CALGARY, Alberta – The following is a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from president and chief executive officer Katherine Henderson, on the passing of Murray Costello.

“Hockey Canada is deeply saddened to learn that long-time hockey executive Murray Costello, who led the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA) and Hockey Canada as president for two decades, passed away Saturday at the age of 90, surrounded by his family.

Born in South Porcupine, Ontario, Murray played four seasons in the National Hockey League with the Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings, which began his long and storied career in hockey.

As the president of the CAHA, Murray created the Program of Excellence and was instrumental in organizing the first International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Women’s Championship in 1990. Four years later, he led the merger of the CAHA and Hockey Canada.

Internationally, Murray was a member of the IIHF Council from 1998 to 2012, including as vice-president for five years, and was a fierce advocate for the growth of women’s hockey in Canada and around the world.

In 2005, Murray was inducted as a builder into the Hockey Hall of Fame, one of many accolades he received recognizing his significant accomplishments to the sport.

He became an IIHF Lifetime Member in 2012 and was appointed as an officer of the Order of Canada one year later. Among his other accomplishments, Murray was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and IIHF Hall of Fame, and was invested into the Order of Hockey in Canada.

Hockey Canada sends our condolences to Murray’s family and friends, and everyone he positively impacted throughout his life and tremendous career in hockey. His legacy will continue to benefit hockey in Canada and internationally for generations to come.”