Saturday, July 7, 2012

More additions to Patriots

Press Release

The Toronto Lakeshore Patriots have acquired six veteran players in preparation on improving on their final four OJHL appearance in 2012. Mikey Vallescuro, Billy Seligman, Kevin Pietrobon, Tony Belony, Michael Apreda and Stormer Santana will all suit up for the Patriots after having played for other OJHL or NEPL teams last season.

1993 born Mike Vallescuro stands 5'9 and weighs 155lbs, and is a very speedy and crafty centerman. Mike played last season with the Vaughan Vipers and put up 34 points on 10 goals and 24 assists in 48 games played. "Mikey has tremendous speed and vision. He is exceptional in finding the open man and moving the puck quickly and efficiently. I expect Mikey to come in and contribute right away as a playmaking center" commented Head Coach Mike Tarantino.

1993 born Billy Seligman stands 5'9 and weights 175lbs and is a very skilled forward who can play both the wing and down the middle. He suited up for Choate Rosemary Hall in the New England Prep school league, but originally hails from Toronto. Seligman was a standout player with Choate putting up 19 goals and 37 assists for 56 points in only 27 games. His 37 assists lead all players in the New England Prep school league and his 56 points were 5th overall. "Billy is another player who will make an immediate impact in our lineup. He has very good speed, vision, and scoring ability, Billy will be an extremely strong addition to our hockey team" stated Tarantino.

1993 born Kevin Pietrobon stands 5'11 and weighs 175lbs and is a fast two way winger who has a solid all around game. Pietrobon played the last two season's with Hotchkiss in the New England Prep School league, but hails from Mississauga. "Kevin played minor hockey with a few of current players such as Wes Deme, Dylan Carter, and Alex D'Oliveira on the Mississauga Reps Midget team that participated in the Telus Cup. He is a very good hockey player and should come in and make another strong addition to our lineup. Kevin is very versatile and can play any forward position and contribute" commented Tarantino.

1993 born defenceman Tony Belony stands 6`0 and weighs 190lbs. Tony was signed from our Prospect camp after being a two year veteran in the OJHL and finishing the 2011-2012 year with the now defunct Brampton Capitals. "Tony is a big, strong, right handed shot defenceman who can make a good first pass and is not afraid to play physical. We think he will be a strong addition to an experienced defence core we have. We are very happy to acquire Tony." stated Tarantino. In the 2011-2012 season, Belony put up 2G, 11A for 13PTS, and had 52 PIMS.

1993 born defenceman Michael Apreda stands 6'0 and weighs 200lbs. Apreda played last season with the Vaughan Vipers alongside Vallescuro. Mike is entering his 3rd year in the OJHL and brings a solid defensive game along with some offensive upside. "Mike is a very steady defenceman who is tough to play against. He is an "in your face" player who has good vision and a good shot. We are very happy to acquire Mike" stated Tarantino.

1993 born goaltender Stormer Santana stands tall at 6'3 and 190lbs. Stormer previously split time between Markham, Hamilton, and Brampton last season. "Stormer contacted me shortly after our season ended inquiring about the possibility of playing for us. Unfortunately I did not see Stormer play last year due to the lack of the South East Conference crossing over with the North West Conference. Stormer attended the Patriots Prospect camp to make an impression. All of the coaching staff and scouts were impressed with what Stormer showed in camp as we feel he will compete for playing time as he had other teams looking to acquire his services" added Tarantino.

The Patriots have set high expectations for themselves in the 2012-2013 season and all of these players will be counted on to help them achieve their goals.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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