A Belleville hockey player is turning pro after graduating from Colgate University of the NCAA.
Defenceman Jacob Panetta, who played four years with the Colgate Raiders, has signed a pro deal with the ECHL’s Jacksonville Icemen for the 2020-21 season.
The Icemen are affiliated with the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and AHL’s Manitoba Moose.
The 24-year-old was named Colgate’s top defence man last season, after notching three goals and five assists, along with 33 blocked.
He was also honoured for his lasting impact on the Colgate hockey program and was a three-time all academic honouree in his conference.
Prior to heading to university, Panetta put up 72 points over three seasons with the OJHL Wellington Dukes, including a 45 point campaign in 2015/16.
