The Vancouver Ravens today announced the addition of local businessman Paul Reinhart to its ownership group, solidifying what had become a shaky partnership.

Reinhart's entry comes little more than a month after founding partner David Stadnyk departed in order to devote his time to the Vancouver Whitecaps, the pro soccer team he owns. Although the remaining owners denied there was a significant financial problem, the pull-out of the primary investor and the time required to find his replacement raised serious concerns about the Ravens' long-term viability.

Ravens co-owner and governor Tom Mayenknecht disagreed with the bleak outlook, saying that time was required to find an appropriate partner.

"If it's taken us time to move forward with our reconfigured partnership group," Mayenknecht said, "it's only because we wanted to make sure we had absolutely the best partner.

"In Paul Reinhart, we could not ask for a better combination of sports background, business experience and a real passion for doing something that's going to create value for the community."

If the name Paul Reinhart rings a bell, it's for a good reason. He played eleven seasons in the National Hockey League, nine with the Atlanta/Calgary Flames and two with the Vancouver Canucks, before retiring from back problems. In 648 career games, the blue-liner recorded 133 goals and 426 assists.

Following his playing days, Reinhart, 41, entered the world of business, associating himself with companies involved in scientific research and innovation.

"This opportunity excites me at a variety of levels, but mainly because I think the fans will love this game," Reinhart said. "Given what I think the Ravens will provide in terms of great sports entertainment, community involvement and profile for Vancouver, I’ve never felt so good about the opportunity to help build something from the ground up."

Reinhart will serve as deputy governor of the Ravens, a position shared with Smart.

"The addition of Paul Reinhart to the Vancouver Ravens gives us a partner who is fully-committed to our vision of excellence and our long-term commitment to the community," Smart said. "His NHL career and his business accomplishments and contributions are credits to his personal drive and integrity. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have him on board."