Mike was expected to join the Glasgow Clan for the 2023-24 season - a club he played for over the 2016-17 season when they were known as the Braehead Clan. Head coach of the Clan, Jason Morgan, spoke of his devastation at the news.
He said: “I’m so saddened by the devastating news about Mike Hammond and I’m at a loss for words.
“My deepest condolences go out to the whole Hammond family as they go through this very difficult time.
“I was thrilled for the upcoming season to have the opportunity to work with Hammy, but this is such terrible news for everyone.”
Previous stints with the Manchester Storm and Coventry Blaze made up a career to be proud of for the 33-year-old.
His World Championship victory - including a goal in the final game against Italy - capped off a tremendous period for the 33-year-old.
Ice Hockey UK shared their sorrow, stating: “Mike was a cherished GB team-mate, loved by so many, and very much part of the Great Britain family.
Mike Hammond was a great man that will be sorely missed by many - we take a look back at his best moments, on and off the ice.
1. Stardom as a junior
Born in Brighton, Hammond moved to Canada early in his life, where he began playing for the Juan de Fuca Orcas. His talent for the sport was seen early on, as he led his junior ice hockey team, the Victoria Cougars, to a Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League Championship. His 98 points in 48 regular season games led the team in scoring throughout the season. | AFP via Getty Images
2. World Championship success
Known as ‘Hammy’, Mike’s success at club level earned him a call-up to the Great Britain squad for the World Championship Division 1A competition. Mike and the team won the gold medal as Great Britain defeated Italy in the decisive game. | AFP via Getty Images
3. A seasoned traveller
Mike created a name for himself in more than one location, or country. He played in the UK, Canada, America, Denmark and Germany during his storied career - with his time at the Hannover Scorpions his previous club before joining the Panthers. | AFP via Getty Images
4. A loving family man
In a 2020 interview with Chasing the Puck, Hammond spoke of how he wanted to follow his older brothers’ passions for ice hockey - leading him into the sport. The GB international hockey star also spoke of his appreciation for his parents’ continued support. He said: “I was only 4 at the time but my two older brothers and I fell in love with the game the second we saw it. “When we moved to Canada the Vancouver Canucks were on a big playoff run in 1994, and back home was buzzing because of it. So I think that is a big reason we got so into it. “But whatever my bro’s wanted to do I always wanted to follow, so I owe it to them for getting me involved and my parents for all the support.” | Getty Images