Sports publicist Don Franken in recent weeks has taken chairmanship of the Public Relations Society of America’s Sports and Entertainment section.

In this capacity, Franken will spearhead the organization’s programming, professional development and membership recruitment within that sector. Franken is president and co-founder of Marina Del Rey-based agency World Class Sports.

In an interview, Franken admitted to being a relatively new member of the professional organization, but he felt now was the right time to be involved.

“I’d go occasionally to an event. At this stage of my career, I have a little more time, and I see the value of it,” he said. “The reason I got more involved with PRSA is, I see so many incredibly dynamic people in entertainment and sports, and I love the idea of the fusion of both.”

Good timing

Franken’s contribution’s to PRSA’s sports and entertainment outreach will likely be valuable in the next few years, considering L.A.’s hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 Super Bowl LXI and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In fact, his first event as chair was organizing a panel of publicists to discuss behind-the-scenes perspectives on the upcoming Super Bowl, moderated by NBC Sports Radio host Kate Delaney. Franken is also involved with the World Cup’s planning committee in L.A. and has consistently represented Olympians in his capacity as a publicist.

“I think that L.A. is really the center, the nucleus of the sports world right now,” he said. “This is just a beautiful place to be the next few years. I’m very excited about the possibilities.”

Since its founding in 1982, World Class Sports has booked more than 5,500 athletes in endorsements, commercials and various campaigns. Past clients include Steve Kerr, Terry Bradshaw, Deacon Jones, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Evel Knievel. It is co-managed by Vice President Andy Woolf.