Ross Smart Appointed CEO of Classic Sportswear
Classic Sportswear, an iconic Australian sports apparel brand, has appointed experienced sporting administrator Ross Smart as its Chief Executive Officer. This newly created role aims to supercharge the growth and reach of Classic Sportswear.
Acquired by Dina Industries in 2019, Classic Sportswear joined the diverse Uniform Group, which includes Carney Sports Marketing (CSM), Dina Uniform Group, and Australian Apparel Management Services (Transport for NSW). As Classic Sportswear approaches its 90th anniversary in October, it stands poised to reclaim its position as the dominant sporting apparel provider for the National Rugby League, Super Rugby Pacific, and teamwear across New South Wales and Queensland in 2025.
In 2024, Classic Sportswear is proud to collaborate with numerous prestigious teams and organisations, including:
- National Rugby League clubs: South Sydney Rabbitohs NRL, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs NRL, Dolphins NRL, St. George-Illawarra Dragons NRL & NRLW, Cronulla Sharks NRL & NRLW, Newcastle Knights NRL & NRLW.
- Indigenous & Māori All Stars teams (men’s & women’s)
- National teams: Australian Kangaroos, Jillaroos, Prime Ministers XIII, Papua New Guinea Kumuls & Orchids
- Super Rugby Pacific teams: Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders, Highlanders
- Super Rugby Aupiki teams: Blues Women, Chiefs Manawa, Hurricanes Poua, Matatū
Additionally, Classic Sportswear serves hundreds of grassroots and semi-elite rugby league, rugby union clubs across Australia and New Zealand.
Warren Carney, Managing Director of Dina Industries, expressed confidence in Smart’s recruitment as a catalyst for Classic’s next phase of evolution. “Ross is the perfect fit for Classic Sportswear, providing us with a unique point of difference to support all our current and future customers,” Carney said. “This appointment will undoubtedly bolster Classic’s powerful brand presence from grassroots sports to the elite and professional levels.”
Carney highlighted Smart’s extensive sports background across NRL and Super Rugby, complemented by his media experience, as key assets that will enhance Classic Sportswear's competitive advantage. “I’m excited to have Ross join our journey, and it presents another opportunity to showcase our passion and purpose, making Classic the right fit for everyone.”
Ross Smart, joins Classic Sportswear after nearly six years as Chief Commercial Officer of the Newcastle Knights. His resume also includes roles with the Bulldogs, Parramatta Eels, and New South Wales Waratahs. Smart expressed his enthusiasm for leading such an esteemed brand. “I’m enormously proud to work for Classic Sportswear, and I am grateful to Warren, the shareholders, and the entire team for their confidence in appointing me to lead this great organisation,” Smart said. “Classic has always been synonymous with quality and remains a significant player in the Australasian sporting landscape. I look forward to contributing to its continued growth in the years to come.”
