Furies announce Sami Jo Small as new general manager

One of the CWHL’s co-founders steps off the ice and into a front office

This morning, the Toronto Furies announced their new general manager: co-founder of the CWHL, three-time Olympian, and Clarkson Cup champion Sami Jo Small.

Small will no longer be a player for the Furies, the league confirmed. The goaltender played in four games last season for the Furies and has been with the organization for 15 seasons.

The number of roles that Small has filled off the ice is, well, large. She has been the team representative to the CWHL Players Association (CWHLPA), as well as Vice Chairman and Sponsorship Chair for the league. Her new role as general manager seems like a natural extension of her time in the CWHL.

From the press release:

“I love the opportunity to work with diverse individuals who collectively share the same goals and I’m excited to bring my expertise I gained helping to start the league to the future of the Furies,” commentated Small. “I want the Furies to be a place players want to play. I want our staff and volunteers to feel valued for the tireless work they put in. I want to reach out and engage our amazing alumni who have so much to offer as role models and mentors for the current generation. Most importantly, I want to provide fans with an incredible sports experience when they come to see the Furies play.”

The two-time Olympic gold medalist is also a professional speaker traveling North America to speak on the importance of team work.

Small’s first order of business will be finding new goaltenders. Sonja van der Bliek, the Furies’ main goalie last season, is heading overseas to the SDHL’s Brynäs IF. With Small’s move to the front office that only leaves Amanda Makela as a possible returning tender. Makela played in 10 games last season and had a .889 save percentage.