Hockey world mourns the death of beloved commissioner
Photo credit: Image via The Canadian Hockey League
The hockey world has lost a pioneer of the sport of hockey, as former OHL commissioner and CHL President David Branch passed away at 77 years old.
Some sad news is coming out of the hockey world today as it was revealed that David Branch has passed away at 77.
For those who are unaware, Branch was the commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League for 45 years between 1979 and 2024.
He was also the President of the CHL for 23 years between 1996 and 2019. Branch cared deeply about hockey and sought to make the OHL better at every turn.
David Branch was a beloved figure
Current OHL commissioner Bryan Crawford had nothing but good things to say about Branch and his work in the hockey world.
«This is a very sad day for a lot of people,» OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford said. «David's contributions to the game of hockey will continue to impact the game for generations. The entire league mourns the loss of a great leader and visionary who oversaw the growth and evolution of the Ontario Hockey League, always prioritizing the players and putting their experience first.»
As for current CHL president Dan MacKenzie, he was adamant that the CHL is what it is today because of the work that Branch did year in and year out.
«The CHL would not be the top development hockey league in the world without David Branch,» CHL President Dan MacKenzie said. «His relentless focus on the player experience, both on and off the ice, will be his greatest legacy, as the game is safer, faster, and more skilled because of his influence and leadership. David had both the vision and the will to do big things, and he brought people together to get them done. He was a true builder, and his rightful place should be in the Hockey Hall of Fame one day.»
There are some real unsung heroes in the hockey world, and there is no denying that Branch was one of them.
We are sending our condolences to the Branch family during this very difficult time.
RIP to a legend of the sport.
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