Wall
Defense
Tommy Panico is a former professional ice hockey defenseman whose career reflects consistent excellence at every level of the game. A standout at Wall High School in New Jersey, Panico earned First Team All-State and All-Shore Conference honors and was named New Jersey Player of the Month multiple times, establishing himself as one of the state’s top young talents.
Following his high school success, Panico was selected third overall in the United States Hockey League (USHL) Draft by the Muskegon Lumberjacks, where he competed at the junior level and continued to develop his game. His performance earned him the opportunity to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
During his four-year collegiate career, Panico was a key contributor to the program’s success, helping the team to a Hockey East Championship, and two appearances in the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight—finishing just one game shy of the Frozen Four. In his senior season, he led all Hockey East defensemen in points, highlighting his impact on both ends of the ice.
After graduating, Panico went on to play four years of professional hockey in the ECHL and AHL. During his professional career, he was part of organizations affiliated with several NHL teams, including the New York Islanders, Minnesota Wild, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Panico credits much of his success to the unwavering support of his family and friends, as well as the coaches and teammates who guided and influenced him throughout his journey.
