Rich Clune Aims to Bring Experience with 'Humility' in New Role with Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs were going through a re-build at the time and Clune quickly became a popular member of the Marlies dressing room. During the 2015-16 season, he was a helpful veteran presence for prospect forwards like William Nylander and Zach Hyman, who graduated to the Maple Leafs later that season. Clune himself received his own opportunity when his AHL contract was converted to a two-way contract with the Maple Leafs. He played in 19 games with the Leafs and recorded four assists.

Whenever Clune is asked about his path in hockey, he's insistent that he has no regrets. He felt his experience in battling back from addiction helped shape the person that he is today. It's the same approach he intends to impart when he officially starts in his new role in player development beginning Aug. 15.

"I'm not completely different from the man I was seven years ago but I'm always changing and I'm always trying to learn new things, look at things with an open mind and obviously try to understand, sort of, the concept of humility," Clune said. "I think that's been a major key in my approach to anything I do in my life and I just want to continue to do that and just enjoy every moment."

Much like Jason Spezza, who also made the decision to step away from his playing days and join the front office as special assistant to general manager Kyle Dubas, Clune will spend the early days in his new role learning the ropes. He'll report to assistant general manager Hayley Wickenheiser, who like Clune, has multiple interests outside of hockey.

"I very much look to people like that who work extremely hard at a number of different professions," Clune said of Wickenheiser. "Not to say I'm working on a medical degree like her, but to learn from her and work from her, I'm extremely fortunate."

Two years ago, Clune released a documentary about his life titled 'Hi, My Name is Dicky'. While acting remains a passion of his, in the short term that will be on hold as he gets accustomed to his new role.

"I'll continue to explore different things in the future, but I'm really looking forward to getting involved and getting going in the next few weeks here."