Jim Smith named new president of USA Hockey

By @MichaelCaples –

There’s a new man in charge of USA Hockey.

Jim Smith, a native of Mount Prospect, Ill., was elected president of USA Hockey on June 6 during the organization’s board of directors meeting to conclude their Annual Congress.

Smith takes over for Ron DeGregorio, who recently stepped down from the position after 12 years. He’s no stranger to the organization; Smith has been part of USA Hockey’s executive committee for 20 years, first as secretary and since 2003 as treasurer.

He was a unanimous selection by the board of directors.

“I’m honored and humbled for the opportunity to serve as president of such a wonderful organization,” said Smith in a release from USA Hockey. “To follow in the footsteps of (former USAH president) Walter Bush and Ron DeGregorio is a difficult task, but with the help of our Board and everyone involved, I look forward to continuing to build on the solid foundation that is currently in place.”

Smith will also be the president of the USA Hockey Foundation in his new role.

DeGregorio and Bush are now the co-chairs of the board of directors. Other election news:

John Beadle was re-elected as vice president and chair of the adult council
Dave Klasnick was re-elected as vice president and chair of the youth council
Donna Guariglia was elected as treasurer
Sarah Fraser and Phil Verchota were re-elected as athlete directors
Don Mulder and Mike Bonish were elected as director representatives to the executive committee
Shelley Looney was re-elected as athlete representative to the executive committee