Winnipeg, MB - December 4, 2023 - PLAY Hockey, a world leader in youth hockey events, has announced the appointment of Rhys van Kemenade as Chief Hockey Officer and Josh Thiem as Chief Financial Officer.  

van Kemenade has held numerous leadership roles with PLAY Hockey since 2020 including overseeing regional team programs, elite programming, and expanded experience offerings for guests across PLAY Hockey’s tournament portfolio. van Kemenade has also led innovative growth initiatives that include managed service offerings for youth hockey association events and team programs.

Prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer, Thiem served as President of PLAY Hockey for 3 years and successfully oversaw rapid growth through a number of key strategic acquisitions and initiatives. This transition will provide Thiem with the ability to focus on accelerating the expansion of PLAY’s strategic growth and corporate development initiatives, as well as, manage corporate functions such as financial planning, corporate governance, and accounting. 

“Josh and Rhys have been critical in building our business over the past 3 years” said David Blatt, Co Founder and CEO of Play Hockey. “These changes will accelerate our growth and innovation while at the same time, and most importantly, fortify our ability to consistently deliver a great product for our athletes.”

About PLAY Hockey

PLAY Hockey is a global leader in youth hockey providing memorable experiences to over 100,000 youth hockey players at 105 events around the world.  Event management solutions are also available to associations, teams and hockey organizations.  PLAY Hockey is focused on providing best in class experiences for players, families and our partners to build friendships, have fun, and create memories that last a lifetime.