BREAKING NEWS: Excitments Hit Great Amerant Bank Arena place stadium as former Head coach of Florida panther legend Roberto Luongo return as…………. veiw more

📰 BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Erupts at Amerant Bank Arena as Panthers Legend Roberto Luongo Returns as Executive Coach!

Sunrise, Florida – June 29, 2025

A wave of excitement swept through the Amerant Bank Arena today as Roberto Luongo, legendary goaltender and former head coach of the Florida Panthers, made a stunning return—not as a player, but as the team’s new Executive Coach of Hockey Operations.

The announcement, made just hours before the Panthers’ final training camp session of the season, brought fans to their feet and reignited memories of Luongo’s incredible legacy both on and off the ice.

The Legend Returns — In a New Role

Luongo, who spent over a decade with the Panthers and retired as one of the NHL’s all-time greatest goalies, will now oversee coaching development, player mentorship, and goaltending performance as part of his new executive role.

“I’m honored to come back in this way,” Luongo said during a surprise press conference. “This team is family. I’ve watched them grow into champions, and now I get to help shape their future from behind the scenes.”

A Hall of Fame Career Comes Full Circle

After being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2022, and helping guide the team to a Stanley Cup victory as an advisor in 2024, Luongo’s return is seen as a full-circle moment.

Fans in the stands erupted with chants of “Lu! Lu! Lu!” as the beloved Panther took to the ice during practice for a ceremonial puck drop, symbolizing his re-entry into the heartbeat of the franchise.

 Player & Fan Reactions

Star forward Aleksander Barkov praised the move:

“He’s a legend, a leader, and he understands what it means to be a Panther. Having him back in the room—even in a suit—is huge for us.”

On social media, hashtags like #LuongoReturns, #PantherPride, and #CoachLu began trending within minutes.

What Is an Executive Coach?

The Executive Coach role is a newly created position within the Panthers’ front office. It’s designed to bridge leadership between hockey operations and coaching staff—particularly as the team transitions into a younger, faster generation of players.

According to GM Bill Zito:

“We want wisdom guiding our future. Roberto brings experience, integrity, and passion. He’s the perfect fit.”

 Legacy Continues

Roberto Luongo holds the franchise record for most wins by a goalie and remains one of the most respected figures in Panthers history. With this new role, he cements his place not just in the team’s past—but in its future.

Stay tuned for exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews, video coverage from today’s announcement, and a full look at Luongo’s new responsibilities—coming up tonight on Florida Panthers Live.

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