We caught up with Phantoms forward, AJ Herring, after he collected his first point for the Wendy’s Peterborough Phantoms in Sunday night’s win over the Bristol Pitbulls.
The 16-year-old spent his entire junior career with the Phantoms, scoring impressive numbers season upon season, at age groups well above his own, showing clear potential along the way.
His first steps in professional hockey came towards the end of last season, where he iced for Phantoms and Phantoms NIHL2 - where he helped Nathan Pollard’s side to a quadruple winning campaign with important points in important moments.
And last weekend, he celebrated his first point as a member of the Phantoms when he assisted Morgan Clarke-Pizzo’s go-ahead goal in the second period.
“It was immense to get my first point for the team in front of the fans at home! The game is much faster and much more systematic than juniors. Also, playing against men rather than kids your own age is a lot harder physically. I feel like i’ve taken the change well and worked really hard to develop my game to be able to play at the men’s level, whilst continuing to develop my skills to be a better hockey player.” AJ said.
He’s currently contracted to the Phantoms (NIHL), Widnes Wild (NIHL1) and Phantoms NIHL2, giving him exposure to the three steps of hockey below the Elite League. Each team provides him with a different role, allowing him to play in all situations and aid his development as a player.
“Having the opportunity to play three levels of senior hockey means i can get as much ice time as possible in order to continue my development. Also the three different levels give me a chance to develop different parts of my game.” AJ said.
Herring’s potential is there for all to see and he’s keen to continue progressing and enjoying his hockey.
AJ said: “I would love to be able to reach the highest level of senior hockey that i can, but my main goal is to be happy and successful wherever i am!”
As ever, the Phantoms fans have taken to AJ as a homegrown lad, and he’s grateful to the supporters for their support.
“The fans are great. We’re lucky enough to have the best fans in the league and to have them be positive to me is the biggest compliment.”
Phantoms’ next challenge is a double header away in Solway, with invaluable cup points also on the line. AJ knows the importance of putting more points on the board and, if in the lineup, is keek to contribute to his sides’ performances once again.
“If i’m in the lineup, the best result would be winning both games of the weekend. Plenty of hard work will bring us opportunities in the games and help us towards getting the wins. The cup game is important and getting the win will get us two points closer to qualifying!” AJ concluded.
You can sponsor AJ for the remainder of the season for as little as £10 HERE! His red own & loan jersey is also available via the same link!