Long-time Storm trainer and equipment manager Rusty Hammond announces retirement

After more than 2,000 OHL games and a total of 35 years behind the bench, Guelph Storm trainer and equipment manager Russ Hammond has announced his retirement.

A part of the Storm organization for the past 25 years, Hammond goes out on top after hoisting the J. Ross Robertson Cup as an OHL champion for the fourth time. His lengthy career included a total of six Memorial Cup tournament appearances, Canadian World Junior Team duty in 2002 and many trips to the Sherwin-Williams CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.

Rusty is calling it a day …https://t.co/BbNcXqFHcR

— Tony Saxon (@SaxonOnTheStorm) June 10, 2019

“Making such a decision has been very difficult and challenging from me,” the man universally known as ‘Rusty’ told Tony Saxon of GuelphToday.com.

“Looking after my owners, coaches and players’ needs over all these years has been fulfiling and most importantly enjoyable.”

Hammond worked part-time most of this past season as new head equipment manager and long-time assistant Doug Robertson took over the lead role.

“After working more than 2,000 games … I thank you more than I can express, for making my life as a trainer for so many years so fulfilling and rewarding.”

For more on the lengthy career of Russ Hammond, visit guelphtoday.com.