Like everyone within the worldwide Ice Hockey community, the Peterborough Phantoms were shocked by the tragic accident in Sheffield on Saturday evening that took the life of Adam Johnson of the Nottingham Panthers.
After consultataion with the Peterborough Phantoms and Milton Keynes Lightning players, Sundays game was cancelled as a mark of respect. All tickets bought by Phantoms and Lightning fans for Sundays game have been transferred to the game on the 27th December, whci his the next time the Lightning visit Peterboroiugh.
On Monday the EIHA and the SIHA announced that neck protectors will be mandatory for all players, at all levels of Ice Hockey in this country from the 1st January 2024. Between now and the 31 December 2023 both associations strongly advise players to wear neck protectors once supplies become available. Prior to the EIHA announcement, the Peterborough Phantoms Supporters Club had been in contact with the Phantoms Management Team and had asked if they could purchase these for every player on the team.
At our next home game on Saturday 4th November, we will hold a minutes silence for Adam prior to our game against the Leeds Knights. Fans are also encouraged to also join in a round of applause on the 47th minute of the game, to honour Adam who wore the number 47 shirt.
Adam's club, the Nottingham Panthers have launched an official fundraiser, with the permission of Adam's family, to raise money for the "Love for Hibbing and Hockey Memorial Fund". The purpose of this fund is to support local charitable activities in the Hibbing area (Adam's home town) as selected by the Johnson Family.
The GoFundMe page can be found here: https://gofund.me/0a269b5b