Rick Zombo Death; Former Ice Hockey Player and Coach Rick Zombo Passed Away Unexpectedly
Rick Zombo, born on May 8, 1963, in Des Plaines, Illinois, was a well-known ice hockey player and coach. He began his hockey career with the Austin Mavericks of the USHL in 1980-81, when he demonstrated his promise by scoring 36 points in 43 games.
His impressive performance led to his selection by the Detroit Red Wings in the eighth round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft, 149th overall. Zombo chose to further hone his skills by attending the University of North Dakota and playing for the Fighting Sioux. In his freshman year, he helped the squad achieve success, culminating in an NCAA National Championship in 1982. Over three seasons with North Dakota, he accumulated 63 points, serving as team captain in his junior year.
Zombo was promoted to head coach in 2010. He led the Lions to many national tournament berths and national titles in 2016 and 2022. Lindenwood advanced to NCAA Division I status under his leadership, winning significant games, including a stunning comeback victory over Air Force in October 2022. Zombo’s coaching record at Lindenwood was excellent, with several seasons having victory percentages more than 80%.
Lindenwood University stated in March 2024 that Zombo would not return as head coach of the men’s hockey team after two seasons in NCAA Division I. The decision signalled the end of a crucial chapter in the university’s hockey program, prompting a nationwide hunt for his replacement.
