The San Jose Sharks hired Mike Grier, 47, as the team’s new general manager, breaking a sports glass ceiling. Grier is now the first Black general manager in NHL history, according to CBS Sports.
“I am extremely proud and grateful to be given the opportunity to be the general manager of the San Jose Sharks,” Grier said, according to CBS Sports. “Along with my staff, I look forward to the challenge of building a fast, competitive, and hardworking team that Sharks fans will enjoy watching and be proud of. One of the things I remember most about playing in San Jose is the home ice advantage that our fans bring through their passion and energy, making SAP Center one of the most difficult buildings to play in.”
There is no better source to confirm the news than himself.
Please say hello and hear from our new #SJSharks General Manager, Mike Grier. 👋 pic.twitter.com/kIrBGAU14i
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) July 5, 2022
Owner Hasso Plattner echoed Grier’s sentiments.
“I welcome Mike as the general manager of the Sharks,” Plattner said, according to CBS Sports. “Mike’s successful career on the ice speaks for itself, but what impressed me the most were his leadership qualities and his overwhelming desire to win. Mike is aware of the high standards of success that are expected in San Jose and is committed to help us quickly return to that level.”
Grier brings a lot of experience to his new position. He started as a player before becoming a coach, and later worked as a scout and executive. Now, he will have “overall authority regarding all aspects of the Sharks hockey-related operations,” according to CNN.
Grier spent 14 seasons as an NHL player, participating in more than 1,000 games with the Edmonton Oilers, Washington Capitals, Buffalo Sabres, and San Jose Sharks. He was with the Sharks for three years, CBS Sports reports.
During his time with the Sharks as a player and later as the team’s captain, he recorded 78 points, including 35 goals and 43 assists, CNN reports.
He’s also the younger sibling of NFL Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier. Chris, who has worked with the Dolphins for more than 20 years and has headed the football operations since 2016, showed support for brother’s latest job position.
Statement from Chris Grier on his brother Mike being named General Manager of the @SanJoseSharks. pic.twitter.com/vv59hH7OFN
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) July 5, 2022
Their father, Bobby Grier, also served as a coach, scout, adviser and executive within the NFL, according to CNN.
