The Bonnyville Pontiacs would like to congratulate Ron Rusnak on his retirement from the team’s executive board.
Over the course of nearly 30 years, Rusnak has held several positions during his time on the Pontiac executive, including president, vice-president, treasurer, governor, and director.
In 2018, Rusnak was appointed as president, a position he’d hold until 2025. Last season, he stepped down from the role to ease the transition of the organization to our current president, Corey Wandler.
With those reins passed now over, and having logged hundreds upon hundreds of hours in board meetings, hockey games, and team operations — Rusnak has retired.
“After spending 20 years with the Jr Pontiacs, it is time for me to step back and let some new faces come on board and experience the satisfaction of being a part of this outstanding organization,” said Rusnak.
“I have the utmost confidence in the people running the team and the personnel they have assembled.”
Rusnak first got involved with the team in 1997, when he began as a director. Over the next three years, he gained experience in other areas of operations, including as treasurer and vice-president.
That treasurer experience came in handy when he decided to return to the board in 2006, fulfilling that position until 2014.
Then, during the season in 2018, Rusnak re-joined the board one more time — this time as president. With his business and financial background, Rusnak helped settle the franchise through hard times, helping to secure a loan with the Lakeland Credit Union to support the long-term stability of the franchise.
The Pontiacs thank Rusnak and his family for all their years of contributions to the organization.
“Our organization wouldn’t be here today without the contributions of so many community members, who have been woven into the fabric of the Bonnyville Pontiacs,” said Neil Langridge, vice-president of operations.
“As we embark on our 35th season of operations, it’s important to recognize Ron, who has held the longest concurrent tenure as president in Bonnyville Pontiacs history.”
Volunteers and community members looking to make an impact and help the Bonnyville Pontiacs as we approach our 35th season of operations, should come on down to the Pontiacs office and learn more about becoming a board member.
Take it from Rusnak: it’s fulfilling taking on a larger role.
“I have had the opportunity to meet and work with some outstanding people and will cherish the relationships. It has been an honour to help promote so many young athletes to the next level of their hockey dreams,” said Rusnak.
