Jimmy Keyes Podcast Interview

Mention the name Jimmy Keyes to any long-time Nottingham Panthers fan and it instantly brings back memories of the club’s first true post-reformation legend.

Jimmy arrived in 1985 as one of Alex Dampier’s three imports. A fearless forward from Thunder Bay, he combined toughness with a natural goalscoring touch. In the interview, Jimmy recalls his first meeting with Dampier and his surprise at being greeted by Panthers fans on arrival at East Midlands Airport.

He shares vivid memories of the old Nottingham Ice Stadium, from the safety netting replacing plexiglass to a favourite quiet hideaway inside the rink.

A key highlight is the 1986 Norwich Union Autumn Cup Final victory over the Fife Flyers, sealed by Jimmy’s famous wraparound goal in sudden-death overtime — the Panthers’ first trophy since reforming.

Jimmy also explains his decision to leave Nottingham after just two seasons, reflects on being labelled a Panthers “legend”, and talks about life back home in Thunder Bay, where his competitive edge now comes out through distance running and Nordic skiing.