Organization Update

Earlier this week, the Board of the Ringette Association of Saskatchewan (RAS) received, with sincere regret, the resignation of its Executive Director Ruchelle Himmelspeck.  She will be leaving RAS effective December 10, 2021.

Ruchelle came from a background in municipal government and was new to the world of sport administration when she joined Ringette Saskatchewan in May 2015.  She has grown and evolved into a valued leader within this Association and is a highly respected member of the provincial sport community and national ringette community.

During her six and a half year tenure as Executive Director, Ruchelle has efficiently managed the operations of the Ringette Saskatchewan office and staff and has been the point of contact for our member associations.  She has successfully led the RAS Board through the development of the strategic direction and offered invaluable input into important policies as our sport grows and evolves.  She has coordinated the Canada Winter Games process and most recently was instrumental in the re-establishment of a National Ringette League team in Saskatchewan.

Ruchelle’s strong leadership skills, her proactive approach, and calm demeanor was invaluable in leading RAS though the constant turmoil that came with COVID-19.  Her respected reputation as a leader and her high level of professionalism allowed her to effectively advocate for our sport with the Saskatchewan Government Business Response Team.  Her timely and efficient development and adoption of policy ensured continuation of ringette activities while protecting our athletes and other members.

Ruchelle has accepted a position with the Town of White City as the Manager of Parks, Recreation and Culture.  The Board sincerely wishes her all the best in her new position and wants to express their grateful appreciation for her contributions to this sport and to our ringette community.

RAS will be commencing the recruitment process for the Executive Director position in the next few days.

Leanne Walter

President

Ringette Association of Saskatchewan