TORONTO (July 21, 2026) - The Executive Board of the National Hockey League Players’ Association has voted unanimously today to promote John Gerba as the union’s General Counsel. Don Zavelo was promoted to Senior Advisor and Counsel to the Executive Director.
“John is an experienced labour lawyer who has worked tirelessly on behalf of the NHLPA’s membership for many years,” said Marty Walsh, NHLPA Executive Director. “I look forward to the valuable experience, expertise and leadership that John will bring to his new role as General Counsel.”
John Gerba joined the NHLPA staff in 2017 as an Associate Counsel, after working for over 10 years at the law firm Weil, Gotshal & Manges. Gerba was promoted to the NHLPA’s Deputy General Counsel in 2021. During his time with the NHLPA, Gerba has been an integral part of the unions’ legal team, playing a key role in the negotiation of both the 2020 and 2026 collective bargaining agreements.
“I am honoured to take on the role of General Counsel at the NHLPA,” said John Gerba. “Hockey is experiencing tremendous growth and momentum and in my new role I look forward to continuing to work tirelessly on behalf of the elite athletes that drive this sport, by leading a dedicated NHLPA legal team.”
Don Zavelo’s promotion comes after more than 45 years as a passionate advocate for workers’ rights. Zavelo spent 30 years at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in New York City before joining the NHLPA as General Counsel in 2011. As head of the NHLPA’s Legal Department, Zavelo was an integral member of the NHLPA’s legal team during the last three rounds of CBA negotiations (CBA agreements - 2013, 2020, 2026). In his new role, Zavelo will continue to be a key advisor to Marty Walsh, the Association’s Executive Director.
Walsh added, “These promotions are important to secure the future stability and growth of the NHLPA’s legal department. I would like to thank Don for his many contributions to the NHLPA as General Counsel. He has been an integral part of the NHLPA for many years, and I’m pleased that Don will continue his advocacy for NHLPA members in his new advisory role with our Association.”
Gerba and Zavelo will immediately move into their new roles at the NHLPA.
