NHL
Hayley Wickenheiser hired by Leafs in Player Development Role
One of the greatest female hockey players of all time, Hayley Wickenheiser, has been hired by the Leafs as the team’s director of player development.
Although the four-time gold medalist never played in the NHL, her resume clearly stands out. Few people have accomplished as much as she has. In the 276 games she played as a member of Canada’s women national ice team, she racked up 168 goals and 211 assists in 276 games. That comes out to about 1.37 points per game which over that amount of time is insane.
Not only is she amazing on the ice, but after retiring last year, she went to medical school in Calgary. Wickenheiser already has a bachelors degree in kinesiology (2013) and a masters degree in science (2015).
Another bold move by Dubas
Not only is Wickenheiser impressive, but it also continues to show how impressive the Leafs GM, Kyle Dubas continues to be. Before his hiring as GM of the Leafs, Dubas was the GM of the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs AHL affiliate. During his time there, he brought the team to the Calder Cup and won in 2017. After the Leafs had a GM position open this past year, they immediately hired Dubas. Since taking over, he has signed John Tavares to a 7-year contract and now hiring Wickenheiser.
It also shows how Dubas is looking to hire people based on their abilities, not gender.
“The biggest reason why I was intrigued about this role is that Kyle (Dubas) was interested in me – not to hire a woman, but to hire someone who could do the job.” – Wickenheiser
Along with the Wickenheiser hiring, the Leafs also hired Noelle Needham as an amateur scout.
This is not only one big step for women, but for hockey as well.
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