Matt Eckert Named New President off Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari

Matt Eckert, who has been at Holiday World and Splashin' Safari since 2000, was named as the new president of the iconic park in Santa Claus, Indiana. The park has been owned and operated by the Koch family since it opened on August 3, 1946 as Santa Claus Land and has grown to be one of the top amusement and waterparks in the country. Holiday World is also home to The Voyage roller coaster, which as of last year, was the number one rated wooden roller coaster in the world. The park is also home to the The Legend and The Raven roller coasters.

Eckert replaces Dan Koch who will return to his home and law practice in Florida. Dan Koch assumed the role of park president in 2010 after the sudden death of his older brother, Will Koch, who died while swimming at his home.

In a news release earlier today, Will Koch's widow and park vice president, Lori said, "Matt was hand-picked by my late husband, Will, to be in a leadership role at the park; I know he would be pleased with our choice." Eckert began his role at the park as controller when he was hired in 2000.

Holiday World will open for its 67th season on May 4 and Splashin' Safari will open on May 10th.