PHPA Player Spotlight: Matt Mangene (Springfield Thunderbirds)

Matt Mangene is the PHPA Player Representative for the Springfield Thunderbirds of the American Hockey League (AHL).  After three seasons with the University of Maine from 2009-2012, the native of Manorville, NY joined the Adirondack Phantoms, the AHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers.  Since then, he has played over 350 AHL games with Adirondack, Bridgeport, Texas, and Springfield.

How did you become a PHPA Representative and what are some of your roles and responsibilities?

I was elected by my teammates to become the Player Rep for the Springfield Thunderbirds this year. My role was to help any of my teammates with different union business, whether it have to do with healthcare or anything non-hockey related that might come up throughout the year.

What did you enjoy most about playing at the University of Maine? Do you have a specific memory that stands out from your time there?

The University of Maine is a special place to me. Playing at the Alfond Arena and in front of the U-Maine fans, there is no better college experience than U-Maine. The people I met throughout the university made an impact on me on and off the ice.

We noticed that you like to golf during the offseason. What is your favourite course you have ever played at? Which course haven’t you played, that you would love to golf at?

Bethpage Black and Torey Pines are my two favorite I played. Bethpage Black is the hardest I’ve played, while Torrey Pines had the coolest views. Augusta National is the one course I would love to play or at least go to catch the Masters.

Who was your favourite hockey player growing up?

Bobby Orr and Ray Bourque were my favorite growing up. Growing up a Boston Bruins fan watching highlights of Bobby Orr was all I did as a kid.

What’s the last book you just couldn’t put down?

Anything written by Bill O’Reilly. I just finished Killing Reagan and Killing Patton. These were two interesting reads learning about two great American leaders.

What’s your favourite social media account to follow and why?

Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson. Everything they put out is hilarious.

If you could go back in time and attend any sporting event live which one would it be?

Either the Red Sox 2004 Game 4 World Series game against St. Louis or LSU 2007 National Championship game vs Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl.

If you’re cooking, what are you making?

Jambalaya. My mom is from New Orleans and there is nothing better than Cajun food.

What’s one thing you could not live without?

My family

What’s one hidden talent or interest that most people would not know about you?

I am a hunter

Who’s your childhood celebrity crush?

Jennifer Anniston

If you could leave tomorrow and go anywhere in the world for a week, where are you going?

Amalfi Coast, Italy

What’s your all-time favourite movie?

Tombstone

Tell us a question we should have asked you (and provide a response).

Favorite sports team: Anything LSU. I have a lot of ties to the university through my mom’s side of the family and am always following LSU football during the hockey season. GEAUX TIGERS!