(Calgary) Katherine Henderson has been named president and chief operating officer of Hockey Canada, the nation’s hockey organization announced Tuesday.
Henderson, who has spent the past seven years in the role of president of operations for Curling Canada, will lead an organization that has been trying to reinvent itself since last year, following the numerous scandals that led to the departure of many leaders.
“The future of hockey is limitless,” Henderson said in a statement. Playing and watching hockey, in a winter sports nation with a rich tradition of ice and snow sports, is undoubtedly part of the Canadian identity.
“I am excited to work with our Board of Directors, staff, athletes, members, local associations, business and hockey partners, fans, and participants. to ensure that all Canadians have an experience with this sport that is suitable for everyone,” she added.
Hockey Canada has been littered with numerous scandals and its handling of allegations of sexual misconduct — not to mention payments made to some alleged victims to buy their silence.
As a result, the federal government and many corporations stopped funding the organization. And the bond of trust between the population and the organization has been broken.
Hockey Canada’s board of directors, along with its interim president Andrea Skinner, resigned en masse last October. President and COO Scott Smith also left the ship.
Retired judge Hugh L. Fraser was then named president of Hockey Canada, and the organization’s board of directors was filled.
“Katherine has the track record and the experience to lead the transformation of Hockey Canada that is underway,” Fraser said. With her at the helm of the organization, we are certain that we will continue to take the steps necessary to ensure that hockey is a safe and inclusive sport, and that Hockey Canada benefits from exemplary governance. »
Henderson will officially start in Toronto on September 4.
