The Cranbrook Bucks have added a new member to their staff for the upcoming season, naming John ‘JJ’ Johnson their new Athletic Trainer and Equipment Manager.

Johnson spent the past six seasons with the Powassan Voodoos of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League. He was recognized for his efforts on multiple occasions, including as Head Trainer and Equipment Manager for Team NOJHL at the Eastern Canada Cup All-Star Challenge.

Johnson also served as Equipment Manager for Team Canada East at the 2019 World Junior A Championship in Dawson Creek, BC.

The Bucks said the following in their official news release announcing the hire.

“Our staff here with the Cranbrook Bucks are thrilled to bring JJ on board with us in an Equipment Managing and Athletic Trainer capacity for the upcoming season.

JJ has an extensive background working in Junior Hockey, both at the Junior A and CHL levels, and we are excited to help him take the next step in his career here in Cranbrook.

JJ’s professionalism, experience, and attitude stood out during the hiring process, and we are excited to welcome him to the Bucks family.”

In the same news release, Johnson shared his excitement about joining the Bucks for the upcoming season.

“I’m very happy to be joining the Cranbrook Bucks as their next Athletic Trainer and Equipment Manager,” said Johnson. “I’d like to thank Nathan (Lieuwen) and Ryan (Donald) for the opportunity and also extend a big thank you to the Powassan Voodoos for the last six years. I’m looking forward to getting to work in Cranbrook.”

Johnson replaces Mike Nelson who served as the Bucks’ Trainer and Equipment Manager for the first two seasons in franchise history.

When the team announced the job posting, they thanked Nelson for his contributions over his two years in Cranbrook.

“The Cranbrook Bucks would like to extend a huge Thank-You to Mike Nelson for his two years as the Trainer & Equipment Manager. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours.”

The Bucks open the 2022-23 regular season on Friday, Sept. 23 on the road in Merritt against the Centennials.