Tom Mannino to the Storm

The Storm has picked up another OHL kid, and their 2nd from the Saginaw Spirit, Tom Mannino (the other being Scott Fletcher.) Tom is the cousin to former Storm goalie Peter Mannino. The Farmington Hills, Michigan native has spent time with the London Knights, Windsor Spitfires, and Saginaw Spirit in 4 seasons.

This season, Mannino had 4 assists in 21 games for the Spirit. He had his best season during 04/05, while playing with Windsor and Saginaw. He posted 50 points between the two teams.

"He is an offensive defenseman that has a lot of experience," said Storm head coach and general manager, Bliss Littler.

This is already the third player to drop down from Major Junior ranks, one can only wonder how many more there will be and who the next one may be.

Not a rumor any longer - it was confirmed that Mannino has been sent home by the Spirit. Tom said that he was a top 2 d-man on ANY team in the OHL, Mancini said he was a 6, 7 or 8 d-man on this team & sent him home. Mancini also said Mannino felt that he did not have to attend practice to be a 6 or 7 d-man, hinting that Mannino has skipped practice recently. You could hear anger in Mancini's voice while talking about Mannino during the pre-game last night! Mancini also referred to the "bad advice" Tom continues to get, no doubt referring to Mannino's Dad who thinks Mannino is the best thing to ever lace up the skates. Anyway, seems like Mannino was a liability on & off the ice, not a team player at all.

OHL message Board discussing Mannino.