Damion Parmelee Works his 1,900th game!
Oct 19, 2025Utica, NY – Damion Parmelee, commonly referred to as “Parms” amongst the team, joined the Utica Comets as the Head Equipment Manager in 2014, making this his 12th season with the organization. Now in his 27th season overall and nearly 1,900 games in, Parmelee’s time with the Comets represents just a portion of his career working in hockey.
Parmelee got his start in 1999 with the former AHL’s Albany River Rats when he was hired as the Assistant Equipment Manager. Subsequent job opportunities brought him to South Carolina, Alaska, Philadelphia, and eventually back to upstate New York.
Reflecting on his long career, he said that his first year in Utica, when the Comets went to the Calder Cup Finals in 2014-15, was among the most memorable. The team was loaded with talent, and it seemed like they couldn’t lose a game, according to Parmelee. The Comets were unfortunately beaten by the Manchester Monarchs in five games in the Finals.
26 full seasons of hockey and Parmelee has missed, that’s right, just one game. “It was the 2015-16 season due to the birth of my son. Right before the game, my wife gave me a call and said it was happening, so I left (for the hospital). Luckily my second son was born in the summertime, so I didn’t have to worry about missing a game then.” Parmelee’s level of commitment is unmatched, and he praises his wife Ashley for all she does in caring for their boys, especially when he isn’t around as much during the season.
So what does a typical day look like for Parmelee during the season? “We usually get here about 6:30 am and set up the room. Aaron [Comets’ Assistant Equipment Manager] and I will get things ready for the day, putting out practice jerseys and getting the benches set. We’ll watch practice in case they need anything done repair-wise and then straighten up the room afterwards. We’re usually here until 4:30 or 5 pm and then start over the next day,” he said.
After the season, things quiet down considerably for Parmelee. He said he switches to “daddy day care” mode and enjoys the extra time with his family, watching his sons’ summer sports, and golfing.
Reflecting on his 11 years in Utica, the longest pit stop in his career, Parmelee said, “I love the area. There’s been chances to go to the NHL but being a family guy now I don’t want to be in any big cities. I love it here; great schools, the fans, the people. I can’t ask for anything more.”
Parmelee will work the 1,900th game of his career today when the Comets take on the Marlies in Toronto at 4 pm. You can catch the game on AHLTV at flohockey.tv. The Comets will be back home on Saturday to host the Laval Rocket at 6 pm for the first ever Frights & Flights theme night. For tickets, you can visit uticacomets.com/tickets or call 315-790-9070.