Ice Hockey Players Association Faces Imminent Closure
1st September 2006The listing was posted by CCPR - General
It is not without a considerable amount of sadness that I have to announce the imminent closure of the Ice Hockey Players’ Association.
The impact of complex eye surgery I had to undergo on the 29th August has been more serious than originally anticipated. I am simply not able to continue in office and undertake all the work necessary to enable the IHPA to continue to function. Medical advice given to me particularly advises against a number of activities such as driving and computer work which obviously affects my ability to run and promote the Association as I have done in the past.
I have known of the likelihood of this happening for some 24 months and have in fact postponed the surgery on one previous occasion but had no option to do so this time. Despite my best endeavours during that period I have not been able to find any person or other organisation willing to or able to take over the IHPA in its entirety and to keep it operating in its present form. Therefore in the continued absence of anyone, or a group or other organisation stepping forward to fill the breach by the end of the month, it is my intention to wind up the Associations affairs by the 30th September, just over 12 years since the IHPA was founded in 1993.
The list of those I would like to thank for their contribution towards the IHPA is of course extensive with too many to mention by name. In particular all those players past and present for their support especially those with several years membership under their belt and who have held some form of office either as a Club Rep or member of the Executive. The various Lawyers/Insurers/Brokers who have provided the IHPA with the many services, benefits for members, legal advice and support, those members of the media who have given the IHPA achievements some credit over the years and of course the Professional Players Associations with whom the IHPA has been involved most notably the PFA for their assistance and advice. Particular thanks go to Mark Wagner as the IHPA Legal Consultant and David Gledhill for his work in dealing with the Industrial Injuries for members.
Ice Hockey has gone through continuous turbulent times in three decades I have been associated with it and I have no doubt it will go though a good deal more. I wish all those still involved the very best of good fortune in trying to re-establish was is a great sport back to the level it deserves to be at.
Best Wishes
Jo Collins
Executive Director
IHPA (GB)