PHPA Player Rep Spotlight: Connor Doherty
PHPA.com | March 1st, 2023
Player Rep Spotlight: Connor Doherty (Maine Mariners)
Connor Doherty is the PHPA Player Representative for the Maine Mariners of the ECHL. Doherty played three years at Sacred Heart University before turning pro and joining his local ECHL team, the Worcester Railers. Following three seasons in Worcester, Doherty signed with the Kansas City Mavericks. In 2021, he was acquired by the Maine Mariners and has since been named the second Captain in team history.
How did you become a PHPA Player Representative and what are some of your roles and responsibilities?
I became a Player Rep when our rep in Worcester retired. He suggested that I take over for him. My first year as a rep was during the pandemic so I helped navigate through the whole process of figuring out if there would be hockey and how we would make it work. Currently, the position is more about being a resource for teammates and younger players to help them understand the CBA, player benefits, healthcare etc.
What was your Major / area of study while attending Sacred Heart University?
My undergrad major at Sacred Heart was Finance. I was also lucky enough to receive my Masters Degree in finance and Investing Management during my final season.
You are in your second season as Mariners Captain. How would you describe your leadership style, and what types of things do you do to help mentor some of the younger guys on the team?
I try and lead by example on and off the ice as well as be a calming presence during chaotic times throughout the season. Over the years I have played under some great leaders and was able to learn a lot from them. It’s helped shape the Captain I try to be especially for the younger players and first year pros. I know it can be intimidating coming from College or Major Junior, so I feel it’s important to help the younger guys feel comfortable and confident early in the season to get the most out of them.
How did it feel to become the Maine Mariners all-time leader in penalty minutes earlier this season?
I guess it helps that the Mariners are a newer franchise so the penalty minutes weren’t as high as other organizations, but that has been part of my role with the team so I do whatever I can to help us win.
Who is the toughest player you have ever played with or against?
Yannick Turcotte. I was lucky enough to be his roommate for a couple seasons and we’re now division rivals playing against each other. I know teams and players always take notice whenever he is on the ice.
How hardcore of a New England sports fan are you?
On a scale 1-10, I would say an 8. I like the Bruins, Patriots, Celtics, and Red Sox in that order. It’s made it a lot easier over the past 15-20 years with the success they’ve all had. Hopefully that continues.
Who was your favourite hockey player growing up and why?
The first number I wore was 77 for Ray Bourque. I think I wore it because my Dad would always mention his name, but I loved watching him play and his style of play growing up. I eventually switched to 37 for Patrice Bergeron who plays a complete game and is a staple for the Bruins as we all know.
In 2020 you were awarded the ECHL’s Community Service Award. What does an award like this mean to you and how do you balance being a professional athlete and supporting your local community?
At the end of the day, the community is what it’s all about. Growing up I remember looking up to all the local professional athletes as role models, so now that I have the chance to be one, I wanted to give back. Putting smiles on the kids’ faces or helping families in need goes a long way and can help create some new hockey fans along the way. When we aren’t on the road for games our afternoons are generally away from the rink, so that’s a great time to get out into the community and give back to all those who support us on game nights.
How has fatherhood changed your lifestyle? What would you say is the best part about being a Dad?
I would say it changed me in more ways than I can explain. It’s definitely something that I cherish right now and never expected to happen when I first started playing hockey. Being able to play the sport that I love in front of my family, and now my daughter is a dream come true. It’s an experience I don’t take for granted and something I know I’ll look back on forever.
If you could leave tomorrow and go anywhere in the world for a week, where are you going?
Ireland. It’s been on my bucket list as a place to visit and I’ve only heard good things.
What are some of your favorite pump-up songs you tend to listen to before a game?
Dreams and Nightmares, Tyler Herro, Savior, Kickstart My Heart.
Who are some mentors who have been instrumental to you throughout your hockey journey?
My parents, my siblings, and my wife. They’ve supported me every step of the way and continue to allow me to play out my dream. My College and Junior coaches also helped prepare me to get to the level I am at now becoming instrumental in my development up to this point.
Do you see yourself staying in the sport of hockey when you stop playing?
I would say I have an interest in coaching or getting into the front office of an organization where I can use my finance and hockey background. I guess we’ll see whenever that day comes where it takes me.
