QMJHL names Mario Cecchini as new Commissioner

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League announced that Mario Cecchini has been named the new commissioner of the league. He will officially take office on May 8. 

This transition comes just days after 37-year commissioner Gilles Courteau announced his sudden resignation amid scrutiny from politicians over alleged hazing and sexual assault allegations. He was planning on retiring in 2024 following a 47-year career in the Quebec league. The league announced that Martin Lavallee would step in as acting commissioner immediately. 

“Following an exhaustive executive search, the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Board of Members is very pleased to confirm the hiring of Mario Cecchini as Commissioner,” said QMJHL board president Richard Letourneau. “Mr. Cecchini is a very accomplished businessman with vast amounts of experience in sports and media. “He has been the President of several reputable organizations. He will undoubtedly be an important asset for the League going forward and we are extremely pleased to welcome him.” 

Cecchini currently serves as interim president for the Canadian Football League’s Montreal Alouettes. The Quebec-based media executive expressed his excitement to join the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League in a statement. 

“I am looking forward to the start of my mandate and I am excited to join the team. I would like to thank the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Board of Members for their confidence,” Cecchini said. “The QMJHL represents more than 50 years of elite player development, including some of the biggest stars in the history of the National Hockey League. But above all, it is an incredible school of life that offers players all the tools they need to develop in sports, academics and as individuals. Several excellent programs have been put in place. In the coming years, we will have the opportunity with the resources in place to see how we can improve and better communicate them.”