I obviously wasn't on the call. But I spoke with several of the player reps who called me afterwards to congratulate me.

I know from first-hand discussions I've had with the overwhelming majority of our executive board (which consists of 30 player reps and seven executive officers) along with many more players and key player agents, that there is strong support for our executive committee and for me as the executive director. It was certainly gratifying to hear all the support that I have received from the membership.

I remain fully confident and comfortable that after the education process was done in the fall, and with the hundreds of tests that are going to take place over the next several weeks, it will again be clear to everyone that we do not have a problem in the NHL.

It was not a viable strategy, nor did it make sense.

It's certainly not going to be resurrected after today,

That's part of the (collective bargaining) agreement. Obviously, a lot of people have noted that type of situation and it's something I raised as a concern to the membership.

It's obviously going to be a fantastic showcase of hockey communities and the hockey culture here in Canada. The history of the league and the game itself was built by players from communities throughout Canada.

It's an internal union matter. Ted has worked diligently for the players ... but in the final analysis this will be a players' decision.

It's 100 percent certain coming out of today's meeting that nothing could impact the cancellation of the season.

This election process, which was agreed to by the full executive board and without any objections, will continue and will not be disrupted by such baseless actions.