Robert Lebel (ice hockey)

Robert Lebel (born November 10, 1924, in Trois-Pistoles, Quebec; died October 26, 2015) was a Canadian ice hockey administrator, coach, and former player. He is best known for his significant contributions to the development of junior ice hockey in Quebec and Canada.

Lebel was a key figure in the establishment and growth of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). He served as the league's president from 1969 to 1986 and is credited with helping to professionalize the league and raise its profile. His leadership was instrumental in making the QMJHL a major source of talent for the National Hockey League (NHL).

Prior to his administrative career, Lebel played hockey professionally for several years, primarily in the Quebec Senior Hockey League. After his playing career ended, he transitioned to coaching, leading various junior teams in Quebec.

Lebel's contributions to hockey were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997 as a Builder. The Robert Lebel Trophy, awarded annually to the QMJHL team with the best goals-against average during the regular season, is named in his honor. He is remembered as a pioneer and a strong advocate for junior hockey in Canada.