Cannone named Director of Player Development & Advancement

May 2, 2022

The Ohio AAA Blue Jackets have announced the hiring of Pat Cannone as the program's new Director of Player Development and Advancement. Cannone will also serve as head coach of the 2006 birth year as they transition from 15-Only to 16U in 2022-23.

In his new role, Cannone will work closely with the organization's management team and coaching staff to enhance and implement the overall teaching and coaching curriculum. Specifically, he will oversee the design and structure of the OBJ supplemental skills program and video teaching sessions using InStat. In addition to being intimately involved in the long term planning and development of the program, Cannone will serve as a mentor to help AAA Blue Jackets players and families understand their opportunities to advance their hockey careers. 

"We are beyond thrilled to add Pat to our program on a full-time basis," said President Ed Gingher. "Pat is the definition of what a great teammate is all about. He has tremendous character and passion to help our players reach their potential. He is a great role model for our players and has an innate ability to connect with them. Pat had an outstanding playing career and is a huge asset for our program."

A native of Bayport, New York, Cannone began his coaching career last season as an assistant coach with the 15O team following an accomplished 10 year career as a pro. A veteran of over 600 professional games, Cannone made his NHL debut in 2016-17 with the Minnesota Wild. An AHL All-Star, he also served as the captain for the Chicago Wolves and spent two seasons playing in Germany.

"It is a huge honor to be a part of the AAA Blue Jackets organization," said Cannone. "Natalie and I have felt at home in Columbus since the day we moved here. There is a special sense of community here and we are very lucky to be a part of it. I am excited to dive in and help all of our players reach their potential on and off of the ice."

Cannone played his college hockey at Miami University where he tallied 133 points in 166 career games. In his time with the RedHawks, Cannone helped lead the team to 2 Frozen Fours, 2 league championships and 4 NCAA Tournaments during his 4-year career. He was named captain during his senior season.

Pat currently resides in Powell with his wife (Natalie) and daughter (Collins.) He received his bachelors degree in from Miami in 2011 with a major in kinesiology and minor in coaching.

The Ohio AAA Blue Jackets program prides itself on being the premier youth hockey program in Ohio. With an every day mission to develop our student-athletes to reach their potential on and off of the ice, the program aims to provide a healthy and safe environment for the elite player to grow as a player, person and teammate through the great game of hockey.