Pat Kelleher has been the executive director of USA Hockey since 2017 ©USA Hockey

Executive director of USA Hockey Pat Kelleher, who has served in the position since June 2017, has received a contract extension.

Mike Trimboli, President of USA Hockey, praised Kelleher for his assistance in the organisation's success.

"Pat’s steady leadership, including through the extraordinary times of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been a key reason for the continued strength of our organization," said Trimboli.

"His roots in the sport are deep and he brings a unique perspective, background and skill set that we’re extremely fortunate to have in guiding the organization."

Kelleher is one of the top 20 members of The Hockey News list of the Top 100 People of Power and Influence in the sport.

USA Hockey has won two Olympic golds, one in Squaw Valley 1960 and one in Lake Placid 1980 ©Getty Images
USA Hockey has won two Olympic golds, one in Squaw Valley 1960 and one in Lake Placid 1980  ©Getty Images

He is also a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame Board of Directors and the chair of the National Governing Bodies Council.

"I’m honoured to continue to lead USA Hockey and am appreciative of the confidence shown in me by Mike and our Board," said Kelleher.

"A special thanks to the thousands of grassroots volunteers who provide the foundation for hockey in communities all across the country, as well as to our incredible USA Hockey staff members, and our partners who help our sport continue to reach new heights."

USA Hockey looks to regain their glory at the Winter Olympics in the men's event, as their last first place finish was at Lake Placid 1980.

However, the women's team finished on top of the podium at Pyeongchang 2018.