Sports Gold Coast is proud to announce the appointment of Danika Goodman as Chief Executive Officer, ushering in an exciting new chapter for the organisation as it continues its mission of connecting business, sport and community across the Gold Coast.
For many within the sporting industry, Danika is a familiar face. Having worked across grassroots clubs, community programs, athlete management, major events and high-performance sport, she has developed a unique understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the sporting sector.
However, her experience extends far beyond sport.
Raised within a family business that has been built from the ground up over more than 35 years, Danika has spent much of her life immersed in the business landscape. Through her involvement with Eximm, she has gained first-hand experience in business development, operations, marketing, project delivery, relationship management and strategic growth.
This combination of sporting and business experience makes her uniquely positioned to lead Sports Gold Coast, an organisation founded on the belief that stronger connections between business, sport and community create stronger outcomes for everyone.
“Sport and business have so much to learn from one another,” Danika said.
“Some of the most successful sporting organisations operate with a strong business mindset, and some of the strongest businesses understand the value of investing in people, culture and community. Sports Gold Coast sits right at that intersection.”
Prior to her appointment, Danika served as Head of Sport at Eximm Sport, overseeing athlete management, community development programs, club consulting, major projects and event delivery. During this time, she worked closely with sporting organisations of all sizes, helping clubs, athletes and community groups access opportunities and achieve sustainable growth.
As an AFL Players’ Association Accredited Agent, Danika will continue supporting her athlete clients through Eximm Sport while leading Sports Gold Coast.
“Supporting athletes will always be something I’m passionate about,” she said.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with athletes at different stages of their journeys and seeing the dedication required to pursue excellence. I’ll continue supporting my athletes while also focusing on creating opportunities that strengthen the broader sporting community.”
Danika’s career has seen her work across almost every layer of the sporting ecosystem—from grassroots participation and volunteer-led clubs through to elite athletes, professional sport, major events and corporate partnerships.
That broad perspective has helped shape her vision for Sports Gold Coast.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience sport from every angle. I’ve worked with community clubs trying to keep the lights on, athletes chasing professional careers, businesses looking to make a meaningful impact and major events that showcase our city on the national stage,” she said.
“Those experiences have reinforced one thing: when sport, business and community work together, incredible things happen.”
Over recent years, Danika has played a significant role in the growth of Sports Gold Coast’s flagship initiatives, including the Gold Coast Sports Awards and the Grow for Gold athlete development program. Both initiatives have strengthened connections between the business community and sporting sector while creating opportunities for local athletes and organisations.
At just 26 years old, Danika represents a new generation of leaders who have grown up within the Gold Coast sporting community and understand both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. Her appointment reflects Sports Gold Coast’s commitment to recognising and investing in emerging leaders, demonstrating a belief that passion, capability and experience matter more than age.
As a young woman stepping into a chief executive role within an industry where senior leadership positions remain predominantly male, Danika hopes her appointment encourages others to back themselves and pursue opportunities they may not yet feel ready for.
“Sport has given me so many opportunities, mentors and experiences that have helped shape who I am today,” she said.
“I’m incredibly grateful that Sports Gold Coast has seen potential in me and trusted me with this opportunity. I hope my appointment encourages other young professionals to put their hand up, take on leadership opportunities and know that age should never be a barrier to making a meaningful contribution.”
As the Gold Coast continues its journey towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Danika believes the region is entering a defining period for sport.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity ahead of us. The Gold Coast is already one of Australia’s leading sporting cities, but Brisbane 2032 provides a platform to create an even greater legacy for athletes, clubs, volunteers and the broader community.”
“My focus is ensuring Sports Gold Coast continues to be a connector—bringing together business leaders, sporting organisations, government, education providers and community stakeholders to create opportunities that benefit everyone.”
Known for her collaborative leadership style, passion for innovation and ability to bring people together, Danika has built strong relationships across the sporting and business communities throughout her career.
At just 26 years of age, Danika’s journey to CEO has never followed a conventional path. Naturally introverted and often more comfortable working behind the scenes than seeking the spotlight, she has spent years building relationships, delivering events, supporting athletes and helping organisations grow. It is this quiet determination, strong work ethic and willingness to simply get things done that have helped prepare her for the opportunity to lead Sports Gold Coast.
“I’ve always preferred being behind the scenes helping make things happen, so many people may not realise just how involved I’ve been with Sports Gold Coast over the years,” she said.
“It’s an honour to take on this role and lead an organisation that I genuinely believe has the ability to make a significant impact on our city. I’m excited for what comes next.”
Under Danika’s leadership, Sports Gold Coast will continue to focus on strengthening partnerships, supporting sporting organisations, growing member engagement, delivering industry-leading events and creating meaningful connections between business, sport and community.
With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon and the Gold Coast continuing to strengthen its reputation as one of Australia’s premier sporting destinations, Sports Gold Coast believes the future has never looked brighter—and is excited to have Danika Goodman helping shape what comes next.