James Wisniewski is an American professional ice hockey defenseman, currently #21 for the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League.
Background
James Wisniewski was born in Canton, Michigan, on February 21,1984. The youngest child and only son of Jim and Sharon, James got along well with his two older sisters, Nikki and Richelle, and was often compelled to seek attention. Skating at the local rinks and on the lakes of Canton did just the trick. People started to notice the tough newcomer on the ice. Over the years, James generated a cool confidence, which should not be mistaken for arrogance. He's humble and credits his World War II veteran grandfathers for instilling in him the importance of respecting others, while carrying on a strong work ethic. The valuable lessons that James has learned along the way have helped mold him into the man he is today. Yes, he's fallen a time or two, but haven't we all? Focusing on the good becomes the necessity. Underneath the bravado and the highlight-reels of play, James Wisniewski is a quiet champion, who'll fight for a win, fight for what's right, and fight to maintain the honor of the family name. WIZ, as he's commonly referred to now, is making an impression both on and off the ice.
Today James Wisniewski and his wife, Nicole, enjoy traveling and spending quality time with their extended family: parents, grandparents, stepparents, sisters, in-laws, nieces and nephews. He maintains resiliency on the ice and humored wit outside the rink. A devoted family man and friend, James is not afraid to take a stand, say what's on his mind, and play with power.
Career
Ever since James Wisniewski can remember he's been drawn to the ice, and with a hockey stick and puck always in plain sight, his journey to the National Hockey League seemed inevitable. While his natural talent of youth caught the attention of many, his tenacity proved to be the deciding factor. At 5'11" and 205 pounds, considered small in stature for a defenseman, James fought the odds, continued to work hard, and earned a coveted spot with the NHL. What landed him in the pros is the intriguing part of the story.
• 1999-2000 Detroit Compuware Ambassadors-NAHL
• 2000-2001 Plymouth Whalers-OHL
• 2001-2002 Plymouth Whalers-OHL
• 2001-2002 Team USA World U-18 Championships
• 2002-2003 Plymouth Whalers-OHL
• 2002-2003 Team USA World Junior Championships
• 2003-2004 Plymouth Whalers-OHL
• 2003-2004 Team USA World Junior Championships
• 2004-2005 Norfolk Admirals-AHL
• 2005-2006 Chicago Blackhawks-NHL
• 2005-2006 Norfolk Admirals-AHL
• 2006-2007 Chicago Blackhawks-NHL
• 2006-2007 Norfolk Admirals-AHL
• 2007-2008 Chicago Blackhawks-NHL
• 2007-2008 Team USA World Championships
• 2008-2009 Chicago Blackhawks-NHL
• 2008-2009 Anaheim Ducks-NHL
• 2008-2009 Rockford Icehogs-AHL
• 2009-2010 Anaheim Ducks-NHL
• 2010-2010 New York Islanders-NHL
• 2010-2011 Montreal Canadiens-NHL
• 2011-Present Columbus Blue Jackets
His intensity isn't limited to the realm of hockey. He also carries over that same energy into the world and has launched an impressive WIZ Wear clothing line.
