TOUCH DOWN FEW MINUTES AGO: St Louis blues National Hockey League (NHL) Community are overjoyed and also Excited as St Louis blues Legend Bernie Federko has Returned to his former team as the Chief NHL officer and (NHL) Director of………….

TOUCH DOWN FEW MINUTES AGO: St. Louis Blues NHL Community Overjoyed as Legend Bernie Federko Returns as Chief NHL Officer and Director of Legacy Development

In what fans are calling a “homecoming for the ages,” the St. Louis Blues community is erupting with excitement after a major announcement this afternoon: Blues legend Bernie Federko has officially returned to his former team—not as a player, but in a powerful executive role.

According to a joint statement from the NHL and the St. Louis Blues organization, Federko has been appointed Chief NHL Officer and Director of Legacy Development, a newly created position aimed at strengthening the league’s connection to its storied past while helping guide its future.

“We are beyond thrilled to welcome Bernie back into the fold in an official leadership capacity,” said Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong. “His passion for the game, unparalleled hockey IQ, and lifelong commitment to the Blues make him the perfect person to lead this new era of legacy development across the NHL.”

A True Blue Returns

Federko, 69, is a Hall of Fame center who played the bulk of his 14-season career with the Blues from 1976 to 1989. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in franchise history, he became the first Blue to score 1,000 points and has remained a beloved figure in St. Louis hockey circles for decades.

Though he retired from professional play in 1990, Federko never truly left the sport—or the city. He transitioned into broadcasting and has served as a TV analyst for Blues games for many years, bringing his expert insight and dry wit to fans across the region.

Now, in his elevated NHL role, Federko will work closely with teams, alumni, and the league office to enhance historical engagement, improve alumni relations, and inspire the next generation of hockey talent through mentorship and education.

“It’s an incredible honor to return to the team and league that gave me so much,” said Federko during a press conference at Enterprise Center. “I’m excited to give back in a new way—to share the legacy of the game, to support retired players, and to help build something meaningful for the future of hockey.”

Fans and Former Teammates React

Social media lit up with praise as news of Federko’s return spread, with hashtags like #FederkoReturns, #TrueBlueLegend, and #HockeyHeritage trending within minutes.

Longtime fans gathered outside the arena holding signs and jerseys, some even chanting, “Ber-nie! Ber-nie!” as the announcement was broadcast on the jumbotron.

“It feels like the team just scored a game-winning goal in overtime,” said lifelong fan Lisa K. from Chesterfield. “Bernie is Blues royalty.”

Former teammates like Brian Sutter and Brett Hull also expressed their excitement.

“He’s one of the smartest players I ever shared the ice with,” Hull said in a statement. “Having him back in the game in this kind of role is a win for everyone—players, fans, and the league.”

What’s Next?

While the specifics of Federko’s new position are still developing, his first major initiative will be the launch of the NHL Heritage Initiative, a league-wide program designed to connect youth hockey players with retired pros through workshops, exhibitions, and legacy storytelling.

The Blues have also announced a special “Federko Night” scheduled for later this season, where fans will get to celebrate his legacy and welcome him back in person.