Congero added that Tommy's work at the rink every day helps keep everything running smoothly, a loyal, goes-about-his-business employee, always willing to lend a hand.
"He comes here every day and will do anything that is needed for the rink and gives you 100 percent all of the time," Congero said. "He'd do anything for anybody."
As much as Tommy loves the game, participating hadn't been easy for him of late. He suffers from rheumatoid arthritis so while it can be painful to lace up his skates, he does it with a smile to be on the ice with his players.
That was until recently, as Tommy has been in the hospital with pneumonia on a ventilator fighting for his life and has been struggling with his health for the past six months. He was recently moved from the ICU into the respiratory care unit, but his recovery still has a long way to go.
It's been a difficult time for the Mitchell family, as Tommy has a wife and a 10-year-old daughter, and for the Long Island hockey community at large. The PAL Jr. Islanders are wearing "Coach Tommy Tough" stickers on their helmets, both as a show of support and a reminder of the values Tommy has taught them. "Coach Tommy Tough" t-shirts are also being sold for $25 with proceeds going towards his hospital bills. Additional donations are being collected at Northwell Health Ice Center.