On June 29th, South Kent alumnus and defenseman Tory Pitner was drafted 185th overall by the Colorado Avalanche at the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas. Pitner was one of nine players selected by the Avalanche and the 21st player to be drafted in the Hillside’s illustrious hockey history.
Before getting drafted, the El Cerrito, CA native was an instant impact player on the Hillside, tallying 17 goals and 44 assists in 89 career games. Furthermore, Tory Pitner was an inspiring leader on and off the ice, serving as a team captain for both years at South Kent. His exemplary leadership also earned him captaincy when he played for the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL. From 2022-24, Pitner has recorded 33 points in 86 games with the Phantoms, proving his ability to excel in the most prestigious junior hockey league in the country.
The NHL Central Scouting’s 90th ranked player also competed on the international stage, representing the United States at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. His stellar play helped lead the red, white, and blue to a bronze medal.
Because of his unrivaled work ethic and skill, Pitner earned himself a scholarship to play college hockey at the University of Denver. Pitner looks to contribute to a stacked roster that won the National Championship in April, defeating #2 Boston College 2-0. On behalf of the South Kent community, we congratulate Tory Pitner and wish him the best in his journey to the pros.