COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Dave Ogrean, executive director of USA Hockey, will remain in that capacity at least through 2014, it was announced today by Ron DeGregorio, president of USA Hockey.
"We're extremely pleased that Dave has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him guiding our organization for the foreseeable future," said DeGregorio. "USA Hockey is fortunate to have someone with his experience, leadership and vision."
Since returning to USA Hockey for his second stint as executive director in August of 2005, Ogrean has helped the organization reach new heights, including an unprecedented partnership with the National Hockey League. Under his leadership, USA Hockey created a new department for membership development that has helped in the resurgence of growth in youth hockey in the U.S.; introduced the revolutionary American Development Model, which provides associations nationwide a blueprint for optimal athlete development for the first time ever; began an annual three-day nationwide celebration called Hockey Weekend Across America to bring additional exposure to the sport; focused efforts on raising the profile of the USA Hockey Foundation; and helped ensure the sustainability of the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame by negotiating a deal that resulted in USA Hockey becoming the legal entity governing the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. Listed among the top 50 in The Hockey News People of Power and Influence, Ogrean served as USA Hockey's executive director from 1993-99 and started his professional career with the organization as its director of public relations from 1978-80.
"It's an honor to lead one of the very best amateur sports organizations in America," said Ogrean. "We have a terrific group of volunteer leaders across the country to work with and also a very talented national office staff. It is with much anticipation that I look forward to each and every day at USA Hockey and I thank the organization for its confidence in me."
