Brad Thompson

A mainstay in Grand Rapids’ locker room since the 1997-98 campaign, Brad Thompson begins his 24th season as the Griffins’ equipment manager. He spent four seasons as the team’s equipment assistant before earning his promotion in 2001 and has worked more than 2,000 games with the Griffins.

Thompson, who served as an equipment manager for the 2004, 2015 and 2018 AHL All-Star Classics, is responsible for purchasing and maintaining all hockey equipment for the Griffins. 

In 2022, Thompson was selected as the PHATS-SPHEM Career Achievement Award recipient for his dedication and excellent knowledge of his trade. Thompson became the first-ever equipment manager to receive this award. In recent years, Thompson has had the honor of equipping three championship teams, most notably the Griffins’ Calder Cup squads in both 2013 and 2017. He also worked with the Detroit Red Wings’ staff during that team’s run to the 2008 Stanley Cup, and he assisted the Red Wings during their return to the finals in 2009 as well as their three subsequent playoff runs (2010-12). 

A Wyoming, Michigan native, who can be found playing at rinks and softball diamonds throughout the area, he attended Wyoming Park High School and Grand Rapids Community College.

Thompson, the Griffins’ 2007 Employee of the Year, resides in Grand Rapids.