The Board of Directors of the new Ontario Elite Hockey League (OEHL) is pleased to announce the hiring of Rick Richardson as the league’s first commissioner.
Richardson recently retired as the Fire Chief of Blandford-Blenheim Fire Department, culminating a career of 41 years in fire service, including the past 21 years as Chief. An experienced hockey executive, he is a past director and chair of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), and a past director of the Ontario Hockey Federation, as well as the current commissioner of Allan Cup Hockey, the OHA’s Sr. “AAA” league.
“Rick’s experience, professionalism and integrity really drew him to us as the right fit as our first commissioner,” said OEHL Chair Gord Lamont. “He understands and has a true appreciation for senior hockey.”
Richardson’s role within the OEHL will be to ensure adherence to the OEHL Manual of Operations, as well as oversee expansion, disciplinary action and dispute resolution. The Commissioner also represents the interests of the OEHL within the Ontario Hockey Association.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to join the OEHL during its inaugural season,” said Richardson. “My long-term goal is to ensure the OEHL thrives and continues to grow across Ontario.”
About the OEHL: Established in 2023, the OEHL is the newest member of the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), building on 80 years of senior “AA” hockey legacy, with 11 teams located in Ontario. The OEHL operates within the jurisdiction of the OHA and Hockey Canada, providing the highest quality of family-friendly entertainment in small communities.
