Tom Renney to step down as president of Hockey Canada

Tom Renney will step down as Hockey Canada president July 1, 2017, giving way to current chief operating officer Scott Smith, Renney announced Thursday.

Renney will remain with the organization as CEO.

"I see an opportunity for Hockey Canada to be more effective in delivering on our growing mandate here in Canada and internationally by separating the roles of president and chief executive officer, and our board of directors has endorsed my view," Renney said. "Scott and I have very complementary skillsets and approaches, but just as importantly, this also allows us to recognize Scott’s demonstrated abilities as a leader and high-performer with a commitment to, and passion for, the game."

Smith joined Hockey Canada in 1995, and was named COO in 2007.