Jeremy Roenick ’88 Achieves Hockey Hall of Fame Glory

Thayer Academy is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Jeremy Roenick ’88, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame Nov. 11 in Toronto. A legendary figure in professional hockey, Roenick’s induction cements his place among the sport’s greats after an illustrious 20-year NHL career.

Renowned for his blend of dynamic speed, scoring prowess, and fearless style of play, Roenick amassed 513 goals and 1,216 points during his career, making him one of the most electrifying players of his generation. Reflecting on his time at Thayer, he credited his coach, Arthur Valicenti, '51 P ‘75, ‘75, ‘77 GP ‘10, ‘14, for instilling the discipline and resilience that propelled him to success. 

“Coach Valicenti taught me to see my own potential and to push beyond my limits — a lesson that stayed with me throughout my career,” Roenick said.

During his induction speech, Roenick spoke of the challenges he faced turning professional right out of Thayer Academy, including being the youngest and smallest player at his first NHL training camp. Despite the odds, that determination and hard work so evident at Thayer helped him become one of the top forwards in the league.

Roenick also reminisced about his days as a Thayer student-athlete, sharing a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and teammate Tony Amonte '89 P ‘16, ‘18, ‘19, ‘23. Together, they led Thayer to two New England championships before continuing their careers in the NHL. 

“Thayer wasn’t just where I grew as a player,” said Roenick. “It was where I built lifelong friendships and learned the values of teamwork and perseverance.”

With this honor, Roenick joins an elite group of hockey legends, becoming only the second Massachusetts-born player to be inducted into the Hall. The entire Thayer community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Roenick on the extraordinary milestone, one which serves as a testament to his hard work, passion, and enduring legacy in the game he loves.

See Jeremy’s Hall of Fame speech here.