Up next in our “Off The Ice” series we get to know Oakland forward Gonzalo Almanza
If you were not playing hockey what would you be doing?
Probably just trying to be a physical therapist I can’t think of a lot of things I like more than hockey I love it too much.
First time playing?
I did a learn to skate program when I was really little, but didn’t get back into it until my junior year of high school so fairly recently.
Have you played any other positions besides forward and how did it go?
I’ve never played anything besides forward I’m very offensive minded.
Why did you want to be a forward?
My dad was a forward and so I just naturally chose that position and I’ve loved it.
How did you end up at OU and why did you choose to play here?
I reached out to coach Mammal since I remembered playing against him during my time in juniors and then committed shortly after.
PlayStation or X-Box?
Xbox for sure.
Favorite Video Game? Are you any good?
My favorite video game all time would be Zelda Ocarina of Time but I play a bit of Overwatch and I think I’m pretty good.
What do you drive now and what is your dream car and why?
Right now I’m driving a Subaru Impreza. If I had a dream car it would probably still be a Subaru, but probably a BRZ.
What is your dream vacation and why?
I would love to go to Spain or Greece I’ve never been out of the country before and it would be sick to visit those places.
Nickname?
Everyone pretty much calls me Manza but I also go by Gonzo or anything else that the guys come up with.
Most embarrassing hockey moment?
When I forgot to take my skate guards off before my high school game and I fell on the ice right at the door. Pretty embarrassing.
Most embarrassing life moment?
When I peed my pants in karate class. Enough said.
Favorite sport besides hockey?
I like watching rugby. It would be sick to play, but I feel like I’m a bit too small.
Pregame meal?
Anything with carbs and protein. I’m not picky.
Pregame Ritual?
My pregame ritual is anything that gets me locked in that day. It varies game to game.
Are you superstitious?
Not at all nothing really bothers me.
Favorite music to pump you up before a game?
I like listening to anything upbeat and fun to dance or sing along to. Whatever the guys put on in the room but I also like to talk.
Favorite movie and why?
There’s so many movies I love it’s hard to pick a favorite but the first Amazing Spiderman movie is probably up there.
Favorite TV Show and why?
It’s an anime called Naruto it was the first anime I ever watched so it has a special place in my heart.
Your hockey idol and why?
Connor McDavid just because he’s so insanely good and I try to base my game around his.
Do you watch a lot of NHL? If so what is that team besides the Wings that you love?
The Bruins are my team. But being from California I also love cheering for the Kings.
What is one thing most people do not know about you?
Spiderman is my favorite superhero and I am basically him. That’s actually what I’m doing when I’m not playing hockey is fighting crime.
Graphic By OU Hockey Alum Joseph Guenther