Meet Jake McKercher
“It’s all about taking advantage of the opportunity that you get.”
Becoming a Head Equipment Manager for an OHL team requires dedication, commitment, sacrifice and of course extensive knowledge of hockey gear. It’s a career not all are cut out for because of its physically and mentally demanding nature. Whether it’s the 4:00 a.m. wakeup call on a Sunday morning for practice or being on the road for a week at a time, a Head Equipment Manager is an important member of a team who plays a crucial role in the growth of players.
Back in May, the Guelph Storm named Jake McKercher as the team’s new Head Equipment Manager for the upcoming 2021-22 OHL season. Previously serving as the Assistant Equipment Manager for the Ottawa 67s and Head Equipment Manager of the University of Ottawa Gee-Gee’s Men’s Hockey Team (2018-19), McKercher’s bringing a wealth of knowledge to Storm City.
“I’ve always had a passion for the equipment side of hockey,” commented Jake. “So, when my [hockey] playing days were over, I revisited my interest in equipment and it just stuck.”
First working at Sport Chek and Pro Hockey Life throughout his teen and early adolescent years, McKercher admits that his path to Head Equipment Manager has been a grind. Originally a volunteer for the 67s on game days, Jake’s persistence and work ethic got the attention of the 67s Head Equipment Manager, Chris Hamilton.
“I went in and had a conversation with Hamilton, and he decided to bring me on board, which then just kind of turned into five years of being his assistant,” said McKercher. “The first year basically all I did was fill water bottles, which wasn’t glamourous by any means. But it’s all about taking advantage of the opportunity that you get, whether volunteer or paid.”
Being an Equipment Manager requires a lot of time and energy. Between long hours and early mornings, working in the sports industry isn’t like a normal job. McKercher notes that sometimes he only gets four to five hours of sleep before having to be back at the arena. However of course there’s also many positives to working in sports.
“I think the most rewarding aspect of my job is watching these kids succeed and grow into men,” said McKercher. “Also, the relationships you build end up lasting a life-time so it’s a really good community to be part of.”
Having lived in Ottawa most of his life, McKercher is looking forward to the change of scenery and exploring Storm City. He’s most excited about experiencing the energy of what it’s like to live in a small city and to connect with the Guelph fanbase.
Words of Advice
If McKercher could give advice to someone pursuing a career like his, he would say:
“It’s a hustle to be in the sports industry and I think it’s important for kids to realize that it’s tough because you need to know a little bit before you even get into it,” said McKercher. “Over the years I’ve applied for multiple jobs and never even got a call back or an email, so sticking with it is huge.”
McKercher continued, “The hockey world is actually a small world, so I think being positive, getting your name out there, and going above and beyond to show your passion—whether you are paid or a volunteer—will get you to where you want to be.”
Fun Facts
- Has two older sisters & 1 younger.
- Loves fishing.
- Is an outdoorsman.
- A fan of F1 racing.
