Connor Sills' Journey from Plymouth Whalers to Flint Firebirds Jerseys

Following the Path from Whaler to Firebird

When you think back on the history of the Ontario Hockey League's Plymouth Whalers franchise, one of the last players to don the iconic green and navy blue Whalers sweater was defenseman Connor Sills.

Beginning His Journey as a Whaler

Sills was drafted by the Whalers in the sixth round of the 2011 OHL Priority Selection. As a young defenseman full of potential, he worked his way up through the Whalers organization.

By the 2014-2015 season, Sills had secured a regular spot on the Whalers' blue line as an OHL rookie. He showed flashes of talent in his own zone and added some offense as well, scoring a pair of goals to go along with six assists in his first major junior campaign.

The Whalers Skate Off into History

Little did Sills and his teammates know, but that 2014-2015 OHL season would be the Whalers' last. The team had called Plymouth home since 1990, becoming one of junior hockey's most storied franchises.

However, new ownership decided to relocate the organization. As the Whalers skated off the ice for the final time, a new era was set to begin for Sills as he would suit up for the Flint Firebirds the following season.

Transitioning to the Firebirds

With the franchise under new ownership and leadership, Sills provided an important thread of continuity in the locker room. His experience as a Whaler helped unite the Firebirds in those early days.

Bringing Consistency and Leadership

On the ice, Sills brought consistency and leadership to a young Firebirds defensive group. He dressed for over 50 games in that first season in Flint, increasing his offensive production to 16 points.

As one of the few remaining players left from the former Plymouth squad, Sills helped make the Firebirds truly feel like a continuation of the Whalers franchise. His steady play on the back end made the ownership transition easier for fans.

Leaving His Mark in Flint History

Over his final two junior seasons, Sills continued bringing veteran savvy to the Firebirds lineup. In 2016-2017, he achieved new offensive heights with 24 points.

Although the Firebirds did not see too much postseason success in Sills' time there, he left his mark on the young franchise. His journey traced the path from the storied Whalers into this new era in Flint hockey history.

Carrying Forward a Proud Hockey Legacy

Players like Connor Sills are crucial when franchises transition to new homes. By carrying forward the proud Plymouth Whalers legacy and traditions, Sills represented an important bridge to the fledgling Flint Firebirds identity.

The OHL will not soon forget the 20+ years of Whalers hockey. And thanks to players like Sills wearing both jerseys, neither will Firebirds fans.