Forester Hockey alumnus David Nozzolillo, a 2003 graduate of Lake Forest College, was called to serve as the backup goaltender for the Chicago Blackhawks on January 9. The team faced a shortage in goalies due to a flu outbreak that sidelined both Arvid Söderblom and Spencer Knight, leaving them with only one available goalie from their AHL affiliate.
Nozzolillo, who has been involved in hockey since his youth in Nackawic, New Brunswick, Canada, later played at the National Sports Academy in Lake Placid before joining Lake Forest College’s hockey team. After college, he continued playing in men’s leagues at Johnny’s Icehouse in Chicago. It was through this league that he was approached by the Blackhawks to serve as an emergency backup goalie (EBUG), a role that typically pays $100 per game.
On the day of the game against the Washington Capitals, Nozzolillo had lunch with colleagues before receiving a call from the Blackhawks confirming he would be signed as backup and added to the roster. “We’re going to sign you, dress you as back up, and you’re going to be on the roster. Once I heard that my adrenaline started going!” Nozzolillo said.
He prepared quickly and arrived at the United Center where he joined players on the ice for warm-ups. Friends and family attended to watch him take part in pregame activities. Reflecting on his experience, Nozzolillo described it as standing “with the greats.” He also reconnected with Darren Pang, former Blackhawks goalie and current color commentator. Joking about their shared stature as goaltenders often considered too short for professional play, Nozzolillo told Pang: “Small guys still have a shot.”
Although Chicago lost 5-1 to Washington and Nozzolillo did not see playing time or receive payment for his appearance, he was able to keep memorabilia from the night including a hat, pucks, his custom jersey, and nameplate. “It was an honor to wear the jersey and be with the guys,” he said.
Media outlets such as ESPN, CBS News, ABC, The US Sun, and Daily Mail have covered Nozzolillo’s story since his appearance with the Blackhawks. He remains active in local hockey leagues and is motivated by older athletes who continue playing: “They make me want to play as long as I can.”
Lake Forest College alumni will have an opportunity to skate alongside Nozzolillo during an upcoming alumni hockey scrimmage scheduled for January 31 as part of Winter Alumni Athletics events.
