Chicago Blackhawks mourn loss of beloved former forward and visionary leader
Photo credit: Icethetics
Blackhawks mourn the loss of Murray Costello, former player and esteemed executive.
In a sorrowful announcement today, the hockey community is remembering Murray Costello, a former forward and pivotal figure in hockey administration, who has passed away at the age of 90.
Starting his NHL journey with the Blackhawks on October 11, 1953, Costello's career spanned four seasons across three teams, including the Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings.
" Hockey Canada is deeply saddened to learn that long-time executive Murray Costello, who led the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and Hockey Canada as president for two decades, passed away Saturday at the age of 90, surrounded by his family," Hockey Canada expressed. An illustrious builder, Costello's contributions earned him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2005.
During his time in the NHL, Costello accumulated 32 points (13 goals, 19 assists) over 163 regular season games. However, his most enduring legacy stems from his extensive service off the ice.
As president of Hockey Canada from 1979 to 1998, he was instrumental in initiating the Program of Excellence which greatly influenced Canada's junior hockey success.
" The National Hockey League mourns the passing of Murray Costello, whose service to hockey, both in Canada and at the international level, over a seven-decade career fundamentally impacted the game," the NHL stated. "Following a four-season playing career in the NHL, Costello earned induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2005 as a builder for his transformational leadership of both the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and Hockey Canada, and his vision and passion drove both the establishment of the IIHF Women's World Championship and the addition of women's hockey to the Olympics. "
Costello's vision in the early '80s is credited with securing 10 gold medals for Canada at the world junior level, including an unprecedented five consecutive wins from 1993 to 1997.
His legacy also includes his induction into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame in 2013, the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2014, and the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
As the hockey world pays tribute to Murray Costello's remarkable life and career, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. His indelible mark on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.
| POLL | ||
30 JUILLET | 18 ANSWERS Chicago Blackhawks mourn loss of beloved former forward and visionary leader Do you remember this fallen Blackhawk? | ||
| Yes | 6 | 33.3 % |
| No | 12 | 66.7 % |
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