Meet Eric Tufman

After trying many sports, Eric discovered hockey when he fell in love with the ice during a public skating event. He began playing for the Wintersport Royals at just 10 years old. His passion for the game quickly translated into skill, and he advanced to play AAA hockey for the Philadelphia Little Flyers Bantam Major team. As the leading scorer during his two years of AAA hockey, Eric demonstrated immense potential, which led him to the junior ranks.
In the Atlantic Junior Hockey League, Eric excelled as a three-time All-Star and team-leading scorer for the Philadelphia Little Flyers Junior A team from 2003-2007. He represented the league in numerous showcase tournaments, including the prestigious Minnesota Jamboree Showcase in 2006.
Following his junior hockey career, Eric committed to the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he solidified his place as one of the school's hockey greats. In his freshman season, he set a record with six Rookie of the Week awards and earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team. Over his collegiate career, Eric accumulated an impressive list of accolades: he was a two-time team MVP, a two-time Joe Concannon Award finalist (an honor recognizing the best American-born college hockey player in New England), and a two-time Codfish Bowl and Stovepipe Invitational All-Tournament team selection. He also achieved ECAC All-Tournament Team honors, joined the 100-point club, was named UMass Boston Athlete of the Year, and earned All-American honors during his senior season. In 2023, Eric was inducted into the UMass Boston Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy in the university’s history.
Eric’s talent extended beyond collegiate hockey. In 2008, he represented the United States in an international tournament in Israel, competing alongside college and professional players. As a top point-getter, he helped lead Team USA to a gold medal.
After college, Eric received numerous professional hockey offers. However, due to injury, he was forced to retire from playing. Today, Eric channels his passion for the game into coaching and teaching, sharing his skills with aspiring hockey players and inspiring the next generation.