OHL Commissioner David Branch Passes Away at 77
David Branch, the former commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and president of the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), has passed away at the age of 77. The OHL and CHL confirmed his death on Monday, revealing that he died on Sunday, though no cause has been disclosed.
David Branch’s Legacy in Hockey
Branch’s tenure as the OHL commissioner stretched from 1979 until his retirement in 2024. His leadership significantly shaped junior hockey in Canada.
Key Positions and Achievements
- Commissioner of the OHL: 1979–2024
- President of the CHL: 1996–2019
- Order of Hockey in Canada recipient: 2016
- Inducted into the Whitby Sports Hall of Fame: 2017
In recognition of his contributions, the CHL player of the year award was renamed after him for the 2019-2020 season. Additionally, an award honoring the top OHL executive, known as the Leader of the Year Award, was established in his name.
Contributions to Player Welfare
Branch was a strong advocate for player welfare. He prioritized initiatives focusing on safety, mental health, and educational opportunities. One of his notable introductions was the OHL Scholarship Program, aimed at ensuring players could access post-secondary education after their time in the league.
Originally from Bathurst, New Brunswick, Branch later resided in Whitby, Ontario. He served on the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, showcasing his commitment to the sport.
The OHL highlighted Branch’s impact on the league, crediting him with guiding it through a transformative period, enhancing the standards of junior hockey across Canada.
