As head equipment manager for the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, Shawn Thorns is helping pave the way in the hockey community. Now in his second season with the Swamp Rabbits after joining the team before the 2018-2019 season, Thorns manages team equipment, as well as the team’s locker room both at home and away.
A native of Charleston, South Carolina, Thorns grew up a hockey player and fan of the game. He learned how to play hockey from a good friend growing up and transitioned to the position of goaltender in high school. He remained involved with the sport as assistant coach of the Wando High School hockey team and an assistant equipment manager for the South Carolina Stingrays from 2013 to 2017.
“Going to the games as a kid, to having season tickets, to being downstairs helping with the behind the scenes,” were some of Thorns’ favorite parts of growing up as a hockey fan in South Carolina, along with playing and coaching the game. “Everyone from the Youth hockey program, to the high-school hockey association supported me and welcomed me with open arms, as a player and as a coach.”
After his four seasons with the Stingrays, Thorns held the position of head equipment manager for the Macon Mayhem of the SPHL for the 2017-2018 season. He was recruited by and worked with current Swamp Rabbits head coach Kevin Kerr, who was general manager of the Mayhem at the time.
“People don’t really know what goes on behind the scenes to make sure these guys can perform at the highest level and I take pride in my job,” stated Thorns. “I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Thorns does just about everything for the Swamp Rabbits. Along with managing all team equipment, he takes care of all maintenance and alterations, orders any gear the team needs, and does laundry for the team daily. His behind-the-scenes work for the Swamp Rabbits keeps the team running smoothly daily.
Thorns’ dedication to the team and the sport of hockey is immense. He loves the game, whether he is on the ice or working behind the scenes. His passion and commitment are part of the reason why he is a trailblazer in the hockey world.
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