COMETS ANNOUNCE PLANS TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF JACK KANE
Oct 17, 2025COMETS ANNOUNCE PLANS TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF JACK KANE
Legendary Clinton Comet, community leader, and Utica hockey icon to be honored with a dedication game later this season at the Adirondack Bank Center.
The Utica Comets today announced plans to celebrate the remarkable life and career of Jack Kane, who passed away on October 12, 2025, at the age of 89.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE AND DEDICATION GAME
Few figures have impacted Mohawk Valley hockey more deeply than Jack Kane — a player, coach, mentor, and friend whose influence spanned generations.
The Comets will dedicate a home game later this season to Jack Kane’s memory. The evening will feature multiple tributes, stories and reflections from former teammates, players, friends, and community members whose lives were touched by Kane’s generosity, leadership, and spirit.
Throughout the night, the Comets organization, alumni, and local hockey community will honor Kane with a special in-game moments recognizing his lifetime of contributions both on and off the ice.
KANE’S LEGACY OFF THE ICE
Beyond the rink, Jack Kane was a pillar of the Mohawk Valley. After arriving from Toronto in 1960 to play for the Clinton Comets, Kane made the area his home for more than six decades — dedicating his life to the growth of the game and to the people around him.
He coached in the Clinton Youth Hockey program for six years, leading a state champion Squirt team in 1973 that went on to finish third nationally. He later guided Clinton Central High School from 1985 to 1991, where his teams captured a Division II title and reached the Section III Finals.
Kane also gave back through clinics, benefit games, and youth instruction at the Harris-Keon Hockey School and Colgate University Hockey School, mentoring countless players who would go on to carry his passion for the game forward. His commitment to the community reflected the same heart and humility that defined his playing career.
KANE’S LEGENDARY CAREER
A native of Toronto, Ontario, Jack Kane joined the Clinton Comets of the Eastern Hockey League in 1960 and quickly became one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
The all-time leading scorer in Comets regular season history, Kane recorded 333 goals, 639 assists, and 972 points over 12 seasons — including eight as team captain. He led Clinton to four Walker Cup championships and seven division titles, anchoring what is widely regarded as the greatest line in EHL history alongside Bill Bannerman and Borden Smith. Together, they produced more goals and points than any other line in the league’s 40-year existence.
Kane’s leadership, skill, and consistency made him a cornerstone of the Clinton dynasty and a fan favorite throughout the Eastern League. He was inducted into the Greater Utica Sports Hall of Fame in 1997 for his achievements as both an athlete and coach.
Jack Kane’s name is synonymous with Mohawk Valley hockey — a symbol of dedication, sportsmanship, and community pride that will endure for generations to come.
Stay tuned to uticacomets.com for updates and an announcement of the date for this special evening.