Johnstown, PA – The Johnstown Tomahawks announced today that Mike Letizia will join the organization as assistant coach.
A native of Chicago, IL, Letizia brings a solid background in hockey and in-depth knowledge of the game to the team. He experienced junior hockey as a player in the Ontario Hockey League for the Plymouth Whalers, where he spent two of his four seasons as a captain. Letizia signed his first professional contract with the Rockford Icehogs, earning the distinction of Rookie of the Year and winning a Colonial Cup Championship.
“Having played junior hockey, I understand what the players will be going through,” said Letizia. “I am very excited about the opportunity to work at this level.”
Letizia looks forward to continuing his hockey career in Johnstown and contributing to the community. He has been involved with local hockey for the past several years and currently resides in Somerset with his wife Alana, a Somerset native. Letizia has also served as a regional amateur scout for Dave Maciuk, a consultant for CMG Sports Professional Agency.
“This is a hockey city; there is a history and passion for hockey here, and my family is proud to be a part of it,” said Letizia.
Head Coach Jason Spence views Letizia as a hard-working individual who will be an integral part of making the team successful.
“He has surpassed our expectations,” said Spence. “He has hockey in his blood, and he will be someone who the players really look up to. He has a good eye for the game–a strong hockey sense–and he’s a great role model.”
Letizia will oversee player development and video sessions for the players. He plans to work with Spence to create a hard-working team that people will enjoy watching.
“We’re going to put together the best team possible. We want to develop good players, but also good citizens,” said Letizia. It’s important to help develop complete players who will work hard off the ice and in the community as well.”
The Tomahawks continue preparations for their inaugural season with two upcoming tryout camps in Prior Lake, Minnesota July 6-8 and Farmingdale, New Jersey July 13-15. The team will play its first home game of the season in late September. Season tickets and group packages are now available. For additional information call 814-536-4625, e-mail info@johnstowntomahawks.com, or visit www.JohnstownTomahawks.com.