Orlando Magic general manager/chief operating officer John Weisbrod has stepped down from his position to pursue an opportunity in hockey. Weisbrod was named GM of the Magic on March 12, 2004. He oversaw all aspects of basketball operations, including player acquisitions through the draft, free agency and trades, player development, scouting, salary cap management, contract negotiations and staff personnel decisions. The 36-year-old Weisbrod served as chief operating officer of RDV Sports since 2000. His responsibilities included the management of an RDV Sports staff numbering more than 300 and the oversight of all business transactions of the Magic and RDV Sportsplex. Prior to being appointed COO, Weisbrod served as vice president and general manager of the Orlando Solar Bears. In four years under his guidance, the Solar Bears enjoyed the highest winning percentage in the International Hockey League. Orlando won a pair of Eastern Conference crowns and captured the IHL's Turner Cup championship in 2000-01. "We wish John all the best in making a return to the sport of his passion," said Magic president and chief executive officer Bob Vander Weide. "We thank him for his leadership and vision over the past eight years. He will be missed." Meanwhile, Vander Weide also announced Monday that director of player personnel Dave Twardzik and director of player development Otis Smith will head the basketball operations of the Magic, while Jim Fritz will continue in his role as executive vice president of business. Twardzik was named director of player personnel for Orlando on September 15, 2003, while Smith was appointed director of player of development on the same day. Fritz is in his 11th year with the Magic. He was promoted to his current position in March of 2004. "Dave and Otis complement each other very well and have formed a unique bond," added Vander Weide. "They bring a wide range of experience, great energy, dedication, leadership and vision to our basketball operations. "Jim, who has been with us for 10-plus years, has been overseeing our day-to-day business operations for more than a year. He grew up in Orlando and has strong roots in the community. He has outstanding knowledge and expertise in regard to business strategic planning, fan relations, community relations, corporate relations, finance and marketing."