Columbus Blue Jackets Appoint New Head Equipment Manager
COLUMBUS, Ohio — In the competitive landscape of the hockey industry, having a reference like Sidney Crosby can significantly enhance one’s profile. This situation unfolded recently as the Columbus Blue Jackets sought to fill their head equipment manager position, a role that has drawn a notable number of candidates since the search began this summer.
GM Don Waddell revealed that Paul DeFazio, who boasts over 25 years of experience with the Pittsburgh Penguins, stood out among the applicants, especially with a powerful endorsement from none other than Crosby himself.
DeFazio’s Appointment and Endorsement
The Blue Jackets confirmed DeFazio’s appointment on Tuesday, a move that appears to have gained momentum following a key phone call from Crosby to Rick Nash, the organization’s director of hockey operations. Nash’s close collaboration with Waddell brought Crosby’s recommendation into play, which further solidified DeFazio’s candidacy.
“Over the years, we’ve often heard about how DeFazio was instrumental for Sid, especially when he entered the league back in 2005,” Nash shared. “When I asked Crosby what his thoughts were if we brought DeFazio on board, he expressed his support, saying he’d adjust to the circumstances. That’s perhaps one of the strongest endorsements one could receive.”
DeFazio’s Career Journey
DeFazio’s journey with the Penguins began as an assistant equipment trainer in 2001, a position he held until 2013, after which he transitioned to head equipment trainer for Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. His expertise and loyalty were further echoed by Penguins GM Kyle Dubas, who reached out to Waddell to emphasize DeFazio’s desire for a head position despite his comfort in Pittsburgh.
“He was in a great environment there, respected by the players, and yet he expressed a keen interest in this opportunity as head equipment manager,” Waddell noted, highlighting the positive feedback he received about DeFazio from other former Penguins colleagues, including Tom Fitzgerald, Jason Botterill, and Bill Guerin, all of whom praised him without reservation.
Context of the Hiring
The backdrop of this hiring is intriguing given the historical rivalry between the Blue Jackets and Penguins, particularly after Columbus joined Pittsburgh in the Eastern Conference’s Metropolitan Division. Both franchises have faced each other in the playoffs, with Pittsburgh coming out on top in two series. Nash, who was traded from Columbus in 2012, missed those playoff clashes but shares a connection with Crosby through their joint experiences representing Team Canada in international competitions.
Additional Organizational Updates
In addition to DeFazio’s appointment, the Blue Jackets welcomed former Bowling Green coach Ty Eigner as a special assignment scout, where he will focus on scouting college talent and the Ontario Hockey League, as well as the U.S. National Team Development Program. Eigner has previously contributed as a consultant for the Blue Jackets and will also assist with trade and player transactions as required.
Additionally, in a series of organizational updates, Aron Augustitus has been elevated to the position of video coach, while Cam Briere steps in as assistant video coach. Meanwhile, coaching duo Anthony and Matt Donskov, well-regarded for their training efforts during the past two summer development camps, have been added as development coaches and will work under Nash’s guidance, joining Tommy Cross in that capacity.
