Former NHL player sadly passes away after battle with cancer

It is with deep sadness that we learn that Jason Cirone, probably the most charismatic figure both Italian and Canadian hockey has known, died at age 53 after his courageous fight against cancer. His memory will be long remembered by fans and players alike, both in the Italian national team and as a short, shining star in the NHL.

Cirone was born in Toronto, and his hockey career started in 1989 when the Winnipeg Jets chose him during the NHL Entry Draft, where he was selected 46th overall. With only three games in the league, with the skill and drive that he had, he had made a lasting impression. His playing career spanned the continent, not only in North America but across the ocean to Europe, where the mark he could make would go on to live with Italian hockey.

He came first to Italy during the 1992-93 season with Asiago of that country's top league, then went back to North America for a short period, still playing his career in the minor leagues, before finding his way back to Asiago in 2001, through which his association with the Italian national team began. Starting in 2004, he represented the country in several major tournaments, which included the World Championships and the 2006 Winter Olympics. He registered nine goals with a total of 21 points in 49 appearances with the national team.

At the Italian League level, he was an unstoppable player. Having played only with Asiago, he managed to get 92 goals and gather 194 points in 190 games. He lifted this weight to cement himself among the top players of Italian hockey and became widely accepted by the fans and admired by his peers.

Jason Cirone has left his mark in this game, both locally and internationally. His fight, skills, and sportsmanship have engraved memories in this sport forever. The hockey fraternity was plunged into mourning, but his incredible legacy in games will always keep the upcoming Italian athletes motivated forever.