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By: Mark Allred | Follow me on Twitter / X @BlackAndGold277

Former Boston Bruins draft pick and Providence Bruins defenseman Tommy Cross announced his retirement from professional hockey after a 12-year career. The now 33-year-old was selected in the second round of the 2007 National Hockey League Entry Draft at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The 6′-3″ 205-pound Connecticut native appeared in three games at the NHL level, all with Boston contributing one point.

The former Boston College defenseman played most of his professional games for the American Hockey League Providence Bruins. In 364 games with the top minor-pro affiliate of the NHL Boston Bruins, Cross contributed 31-103-134 numbers with Providence. In his AHL career, he appeared in 588 games and posted 56-174-230 totals in 12 years. Tommy also played for AHL franchises the Cleveland Monsters and AHL Bruins Atlantic Division rival the Springfield Thunderbirds.

While at Boston College, Cross helped his Eagles team win two NCAA National Championships and was the team’s captain in his last season. He would later be the captain of the Providence Bruins for a short tenure, ultimately finishing his hockey career wearing the “C” on his shoulder with the Springfield Thunderbirds. His leadership throughout his professional career was second to none when being an extension of the coaching staff for several teams. Best of luck in your retirement Tommy Cross!