Dana Heinze, an equipment manager with the Penguins since 2006, has stepped away from his position. The team announced the move on Tuesday afternoon.

A native of Johnstown, the 54-year-old Heinze has worked as a equipment staffer with various franchises for 33 years, including the past 16 with the Penguins.

Hired by former Penguins general manager Ray Shero, Heinze was a member of the franchise’s Stanley Cup championships in 2009, 2016 and 2017. Before joining the Penguins, Heinze also served as an assistant equipment manager with the Tampa Bay Lightning and was a member of that franchise’s Stanley Cup championship in 2004.

During the 2021 offseason, Heinze stepped down as head equipment manager and switched places with long-time lieutenant Jon Taglianetti.

According to the team’s website, Heinze and his wife Kathy will move back to Johnstown to spend more time with family. Heinze began his career in 1988 as equipment manager of the former Johnstown Chiefs franchise of the ECHL and was with that team for seven of the next eight seasons.

Heinze also spent the 1992-93 season with the New Jersey Devils.

The Penguins plan to recognize Heinze with a ceremony during the 2022-23 season.

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