"My family and I are excited for this opportunity," said Thiessen. "It's an excellent opportunity career-wise and I'm looking forward to getting started. It's tough to say goodbye to the Arizona Sundogs Hockey Club, an organization that I've truly come to love.

Thiessen, 28, first began his stint with the Sundogs as Vice President of Sales and Partnerships prior to their inaugural season in August 2005. In June 2007, he was named the CHL's Corporate Sales Executive of the Year, his third time winning the award. He was later named the Club's President in addition to overseeing the Sundogs' corporate sales efforts.

"Brent has been with our organization since day one and his work ethic and commitment to the success of our club have earned him this opportunity," said Sundogs Co-Owner Shawn Fowler. "His talents and abilities will certainly be missed but we're very proud and excited for him to take this next step in his career."

In his absence, former Coordinator of Corporate Fulfillment Donna Werking has been named Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Sundogs.

"In my leaving, Donna is fully capable to take over the club's corporate sales efforts," added Thiessen. "She has worked in the Sundogs' corporate sales department for over a year and in that time has gained the experience necessary to successfully build and renew relationships. I am confident that the organization's corporate partners are in good hands."