Ice hockey player’s jersey retired by club
British Broadcasting CorporationThe Nottingham Panthers have retired the jersey of hockey player Adam Johnson, who died after being injured during a game.
The 29-year-old suffered fatal neck injuries while skating during a collision with Sheffield Steelers player Matt Petgrave on October 28, 2023.
The club has retired his number 47 jersey following a ceremony ahead of the Panthers’ game against Fife Flyers on Saturday.
Johnson’s aunt, Lynn DeGrio, spoke at the event on behalf of the family and described him as “humble, humble and down to earth.”
Getty Images“We want to thank all of you for your support over the past year,” she told Panthers fans.
“When we were in our darkest moments, you surrounded us with love, messages and prayers.
“We will always be grateful for all your support.”
Panthers CEO Omar Pacha also spoke at the ceremony, saying: “Adam is a top player, but he’s an even better person.”
He thanked Johnson’s family for traveling across the Atlantic to Nottingham for the event, and received a standing ovation as Johnson’s number was raised to the rafters.
Pacha described Johnson as “a quiet, positive leader, a loyal player who was well-liked and had a huge, calming presence in the locker room.”
“We all went through struggles after Adam left us, but to this day I can’t even begin to imagine what all of Adam’s friends and family felt today and still feel,” he added.
In November, police extended bail until January for a man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following Johnson’s death.
