Kingston, who is best known for leading the Canadian national men’s able-bodied ice hockey team to their first World Championship gold in more than 30 years in 1994, replaces Thomas Koester who has become head of competition.

The reshuffle comes as a result of the departure of former head of competition Dave Newson, who has stepped down.

Newson will, however, still remain involved with the sport.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dave for his work and dedication in the past few years," said Keith Blase, the STC's chairman.

"Under his tenure the standard of competition has developed significantly, especially since the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games.

"We welcome George in an official capacity after he assisted us in a number of areas in recent times, including attending training camps to pass on his extensive knowledge of coaching to others.

"I have no doubt that with his reputation, established over five decades at the very top of hockey, we have a very safe pair of hands that can continue to drive the sport forward."

Seventy-seven-year-old Kingston’s appointment to the STC was confirmed by the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

Kent Nyholt will remain in his position as the vice-chairman, with Scott MacDonald remaining as the head of technical control and officiating.

Johan Balder stays on as head of classification with Sergey Samoylov continuing as the regional liaison officer for Europe.

Gregory Leperdi, an Italian triple Paralympian, is the athlete liaison.

The STC coordinates and oversees all aspects of ice sledge hockey.

The members are elected at the start of every Paralympic cycle, via a process of nominations by National Paralympic Committees.