Querrie's involvement in hockey began in the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), where he served as an executive member. His administrative skills and passion for the sport led him to the National Hockey Association (NHA), the predecessor to the National Hockey League (NHL).
In 1917, Querrie, along with a group of investors, purchased the Toronto franchise of the NHA, which was struggling financially. The team was renamed the Toronto Arenas and joined the newly formed NHL. Under Querrie's management, the Arenas won the Stanley Cup in their inaugural season, defeating the Vancouver Millionaires of the Pacific Coast Hockey Association.
In 1919, due to financial difficulties, the team was temporarily disbanded but was revived by Querrie in 1920 and renamed the Toronto St. Patricks in an attempt to attract Toronto's large Irish population. The team found success again in 1922, winning their second Stanley Cup.
Querrie was known for his ability to spot talent. He was instrumental in the acquisition of several key players, including Babe Dye, who became one of the most prolific goal scorers in the NHL. Querrie also played a crucial role in the development of the team's playing style, emphasizing speed and agility.
However, despite these successes, the team continued to struggle financially. In 1927, Querrie was forced to sell the St. Patricks to a group of investors led by Conn Smythe. Smythe renamed the team the Toronto Maple Leafs, and under his leadership, the team became one of the most successful franchises in the NHL.
Despite the sale, Querrie remained involved in the hockey world. He served as the manager of the Toronto Ravinas, a minor league team, and continued to contribute to the sport until his death in 1950.
Throughout his career, Charles Querrie made significant contributions to professional hockey. His leadership and vision helped establish the Toronto franchise as a major force in the NHL, and his legacy continues to be felt in the sport today.
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