Mitch Fossier Announces Retirement from Professional Hockey

Fossier’s path through hockey was never a straight line, and that’s part of what made it stand out.

He developed through the TPH Thunder program before advancing to junior hockey, where he made his mark with the Janesville Jets in the NAHL. His talent for playmaking carried into the USHL with the Sioux City Musketeers, building the basis for a strong collegiate career.

From Maine Leader to Pro Impact

At the University of Maine, Fossier evolved into a leader both on and off the ice. Over four seasons, he steadily built his game, eventually wearing both an “A” and a “C” for the Black Bears. His senior campaign featured his offensive instincts, as he recorded 10 goals and 32 assists for 42 points in 34 games.

That progression led him to the AHL with the Rockford IceHogs, a milestone that reflected years of development and persistence. From there, his professional career spanned multiple leagues and countries, including stops in Slovakia, the ECHL, the AHL, and the United Kingdom’s Elite Ice Hockey League.

ECHL fans will remember Fossier for his outstanding run with the Maine Mariners, where he posted 21 goals and 36 assists for 57 points in 47 games during the 2022–23 season. That performance helped earn him additional AHL opportunities and strengthened his role as a reliable offensive presence.

He later brought that same production to the Atlanta Gladiators during the 2023–24 season, recording 10 goals and 23 assists for 33 points in 27 games. During his time in Atlanta, Fossier was named to the 2024 ECHL All-Star Classic and went on to earn All-Star Game MVP honors, further highlighting the impact he made in a Gladiators sweater. His ability to generate offense and support his linemates made him a consistent presence in the lineup.

Championship Ending Overseas

Fossier’s career came full circle with the Nottingham Panthers, where he delivered some of the most impactful performances of his professional career.

In his first full season with the club, he led the team in scoring with 52 points (16 goals, 36 assists) in 40 regular-season games. When the postseason arrived, he elevated his play even further. He went on to record 10 points (6 goals, 4 assists) in four games, including a hat trick in the quarterfinals and the double-overtime game-winning goal in the championship final.

Despite that success, injuries ultimately influenced his decision to retire.

“It’s a tough decision and one that I didn’t make lightly. With some of my injury problems this season and talking with medical staff, unfortunately it seems the wise thing to do. I wish that I could play here until I am old and grey but this is probably best for my future.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. This has been the best experience of my hockey career. I feel so grateful and blessed to have been able to put on the Panthers sweater. It’s very tough to say goodbye and it’s emotional, but I will be back to visit. Thank you all, I love you all, I will forever be a Nottingham Panther.” (Nottingham Panthers, 2026)

Even in an injury-affected season, he remained a key contributor. He finished with 36 points (16 goals, 20 assists) in 38 regular-season games while playing an important role in the club’s Challenge Cup victory.

His impact extended well beyond the scoresheet.

“It was a pleasure working with Foss for the best part of two seasons. He has been so valuable to this club in every way. When he joined us last season he provided a spark that was needed and after his arrival, I believe we had the best record in the league. He was part of so many big moments, especially the playoff-winning goal, but also part of so many small ones internally.

It’s no coincidence that we had the best record in the league before his injury this past season as well and it just goes to show what he brought to the line-up. His season was disrupted this year with a bad injury and credit to him for coming back. He played a big part in our Challenge Cup win and had big moments down the stretch.

He bought into this club from day one and will be remembered for many years. I wish him the very best in life. It will be very difficult to replace the player but, most importantly, it will be even tougher to replace the person.” (Nottingham Panthers, 2026)

That sentiment likely resonates well beyond Nottingham. In Atlanta, where Fossier’s time with the Gladiators left a strong impression, fans saw many of those same qualities. Namely, his consistency, leadership, and the ability to rise in key moments.

From Georgia to the international stage, Fossier’s career was defined by his adaptability and impact wherever he played. His final chapter in Nottingham serves as a fitting ending. One marked by championships and a lasting imprint on the game.

SOURCE

Nottingham Panthers. (2026). Thank you, Foss! https://www.panthers.co.uk/home/thank-you-foss

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