Marie Donoghue, Renowned Sports Executive and DraftKings Leader, Named to the USA Fencing Board of Directors

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Marie Donoghue, a former collegiate fencer at Columbia University and trailblazer in the sports media and entertainment industry, has been named an independent director of the USA Fencing Board, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Donoghue’s appointment follows a comprehensive search process, including vetting by the USA Fencing Nominating Committee and a vote by the USA Fencing Board of Directors. Her term will run through Fall 2025.

Donoghue brings unparalleled expertise and a visionary approach to sports growth and innovation. Currently the Chief Business and Growth Officer at DraftKings, Donoghue has spent her career elevating sports experiences, both in the U.S. and around the world. Her leadership in corporate development, commercial partnerships and international expansion aligns perfectly with USA Fencing’s goals of broadening access and enhancing the sport’s impact nationwide.

“I am honored to join the board of USA Fencing, an organization with a rich tradition of excellence and a bright future,” Donoghue says. “As we work to grow access to the sport, inspire athletes and strengthen the fencing community, I look forward to contributing my experience and passion to help advance USA Fencing's mission and impact both on and off the piste.”

Donoghue’s exceptional career spans some of the most influential organizations in sports. Prior to her current role at DraftKings, Donoghue served as Vice President of Amazon Prime Video’s U.S. Sports Content & Partnerships, where she led Amazon’s acquisition of Thursday Night Football. Her efforts helped position Amazon as a major player in sports media rights, expanding its portfolio to include UEFA Champions League, the NBA and the WNBA, among others.

During her tenure at ESPN, Donoghue was instrumental in launching award-winning projects like 30 for 30 and Grantland. Her contributions to the sports industry have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition on AdWeek’s “Most Powerful Women in Sports” and The Hollywood Reporter’s “Power 100 Women in Entertainment.”

Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing, expressed his excitement about Donoghue’s appointment and her potential impact on the organization.

“Marie Donoghue is an accomplished leader whose extensive experience in sports media and business development will bring an invaluable perspective to USA Fencing,” Andrews says. “Her ability to navigate the intersection of innovation, inclusion and growth is perfectly aligned with our mission to expand access to fencing and inspire the next generation of athletes.”