After being hired by the PWHL's Toronto franchise as new GM, Gina Kingsbury is departing her role with Team Canada, which will now be held by Scott Salmond.
After being hired by the PWHL's Toronto franchise as new GM, Gina Kingsbury is departing her role with Team Canada, which will now be held by Scott Salmond.
Gina Kingsbury will leave her role as vice president of hockey operations and general manager of Canada's national women's program after being hired as the new general manager of the PWHL's new Toronto franchise.
“Gina’s contributions to Hockey Canada have helped create lifelong memories for millions of Canadian hockey fans and we join them in congratulating her on today’s announcement,” said Katherine Henderson, incoming president and chief executive officer of Hockey Canada in a press release. “We are excited to work with Gina and the PWHL to support the upward trajectory of women’s hockey and ensure it continues to grow and inspire the next generation of participants and fans.”
Kingsbury is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and three time World Championship gold medalist as a player with Team Canada, and stepped into her official role with Canada's national team in 2018.
“I am extremely grateful for all my experiences and time with Hockey Canada," said Kingsbury. "Over the years, I have met the most incredible people through this great game and organization, and I want to thank Hockey Canada for providing me the opportunity to represent my country both as an athlete and a vice-president and general manager. It has been an honour and a privilege, and one that I will be forever grateful for. While it is beyond difficult to leave behind what I consider a dream job, I believe this is the best opportunity for me and my family, and I look forward to the challenge of continuing to create opportunities in women’s hockey through the PWHL.”
With Kingsbury's departure, Scott Salmond will now step in to oversee Canada's women's national program.
“I cannot thank Gina enough for her contributions to our hockey operations department and the organization as a whole over the past seven years. She has been instrumental in bringing our National Women’s Team back to the top of the IIHF Women’s World Ranking, and implementing a culture within our program that allows athletes and staff to flourish,” said Salmond senior vice-president of hockey operations. “While it will be difficult to replace someone who brings a strong passion and winning pedigree like Gina does, we wish her all the best in her new role with the PWHL.”