Oakland ACHA DI Hockey general manager Corey Hagood is pleased to announce that forward Gonzalo Almanza has committed to Oakland. Almanza comes to Oakland from the San Diego Sabers (USPHL Premier) where he spent the last two seasons. Before San Diego, Almanza played for the Atlanta Capitals (NA3HL).
“I’m very excited to have Gonzalo at Oakland University.” Head coach Nick Mammel stated. “I first saw him play two years ago in Atlanta and have liked his game since then.”
“I’m excited to commit to Oakland” Almanza stated. “It’s a great looking campus and location. I’m excited to have some good competition against whoever we play. (I’m) Looking forward to the season with my new teammates.”
The decision to commit was based on multiple reasons, including the rich history and tradition of the program. “The commitment decision came from a couple things, Oakland as a school, has the educational program that I want to study.”Almanza said. “I also believe that I can improve and further my goals with hockey and playing where I want to play by starting here with this team. Seeing the multiple national tournament appearances and also the championship titles made Oakland hockey very appealing.”
He is a speedy forward, who will look to setup his teammates and make plays to help Oakland win games. “I’m a forward who likes to skate and dish the puck, it’s a part of my game.” Almanza stated. “There’s nothing better then being able to make a beautiful pass to your teammate and setting up a goal, or going top speed with the puck. I’m looking to make plays out on the ice whenever I can.”
Coach Mammel is excited to add Almanza to the team and is looking forward to him helping improve the penalty kill “He will bring speed to our lineup and he has a great hockey IQ. I expect him to have a chance to make a large impact on our PK units next year as well as a regular in the forward rotation.” Mammel said.
Education and health are important to Almanza, and he will be studying those while he attends Oakland. “I plan to study exercise science. I’ve always been interested in health and movement mechanics of the body.”
“I love working out and I prioritize my body’s health and wellness in my daily lifestyle.” Almanza added.
Picking a school to continue your hockey career can be a tough decision, but Almanza is happy with how smooth the Oakland coaching staff made the process. “The coaching staff has been great helping me through the process and getting me set up to join the team.”
“”I’m actually familiar with coach Mammel from my time playing in the NA3HL, so it was funny to see him here, but I’m eager to play for him and coach Meuser.”
Graphic By OU Hockey Alum Joseph Guenther