Rick answers delicious questions!
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Featuring John Worley, Head Athletic Trainer, Minnesota Wild
John Worley is in his 17th season as an Athletic Trainer with the Minnesota Wild. Prior to joining Minnesota, he spent five years as Manager of Sports Medicine Services at Rothman Institute Orthopedics in Philadelphia and 16 years with the Philadelphia Flyers, including 10 seasons as Head Athletic Trainer. He most recently served as Athletic Trainer for the Gold Medal winning U.S. Men’s National Team at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina and helped Team USA earn a Silver Medal at the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Tournament.
PHATS: Athletic trainers spend a lot of time solving problems on the fly. What’s something the job has taught you about staying calm or adapting in high-pressure situations?
JW: I’m fortunate that this is part of my DNA and my demeanor. In this role, you need confidence, composure, and a strong support system to help guide you through the difficult decision-making process.
PHATS: Over the years, the profession has evolved quite a bit. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in athletic training in the NHL?
JW: One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is how much more proactive and collaborative our approach has become within our staffs. This includes continued communication with physicians, performance staff and the coaching and management staff. Overall, the role has expanded beyond treating injuries to being an integral part of optimizing player health, performance, and longevity.
PHATS: This year, you reached the 2,000-game milestone! After being part of 2,000 NHL games, what is something about the game of hockey that you still appreciate every time you step into the rink?
JW: THE PLAYERS!!
PHATS: Looking back over your career, is there something about the profession that you appreciate more now than you did earlier on?
JW: What I appreciate most now is the relationships and the opportunity to be something bigger than oneself. Earlier in my career, the focus was on the day-to-day demands of the job, but over time I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the people, the players, the staff, peers, support system, and the trust that’s built over years of working together. Being a part of a team, traveling internationally, and contributing to both individual careers and collective success has been meaningful as time has gone on.
PHATS: For those just starting out as athletic trainers in professional hockey, what is the best piece of advice you were given early in your career?
JW: One of the best pieces of advice I was given early on was to be a great people person, passionate, and an advocate for your players. Build trust by being consistent, prepared and honest with players, staff and understand that relationships are as important as clinical skills.
PHATS: What year did you first attend the PHATS/SPHEM Conference? For someone attending the Hockey Summit for the first time, what would you encourage them to take advantage of?
JW: My first PHATS/SPHEM Conference was 1993. I would recommend taking advantage of all the education opportunities that are extended to you, building relationships among your peers at all levels, also engaging with the exhibitors as a way to continually advance our profession, and grow as ice hockey athletic trainers.
PHATS: The exhibit hall is always a big part of the conference. Over the years, have you discovered any products, tools, or ideas there that ended up becoming staples in your day-to-day work?
JW: Over the years, I’ve found the exhibit hall to be extremely impactful because it provides the opportunity to see new products, devices, and equipment that we can add to our player-care toolbox.
PHATS: Congratulations on Team USA’s Gold Medal! You’ve spent most of your career in the NHL environment. Does working at the Olympics change the way you view the game, your profession, or high-performance sport in general?
JW: Working at the Olympics absolutely gives you a different perspective. While the foundation of it remains the same, the scale, intensity and pride associated with representing your country elevates everything. Working with world-class athletes in a condensed time frame which reinforces the importance of preparation, collaboration, and adaptability. This is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do!
PHATS: Can you describe the feeling of hearing the National Anthem and watching the American Flag raised for Team USA?
JW: SURREAL!!!
PHATS: Tell us a little about yourself outside of hockey — your family, hobbies, and what you enjoy doing when you’re not at the rink.
JW: Family is everything!! My career has become part of our family, and this profession has made it work for us. Our summers together are the best!!
All photos courtesy of John Worley.
Featuring Jeff Camelio, Head Equipment Manager, Seattle Kraken
Jeff is in his 5th season as Head Equipment Manager with Seatle, after 15 seasons as an assistant in Nashville. His career began with the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays and later the AHL’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers. He reached 2,000 professional games worked last season.
SPHEM: How did you first get started working in hockey equipment, and what led you to pursue it as a career?
JC: I first started as a stick boy in Rochester in the early 1990s and loved being around the game and the people. I’ve been doing it now full time for 28 years.
SPHEM: You joined the Seattle Kraken for their inaugural season and stepped into the role of Head Equipment Manager after previously working as an Assistant in Nashville. What was that transition like for you?
JC: Getting the be part of the expansion process was a once in a lifetime experience. I had a great run in Nashville working with a great organization and colleagues, but the opportunity to build everything from the ground up was appealing. I found moving back into the head role after being an assistant for 15 years took some getting used to but to get this opportunity to continue to grow my career was exciting and challenging at times.
SPHEM: Joining an expansion team meant helping build the equipment operation from the ground up. What surprised you most about that experience?
JC: Having to worry about the construction and operations of two rinks (game and practice) during Covid when things were moving slowly was an interesting process. We also acquired all our players in one summer, so I had to get to know each guy’s needs and preferences all at once. We had no back stock of any equipment, it was difficult to acquire certain gear when factories in China were closed or they were struggling to make stuff in our colors that had not been previously produced.
SPHEM: What part of the equipment manager’s role do you think people would be most surprised to learn about?
JC: It’s not just sharpening skates or fixing gear. There is a lot of paperwork, budgeting, spreadsheets, and expenses to handle daily. Another thing people don’t often realize is the time commitment that goes into these roles. Hockey has now become a year-round sport. Just because games are not being played doesn’t necessarily mean the work stops.
SPHEM: Hockey equipment has evolved quite a bit over the years. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in gear since you started?
JC: The skate blades and how they get sharpened has drastically changed. Everything is removable and replaceable nowadays. Each guy has multiple sets of steel that we rotate in and out so there is no more rushing in between periods to sharpen skates. That means no more missed shifts for bad steel.
SPHEM: What year did you first attend the PHATS/SPHEM Conference? For someone attending the Hockey Summit for the first time, what would you encourage them to take advantage of?
JC: My first conference was in 1998. The best thing you can do at the PHATS/SPHEM conference is the put yourself out there and network – introduce yourself to members belonging to all levels and organizations. You never know when you could potentially meet your next coworker
SPHEM: The exhibit hall is always a big part of the conference. Over the years, have you discovered any products, tools, or ideas there that ended up becoming staples in your day-to-day work?
JC: SkateScribe is a company that I first met at a conference. Now they have become an integral part of our day-to-day workflows with their automated skate sharpening machines. So be sure to stop by and check out all the vendors, they may have something that may make your job easier and more efficient.
SPHEM: You currently serve as Treasurer on the SPHEM Executive Board. What motivated you to get involved in that role?
JC: Pete Rogers, my former boss with the Predators, encouraged me to get involved. When Pete was president, I got to witness firsthand the importance of members volunteering at all levels because without the help, the Hockey Summit would not be where it is today.
SPHEM: Is there a small part of your daily routine at the rink that you’ve always enjoyed, but most people probably wouldn’t think about?
JC: One of my favorite parts of the day is every morning multiple players will come down and sit in my office with a coffee and just chat. It’s a great way to build personal relationships and get to know guys on another level other than hockey. It is those types of conversations that lead to friendships that could last long after my career is done.
SPHEM: Is there someone who helped guide you early in your career as you were learning the ropes of the profession? What is the best piece of advice they gave you.
JC: Pete Rogers, the head equipment manager in Nashville, is the reason I am where I am today. He gave me my first start as a stick boy in Rochester. He hired me in Nashville and continued to allow me to grow and develop my skillset to the point where I was able to become a head equipment manager in the NHL with the Seattle Kraken.
SPHEM: Tell us a little about yourself outside of hockey — your family, hobbies, and what you enjoy doing when you’re not at the rink.
JC: I have a very understanding wife and daughter at home (Michelle and Carli), who have the patience to put up with our long hours and travel schedule. I am also fortunate enough to work with my son, Anthony, who is the Equipment Specialist for the Kraken. Outside of hockey, I enjoy golfing, paddle boarding, and keeping in touch with friends and family.
All photos courtesy of Jeff Camelio
Serious injuries are rare in hockey, but when they do occur, everything changes quickly. On November 22, 2025, Macon Mayhem forward Justin Thompson suffered a cervical spine injury after hitting the boards. Public updates later confirmed surgical stabilization and encouraging early signs of recovery.
Keith Kling, LAT, ATC, is the Head Athletic Trainer for Macon and was involved in the immediate response. Tony Carlton, DHSc, PES, CES, is the Director of Performance Science and Rehabilitation Coach for the Fayetteville Marksmen. Kyle Sherrill, LAT, ATC, is the Head Athletic Trainer for the Fayetteville Marksmen. Since our teams share ownership, we use incidents like this to reinforce readiness, communication, and teamwork across the entire staff.
When a cervical spine injury is suspected, priorities shift immediately. The focus becomes scene control, rapid medical access, clear communication, and an organized response environment. Athletic trainers, physicians, and EMS are central to clinical care, and the rest of the staff plays an important support role because the medical team needs space, access, and steady assistance.
Emergency response in hockey is a full staff function. Medical professionals lead clinical care, but the quality of responses is shaped by what happens around them. Equipment staff, performance staff, coaches, and operations teams contribute by keeping the area clear, managing bench and traffic flow, supporting communication, and preserving a direct path. When staff remain in their roles and fulfill their assigned responsibilities, the medical team can work efficiently without unnecessary disruption.
Emergency response in hockey is a full staff function. Medical professionals lead clinical care, but the quality of responses is shaped by what happens around them. Equipment staff, performance staff, coaches, and operations teams contribute by keeping the area clear, managing bench and traffic flow, supporting communication, and preserving a direct path. When staff remain in their roles and fulfill their assigned responsibilities, the medical team can work efficiently without unnecessary disruption.
Transport and handoff follow the same principles at every level of hockey. Teams perform best when they confirm primary exit routes in advance, keep access points clear, and routinely check transfer equipment to keep the process efficient when time matters. After-action review is about reinforcing standards and tightening the small details that support a controlled response.
Resources vary across levels of hockey, from youth and junior teams to professional leagues. Higher levels may have more extensive staffing and infrastructure. Even so, the core operational principles remain consistent: early recognition, role clarity, scene control, equipment readiness, and a clear handoff. In resource-constrained environments, coordination and preparation become even more important.
Events like this are unpredictable at any level, which is why preparation and regular practice matter. We are proud of how our staff worked together and maintained a controlled environment for care and transfer. We share these reminders to support readiness across the game and encourage each organization to review game day preparedness, role assignments, and equipment readiness before the next puck drop.
Tony Carlton, DHSc, PES, CES
Fayetteville Marksmen
Keith Kling, LAT, ATC
Macon Mayhem
Kyle Sherrill, LAT, ATC
Fayetteville Marksmen
Hello everyone—it’s hard to believe we are already approaching the end of the 2025–2026 hockey season. This has been another outstanding year for our game, highlighted by the Olympic Games in Milan, which showcased hockey at its very best. As we look ahead, we hope the upcoming playoffs bring excitement and memorable moments at every level of the sport.
As the season winds down, PHATS/SPHEM is hard at work preparing for our annual meeting this June in Marco Island, Florida. We are pleased to return to the JW Marriott, a venue familiar to many from our 2022 meeting. Based on past experience, we know it offers an exceptional balance for professional engagement and relaxation for members, exhibitors, and families alike.
Once again, we are thrilled to welcome colleagues and friends from across the hockey community, including representatives from PHATS, SPHEM, PHPO, team physicians, emergency trauma physicians, paramedics, and league executives from the NHL, AHL, ECHL, NHLPA, and PHPA—along with our valued vendors and sponsors. We are proud to offer an outstanding lineup of educational presentations and professional development opportunities. Sincere thanks go to the Education Committees of PHATS, SPHEM, PHPO, and the NHLTPS/AHLTPS for their dedication and hard work in making this summit so valuable to all involved.
We are extremely pleased to honor Steve Latin, aka “Seve,” as this year’s PHATS/SPHEM Hockey Hall of Fame inductee. Seve spent 26 years in the National Hockey League, working 6 years with the Detroit Red Wings, 2 years with the Hartford Whalers, as an assistant equipment manager, then 18 seasons as head equipment manager with the Pittsburgh Penguins, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991-1992. Steve also represented USA Hockey on multiple occasions including the World Championship, Canada Cup, and the 2002 Olympic Games. Finally, finishing his career working 9 seasons as the equipment manager for the Charlotte Checkers.
We are also proud to announce that the 2026 Frank and Vi Rowe Award will be presented to Wally Collins of Collins Sports Medicine. A longtime supporter of PHATS/SPHEM, Wally has positively impacted countless members on the medical side of our profession. His dedication to athletic trainers and teams at all levels of hockey has been extraordinary, and we look forward to celebrating his contributions together in Marco Island.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to both our longtime and new Hockey Summit sponsors. The remarkable growth of this meeting would not be possible without your continued support. Special appreciation is extended to the NHL and the NHLPA for their ongoing commitment to our societies. We truly believe this meeting provides a foundation that enables future members to thrive in their careers.
Finally, none of this would come together without the years of expertise and dedication from Anita Ramsay and Natalie Grant. Please be sure to thank them personally when you see them in Florida for all they do behind the scenes.
Best of luck to everyone preparing for the playoffs—we wish you a healthy and successful finish to the season.
Tom and Dave
By Todd Klein, Head Athletic Trainer, Waterloo Black Hawks
As we are winding down the regular season, everyone here in the USHL wants to wish all the playoff teams best of luck. We also are looking forward to seeing everyone at our summer meeting.
The Youngstown Phantoms and the Sioux Falls Stampede are battling for the Anderson Cup with one week to go in the season. Should be an exciting finish!
By Nate LaPoint, Equipment Manager, University of Wisconsin
Things in the NCAA are moving into the postseason with the Men’s side finishing conference tournaments and the Women’s starting the NCAA tournament. Would like to extend a congratulations to North Dakota, Minnesota State, Michigan State, Providence, Quinnipiac, and Bentley who were all regular season champions on the men’s side of the NCAA. Host locations this year for the Men’s Tournament are Worcester, MA, Albany, NY, Sioux Falls, SD, and Loveland, CO with the Frozen Four this year in at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Big thanks to all these arenas and organizations hosting our NCAA teams.
The NCAA has been very competitive this year with a lot of close games and upsets. This was all because of the new rules allowing CHL players to be eligible in the NCAA. Congrats to all members that have reached milestones this year, and best of luck and to everyone finishing up the season. I hope to see lots of people and vendors at the convention in June.
By Bryan A. Boyes, Head Equipment Manager, Oshawa Generals
Congrats in advance to Kelowna for hosting the 2026 Memorial Cup. Congrats to all PHATS/SPHEM members who were representing their countries at the 2026 Olympics.
Good luck to all those teams who will be going on a playoff run. Don’t forget to make your reservations and travel arrangements for the PHATS/SPHEM Hockey Summit in Florida from June 16 – June 21, 2026. We are hoping for an excellent representation from the Ontario Hockey League!
See you all in Marco Island!
By Brian St-Louis, Head Equipment Manager, Baie-Comeau Drakkar
The first round of the playoffs is on its way in the Q, best of luck to all the teams on their quest for the Gilles-Courteau trophy and the Memorial Cup.
We have an honorable mention: in his 23rd season with the Charlottetown Islanders, Andrew “Spider” MacNeil worked his 1,500th game as the team’s equipment manager. Congrats Spider on a job well done and keep grinding.
We would also like to take the time to wish best of luck to Francis Denis, AT with the Blainville Armada, who after 18 seasons, is leaving the league and starting his own practice in the greater Montreal area. You will be missed, Frank, here in the Q, but your business will surely be a hit.
Wishing everyone in every league the very best in the playoffs.
By Rich Campbell, Athletic Trainer & Strength and Conditioning Coach, Portland Winterhawks
The 2026 WHL Playoffs are in progress. Interesting to note: the Eastern Conference 7th and 8th spot are 9 and 10 games under .500! Crazyyy, eh?
The Western Hockey League Team Services Committee has updated the Trainers’ Information package, which supports the Certified Athletic Trainer/Athletic Therapist, and Equipment Manager throughout the WHL season. This resource is intended to promote consistency, effective communication, and best practices across all teams, particularly for those newly employed within the WHL.
The package updates provide clear guidance on key areas, including medical documentation and charting (ARMS),injury reporting and insurance procedures, concussion management and neuropsychology reporting, andEmergency Action Plan (EAP) requirements for host and visiting teams. It also outlines league expectations related to roster moves, player trades, weekly injury reporting terminology, and medical equipment exemptions.
By standardizing procedures and clarifying league expectations, the WHL continues to enhance athlete safety, operational efficiency, and continuity of care across the league.
On behalf of the Western Hockey League and the Team Services Committee,
Thank you.
Rich
