Natalie Darwitz has resigned as the general manager of the Minnesota team after leading the PWHL to a historic championship win. It wasn’t just one person, but the collective effort of many individuals over the past five months that contributed to this achievement. The decision to remove Darwitz was announced by PWHL vice president Jayna Hefford following an extensive internal and external review involving players and staff.
Hefford mentioned that feedback received during the review process indicated that a change was necessary for the team to move forward. The review took various factors into consideration, including the departure of coach Charlie Burggraf and the appointment of Ken Klee as his successor. While Hefford did not confirm any specific conflicts, she emphasized that multiple factors influenced the decision to part ways with Darwitz.
Despite the success of winning the championship, the league felt that a deeper evaluation of the team dynamics was needed. Darwitz, a prominent figure in Minnesota hockey, had put together a team of talented players that secured the Walter Cup after defeating Boston. However, the league believed that a change in leadership was essential for the team’s future success.
Ken Klee will continue as the coach while the league searches for a new general manager. He and his staff will oversee the upcoming draft and free-agency decisions. Hefford acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized the league’s commitment to doing what is best for the organization.
The PWHL was established less than a year ago and has seen significant growth in its inaugural season. Despite the challenges faced along the way, the league has broken attendance records and garnered attention for its competitive games. Darwitz’s contributions to the team were recognized, and discussions are ongoing regarding a potential role for her within the PWHL.
The decision to part ways with Darwitz was made after careful consideration and evaluations conducted by the league. While it was a challenging choice to make, Hefford reiterated that the league’s priority is to ensure the success and sustainability of the PWHL. The future of the Minnesota team remains uncertain as the search for a new general manager continues.
In conclusion, the PWHL’s decision to remove Natalie Darwitz as the general manager highlights the league’s commitment to ensuring a successful future for the organization. Despite the challenges faced, the league remains focused on providing a competitive platform for women’s hockey and building on the momentum of its inaugural season.