Player Spotlight: Chris Hartly
- brock609
- Jul 10, 2025
- 2 min read
Jr. Winterhawks Alum | 1991–1997
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Chris Hartly, a proud Jr. Winterhawks alum whose passion for the game continues to shape his life today. From lacing up his skates in the early ‘90s to now helping design and manage ice rinks across the country, Chris’s hockey roots run deep. We caught up with him to reflect on his time in the program, the mentors who left a mark, and what advice he has for today’s players chasing their dreams.
QUICK FACTS: Jr. Winterhawks Years: 1991–1997 College: Wentworth Institute of Technology Degree: Bachelor of Science in Management of Technology
Read more of Hartly's interview below to learn more about his insights and journey as a player.
Q: Looking back, what stands out to you most about your time playing with the Jr. Winterhawks?
A: The friendships and family that we created. I love the winning and fun stories from along the way, but the way our families connected and the lifelong friendships that were created are the best.
Q: How did your experience with the Jr. Winterhawks shape you—both on and off the ice?
A: The Jr. Hawks program definitely helped teach me the importance of working hard, being a good teammate, and most importantly, having passion for what I was doing.
Q: Was there a particular coach, teammate, or moment that had a lasting influence on your hockey journey?
A: Without a doubt, John McBride and Bobby Freeland had a huge and never-ending influence on my hockey journey and life! Each in their own way touched my life, and I would not be where I am—or the person I am—without either one of them.
Q: What advice would you give to current Jr. Winterhawks players chasing their hockey dreams?
A: Stay between the boards. No matter what is going on in your life or day, take a vacation from it when you're on the ice and really enjoy what you're doing.
Q: What are you up to now, whether it’s still in hockey or a new chapter in life?
A: I'm the Director of Facilities for Edge Sports Global. We help design, build, and manage recreational sports facilities, mostly ice rinks. So I still get out of bed almost every morning and head to a rink.
