USA Hockey’s Jim Johannson dies at 53
By Matt Morrow
USA Hockey general manager Jim Johannson passed away unexpectedly at the age of 53, leaving major shoes to fill.
On Sunday morning, the shocking news came down that Johannson passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at the age of 53. He left behind his wife of seven years, Abigail, and his daughter, Ellie.
Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy was one of many people in the hockey community to offer his condolences, and express how passionate Johannson was towards the game of hockey.
Shocked and Deeply saddened by this news. JJ gave me the opportunity to represent USA and I’ll always be thankful to him for that. His fun loving personality was infectious. He went above and beyond to make the USA hockey experience so unforgettable. He will be missed by so many! https://t.co/bQrbSGxNgx
— Charlie McAvoy (@CMcAvoy44) January 21, 2018
Johannson joined USA Hockey in 2000 as a manager of international activities and U.S Olympic Committee relations, per USA Hockey. Jim worked his way up to the top, also serving as Senior Director of Hockey Operations and Assistant Executive Director of Hockey Operations at different points in his career.
A two-time Olympian himself, Johannson was tasked with putting together teams and coaching staffs for USA Hockey’s international competition. Arguably his biggest success in that manner came in 2010, when the U.S. National Junior Team that he put together won the gold medal.
But, he wasn’t just a general manager. He played nine seasons in the International Hockey League, helped lead the University of Wisconsin to a national championship and played for the U.S. National Team.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement on the passing of Johannson, touching on his impact:
Statement from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on the passing of Jim Johannson of USA Hockey: pic.twitter.com/fbaWMenFGI
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) January 21, 2018
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While mourning is taking place throughout the athletic community, USA Hockey now has a large void to fill. Johannson was the general manager of the USA Men’s Olympic team that is set to compete in South Korea, and their first game is on Feb. 14.
You can keep up with all things Team USA here.