The Philadelphia Phantoms and the wider hockey community are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of Tony Voce, a former left-winger and Calder Cup champion. Voce, a father of three girls, passed away at the age of 43. His untimely death has left his family, friends, and fans in deep sorrow.
Tony Voce made history as the first Philadelphia native to join the Philadelphia Flyers. His career with the Philadelphia Phantoms spanned three seasons from 2004 to 2007, during which he played 181 games. Voce scored 58 goals and made 57 assists, amassing a total of 115 points. His debut season was marked by his participation in the Calder Cup Championship squad in 2004-05, where he scored 22 goals. The team he started with was notably strong, setting an AHL record with a 17-game winning streak early in the season.
Voce’s journey in hockey began at Archbishop Ryan High School and continued as he became the first Pennsylvania native to win the Calder Cup, alongside Phantoms colleague R.J. Umberger from Pittsburgh. Voce still holds the Phantoms franchise record for scoring four goals in a single game—a remarkable achievement he accomplished on February 11, 2006, against the Chicago Wolves. That season, he led the Philadelphia Phantoms with 28 goals.
Voce’s talent was evident early in his career. As a senior at Boston College, he was a Hobey Baker Finalist and a First-Team All-American. His collegiate career included earning an NCAA Championship with the Eagles as a freshman. In recognition of his outstanding contributions and achievements, Voce was honored in Boston College’s Varsity Club Hall of Fame in 2022.
Tony Voce’s influence extended beyond his professional achievements. He was a cherished mentor and coach, imparting his passion for the game and invaluable wisdom to many. The Philadelphia Flyers Warriors expressed their deep sadness over Voce’s passing, highlighting his role as a coach and mentor. They remembered his guidance on and off the ice, his unwavering support, and his significant impact on the team.
“We are incredibly saddened to share the news of the passing of our dear friend, coach, and mentor Tony Voce. Your guidance on and off the ice helped us in immeasurable ways. Your passion for the game, unwavering support, and invaluable wisdom will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Tony. Your legacy will live on in all of us who had the privilege to learn from you,” the Flyers Warriors stated.
The news of Tony Voce’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from the hockey community and beyond. Friends, teammates, and fans have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of Voce. His dedication to the sport and his contributions as a player and mentor have left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
Voce’s family has been overwhelmed by the support and love shown by the community during this difficult time. The details of his obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by his family in due course. The community stands ready to support them, reflecting the unity and strength that Voce himself embodied throughout his life and career.
As the community reflects on Tony Voce’s life, his achievements on the ice are celebrated alongside his contributions off the ice. His legacy as a trailblazer in Philadelphia hockey, a dedicated athlete, and a supportive mentor will continue to inspire future generations. Voce’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and dedication—qualities that made him a standout figure in the world of hockey
Tony Voce’s passing is a significant loss for the Philadelphia Phantoms, the Flyers, and the entire hockey community. His remarkable career, his achievements, and his impact on those around him will be remembered and cherished. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to the sport he loved and the people he touched. Tony Voce’s legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him and were inspired by his journey.
