The Ontario Hockey League has named Golf Canada Executive and former CFL running back, Bryan Crawford, as the league's new commissioner.
The Ontario Hockey League announced the person who will be taking over for David Branch as the league’s new commissioner, Bryan Crawford.
Crawford brings an extensive sports background, which includes golf and football. He was a running back for the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League between 2005-2011. He played in 112 games for the Argo’s and retired as the club’s franchise leader in special teams tackles with 137.
Crawford also held leadership roles within Golf Canada and the PGA Tour. And was the Director of the RBC Canadian Open golf tournament, which has seen a rapid growth in attendance numbers over the last five years.
“It’s an honor to be named Commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League and I am thrilled to be joining one of the great sport institutions in our country,” said Crawford in a statement via the Ontario Hockey League.
“I am excited by the opportunity to build upon the legacy being left by David Branch,” Crawford continued saying.
David Branch announced his retirement as league commissioner last August. He mentioned that it has been a pleasure to work alongside some of the most outstanding people in the game both on and off the ice, but it was time to move on.
Branch held his position as the OHL’s commissioner since 1979. Additionally, he was the Canadian Hockey League’s president, overseeing all three major junior leagues in the country (OHL, WHL, and QMJHL) until 2019 when current president Dan McKenzie was named.
Crawford attended university in Ontario and graduated from Queen’s University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies & Development. He was also involved in athletics, playing football, and participating in track & field during his time at the university.
Bryan Crawford’s tenure as the Ontario Hockey League’s commissioner will commence on Aug. 6.