His father, John, played linebacker at Marshall University, and his mother, Kathy, was a track athlete. Two of his aunts competed in Division I college basketball at Marquette and St. Louis, while his uncle played football at Canisius. His brother, John Jr., took on the role of center at East Carolina University, and his sister Logan danced at Ohio State. Another sister was a tennis player, and a third sister participated in travel volleyball.
Similarly, AJ Spellacy had the opportunity to pursue NCAA football himself. A three-star recruit for both free safety and wide receiver, he even received a phone call from Nick Saban. However, he opted to forgo five offers for Division I football scholarships and left the football team at Saint Ignatius High School—where he had just completed a season as the only sophomore on varsity—to focus on another sport: hockey.
The Spellacys were not unfamiliar with hockey. John and his three brothers casually played the sport during their childhood, and one of AJ’s cousins, Aiden, played at St. Cloud State and had a professional stint in England the previous year. Nonetheless, football runs deep in their family.
In West Lake, Ohio, located just 20 minutes from Cleveland—where both of his parents grew up—football is the dominant sport over hockey. John recalls sitting in a recliner and tossing a football to AJ, who would dash across the living room, diving onto the couch to make the catch.
AJ notes that last year marked his first complete year committing to hockey full-time. By the end of the season, the Chicago Blackhawks selected him in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft, and USA Hockey invited him to the World Junior Summer Showcase to try out for the upcoming World Juniors in Ottawa.
Last summer represented AJ’s first dedicated training regimen for hockey, engaging with other hockey players under the guidance of local strength and conditioning coach Ryan Richmond. He had previously visited Richmond’s gym, T3 Performance, but only for speed training as a football player.
Throughout his upbringing, AJ couldn’t join his youth hockey team until December 1, after football concluded. He would then play for four months while participating in travel basketball, storing his hockey bag away in the basement afterward, and spent his summers playing travel baseball. His father remarked that AJ was “a really good basketball player who can dunk pretty well now.”
“From the time he was 2 years old, he never stopped moving. AJ was always lean, tall, and active—never the type to just sit around,” John shared. “He thrived on being busy.”
AJ, the youngest of five siblings by five years—much to John’s amusement, as he calls AJ “a pleasant surprise”—benefited as he began competing in four sports year-round at a time when his older siblings had already finished their athletic pursuits, allowing John and Kathy to focus more on him.
spread as thin.
“AJ participated in everything, and I wanted him to engage in diverse activities for as long as possible to discover his passions along the way. It happened a bit earlier than I anticipated for AJ since I thought he would continue playing football, especially after a strong sophomore year,” John stated. “I firmly believe that every sport enhances your overall athleticism.”
This belief encapsulated the Spellacy philosophy.
“Reflecting on my upbringing, my dad believed that sports could solve many issues because they kept kids occupied and imparted significant life lessons,” John recalled. “In my family of six, everyone played a sport. The same goes for my five kids. It’s not about whether you make it professionally; it’s the invaluable lessons learned along the way.”
AJ did not meet his agent and skills development coach, Kenny Ryan—who was a second-round NHL Draft pick in 2009 and a skills coach at the University of Michigan—until he turned 15. His first experience of spending an offseason on the ice came just two summers ago, preceding his rookie season at 16 with the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL. When the Spitfires drafted him in the spring of 2022, AJ was on an unofficial visit to Ohio State’s football program, also receiving scholarship offers from schools like Iowa State, Illinois State, Central Michigan, and Toledo.
John opted out of the visit to OSU, choosing to send AJ’s brother instead. He wanted to avoid complicating AJ’s thoughts, especially since he believed AJ thought he only wanted him to pursue football. “I told him, ‘I want you to do what you love and what you’ll work hardest at,’” John said.
“(Hockey) was something I casually enjoyed while I was primarily focused on football,” AJ remarked. “However, as I grew older, I developed a true passion for hockey. I believe I possess natural talent for the sport, and I realized that if I dedicated myself, I could become a long-term player in the NHL.”
After AJ decided to pursue hockey in the OHL, John—a trial lawyer based in Cleveland—made him wait a couple of weeks and required him to commit to two promises: 1. That he would eventually earn his college degree, whenever that might be, and 2. That he would work hard and maintain a positive mindset.
Right away, AJ and Ryan began skating together 4-5 days a week at 6:30 a.m. and engaged in video analysis.
The progress AJ has made in a short span has been remarkable.
“I’m uncertain about his potential ceiling, but his current foundation is exceptional compared to other kids who have played year-round for 10-12 years,” Ryan noted. “I think AJ is just beginning to reach the surface of his true capabilities. His skating is world-class. (However) he hasn’t previously invested significant time and training into hockey. He possesses vast untapped potential, which he is actively working to realize. If he continues to apply himself, I’m confident he will achieve whatever he sets his mind to.”
AJ finished in the top 10 in seven different tests at this year’s NHL Scouting Combine. (Luke Durda / OHL Images)
During his time in Windsor, the Spitfires witnessed AJ harnessing his unrecognized potential firsthand.
Casey Torres, who was his head coach last season, referred to him as “our physical specimen” during a pre-draft phone conversation. Liam Greentree, the team’s captain and a potential first-round draft pick, praised him as one of the fastest skaters in the draft class.
In his inaugural OHL season, AJ recorded merely 17 points over 47 games for the Spitfires. However, when NHL Central Scouting published its preliminary watch list for the draft in the fall of his second season, he received a ‘C’ rating, suggesting a possibility of being selected in the 4th or 5th round. By midseason, he was placed 125th among North American skaters. He concluded the season with 21 goals and 38 points in 67 games, ranking fifth in scoring for the Spitfires, and during the 37 games following the Christmas break, he accumulated 29 of those points. By the end of the season, he had climbed to 72nd in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings of North American skaters.
At the NHL Scouting Combine weeks prior to the draft, AJ excelled, finishing in the top 10 for seven different tests—the highest of any player. His achievements included first place in peak output during the Wingate test, a 30-second power assessment while cycling; fourth in right-side agility; sixth for body fat percentage (7.18 on a 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame); ninth in vertical jump; second in horizontal jump; ninth in no-arm jump; and seventh in pull-ups.
“He’s 18 but he moves like a 22-year-old athlete,” remarked Richmond. “Training him is genuinely enjoyable.”
In Richmond’s junior training group, consisting of around ten players from the OHL, USHL, NAHL, and prep hockey, AJ stands out not only for his performance but also for his demeanor.
“He’s an excellent kid. He’s amusing; every day it’s ‘Heyyy Richie, how’s it going!’ He’s incredibly charismatic, able to take on any challenge I present and tackle it with determination. He leads by example while also engaging in conversation with everyone. With a smile on his face 90 percent of the time, he constantly pushes himself because he understands the significance of these upcoming years in his career,” Richmond shared.
Richmond suggested that AJ could also train with his professional group, which includes players like Stefan Matteau and Oliver Bjorkstrand. Over the last two summers, AJ has interacted with those professionals, observing their workouts as they prepped him for draft day and celebrated his selection.
When Richmond began working with AJ last summer, they needed to adapt his training. Unlike football training that typically emphasizes straight routes and predictability, Richmond noted that hockey training is distinctive due to the dynamic nature of skating and the unpredictable flow during games.
Despite this, they continued to incorporate heavy lifting, plyometrics, and various jumping exercises to strengthen his performance.
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He had been instructed in the fundamentals. Possessing speed and explosiveness that many of his peers lack, he needed to focus on enhancing functional movements that would showcase his speed on the ice. This involved increasing his workload with dumbbells and intensifying his conditioning through bicycle protocols and circuits, allowing him to endure lengthy games and extended seasons.
“He transitioned from playing football and managing travel hockey to a demanding 68-game season in the OHL, along with world juniors, development camp, and a rookie tournament. Football generally requires shorter bursts of explosive movements, which has undoubtedly contributed to his speed, but now he requires some durability,” Richmond noted. “His style of play is gritty; therefore, he needs that strength not only for injury prevention but also to build his conditioning engine.”
Ryan stated that AJ currently possesses the physical attributes of a professional player. “He also has a work ethic like I’ve never encountered before,” Ryan remarked.
The Spellacys consistently arrive first for their 6:30 a.m. skates. John hears the door close at 5:45 a.m., and after skates with Ryan, AJ returns home, eats, heads to his lifting session with Richmond, and then comes back for another meal. Nothing brings him more joy than witnessing AJ’s passion for the effort involved in what he’s pursuing.
“This is no exaggeration: He possesses a mindset that very few players I’ve competed with during my career have,” Ryan stated. “Now it’s about the repetitions… Moving from playing 10 minutes a game in his first year to 18 minutes a game in the latter half of last year, those additional minutes over the next year or so will grant him valuable experience. Once he secures a spot in the NHL, he’ll likely start playing around 10 minutes a night again, but he has learned how to succeed in that role.”
Ryan humorously observes that getting his foot in the door has become Spellacy’s forte.
“AJ knows how to get himself into a room for a discussion. His performance at the summer showcase has opened that door once more,” Ryan mentioned.
AJ, who models his game after the Capitals’ Tom Wilson, believes his background in football has given him an edge as a hockey player. (Rena Laverty / USA Hockey)
During the showcase, Team USA head coach David Carle remarked that he had heard about “the speed factor that he brings and the size element,” but he particularly praised AJ’s puck pressure, ability to turn defenders, and capacity to generate turnovers, suggesting he could have easily achieved more than just two points in his three games.
AJ’s initial ambition was to make
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Team USA’s junior squad initially anticipated him to participate as a 19-year-old in the 2026 tournament in Minneapolis. However, that perspective has shifted, and he now expects to secure a spot at the age of 18 this year.
If he is to join the team, he intends to be a player that Carle and his coaching staff can count on for defensive duties, penalty killing, and to be “that guy who wears down the opposing team.”
He draws inspiration for his playing style from Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals.
“(Wilson’s) a tough power forward; the opponents fear him and nobody relishes the opportunity to face him. When I’m playing hard, I become a significant presence out there … embodying that power forward mentality, bringing the toughness and physicality,” AJ remarked. “Not many players take on that approach, so being one of the few who do is quite appealing. Every team needs a player like that, so I need to keep honing in on it.”
He believes that his experience in football has contributed to his ability to adopt that style of play.
“I think (football) has shaped my mindset both on and off the ice,” AJ explained. “I have a bit of a fierce mindset when I step onto the ice.”
Additionally, since he came to the game later than some of his peers, he feels that he is still catching up.
How will he reach his goals? “It’s simply about playing consistently throughout the year,” Spellacy stated.
With reporting from Plymouth, Mich., and Buffalo, N.Y.
(Top photos courtesy of Rena Laverty / USA Hockey, John Spellacy)
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From Football Prominence to Hockey Stardom: The Remarkable Journey of AJ Spellacy
Early Life and Football Career
AJ Spellacy, born and raised in a small town, initially found fame on the football field. Standing tall and athletic, he showcased exceptional talent as a quarterback during high school. His dedication to the sport earned him a scholarship to a prestigious university, where he honed his skills and embraced the challenges of collegiate football.
Key Achievements in Football
- Led his high school team to the state championship.
- Named All-State Quarterback for two consecutive years.
- Set university records for passing yards in a single season.
The Transition to Hockey
Despite his football success, AJ Spellacy always felt a magnetic pull towards hockey. Growing up in a region where hockey was prevalent, he spent many winter nights on outdoor rinks. After realizing that he had a greater passion for hockey than football, he made the bold decision to pivot his athletic career.
Overcoming Challenges
The transition from football to hockey was not without its challenges. AJ had to learn the intricacies of the sport, from skating techniques to puck handling. Here are some challenges he faced:
- Skill Development: Mastering skating and puck control took time and dedication.
- Physical Adaptation: Adapting to the physical demands of hockey, such as endurance and agility.
- Mindset Shift: Moving from a quarterback’s strategic thinking to a more fluid gameplay of hockey.
Training Regimen
To facilitate his transition, AJ Spellacy developed a rigorous training regimen. His focus was not only on skill development but also on physical conditioning and mental preparation. Here is a breakdown of his training routine:
| Day | Training Focus | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | On-Ice Skating Drills | 2 hours |
| Tuesday | Strength Training | 1.5 hours |
| Wednesday | Puck Handling and Shooting | 2 hours |
| Thursday | Endurance Training | 1 hour |
| Friday | Scrimmage Games | 2 hours |
First Hand Experience: AJ’s Journey in Hockey
AJ’s determination paid off when he joined a local junior hockey league. The experience was transformative, allowing him to adapt his athleticism to a new sport while making invaluable connections with fellow players. Here’s what AJ had to say about his early days in hockey:
“Every practice was a new learning opportunity. The camaraderie and team spirit in hockey reminded me of football, but the skills needed were entirely different. I embraced the challenge and didn’t look back.” – AJ Spellacy
Key Insights from AJ’s Hockey Experience
- Team Dynamics: Developing strong relationships with teammates is crucial in hockey.
- Continuous Learning: There’s always room for improvement, regardless of prior experience.
- Resilience: Overcoming setbacks is part of any athlete’s journey, especially in a new sport.
Achievements in Hockey
AJ Spellacy’s perseverance and dedication to hockey led him to achieve remarkable milestones. Here are some of his noteworthy accomplishments:
- Named captain of his junior hockey team.
- Led the league in scoring during his second season.
- Secured a scholarship to play at a NCAA Division I program.
Benefits of Transitioning Between Sports
AJ’s journey illustrates the potential advantages of transitioning from one sport to another. Some benefits include:
- Cross-Training: Skills from one sport can enhance performance in another.
- Physical Fitness: Engaging in multiple sports improves overall athletic ability.
- Mental Toughness: Facing new challenges builds resilience and adaptability.
Tips for Athletes Considering a Sport Transition
If you are an athlete contemplating a switch from one sport to another, here are some practical tips inspired by AJ’s journey:
- Research: Understand the demands of the new sport and assess your current skills.
- Seek Coaching: Find a mentor or coach who specializes in the new sport.
- Start Slow: Begin with fundamental skills and gradually build your expertise.
- Network: Connect with athletes in the new sport for support and advice.
Case Studies: Other Athletes Who Made Successful Transitions
AJ Spellacy’s story is not unique. Many athletes have successfully transitioned between sports, each bringing unique skills and experiences. Here are a few notable examples:
| Athlete | Previous Sport | New Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Bo Jackson | Baseball | Football |
| Deion Sanders | Football | Baseball |
| Elena Delle Donne | Volleyball | Basketball |
Looking Ahead: AJ’s Future in Hockey
As AJ Spellacy continues to forge his path in hockey, he remains committed to improving his skills and contributing to his team. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes looking to explore new sports. With each game, AJ proves that with passion, determination, and a willingness to learn, anything is possible.
Conclusion
AJ Spellacy’s remarkable journey from football prominence to hockey stardom is a testament to his resilience and dedication. As he continues to excel in his newfound sport, his story encourages others to pursue their passions, regardless of how unconventional the path may be.
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