Seattle Kraken goaltender Joey Daccord made history with the retirement of his No. 35 jersey by Arizona State University (ASU) during the program’s opening-night game against Penn State at Mullett Arena on Friday. This significant honor marks Daccord as the first player in the history of Sun Devil hockey to have his number retired, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the team.
Joey Daccord: A Journey of Excellence
Joined on the ice by his supportive family, including his parents and brother, Daccord couldn’t hold back his emotions as his number was unveiled high in the rafters. The moment was a culmination of a remarkable career that began at ASU, where he played three seasons from 2016 to 2019. His tenure at the university was highlighted by his impressive performance, culminating in being a finalist for both the Hobey Baker Award and the Mike Richter Award in 2019.
After a standout collegiate career, Daccord made headlines in April 2019 when he became the first player from Arizona State to sign an NHL contract, inking a two-year deal with the Ottawa Senators. His journey continued when he was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft, further solidifying his place in professional ice hockey.
During the game, Daccord took the time to connect with fans, spending moments in the student section and sharing his excitement about the recognition from ASU. This retirement ceremony not only celebrates Daccord’s achievements but also serves as an inspiration for current and future players at Arizona State University.
As Daccord continues his career with the Seattle Kraken, this milestone serves as a reminder of his hard work and dedication to the sport. His legacy at Arizona State will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Sun Devil hockey players to strive for excellence both on and off the ice.