NHLPA Appoints Don Zavelo as New General Counsel

Don Zavelo who has 30 years of experience with the National Labor Relations Board has been appointed as General Counsel to the NHLPA. He could become a household name among hockey fans as the NHLPA and NHL approach negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement for the current contract that expires next summer.

A quick search indicates that Zavelo was involved in investigating an labor complaint against the NHLPA as led by Ted Saskin after the lockout in 2005.

Make the jump for the press release...




DON ZAVELO APPOINTED AS NHLPA’S GENERAL COUNSEL

Toronto (September 14, 2011) - The National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) announced today that Don Zavelo has been appointed as the NHLPA’s General Counsel.

Zavelo joins the NHLPA from the New York office of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) where he worked for over 30 years, including most recently as the Deputy Regional Attorney. During his time at the NLRB, Zavelo was in charge of directing unfair labor practice investigations as well as the trial work performed by the NLRB’s New York attorneys and investigators.

“I am pleased to have Don Zavelo on board in this very important role for the NHLPA. His vast knowledge, legal expertise and experience will serve our membership well,” said Don Fehr, NHLPA Executive Director.

As the NHLPA’s General Counsel, Zavelo will direct the Association’s legal affairs. In this role, Zavelo will handle player grievances, administer the labor agreement on behalf of the players, and participate in the upcoming collective bargaining process.

“I look forward to joining the NHLPA in this capacity,” said Zavelo, the NHLPA’s new General Counsel. “Following my many years of experience with the NLRB, I am pleased to have this new opportunity to join the NHLPA staff and aid them in serving the membership.”

Zavelo will begin his new role with the NHLPA in mid-October, at the Association’s office in Toronto.

More Later...

Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass