The British American Football Association is excited to announce the appointment of David Goodridge as its new Chair. David will step into the role of Chair immediately, succeeding Nichole McCulloch following an extensive recruitment process that began in January.
With three decades of executive leadership in financial services and multiple touchpoints to elite sport throughout his career, David has served as a Non-Executive Director on BAFA’s Board and Chair of the Audit Committee since April 2025. He brings a wealth of governance and commercial experience to BAFA’s leadership, with invaluable insight into finance and risk within sporting organisations.
During his time on the BAFA Board, David has driven development in BAFA’s financial performance, as well as implementing a full governance review working closely with Sport England and UK Sport to support BAFA’s compliance with the Code for Sports Governance.
David also serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Finance & Governance for the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association, steering the organisation to renewed World Class Programme governance status ahead of the recent medal success at the Winter Olympic Games. He has also recently supported Swim England in evaluating and shaping their governance structures and procedures to support the One Swim England strategy.
A lifelong fan of American Football, David has been on the Britball sidelines since 2016 supporting his son in BAFA’s contact and flag American Football competitions.
Richard Watson, BAFA Senior Independent Director, said: “On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to confirm David’s appointment as Chair following a thorough and competitive recruitment process.”
“Alongside his strong governance and strategic expertise, David brings a genuine passion for the sport and a clear understanding of the opportunities ahead for BAFA. I would also like to thank all stakeholders who supported the process, and we look forward to working with David as we continue to strengthen and grow the game.”
David Goodridge, BAFA Chair, said: “I am honoured to become Chair of BAFA and to lead the Board at such an exciting time for the organisation.”
“Britball is an exceptional community and I am proud to play a part in its continued development. I look forward to working with Chad, the Directors, our Partners and our Members to build on our strong foundations. Guided by our Together to Inspire strategy we will ensure the long-term success of BAFA, compete on the international stage and continue to grow the sport across the UK.”
Over the coming months David looks forward to engaging with stakeholders across the game. In addition, he will be looking to expand the Board with new Directors to support the strategic direction of BAFA and ensure close alignment with all stakeholder groups.