I’ve learned that UMass is interested in South Kent forward Joseph Manno.  The Montreal native has good size at 6’2″, 185lbs.  Manno was listed as a “player to watch” by NHL Central Scouting last fall.  South Kent is where Mike Pereira was playing when he committed to UMass (his last prep season was spent at Avon Old Farms).  Last season Manno played for the Lac St Louis Lions in Quebec.  He also considered playing in the USHL this year before heading to play prep instead.  Unfortunately I can’t track down his stats right now since I’ve let my USHR subscription lapse due to them continuing to raise the prices.

Northeastern has also been looking at Manno and there are rumors that Maine may be interested as well.  Of course in what’s become the norm now, he’s also been drafted by the QMJHL.  In fact he was drafted by the Saint John Sea Dogs which is the same team that grabbed Zack Phillips who had previously committed to UMass and is now tearing up the Q.  Manno is scheduled to take an official visit in the coming months, though he’ll actually be on campus this weekend as South Kent plays a game at the practice rink on Sunday afternoon.

(FTT reader Bob has been nice enough to pass along Manno’s stats so far.  10G 17A in 17 games. Thanks bob!) – mc

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Here are some last minute previews for tonight:

WWLP News (with video)

Daily Collegian

Dick Baker blogs about the evolution and importance of “Holyoke” Czepiel.