The Steamer will remain with Canucks as a business and community ambassador
The longest serving employee of the Vancouver Canucks has decided to step away from his day to day involvement with the hockey club.
After 45 years as a player, coach, manager and leader in the Canucks Hockey Operations department, Stan Smyl has announced his intentions to transition out of the team's front office. He will now serve as a community and business ambassador representing the hockey club at a broad range of events.
Drafted by the Canucks in the third round of the 1978 NHL draft, Smyl played 896 games for the organization from 1978 to 1991. He was the captain for eight seasons and helped the team to its first ever Stanley Cup Final in 1982. Smyl was also the first player to have his jersey retired by the organization.
“When I moved to Vancouver in 1978, I could not have imagined the positive journey it would become over the next 40-plus years,” said Smyl, now 65, in a team-issued statement. “This team and community have meant everything to me and my family. We are truly grateful for all of the relationships and experiences we have shared together.”
Smyl had most-recently been a Vice-President of Hockey Operations after serving briefly as interim GM following the dismissal of Jim Benning two years ago.