PHPA Player Spotlight: Justin Vaive (Cincinnati Cyclones)

Justin Vaive is the PHPA Player Representative for the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. The 29-year old forward was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the 4^th round 92^nd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He then went on to play four seasons at the University of Miami (Ohio) before signing with the San Antonio Rampage in 2011. The Buffalo, NY native has since played in over 250 AHL and 150 ECHL games between seven different organizations. After playing for Cincinnati between 2011-13, Vaive returned in 2017 and has remained with the team since.

How did you become a PHPA Representative and what are some of your roles and responsibilities?

It was something that wasn’t really planned. I have always had an interest in the behind the scenes stuff and once I was offered the opportunity I took a larger interest in it.

How did you enjoy your four years playing NCAA hockey for the University of Miami (Ohio)? Do you have a favourite memory from that time?

Looking back, I wouldn’t trade the experience there for anything. It was a smaller campus / school but for me that’s exactly what I wanted in a school. My favorite memory would be the run to the National Championship game in DC. Although the end result wasn’t what we wanted it is something I will always remember.

What was your major / area of study?

I majored In Sports Management / Minor in Coaching

You were drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2007. Who was with you when you got drafted and what was going through your mind when your name was called?

I didn’t attend the draft in person. I was actually on a visit to Miami with my dad. We followed the rounds closely but obviously I was beyond words when my name actually got called.

You spent parts of your first few professional seasons playing in Cincinnati, where you are playing today. What are your favourite things about playing and living there?

Being so close to Miami I was already familiar with the area. I love the city it has so much to offer. The team has always taken great care of us and the city puts a lot of support behind the team. I love the NFL so having the Bengals in town also is a nice perk when we have some Sundays off.

How cool was it having your father Rick Vaive play in the NHL?  Do you have any memories of being around the rink with him when you were younger?

When I was younger I didn’t really realize the significance of it. As I got older and started to move closer to professional hockey it definitely was a cool thing. The main two memories I have are skating with my brother after games and being deathly afraid of the Sabres mascot any time he came around.

How do you spend your off-season and what do you do to unwind after a busy season?

Probably like most guys I love to golf in the off season. Other then that usually traveling around to different weddings, alumni events and family functions.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received from someone?

At the end of a game don’t let people leave the rink without noticing you.

If you could sit down and have dinner with anyone in the world who would you choose and why?

The Rock – I just think his life has so many stories to it from sports to wrestling and now being a movie star. I’d love to hear about the journey.

Who’s your favourite band / musical artist?

Honestly, I enjoy almost every genre of music. If I had to pick would probably say Luke Combs / Country.

What’s your favourite cheat meal?

Any type of ice cream most likely Dairy Queen.

Tell us a question we should have asked you (and provide a response).

What do you want to do after your playing career finishes?

Join the WWE if not something still involved with the game of hockey.