It is with mixed emotions that the Ontario Minor Hockey Association announces the retirement of Executive Director Richard Ropchan, effective December 31, 2016.

Richard has been involved with the OMHA for 19 years, beginning with his time as Director of Development Programs before serving as Executive Director for the last 15 years. The Leamington, Ontario native was instrumental in growing the game and is leaving a positive impact on the thousands of minor hockey players who laced up skates during his tenure. 

“This is the right time to step away for me personally to be able to spend more time with my family,” said Ropchan. “This is probably one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make because of my lifelong passion for hockey development. I’d like to personally thank the OMHA Board of Directors who I have the utmost respect and appreciation for and of course the office staff who I have had the pleasure of working with on a day to day basis.”

In his position as Executive Director, Richard oversaw the introduction of online player registration, increased player movement opportunities, a comprehensive online presence, Code of Conduct standards and policies and the Respect in Hockey initiative just to name a few. He was responsible for managing the day-to-day business operations of the world’s largest minor hockey association and providing leadership and support to its 228 member centres.

“Richard has been an exemplary leader for the Ontario Minor Hockey Association,” said OMHA President Rob Ring. “We want to thank him for his many years of service and his commitment to making the OMHA a model organization."

“I think this is a really exciting time for the organization,” said Ropchan. “With a strong vision and path in place, I believe the OMHA will continue its long tradition of leading minor hockey in Canada.”

On behalf of all 228 associations and members from across the Ontario Minor Hockey Association we would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Richard for his dedication and commitment to growing minor hockey over the last 19 years.