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A Case Study of Servant Leadership in the NHL

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Abstract

An examination of the organizational culture of the Vancouver Canucks of the NHL provides exemplars for all learning institutions. A culture connected directly to a servant-leader philosophy was identified through a cumulative qualitative case study of key personnel within the organization. Data included transcribed interviews, archival research, and personal observations over a 7 year period (Jan. 2009 – Feb. 2016) plus thematic analysis. Particular attention was focused on elite athletes Henrik and Daniel Sedin. In the context of a highly competitive major hockey league, the culture of the Vancouver Canucks emphasizes consistent commitment to service within and outside the formal organization. This identified culture provides examples of valuable approaches for leadership in educational and sport environments.

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Correspondence to Carolyn Crippen.

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Crippen, C. A Case Study of Servant Leadership in the NHL. Interchange 48, 205–216 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10780-016-9298-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10780-016-9298-2

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