The West Kelowna Warriors have announced that Chris Laurie will step away from his role as President. While his departure will be effective immediately, Chris will be actively involved assisting in the transition. Chris has served as President of the team since the ownership change in 2019. Chris caps his second stint with the Warriors after having been an employee when the team was formed in 2006.
Owner John Murphy commented, “Chris Laurie has been an invaluable member of our organization for the last six years. We took over the team in 2019 and needed to bring stability to all elements of our business. Chris was the perfect person to help us effect a turnaround and breathe new life and energy into our brand. We are sorry to see him go but wish him all the best as he seeks new challenges”
Owner and Managing Partner Rod Hume stated, “Among many accomplishments in his time with the Warriors Chris was successful in bringing our game night presentation to a new level. Fans have responded as our attendance is up significantly and we continually hear feedback that ours is one of the best shows in Junior Hockey.”
A search is underway to hire a Vice President of Business Operations.
soon after the announcement of his departure it was announced Laurie was joining the Penticton Vees of the WHL.
In his new role, Laurie will oversee the business operations for the Vees as they prepare for their inaugural season in the WHL.
“I’m very excited to have Chris join our organization as we move to the WHL. He brings a wealth of experience and knows our community. He was highly recommended by the Warriors’ ownership group,” commented Vees majority owner, Graham Fraser.
Prior to his time in West Kelowna, Laurie worked with the Abbotsford Heat in the American Hockey League and also was the General Manager of the Amarillo Bulls in the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Under his leadership, the Bulls were named the NAHL Organization of the Year and won the NAHL Robertson Cup. Laurie has a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from the University of Alberta.
“I am thrilled to join the Vees organization as we embark on a new journey in the Western Hockey League. I think fans are going to be very pleased with the caliber of hockey and entertainment value,” began Laurie. “We have a strong history and tradition to uphold in Penticton, and we are looking forward to the challenge. The bar has been raised, and we’ll be working hard to raise the standard in preparation for opening night. I would like to thank Graham Fraser and Fred Harbinson for welcoming me into the Vees family.”
