Peterborough Phantoms netminder has retired and 'all-star' recognition for his teammates
Popular Peterborough Phantoms netminder Hayden Lavigne has announced his retirement from ice hockey.
The 30 year-old Canadian joined Phantoms in time for the 2024-25 season and made over 100 appearances for the club in two seasons, registering an impressive save percentage of over 90%.
Lavigne said: “Deciding to retire is never easy, and I don’t know if there is ever a perfect time. Given some family shift and career changes it seemed like the right time to transition away from the sport.
“Playing in Peterborough has truly been the best two years of my professional career and there are so many people who made this time special. I am incredibly thankful to have such a wonderful staff of directors who truly care about the players on their team and make it easy to come and work hard for them.
"My teammates have become lifelong friends and made coming to the rink each time these last years the highlight of my weeks. And our fans are the best in the business. The support, the noise and the energy they bring to every home game makes playing for Peterborough that much more enjoyable.
“Playing so many games over the last two seasons was a nice change! From the bottom of my heart thank you everyone for these final seasons with the Phantoms.
"My teammates and coaching staff, I love you all and thank you for an unforgettable two years. And to my family, thank you for putting up with the late nights, weekend road trips and all the hockey conversations. None of this would have been possible without you.”
Lavigne also played for Manchester Giants and the Sheffield Steelers in the UK after starting his career in North America.
Phantoms clubmates Luke Ferrara, Cam Hough and Janne Laakkonen has been rewarded for stellar personal seasons with places in the all-star National League team picked by the captains and coaches of the clubs.
Netminder Sam Gospel (Leeds), Ryan Wells (Swindon) and Jarrett Baker (Romford) complete the team.