ADAM PAWLICK NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE UTICA COMETS
Sep 1, 2026
ADAM PAWLICK NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE UTICA COMETS
Robert Esche continues to serve as CEO of Mohawk Valley Garden
UTICA, NY – Mohawk Valley Garden (MVG) today announced that Adam Pawlick has been named President of the Utica Comets, overseeing all day-to-day business operations of the organization as MVG continues its growth across sports, entertainment, hospitality, and community development initiatives throughout the Mohawk Valley.
Pawlick will continue to lead the business side of the Utica Comets organization, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, marketing, game presentation, and fan experience initiatives, while continuing to strengthen the franchise’s connection with the Mohawk Valley community.
“Adam has earned this opportunity through years of hard work, leadership, and commitment to our organization,” said Robert Esche, CEO of Mohawk Valley Garden. “He understands our fans, our staff, our partners, and what makes the Utica Comets special. As MVG continues to grow, it became important for us to have someone fully dedicated to leading the business operations of the Comets every single day, and I have complete confidence in Adam to do that.”
“Since we’ve joined the New Jersey Devils organization, we’ve had the opportunity to get to know Robert, Adam, and the Utica Comets staff. Our main focus is to create a winning atmosphere in Utica for our players and fans, and the Comets have been tremendously supportive partners. Congratulations to Adam on his expanded role, and we are excited to continue working together as the start of the season approaches,” said Devils General Manager Sunny Mehta and Devils Assistant General Manager/Utica Comets General Manager Braden Birch in a joint statement.
“Adam has been an outstanding leader with the Utica Comets for several years, and we have truly valued the opportunity to work with him at the League level,” added Scott Howson, President and CEO of the American Hockey League. “He has consistently demonstrated professionalism, strong leadership, and a thoughtful approach to everything he does. Adam is incredibly deserving of this opportunity, and we are proud to see him take this next step while continuing to represent the Utica Comets and the American Hockey League at the highest level.”
“The Utica Comets mean so much to this community, and I’m incredibly honored for the opportunity to serve as President of this organization,” said Adam Pawlick. “What Rob and MVG have built here is unique in professional sports. My focus is to continue building on that foundation, support our staff, strengthen our connection with our fans and partners, and continue delivering the best atmosphere and experience in the AHL.”
Robert Esche will continue in his role as CEO of Mohawk Valley Garden, where his focus will expand toward the continued growth and long-term vision of MVG beyond the Adirondack Bank Center, including entertainment, hospitality, events, tourism, and regional development projects throughout the Mohawk Valley.
“I want our fans to know this is not me leaving the Utica Comets,” Esche added. “The Comets are part of who I am and always will be. This allows me to focus more of my time on growing MVG as a whole and creating even more opportunities for our community, while knowing the Comets are in great hands under Adam’s leadership.”
This announcement coincides with leadership changes throughout MVG, including the addition of Dan Mohr as Chief Financial Officer and Michael Lehr as Vice President.
The Utica Comets home opener will be held on Saturday, October 10, against the Rochester Americans. Single-game tickets for the 2026-27 season are on sale now at uticacomets.com/tickets.