Equipment manager Dana Heinze is moving on after 33 years as an equipment manager in professional hockey, the Penguins announced on Tuesday.
Heinze, 54, joined the Penguins as head equipment manager in the 2006-07 season after six years as an assistant with the Lightning, a year with the Devils, one with the IHL's Detroit Vipers, and seven seasons with the ECHL's Johnstown Chiefs.
The Johnstown, Pa. native was part of four Stanley Cup championships -- three with the Penguins in 2009, 2016 and 2017, and one with the Lightning in 2004.
"I started pro hockey in 1988, and it's 2022. That's a good run," Heinze told the Penguins' team website. "I've had a blessed career. And at the end of the day, I'm leaving on my own terms. It's been a magical, long, strange trip."
Heinze will be moving back to Johnstown to spend more time with his family. He said that both his mother and his wife’s father are dealing with health issues.
The Penguins have plans to honor Heinze at a game next season, the specifics of which will be announced at a later date.
Heinze and Jon Taglianetti changed roles prior to the 2021-22 season, with Taglianetti becoming the head equipment manager and Heinze taking a step back as an assistant. Taglianetti will continue in his role as head equipment manager, with Paul DeFazio and Danny Kroll remaining on staff as assistants.
