Tom Sestito was born on September 28, 1987 in Rome, New York. He grew up in a hockey-loving family, with a brother named Tim who also played in the NHL and a younger sister. From a young age, Tom showed a passion for the game and quickly excelled on the ice.
Sestito began his hockey career playing for the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League. During the 2006-2007 season, he showcased his skills by scoring an impressive 42 goals and adding 22 assists. It was during this time that he caught the attention of NHL scouts and began to make a name for himself in the hockey world.
After being drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2006, Sestito made his NHL debut in the 2009-2010 season. Known for his physical play and willingness to drop the gloves, he quickly established himself as an enforcer in the league. His reputation for fighting and taking penalties was solidified in a memorable game against the Los Angeles Kings, where he earned an astonishing 27 penalty minutes in just one second of ice time as a member of the Vancouver Canucks.
In the 2013-2014 season, Sestito led the NHL with 213 penalty minutes, further cementing his status as one of the league's toughest players. Despite not being known for his scoring ability, he managed to score his first career NHL goal against All-Star goaltender Roberto Luongo.
Off the ice, Sestito is known for his outgoing personality and sense of humor. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and is a dedicated advocate for various charitable causes. In his free time, he likes to relax by fishing and playing golf.
Keith Olbermann once famously called Tom Sestito a "boxing hobo on skates," a nickname that has stuck with him throughout his career. Despite the physical toll that comes with being an enforcer in the NHL, Sestito continues to bring his toughness and passion to the game every time he hits the ice.
As he continues to carve out a place for himself in the league, Tom Sestito remains a formidable presence on the ice and a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike. With his dedication to the sport and unwavering work ethic, there is no doubt that he will leave a lasting impact on the game of hockey.
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