Bob Nicholson steps down as Hockey Canada boss

Bob Nicholson formally announced Friday that he will be stepping down as Hockey Canada'spresident and chief executive officer, effective June 1.

The organization confirmed the move in a press release Friday, before Nicholson spoke at a news conference heldat the Toronto Maple Leafs' practice facility.

"My legacy is only going to be about how good Hockey Canada is when I finish, and I know it's going to be great," Nicholson said, fighting back tears. "Thanks to all the Canadians for allowing me to do this job."

Nicholson, 60, a native of Penticton, B.C., has been at the helm of Hockey Canada since 1998.He has been involved in amateur hockey since 1979, when he was hiredas technical director with the British Columbia Amateur Hockey Association.

Nicholson moved on to the national scene in 1990, becoming vice-president of programs with the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association for two years and vice-president of the Canadian Hockey Association forsix years before taking the reins at Hockey Canada.

During his tenure as president and CEO, Canada has won seven Olympic gold medals, 12 world junior titles, five men's world championships and 10 women's world championships.

'Special ride'

Nicholson said he began thinking aboutleavingafter this year's Olympics, where the Canadian men's and women's teams both won gold medals.

It was such a special ride in Sochi and its just timefor me to move on. [The time] is right and the organization is in great shape.

Nicholson said he will stay on as vice-president of the International Ice Hockey Federation, a position he has held since Sept. 25, 2012. Beyond that, he wasn't sure what he'll do next.

"Im going to see if I can get my old job back on the gold range picking up golf balls for the summer," he joked.

Hockey Canada's board of directors will set a process and timeline for the naming of a new president and CEO over the coming months, according to a press release.

Nicholson's advice for his successor?

Care about the game," he said. "Make sure its safe. Make sure you arein Flin Flon and all the small minor hockey communities across the country. Talk about sledge hockey. Talk about womens hockey. The other stuff will come. We have good partnerships with the NHL and Canadian Hockey League.