NHL union gets new executive director

TORONTO, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Former U.S. Attorney Paul Kelly was named Wednesday as the executive director of the NHL Players' Association.

"Paul relentlessly pursued a breach of ethics in this union, and that knowledge of our history will undoubtedly drive him to restore integrity to this position and to our association," said Chris Chelios of the Detroit Red Wings.

Chelios was a member of the search committee that nominated Kelly.

"His resume is beyond impressive and he is passionate about protecting our best interests," Chelios said.

Kelly was elected by a secret ballot of the players and becomes the fourth person to hold the position.

Kelly was involved in the investigation of former NHLPA Alan Eagleson. He took over from Ted Saskin, who was dismissed last spring following allegations he ordered the spying of players' e-mails.