AHL Utica Comets

Blast from the Past: John Vecchiarelli

Published on September 12, 2013 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Utica Comets News Release


It's all about the fans. That's what shone through in John Vecchiarelli's voice as he reminisced about his experience playing in Utica, for both the Blizzard and the Prowlers. As part of an illustrious 23-year career, Vecchiarelli played in Utica for three seasons - two with the Utica Blizzard of the Colonial Hockey League and one with the Mohawk Valley Prowlers of the United Hockey League.

"My hockey experience in Utica was a blast," Vecchiarelli explained enthusiastically. "I have to give it to the fans. The fans there are unbelievable. They treated you so well and made you feel like you were at home. It was a great feeling." Vecchiarelli admitted that even when he played in Utica as a member of the visiting team, he enjoyed his experience in the city and in the rink.

"The Aud is one of those buildings where the seats come right down to the ice, and the fans are right on top of you. It's a phenomenal feeling that they are that close to you," Vecchiarelli stated. "The fans used to get right up on the glass and chant you on. It's an unbelievable arena to play in."

Center John Vecchiarelli was not only a fan favorite on the Blizzard and Prowlers, but also a playmaker. In his first year in Utica, he tallied 82 points in 58 games. He managed to surpass his statistics in his second year, recording 106 points in 73 games. Vecchiarelli was extremely popular with the fans in Utica, and many still remember his outstanding play coupled with his positive attitude about the fan experience. When asked why he thought Utica fans considered him a fan favorite, Vecchiarelli humbly replied, "I went out and did my job that I was supposed to do. I came every game ready to play. I didn't disrespect the fans, because they are the ones who are paying to come and watch us. We have to entertain them." He went on to explain his flexibility and frequent appearances in the community at local events and charity functions, in addition to his willingness to take photographs with fans and sign autographs. "You gotta give it up to the fans," he repeated. "They're the ones actually paying us too if you think about it. They are probably some of the best fans around."

Before playing in Utica, Vecchiarelli began his career in Flint, Michigan, after trying out for the National Hockey League's Hartford Whalers. Vecchiarelli then spent close to 10 years with the International Hockey League in Europe. He would return to the United States, where he played for almost another ten years to cap off a successful career, one most memorable with Utica's passionate fans. When asked if he had a favorite memory from playing in Utica, Vecchiarelli answered immediately, confessing that this memory began when he was playing against Utica. "The chicken man," Vecchiarelli chuckled, "That guy harassed every player that came into the building, especially me. He just loves doing it, and coming to play for Utica after that...well, he was one of the best fans you can and will ever have in that auditorium."

After finishing his hockey career in the early 2000â=80"s, Vecchiarelli settled in Barrie, Ontario, a city of about 125,000 people, located an hour north of Toronto. Vecchiarelli owns his own window business, and lives with his wife. He has two daughters, who are both talented athletes, participating in gymnastics, cheerleading and volleyball.

Despite playing for numerous teams throughout his career, Vecchiarelli's enthusiasm and eagerness to talk about his experience in Utica is a testament to the lasting memories that lie within the Aud's doors. Vecchiarelli expressed his interest in returning to Utica for a game, and he encourages fans to reach out to him at veccher19@rogers.com.

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American Hockey League Stories from September 12, 2013


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