(September 8, 2025) – The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) announced today the addition of Aneysha Bhat as Director, Government Affairs & Strategic Advocacy. Bhat officially joined SFIA on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, and will be responsible for leading SFIA’s government affairs and strategic advocacy efforts to shape policies that promote sports and fitness participation across America and ensure industry vitality.
Bhat brings extensive experience to SFIA from her previous roles, which include the Founder of Annova Strategies, an independent consulting firm, Senior Manager of Federal Affairs at the Computer & Communications Industry Association, Deputy Associate Administrator in the Small Business Administration’s Office of Congressional & Legislative Affairs, and as a legislative staffer in the Office of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth.
Throughout her career, Bhat has been a catalyst for innovation and strategic policy advocacy – spearheading product and policy development, shaping legislative engagement, cultivating strong stakeholder partnerships, and leading the successful implementation of high-impact policies, initiatives, and projects across the private and public sectors.
“The addition of Aneysha to the team is a win for SFIA, our members, and our industry’s voice in Washington, DC, and beyond. Her impressive background and vast experience will be instrumental in advancing our legislative priorities and strengthening strategic relationships on Capitol Hill and around Washington,” said Bonnie McLaughlin, Vice President of External Affairs & Industry Relations at SFIA. “We are confident she will be a powerful advocate for SFIA’s key industry initiatives and a driving force in our efforts to advance smart policies and serve SFIA’s mission.”
Bhat’s arrival to SFIA comes at a critical moment for the sports and fitness industry, as tariffs continue to escalate costs and negatively impact sports and fitness participation. She will be responsible for expanding the industry’s presence on Capitol Hill and championing policies that help eliminate accessibility and affordability barriers to sports and fitness participation for all Americans.
Media Contact:
Lisa Futterman | [email protected]
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ABOUT SFIA: The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) is the leading trade association for the sports and fitness industry, representing over 700 brands, manufacturers, retailers, and governing bodies who collectively employ more than 375,000 people and generate $150 billion in domestic sales. With a mission of increasing sports and fitness participation and promoting industry vitality, SFIA provides thought leadership, advocacy, research, and membership services that empower its members and drive industry growth. SFIA’s leading research and comprehensive insights help members make informed decisions, while its advocacy efforts champion physical health and economic impact. To learn more about joining SFIA’s network dedicated to advancing the sports and fitness industry, please visit sfia.org.