NHLPA Executive Board Names Lindros Ombudsman

[VodkaFish]

TORONTO - The National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) Executive Board today announced the appointment of Eric Lindros to the newly created Ombudsman position and the promotion of Associate Counsel Ian Penny to the role of General Counsel.

As Ombudsman, a new position created under the recently ratified NHLPA Constitution, Lindros will serve as a non-voting member of the Executive Board and will supervise and coordinate the activities of the Divisional Player Representative program. Lindros will also receive and resolve any complaints by members and/or staff of the Association. He will report directly to the Executive Board.

“I have a tremendous amount of pride in this Association, and a great respect for the likes of Ted Lindsay, Carl Brewer and the many other principled individuals who helped create opportunities for players like myself,” said Eric Lindros. “To be chosen as the players’ ombudsman is quite an honour, and I look forward to working hard for the membership as we enter what promises to be an exciting era for the NHLPA.”

In his new capacity as General Counsel, Penny will report to NHLPA Executive Director Paul Kelly and the Executive Board. Penny will be a non-voting member of the Executive Board and will be responsible for legal and policy advice and directing the Association's legal affairs. Penny will continue to assist in matters such as grievance arbitration and negotiations. Penny joined the NHLPA as Associate Counsel in 2000, after 12 years at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

“It is a privilege and an honour to be selected as the General Counsel for the NHLPA,” said Ian Penny. “I look forward to continuing to work hard on behalf of the Executive Board and all NHLPA members.”

“Eric and Ian help make our Association stronger. Eric worked tirelessly on behalf of his fellow players during the last couple of years and I’m very pleased that he will continue this great work in his post-playing career,” said Paul Kelly, NHLPA Executive Director. “Ian has been a valuable member of the NHLPA for many years and his increased role is one that will be of great benefit to our staff and the NHLPA’s membership.”

[Isles4life]

I believe Lindros was pretty active with the union even after he had stopped playing but before the official retirement announcement. I guess this isn't at all surprising. Too bad he's still a c*nt.

[BStreetBullies]

Nice to see him stick around the NHL, shows his true passion for the game, and also brings some more credibility to his name when the HHOF ballots come out.

It doesn't seem like he has too much power, nor will he make much waves, but it's nice to see a guy who played his style of hockey be respected by "the man".

[fansince65]

Eric Lindros will do a good job for the players union as ombudsman ...
he has taken some special classes at western university in london ont.just to prepair for this job if he got it...
GOOD LUCK ERIC.....