25 Facts About Conor Sheary

Early Life and Background

Conor Sheary's journey to the NHL is filled with interesting tidbits. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years and background.

1. Conor Sheary was born on June 8, 1992, in Winchester, Massachusetts. Growing up in a small town, he developed a passion for hockey at a young age.

2. He attended Cushing Academy, a private preparatory school in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, known for its strong hockey program. This helped him hone his skills and gain attention from college scouts.

3. Sheary played college hockey at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he was a standout player for the Minutemen. Over four seasons, he accumulated 104 points in 138 games.

4. Despite his impressive college career, Sheary went undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft. This didn't deter him; instead, it fueled his determination to prove himself.

Professional Career Beginnings

Conor Sheary's professional career began with a few bumps, but his perseverance paid off. Here are some key moments from his early professional days.

5. In 2014, Sheary signed an amateur tryout contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He quickly made an impact, scoring 11 points in 15 playoff games.

6. His performance earned him a two-year, entry-level contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins in July 2015. This was a significant milestone in his career.

7. Sheary made his NHL debut on December 16, 2015, against the Boston Bruins. He recorded his first NHL point, an assist, in the same game.

8. On December 18, 2015, Sheary scored his first NHL goal against the Carolina Hurricanes. This marked the beginning of his journey as an NHL goal scorer.

Stanley Cup Success

Conor Sheary's career reached new heights with the Pittsburgh Penguins. His contributions were crucial during their Stanley Cup runs.

9. Sheary won his first Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2016. He played a vital role, scoring 10 points in 23 playoff games.

10. In 2017, Sheary won his second consecutive Stanley Cup with the Penguins. He contributed 7 points in 22 playoff games, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.

11. During the 2016-2017 regular season, Sheary set career highs with 23 goals and 30 assists, totaling 53 points in 61 games. This was his breakout season.

Trades and Transitions

Like many professional athletes, Conor Sheary experienced trades and transitions throughout his career. These moves shaped his journey in the NHL.

12. In June 2018, Sheary was traded to the Buffalo Sabres along with Matt Hunwick in exchange for a conditional fourth-round pick. This marked a new chapter in his career.

13. Sheary played two seasons with the Sabres, recording 23 goals and 32 assists in 133 games. His time in Buffalo showcased his versatility and scoring ability.

14. In February 2020, Sheary was traded back to the Pittsburgh Penguins. He finished the 2019-2020 season with the team, adding depth to their roster.

15. In October 2020, Sheary signed a one-year contract with the Washington Capitals. This move reunited him with former Penguins teammate Carl Hagelin.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the rink, Conor Sheary has a life filled with interesting hobbies and personal milestones. Here are some lesser-known facts about his personal life.

16. Sheary married his longtime girlfriend, Jordan Sullivan, in 2018. The couple has been together since their college days at UMass Amherst.

17. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Mila, in 2020. Sheary often shares adorable family moments on social media.

18. Sheary is an avid golfer. He enjoys playing golf during the offseason and often participates in charity golf tournaments.

19. He is also a dog lover. Sheary and his family have a golden retriever named Bauer, who frequently appears in his social media posts.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and quirky facts about Conor Sheary that you might not know.

20. Despite his relatively small stature for an NHL player (5'8"), Sheary's speed and agility make him a formidable opponent on the ice.

21. Sheary's nickname among teammates is "Shears." It's a playful nod to his last name and his sharp playing style.

22. He has a superstitious side. Before every game, Sheary follows a strict pre-game routine that includes listening to the same playlist and eating the same meal.

23. Sheary is a fan of the TV show "Friends." He often quotes lines from the show and has even named his dog after one of the characters.

24. He has a hidden talent for playing the guitar. Sheary enjoys strumming tunes during his downtime and has even performed at team events.

25. Conor Sheary is actively involved in charity work. He supports various causes, including youth hockey programs and animal shelters, using his platform to give back to the community.

Final Thoughts on Conor Sheary

Conor Sheary's journey from undrafted player to NHL standout is nothing short of inspiring. His hard work, determination, and skill have made him a key player for the teams he's been part of, including the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals. Sheary's story reminds us that perseverance can lead to great success, even when the odds seem stacked against you. His achievements on the ice, from winning the Stanley Cup to scoring crucial goals, highlight his talent and dedication. Fans admire his speed, agility, and knack for being in the right place at the right time. Sheary's career continues to be one to watch, as he consistently proves that heart and hustle can make all the difference. Whether you're a hockey fan or just love a good underdog story, Conor Sheary's career offers plenty of inspiration.