Why Champs Choose Howies
We had the incredible opportunity to speak with Chris Davidson-Adams, the esteemed equipment manager of the Stanley Cup Champs. As the backbone behind the scenes, responsible for ensuring the team is fully equipped and ready for action, Davidson-Adams's expertise and dedication have been instrumental in the Golden Knights' success. In this exclusive interview, we delved into his journey in professional hockey, his favorite career moments, and, of course, his experience using Howies. Join us as we gain insight into the life of a championship-winning equipment manager and discover the role Howies plays in enhancing the game-day experience for players at the highest level.
TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY
"While I was playing JV hockey in high school, my assistant coach was a security guard at the arena where the Grand Rapids Griffins (at that time in the IHL) play. The Griffins' Equipment Manager was looking for some kids to volunteer to fill water bottles, clean the visiting room, and just help out in any other way. After starting with the Griffins, I accepted a job in 2000 to be an assistant Equipment Manager with the Houston Aeros."
DO YOU REMEMBER YOUR FIRST TIME USING HOWIES?
"I do! After a year in Houston, I was back as an assistant in Grand Rapids and Brad "Dogg" Thompson started using Howies. I met Howie himself and heard about his venture into starting this great hockey tape company. I really admired how he cared about product quality, but also was heavily invested in customer service and making sure he was making our jobs easier. Ever since, when I was a Head Equipment Manager, I was using Howies."
WHAT'S A NORMAL GAME DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
"Alarm goes off at 5AM, head to the rink and start sharpening skates and prepping for our morning skate at our practice facility in Summerlin. After practice, my assistants and I move skate, sticks, and goalie equipment back over to T-Mobile Arena. I'll hang back and take care of some more skates, ordering supplies, and anything else that needs to be done. I'll have some lunch and then head over to T-Mobile to do all of our final prepping for the game. After the game, we put all the gear in a truck to take back to the practice facility. We'll make sure the locker room is straightened up and cleaned - ready for the next game. Our assistant John makes sure the visitors are taken care of - helping them pack up and get to the airport. So overall, a lot of moving parts throughout the night, and I have a great staff that helps everything go smoothly."
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER?
"Easy. Being named Head Equipment Manager for the Vegas Golden Knights. I try to pride myself in hard work, always trying to avoid complacency. I've made it a point throughout my career to reinvent myself and get better. When the team was announced and I got this job, it was years of hard work paying off and an achievement that I'm incredibly proud of.
WHY DO YOU USE HOWIES?
"I look for certain things when I'm ordering equipment or dealing with companies. Obviously I need the best product, that goes without saying, but customer service is huge for me. As a business, I like that I don't ever have to worry about my Howies order. You tell me when it's going to arrive - and that's what happens. With all the moving parts in a locker room, it's just one less thing I have to worry about. makes it even easier that the players love your product. Twenty years after first seeing the tape i Grand Rapids, you guys haven't changed your core principles and still offer great products and outstanding service."
As we wrap up this interview, we are reminded of the integral role equipment managers play in supporting their teams behind the scenes, ensuring that every player is equipped for victory. And with Howies, Davidson-Adams has found a reliable partner that not only delivers exceptional products but also prioritizes customer service, allowing him to focus on the countless moving parts of his demanding role. With this winning combination, it's no wonder that Howies remains a staple in the hockey world. As we applaud the Vegas Golden Knights' triumph in the Stanley Cup, we extend our gratitude to Chris Davidson-Adams for sharing his experiences and shedding light on the vital work of an equipment manager in the pursuit of excellence on the ice. Thanks Chris!