Panek was a standout member of the Cardinals men’s ice hockey program from 1985-88. During his time as a Cardinal, he earned numerous accolades, including First-Team All-America honors in 1988. Panek was named the Most Outstanding Player at the NCAA Division III Championship in 1987. In 1986, Panek was named to the NCAA Division III All-Tournament Team. He earned First-Team All-SUNYAC accolades three times and ECAC West first-team honors twice. The Cardinal All-Decade Team member (1985-1994) finished his career 133 career points, good for third most by a defensemen and 29th all-time. Panek signed with the Los Angeles Kings organization following his career at Plattsburgh.