CINCINNATI, OH – The Cincinnati Cyclones announced today the signing of forward Justin Vaive ahead of the 2024-25 season. Vaive will sport the captain’s “C” for a sixth season with the ‘Clones.
Justin is coming off a shortened year in which he skated in 45 games after suffering a season-ending injury. Before shutting down for the campaign, the Buffalo, NY native potted 28 points (13g, 15a) and punched in seven power play markers.
The lefty shooter has climbed his way to just one goal away from taking over the all-time Cyclones Organizational record (from 1990 to present) for goals scored with 148.
“To me now, Cincinnati is my first home. I moved around so much as a kid: Charleston, Buffalo, out East in Canada, Toronto and then back to the States to play hockey myself. But now, having gotten married here and having such a connection to the city, it’s something I’ll definitely cherish for the rest of my life.”
A draft pick of the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, Vaive has already etched his name into the Cyclones record books. He has played the most games (405) and scored the most goals (147) in team history (from 1995 to present).
The 35-year-old enters the 14th season of his professional career, which includes a Kelly Cup Championship, and 280 games played at the AHL level. In the American Hockey League, Justin has spent time with the San Antonio Rampage, Hartford Wolf Pack, Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Rochester Americans and the Belleville Senators.
The new affiliation with the Toronto Maple Leafs adds an extra special element for the Vaive family. Justin’s father, Rick, captained the Maple Leafs for four years during his eight-years with the Original Six club.
Justin says he’s excited to help the young Leafs stars of the future get their first taste of professional hockey. “As I’ve gotten older, I've realized how hard it is jumping into the pro game. It’s something really special, being able to mentor those young guys as much as you can. I take a lot of pride in that.”
Before turning pro, the 6’6” forward skated four years at nearby Miami University and spent time with the US National Development program.
Call (513) 421-PUCK for tickets and more information and stay on top of all the latest team updates and information on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram, along with our website, www.cycloneshockey.com.
