Red Wings' GM to speak at GR luncheon

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland will be the featured speaker at the 3rd Annual West Michigan Sports Commission Luncheon on Sept. 23.

Widely acknowledged as the most successful general manager in the NHL, Holland's reputation got another boost when the Red Wings made it to the 2009 Stanley Cup final. It was Holland's fourth as Red Wings' GM.

"We are absolutely thrilled that Ken has agreed to join us in September," said West Michigan Sports Commission Executive Director Mike Guswiler. "The Detroit Red Wings have had an outstanding season, and we know there are huge demands on Ken's time looking toward 2009-2010. His commitment demonstrates the very strong relationship the Red Wings enjoy with their AHL affiliate, our own Grand Rapids Griffins."

Following his playing career as goaltender with the Hartford Whalers, Holland joined the Detroit Red Wings as a scout in Western Canada in the mid-80s. He served seven years as director of amateur scouting and three as assistant general manager. On July 18, 1997, he was promoted to his current position of general manager/executive vice president/alternate governor of the Red Wings. The 2008-09 season was his 12th as GM and his 26th year overall with the Red Wings organization.

The Red Wings have qualified for the playoffs in each of Holland's 12 seasons as GM, winning eight consecutive Central Division titles. In the same period, the team has posted an NHL-record nine consecutive 100-point seasons and has won more games than any other franchise in the NHL, including three Stanley Cups in 1998, 2002, and 2008. Their 51-21-10 record in 2008-09 made them just the third team in NHL history to win 50 or more games in four consecutive seasons.

Holland will bring his message of management leadership and success to an expected crowd of 800 business, sports and community leaders at the 2009 luncheon. The event serves as the West Michigan Sports Commission's annual report to the community and primary community fund raising event.

"This isn't just an event for hockey fans or even sports enthusiasts. It's for anyone who wants to hear from a top name in professional sports management," stated Guswiler. "And it's for everyone who would like to see West Michigan become a premier venue for major youth and amateur sporting events."

The WMSC helped draw and support more than 75 major events that have or will be hosted in the area since its launch in 2007. The estimated economic impact resulting from these events is more than $30 million in direct visitor spending.

The luncheon location will be announced soon. Tickets are $500 per table of eight or $75 per person and are available by calling (616) 233-3562. Luncheon information is also available online at www.westmichigansportscommission.com.