In a major milestone for U.S. hockey, Zach Parise has been inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame as part of its 53rd class, honored alongside notable figures such as Joe Pavelski, Scott Gomez, women’s hockey pioneer Tara Mounsey, and renowned NHL photographer Bruce Bennett. This recognition marks a significant achievement for Parise, a Minneapolis native who cherished the opportunity to play for his hometown team, the Minnesota Wild, from 2012 to 2021.
Reflecting on his career, Parise shared the emotional weight of the honor, stating, “It means a lot. To get that chance, it was great. I loved it. My family loved it.” His 19-season tenure in the NHL saw him develop into one of the most complete two-way forwards of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Over his extensive career, Parise played for several teams, including the New Jersey Devils, New York Islanders, and Colorado Avalanche, but his most cherished moments came in Minnesota. Across 1,254 regular-season games, he amassed an impressive 889 points, comprising 434 goals and 455 assists. His playoff experience was equally notable, with 15 post-season appearances yielding an additional 83 points from 39 goals and 44 assists across 122 games.
Parise’s international accomplishments further highlight his storied career, including a silver medal performance with Team USA at the 2010 Olympic Games and serving as captain during the 2014 Winter Olympics. He spoke of the Olympic experience, stating, “Until you experience it for yourself, it’s really hard to describe what those games are like.”
Now retired from professional play, Parise is enjoying a new chapter in life. While he hasn’t dismissed the idea of coaching at a higher level, he currently finds joy in coaching his children’s youth teams. This role allows him to relish the joys of youth sports while stepping back from the rigors of professional travel and competition. Parise’s journey from local boy to hockey legend continues to inspire aspiring young players across Minnesota and beyond.
