When the Holiday Bowl debuted in San Diego in 1978, the first paid employee of the San Diego Bowl Game Association was Bruce Binkowski. The man has been there ever since.
Now, after 37 years of service, the last 14 as executive director, Bruce Binkowski is retiring from the SDBGA. During his 37-year tenure, the organization has generated more than $730 million in economic impact for the region through the National University Holiday Bowl and San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl, which he spearheaded.
Binkowski, who was recently honored with a lifetime achievement award by the San Diego Hall of Champions, will remain on staff for a 38th year as executive consultant, then turn over the organization he shaped to Mark Neville, started as an intern with the Holiday Bowl in 1991 and has been in charge of the bowl’s sponsorship, marketing, advertising and media relations efforts.
“Bruce’s leadership through the years has been exemplary and a key reason the bowl games enjoy the success they realize today,” said SDBGA President Vincent Mudd. “We are so appreciative of Bruce’s leadership for so many years and we are happy he will continue to serve us and assist with the transition to our new director. He will prove to be an invaluable asset to Mark as he steps in to fill his shoes.”
