Dave Ogrean retiring as USA Hockey executive director

Dave Ogrean will retire as USA Hockey executive director effective Aug. 1 but remain with the organization in an advisory capacity.

The announcement was made by USA Hockey president Jim Smith on Thursday.

Ogrean, who has served as executive director since Aug. 1, 2005, and also held the position from 1993-99, began his professional career with USA Hockey as director of public relations from 1978-80.

A national search for a new executive director will begin immediately.

"I've been very fortunate to work with the best volunteers and staff anyone could ask for, in a sport that I couldn't be more proud to be associated with," Ogrean said in a statement. "Together, we've accomplished many terrific things. I'm happy to remain involved to assist Jim and my successor, and know the best days for USA Hockey are ahead. But I look forward to having time for pursuits I've put off the last several years, including in the Colorado Springs community."

The United States won 55 medals in major international competition, including 28 gold, 17 silver, and 10 bronze, with Ogrean serving as executive director.

Additionally, the number of players now participating within USA Hockey has more than doubled under Ogrean's watch to 542,583 as of 2016.

- NHL