UPDATED 5 p.m.: In a statement announcing the change in leadership, Tom Cigarran said “everyone should recognize that had David Freeman not taken the initiative to pull together the current ownership team, the Predators would not be in Nashville today ... Speaking on behalf of the other six owners in our group, we appreciate the time and energy David has contributed while serving his term as chairman.”

 
As originally reported:

David Freeman, chairman of the Nashville Predators Hockey Club, has informed the city of Nashville and the Sports Authority that he is stepping away from the helm of the organization, according to a letter to the city sent by Freeman's attorney.

Tom Cigarran, chairman of the Franklin-based wellness firm Healthways, has been unanimously appointed by the ownership group to become the third person to represent the team on the NHL Board of Governors.

Freeman has been under fire by the Sports Authority in recent months as a result of his contest with the IRS over a portion of his 2007 tax returns. In the letter to the city, Freeman's attorney reiterated the legal position that the tax contest did not represent a default of any of Freeman's obligations to the city.

He also stated that, in order for the team and the city to be successful, it would be best for him to step aside and encourage the Sports Authority to concentrate on more important matters.

When contacted, Freeman declined to comment.