MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. – RMU men's hockey alum Daniel Mantenuto has officially earned a coveted spot on Team Italy's roster for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. This monumental selection marks a historic first for the RMU men's hockey program, as Mantenuto becomes the first former Colonial to represent his country on the Olympic stage.
 
Mantenuto was a cornerstone of the RMU men's hockey team from 2016 to 2020. His dedication and leadership were recognized in his senior year when he served as captain during the 2019-20 season. Over his illustrious 140-game career with the Colonials, Mantenuto consistently showcased his offensive talents, accumulating 22 goals and 44 assists for a total of 66 points.
 
Following his graduation in 2020, the Thornhill, Ontario native embarked on a professional career that took him to Italy. Mantenuto has spent the past few years competing in the ICEHL. He is set to enter his fourth season with HC Bolzano next fall.
 
His journey to the Olympics began with his national team debut for Italy at the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship, where he gained valuable international experience that undoubtedly contributed to his Olympic selection.
 
The 2026 Winter Olympics, a truly special event for Italy, will be hosted in Milano Cortina. This marks the 10th time in the nation's history that Italy will compete in the Winter Games, and the first time since they hosted in 2006. The upcoming tournament holds additional significance as it will be the first time in 12 years that National Hockey League (NHL) players will be competing in the Olympic tournament, promising an even higher level of competition and global attention.
 
The men's ice hockey tournament is scheduled to commence on February 11, 2026, with the highly anticipated gold medal game set for February 22.
 
"We are incredibly proud of Daniel," said RMU Men's Hockey Head Coach Derek Schooley. "To see a former Colonial reach the Olympic Games is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the foundation he built here at Robert Morris. Daniel was a tremendous leader for us, and his path to playing for Team Italy showcases the global opportunities available to our student-athletes. We will all be cheering him on in 2026."

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