Player profile: Paul “The Playmaker” Schon
Position: Right wing
Jersey number: 11
Hometown: Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
Years with the Clearwater Hosers: Less than one
Hockey roots and memories: Paul Schon first fell in love with hockey while skating on frozen ponds near his New Jersey hometown at the age of seven. Inspired by his father, a dedicated New York Rangers season ticket holder, Paul admired legendary Rangers like Vic Hadfield and Pete Stemkowski. “Hadfield was always willing to chat and sign autographs,” Paul recalls, “and I’ll never forget getting my first NHL puck from Stemkowski.”
One of Paul’s most unforgettable hockey moments came during his days at Boston University. It was an intramural game where the varsity team dropped in. When Paul lined up to block a shot, he looked up and saw a 6-foot-plus tall defenceman winding up. That defenceman? Dale Dunbar, who went on to play for the Bruins. Paul decided right then that self-preservation was the better option. “It’s my story, and I’m sticking to it!” he jokes.
These days, Paul’s signature move on the ice is simple yet effective: gather the puck, fake a rush, and set up a teammate with a crafty pass.
The rituals and sounds of game day? Paul is all about the details before hitting the ice, making sure to dress in the correct order and not forget any gear. His pregame soundtrack often includes “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen to get his energy up.
Beyond hockey: Off the ice, Paul’s life is just as intense. He’s a 14-time Ironman Triathlon finisher and even competed at the World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Here’s the kicker: he’s never done a standalone marathon! “I’ve only ever run marathons as part of Ironman races,” he says, casually understating the feat.
If he’s not training or on the ice, you might find him fly fishing, refereeing hockey, cycling, or working on his land.
Paul’s ideal post-game cheat meal: Beer and pretzel crisps.
His current dream travel destination: Thailand (after checking Oktoberfest in Germany off his list last year).
Locker room favourites: Paul thrives on the camaraderie of the Hosers and says that his funniest teammate is Don Pendergast, whose dry sense of humour always cracks him up. On a deserted island, though, Paul would put his survival bets on John Jalliet. “He’s got all sorts of skills,” Paul claims.
For karaoke night, Paul would hit the mic with Billy Joel’s “You May Be Right.” As for fan support, nothing pumps him up more than seeing them show up and do the wave.
Quick hits
• Favourite NHL Team: St. Louis Blues
• Favourite Movie: Stripes
• Favourite TV Show: MASH or Shoresy
• Favourite Food: Schweinhaxen (German roast pork knuckle)
• Favourite pump-up song: "Don’t Stop Me Now" by Queen
• Best chirp: “Hey ref! You know there’s two teams out there, eh?”
• Superpower of choice: Go-Go Gadget arms (“So I can dangle like the pros!”)
• Pineapple on pizza: “Hell no!”
Paul Schon loves being a Clearwater Hoser because of the people. “The guys, the room, it’s the best part,” he says.
With his team motto of "Just Having Fun!" it’s clear that Paul embodies the spirit of the Hosers both on and off the ice. Fans, next time you see #11 on the rink, show your support and maybe even get a story or two from this seasoned Ironman and hockey lifer who is “still in the game!”
(Clearwater Hosers would like to thank funding partners Wadlegger Logging and Construction and J & K Creations for their generous donations.)
