By Warren Kozireski —
It has been quite a whirlwind 16 months for soon-to-be 20-year-old (Feb.) Buffalo Sabres 2023 seventh round draft choice Norwin Panocha.
The German-born defenseman decided last season to make the jump to North America ,was selected by Chicoutimi in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and registered 15 points over 52 games.
With teams limited to two imports each, the Sagueneens released Panocha and he reentered the import draft where he was selected by Prince Albert in the Western Hockey League.
Released there after just three games, he landed in the USHL with Green Bay where it appears he has found a home playing lately on the top pair.
“Feels good that I found a great spot in Green Bay, great coaches, feeling welcomed and feeling a big part of the team,” Panocha said while the team was in Rochester for the annual American Cup series with the Gamblers facing Des Moines in two games.
“I would say I’m a poised defenseman trying to work hard and play physical.”
To add to his frequent flyer mile account, Panocha will next head to Ottawa for the U-20 World Juniors immediately after the holidays as part of Team Germany for a second year. But first a stop in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island with his team for pre-camp and a few exhibition games.
“(Last year) was awesome and huge experience in Sweden. Great group of guys and we had a good tournament. It was fun playing against the best people in the world my age.”
Panocha found out he was selected and year and a half ago by Buffalo while at national team camp that summer back home and then got a phone call from General Manager Kevyn Adams.
This past summer was his second Development Camp.
“It was a great camp and good to see all the people again in Buffalo. A great experience overall with all the guys and all the skilled people there and great players.”
In 15 games with Green Bay this year, the 6’2”, 192 lb. defensive defenseman has three assists.
An added bonus, since being selected by Buffalo, is having a fellow countryman on the roster for support in J.J. Peterka.
“I talk to him quite a lot and it’s been great to have someone who is German and is a great guy trying to help me fit in.”
For now, Panocha hopes to have a solid World Juniors tournament before returning to Green Bay. He will worry about where next year will take him somewhere down the line. First game is Dec. 26 against Team USA at 2:30pm.
(Photos provided by Green Bay Gamblers)
