The hockey world mourns the loss of David Branch, a revered figure in the sport who dedicated his life to the development and well-being of young players. Branch, who served as the commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and president of the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), passed away at the age of 77.
Both the OHL and CHL confirmed his passing, with no specific cause of death disclosed. Branch’s legacy in hockey spans decades, with his tenure as OHL commissioner lasting from 1979 until his retirement in 2024, and his presidency of the CHL from 1996 to 2019.
In recognition of his immense contributions, the CHL renamed the player of the year award in his honor in the 2019-20 season. Additionally, the top OHL executive award was also named after Branch.
A native of Bathurst, New Brunswick, and a longtime resident of Whitby, Ontario, Branch was not only a key figure in junior hockey but also made significant impacts off the ice. He served on the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2016, and was posthumously inducted into the Whitby Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 for his role as a builder in the community.
Throughout his career, Branch prioritized the welfare of players, advocating for initiatives that focused on player safety, mental health support, and educational opportunities. He was instrumental in establishing the OHL Scholarship Program, ensuring that young athletes transitioning from the league had access to post-secondary education.
The OHL paid tribute to Branch, acknowledging his leadership in elevating junior hockey nationwide and setting high standards for the sport. His visionary approach and commitment to the well-being of players have left a lasting impact on the hockey community.