CHICAGO, IL - The North American Hockey League announced today the appointment of Eric H. Krupka as its new commissioner. He replaces Mark Frankenfeld, who was serving as interim commissioner after Michael Santos left the position in May to become the director of player personnel of the NHL’s Nashville Predators.

“The entire North American Hockey League family is excited to welcome an individual with Eric’s business and hockey expertise to the fold,” said NAHL Board of Governors chairperson Mark Motz. “His passion for developing young athletes, as well as the vast relationships he has developed throughout the entire hockey community, will also be tremendous assets to our league as we continue to enhance our product, both on and off the ice.”

“The NAHL is one of the most storied and successful leagues in all of North America, and I’m looking forward to being a part of its continued growth and success,” said Krupka. “The league’s top priority has always been developing players, both athletically and academically, and I’m excited to help carry on such a great tradition.”

Krupka is the president and CEO of EHK Sports Enterprises, one of the most successful sports management companies in North America. EHK Sports, which Krupka founded in 2000, has quickly become known and respected for hosting such events as the 40-team USHN Challenge Cup and the International Pre-Draft Showcase. EHK Sports also publishes the largest subscription-based youth hockey Web site, U.S. Hockey News, as well as the scouting Web site, Amateur Hockey Report.

Krupka is also a 12-year veteran of the commodities trading industry. He started his career at the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) in 1995 as a runner in the grain room, quickly worked his way up to broker’s assistant and then in 1997 set out on his own to trade in the 30-year treasury bond futures pit.

Krupka resides in Vernon Hills, Ill., with his wife, Christie, and their 8-month-old daughter, Tierney.

Frankenfeld will remain on as the NAHL’s deputy commissioner, while Brian McDonough will continue to serve as the league’s director of communications. David Lee will remain on as the league’s administrative assistant.