COVENTRY Blaze has paid a touching tribute to Nottingham Panthers forward Adam Johnson after his death last month.
Blaze head coach Danny Stewart and his opposite number Marc LeFebvre laid a wreath in tribute to Johnson at the centre of the ice at the Skydome Arena when they faced Dundee Stars on Saturday.
Fans, players, staff and referees then held a minute’s silence followed by another minute of applause to remember Johnson.
The Elite League fixture was Coventry’s first since Johnson died when Nottingham Panthers faced Sheffield Steelers on October 28.
A Coventry Blaze spokesperson said the ceremony was ’emotional’ and a fitting tribute to Johnson.
A book of condolence was available at the arena to anyone who wished to pay their respects to Johnson and his family.
Fans have laid flowers outside the Skydome in tribute to Johnson and many brought poignant banners to Saturday’s game.
The Blaze also offered a breakout room for fans who needed a time out from the night’s emotions and a chat.
South Yorkshire Police said the investigation into Johnson’s death remains ongoing.
Officers left the scene on October 31, however, a spokesperson said due to the complex nature of the tragic and unprecedented incident, it is likely the wider investigation would take some time.
