Brady Spry now stands as the clear starting goaltender for the Trenton Golden Hawks.
With the league's best record, Spry has played a critical role in the Golden Hawks' strong start to the 2024-25 OJHL season. However, the over-age netminder is quick to attribute his early success to the teammates in front of him.
"Our team is deep this year, especially with the younger guys stepping up," he said. "They've made my job easier with lots of perimeter shots, and they've helped me get those numbers."
Spry has earned the trust of the coaching staff, solidifying his role as the team’s number one goaltender. He first made his mark last season when he capably stepped in for injured starter Ben Bonisteel proving his reliability during that stretch.
"I’ve always believed I’m a starting-caliber goalie," he said. "I’ve never really doubted myself. I just waited for my breaks to come, like with that injury. I had a chance to prove myself, and I feel like I took it and ran with it."
Spry has emerged as one of the top netminders in the league. His belief has translated into results, with a 2.31 goals-against average, a .929 save percentage, and one shutout in nine games this season.
Another major factor in Spry's growth comes from his work with mentor Mike Murphy, who he watched during his childhood with the Belleville Bulls.
"Murph's my idol. He's the reason I became a goalie," he said. "Working with him is amazing. He teaches me something new every day. We talk consistently, so having him in my corner means a lot."
Spry is thrilled to have a coach with Murphy’s background. Most netminders don’t get to work with their favourite player from childhood. He is appreciative of the detail, the two-time OHL Goaltender of the Year puts into breaking down his play helping him to make the proper adjustments.
"He’ll send me clips and little notes of things I don’t notice during games, and then I fine tune on them at practice that week. It's been really helpful."
His development is also supported by former Golden Hawks standout Ben Bonisteel, who set a positive example with his work ethic, preparation and charity work.
Bonisteel was crucial in leading the Golden Hawks to back-to-back OJHL Eastern Conference Championships before committing to Canisius College. He is now continuing his academic and athletic pursuits as a member of the Golden Griffins' men’s hockey program, while majoring in psychology.
"I learned a lot from Ben, especially about staying late after practice and being prepared. I think that's helped me a lot this year, kind of filling his shoes and hopefully make him proud."
With a strong team in front of him and guidance from both Murphy and Bonisteel, Spry feels confident in his ability to help the Golden Hawks maintain their success.
For the Belleville native, suiting up for franchise is special given his connection growing up in the region.
"I dreamed of playing for Trenton when I was younger," he said. "Having my family nearby and seeing my friends and family in the stands each week. It’s really nice."
As the Golden Hawks pursue a Buckland Cup, his steady presence in net gives the organization a serious shot at another deep playoff run. For now, Spry remains focused on making the most of every opportunity.
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