Jeff's Induction Ceremony

Jeff Panzer, a member of the class of ‘96, is well known in the Grand Forks community as a hockey player from his playing days at Grand Forks Central and the University of North Dakota. Despite his success on the ice, Panzer distinguished himself as a standout multi-sport athlete, in which his talent and success left a lasting impact on Central’s Boys Tennis and Hockey programs. Competing at a high level in both tennis (1991–1995) and hockey (1993–1995) , Panzer exemplified dedication, competitive excellence, and pride in representing his school.

On the ice, Panzer was a key contributor for the Knights in the Mid 90’s. He helped lead the hockey team to a State Runner-Up finish in 1994, followed by a State Hockey Championship in 1995, achieving the ultimate team goal in his Junior season. His ability and performance earned him All-Conference and All-State honors his Sophomore and Junior seasons. During his Junior year, the well known NSP line of Eric Ness, John Spicer and Panzer led the state in scoring.

Equally impressive was Panzer’s success on the tennis courts, was a 4 year letterwinner and was named All-Conference and All-State from 8th grade through his Junior year. His accomplishments included a 5th Place State Doubles finish in 1993 as a Sophomore, and a State Tennis Doubles Championship in 1992 as a ninth grader, in which his doubles partner was his brother Jay both of those 2 years. Panzer helped Central earn a 3rd place team finish in 1993. His sustained success in tennis highlighted his athletic achievements in multiple sports as a distinguished athlete at Central.

Jeff credits much of his experience and success to a great coaching staff, a winning attitude, and a strong athletic culture that emphasized preparation, teamwork, and pride. Among his favorite memories are the unique and meaningful moments of playing hockey and tennis doubles alongside his brother, Jay, experiences that made his high school career especially memorable.

Panzer left Grand Forks Central his Senior year to play for the Fargo-Moorhead Bears of the United States Hockey League (USHL). Panzer then earned a scholarship to play four seasons at the University of North Dakota from 1997-2001. During his Junior year, Panzer was named a Hobey Baker Finalist and was a first team All-American scoring 63 points in 44 games and leading the Fighting Sioux to a National Championship that season. After his collegiate career, Panzer played 5 professional seasons in the AHL for Worcester, Syracuse, and Grand Rapids, then played three seasons in Europe before retiring from hockey.

Today, Panzer resides in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, and is employed at NW Tire in Grand Forks, where he serves as a Commercial/Farm Tire Account Manager. Jeff and his wife Angie, have been married for nearly 25 years, and are proud parents of two sons—Jaksen, who attends Bemidji State University, and Jace, a student at East Grand Forks Senior High School—both of whom are continuing the family’s strong hockey tradition. Panzer joins his brother Jay, as an inductee into the Grand Forks Central Athletic Hall of Fame.