BRITISH ice hockey star Mike Hammond has been killed in a horror car crash in Canada, his former club announced.
Tributes are pouring in for the ex-Nottingham Panthers player, 33, after the fatal incident in the village of Shawnigan Lake yesterday.
The sportsman is said to have died last night following the car crash, the Panthers announced this morning.
The team said they have been left “devastated” by Hammond’s sudden passing in a statement.
It read: “The Panthers would like to send our thoughts to Mike’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
“Our thoughts too are with all his former team-mates and everyone at the club is thinking of Hammy and his family right now.
“Rest in peace Mike – you will never be forgotten.”
The Brighton-born hockey player, affectionately known as “Hammy” by pals, had enjoyed a glittering career on the world stage.
He has competed in Canada, Germany and Denmark while representing a number of different teams.
Hammond sported hockey jerseys for the likes of the Glasgow Clan, Manchester Storm and Coventry Blaze in the Elite Ice Hockey League.
As well as competing in Britain’s premier ice hockey division, he also regularly represented the country in international feats.
He played for Great Britain at the Ice Hockey World Championship in both 2019 and 2021.
The hockey world has been rocked by Hammond’s shock death, with his former teams leading the messages of condolence.
Manchester Storm said: “We are all devastated by the loss of Mike Hammond.
“Mike was part of our Storm family for two seasons and he remained a good friend to many here in Manchester.
“We were proud and excited to watch him play a big role in Team GB’s recent success.
“We send all our love and condolences to Mike’s family, friends, and teammates. Thanks for all the memories, Mike – rest in peace.”
Coventry Blaze wrote: “We’re very sorry to share the tragic news of Mike Hammond’s passing.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with him, family, friends, Team GB, the Panthers, the Storm and the Clan, among others.”
Glasgow Clan said they were heartbroken by Hammond’s passing and told how he was due to return to the club.
The tweet said: “Glasgow Clan are devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Mike Hammond.
“Mike was a hugely popular player during his spell here in 2016/17 and was due to return in 2023/24. On behalf of the club, our thoughts are with Mike’s family and friends during this terrible time.”
Ice Hockey UK also paid tribute to the esteemed hockey player, describing him as a “cherished” member of the team.
A statement read: “Great Britain ice hockey are devastated to announce that forward Mike Hammond has passed away.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Mike’s family, friends and team-mates at this very difficult time.
“Mike was a cherished GB team-mate, loved by so many, and very much part of the Great Britain family… Rest in peace Mike – you will never be forgotten.”
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Olivia Burke
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