Former Ontario Hockey League commissioner and Canadian Hockey League president, David Branch, passed away at the age of 77. The OHL and CHL confirmed his death on Monday, noting that he had died the previous Sunday. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Branch held the position of OHL commissioner from 1979 until his retirement in 2024 and served as the president of the CHL from 1996 to 2019. OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford expressed deep sorrow over Branch’s passing, highlighting his significant contributions to hockey and emphasizing his lasting impact on the sport.
In recognition of his influence, the CHL player of the year award was renamed after him during the 2019-20 season. Branch, originally from Bathurst, New Brunswick, and a longtime resident of Whitby, Ontario, was a key figure in the hockey community. He was involved in various prestigious organizations, such as the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, and received accolades for his dedication to the sport.
CHL President Dan MacKenzie praised Branch for his unwavering commitment to enhancing the player experience both on and off the ice. MacKenzie acknowledged Branch’s pivotal role in shaping the league into a premier development platform for aspiring hockey players.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman paid tribute to Branch, hailing him as a trusted colleague who played a crucial role in advancing hockey at all levels. Bettman commended Branch for his lifelong dedication to junior hockey and his focus on player development and well-being.
Branch’s legacy includes pioneering initiatives to prioritize player welfare, including promoting player safety, mental health support, and educational opportunities. He also established the OHL Scholarship Program to ensure players had access to post-secondary education after their time in the league.
Overall, Branch’s impact on the hockey world is characterized by his visionary leadership, dedication to player welfare, and significant contributions to the growth and modernization of junior hockey in Canada.