WHL extends contract of commission Ron Robison for three years

CALGARY — The Western Hockey League’s board of governors has extended the contract of commissioner Ron Robison for three years.

Robison’s 22nd season as commissioner in 2021-22 will make him the longest-serving ahead of Ed Chynoweth’s 21 years between 1973 and 1979, and 1980 and 1985. 

Robison of Indian Head, Sask., joined the WHL in 2000 after 20 years as a Hockey Canada executive. His contract extension runs through the 2023-24 season.

The WHL has expanded by four teams during Robison’s tenure. 

The WHL and its Ontario and Quebec major junior league counterparts in the Canadian Hockey League were defendants in a lawsuit in 2020.

The CHL agreed to a settlement with players who argued they were professionals when they played in those leagues and sued for back wages and benefits.

Robison guided the WHL through the COVID-19 pandemic and delivered a shortened 2020-21 season.

“Over 21 years, Ron has done a tremendous job of continually elevating the Western Hockey League, including guiding the WHL through the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring all clubs were able to deliver a development season for WHL players,” WHL board chairman Bruce Hamilton said Friday in a statement.

“As we emerge from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ron’s continued leadership will be vital for the WHL to maintain its standing as a world leader in hockey development, player experience, and hockey scholarships.”

The WHL is comprised of 22 clubs from Manitoba to B.C., and in two U.S. states,

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 18, 2021.

The Canadian Press