Katherine Henderson, the President and CEO of Hockey Canada, is steering the national organization toward a brighter future while confronting what she describes as "dark places in hockey culture." Now in her second year as the first female leader in the organization's history, Henderson is focused on a great season of amateur sport, the upcoming Winter Olympics, and bringing international women’s hockey events to Canada.
A Leader Forged in Sport and Business
Henderson brought a unique and powerful resume to the top job at Hockey Canada. A self-described hockey mom who was actively involved in her children's sports teams, her professional background is equally impressive. Before taking the helm at Hockey Canada, she served as the CEO of Curling Canada, where she was a champion for pay equity and initiatives to engage new Canadians in the sport.
Her career began in the corporate world, with roles in marketing and branding at major companies like Whirlpool Corporation and Colgate Palmolive Canada. She holds an MBA from York University and, showcasing her diverse interests, a master’s in theological studies from the University of Toronto.
Steering Through a Crisis
Henderson's appointment came at a critical time for Hockey Canada, as the organization was reeling from a major scandal. The controversy stemmed from an alleged sexual assault involving five players from Canada’s 2018 men’s world junior team following a Hockey Canada gala.
Although the five men, who were NHL players at the time charges were laid in January 2024, were all acquitted in July 2024, the case cast a long shadow. The NHL has since announced the players can return to the league as of December 1, 2024. However, Hockey Canada maintains its own sanctions, and the players remain suspended from playing, coaching, or volunteering with the organization pending an independent adjudicative process.
Building a Safer, More Inclusive Future
While Henderson declined to comment on the specific trial or the ongoing adjudicative process, her mission is clear. She is dedicated to addressing the reputational damage and fundamentally improving the culture within the sport.
"I think there’s a recognition that there are some dark places in hockey culture that we collectively as Canadians have to take ownership of, and we are doing quite a bit of work on that at Hockey Canada," Henderson stated. Her strategy involves developing a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy the national winter sport.
As a leader who values community athletics, Henderson's personal commitment to this transformation is deeply rooted. Her goal is not only to repair the organization's image but to celebrate and grow hockey across the nation, ensuring it is a positive force for all participants.
