls National Championships, AVP Milwaukee Open, USA Ultimate College Championships, USA Fencing North American Cup, WFTDA National Championships, USA Table Tennis Open Championships, US Open, along with the Sports ETA’s Symposium.

“Marissa embodies the spirit of this award,” said John David, President & CEO of Sports ETA. “She’s a dynamic leader who’s shaping the future of sports tourism through innovation, collaboration, and passion. We’re thrilled to recognize her contributions to the industry.”

Special shout-out to our Member Awards sponsor, Team Travel Source.

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About Sports ETA

As the only trade association for the sports events and tourism industry, Sports ETA is the most trusted resource for sports commissions, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), and sports event owners. Sports ETA is committed to the success of more than 750 member organizations and 2,400 sports event professionals. We promise to deliver quality education, ample networking opportunities, and exceptional event management and marketing know-how to our members to protect the integrity of the sports events and tourism industry.  For more information, visit SportsETA.org.

Contact: Jackie Reau, GameDay
(513) 708-5822 | jreau@gamedaypr.com