Nottingham Panthers paid a heartfelt tribute to their former player, Adam Johnson, with a memorial match held in his honor. The match took place on Saturday evening against Manchester Storm at the sold-out Motorpoint Arena, marking the Panthers’ first fixture since Johnson’s tragic death last month.

Adam Johnson, 29, succumbed to a fatal injury after being cut on the neck by a skate during a game against Sheffield Steelers on October 28. The memorial match witnessed a poignant atmosphere, with the sold-out crowd chanting Johnson’s name and offering cheers as players took to the ice. During the event, it was announced that the Panthers would retire Johnson’s No 47 jersey, symbolizing his lasting impact on the team.

As the lights dimmed in the arena, Johnson’s image graced the main scoreboard above the rink, accompanied by the words ‘forever our 47.’ Announcer Stef Litchfield expressed, “He will forever be our No 47. He was not only an outstanding hockey player but also a great teammate. He was an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. We will miss him dearly.” A minute’s round of applause was observed during the 47th minute of the match.

Both the Panthers and Storm players wore special shirts, with proceeds from the upcoming raffle benefiting the ‘Love for Hibbing and Hockey Memorial Fund.’ This fund was established to support charitable causes in Johnson’s hometown area of Hibbing, Minnesota, in the United States.

In response to Johnson’s tragic passing, the English Ice Hockey Association has announced that neck guards will become mandatory from 2024. However, the Elite League, where the Panthers compete, is not under its control. The Elite Ice Hockey League has chosen not to mandate the use of neck guards but will “strongly encourage” players and officials to wear them.

The Panthers are set to resume their regular season against Belfast Giants on November 26, carrying with them the memory and legacy of Adam Johnson.