Player Rep Spotlight: Jimmy Mazza (Orlando Solar Bears)

Jimmy Mazza is the PHPA Player Representative for the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL. Mazza played four seasons at Canisius College where he became Assistant Captain in his final year. Following his senior season, he turned pro with the Reading Royals of the ECHL. Now entering his fourth full season and second with the Solar Bears, Mazza has surpassed 162 ECHL games.

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

When I arrived in Orlando this past season, my teammate Shawn Szydlowski was a member of the PHPA Executive Committee and encouraged me to be the Player Representative. I thought it would be a great opportunity to represent my teammates and learn about the business side of hockey. Some of the responsibilities this past season included dealing with but not limited to health benefit issues, workers compensation, and contractual questions.

How did you enjoy attending the PHPA Annual Meeting this year and what was your favourite part?

I thought it was a great event and would highly encourage future reps to experience it. It was unique to see and learn about the business side of hockey throughout the week. But the best part was networking and meeting different players throughout the ECHL and AHL.

What was your Major / area of study while attending Canisius University?

I graduated with a Marketing Degree from the Wehle School of Business.

Favourite thing to do or place to visit in Orlando on a night day?

Orlando is a great place to play pro hockey. Outside of the rink you have the opportunity to experience great restaurants, lakes, golf, amusement parks, Magic games, and much more. But on an off day I do like driving to Cocoa Beach to get away and relax by the ocean.

What was your favourite theme night jersey from this past season?

The public relations/content team with the Solar Bears is second to none. Kudos to them! I feel every specialty jersey is unique in its own way, but the Tie Die game was incredible last season. The Amway Center was sold out and we had an eventful overtime win.

Growing up who did you model your game after?

When I was a little kid, I grew up idolizing Brian Leetch of the NY Rangers. But as I got older, I really enjoyed emulating Dan Girardi and modeling my game after him.

It was noticed from your Instagram account that you like to fish. How often do you go fishing and what do you enjoy most about it?

Growing up on Long Island there is an ample amount of opportunity to fish. I try to get out a few times a month. As much as I love to catch fish, I find it therapeutic just to relax and enjoy the outdoors with my buddies.

Who is the Backdoor Bandits HC and what is your role with the team?

Haha, great question! I am basically the Jackie Moon (player/owner/coach/GM) of our men’s league hockey team on Long Island. The league is called the Superior Hockey League and is made up of mostly pro, college and junior players. We actually won this summer for the first time since 2018. Needless to say, the boys were pumped!

If you could leave tomorrow and go anywhere in the world for a week, where are you going?

I’d go to the Bahamas. Can’t go wrong hanging on the beach, fishing, and golfing with almost consistently great weather.

If you could choose a professional sport to play other than hockey what would you choose?

I would be a professional Boogie Boarder.