Former Soo Greyhounds equipment manager, Jay Thomas, took over ownership at the John Rhodes Pro Shop. Here is a news release announcing the move:
For the last six weeks, you may have noticed a new but familiar face hanging around the John Rhodes Pro Shop. We can now officially announce that it is under new ownership. Jay Thomas assumed ownership around the same time he resigned from his position as the head equipment manager at the Soo Greyhounds organization.
“It was a tough decision to make because I loved the work, the atmosphere, and the team. It just came down to the fact that the long hours and travelling all the time was becoming hard on my family. When the opportunity arose for me to purchase my own store and still be part of the hockey world, I knew it was the right decision.”
In addition to skate sharpening and profiling, he can install shot blockers, replace rivets, and help fix common problems like lace bite.
“Basically, if something is wrong with your hockey equipment and you’re not sure whether or not it can be repaired, come and ask.”
Thomas has worked with sporting equipment and repairs most of his life as he began in his grandfather’s store, Verne’s Hardware, at the young age of 13. After that, he repaired a multitude of sporting goods for many years at our local Sportchek.
“It was important to my grandfather that we learn the family business, so even before I was able to actually be on payroll, I was in the store fixing bicycles and stocking shelves.”
When asked if he plans to do other types of equipment repairs, Thomas was optimistic but maintained that as he is starting out, slow and steady will be the way to win the race.
“I would love to be able to restring tennis rackets, repalm gloves, and do bicycle repairs, but all of that takes special equipment that I’m going to have to purchase over time. If you have a request or need something, it’s worth talking to me about. Even if I can’t fix it, I can probably direct you to someone who can. Also, watch our Facebook and Instagram pages because as the equipment comes in, I’ll certainly be letting people know there.”
Thomas is looking forward to working with other sports organizations to make sure that specialized equipment is readily available to make it easier for their athletes to perform at top levels.
The John Rhodes Pro Shop phone number has not changed, it is still (705)253-1057, or you can email Thomas at [email protected]. There is currently a like and share the contest on the Facebook page for a free $100 skate sharpening card.
“I’m really hoping to provide worthwhile services to the people of Sault Ste. Marie. I love working with the community and am excited to help them benefit from the services and skill set that I have.”