Newly-retired Eric Lindros accepts new Ombudsman position with NHLPA

TORONTO - Recently retired centre Eric Lindros was named ombudsman for the National Hockey League Players' Association on Sunday.

The newly created position, under the recently ratified NHLPA constitution, will have Lindros resolving any complaints by members and/or staff of the NHLPA, reporting directly to the executive board.

Lindros will also serve as a non-voting member of the executive board, while supervising and co-ordinating the activities of the Divisional Player Representative program.

"I have a tremendous amount of pride in this Association, and a great respect for the likes of Ted Lindsay, Carl Brewer and the many other principled individuals who helped create opportunities for players like myself," Lindros said in a statement.

"To be chosen as the players' ombudsman is quite an honour, and I look forward to working hard for the membership as we enter what promises to be an exciting era for the NHLPA."

Lindros, a former No. 1 pick, announced his retirement Thursday after 13 NHL seasons.

The NHLPA also announced the promotion of associate counsel Ian Penny to the role of general counsel.

Penny will be a non-voting member of the executive board and will be responsible for legal and policy advice and directing the Association's legal affairs.

Penny will continue to assist in matters such as grievance arbitration and negotiations. Penny joined the NHLPA as associate counsel in 2000, after 12 years at the National Labour Relations Board (NLRB).