MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. – Former RMU standout Daniel Mantenuto will represent Team Italy at the 2026 IIHF Men's World Championship this spring, while fellow alumnus John Rey has been selected as a linesman for the tournament.
 
Over his illustrious 140-game career with the Colonials from 2016-20, Mantenuto consistently showcased his offensive abilities, totaling 22 goals and 44 assists for 66 career points. He also served as team captain during the 2019-20 campaign.
 
Following graduation in 2020, the Thornhill, Ontario native launched his professional career overseas in Italy. Mantenuto has spent the past several seasons competing in the ICEHL and is set to enter his fifth season with HC Bolzano this fall.
 
Internationally, Mantenuto debuted for Team Italy at the 2022 IIHF Men's World Championship and later became the first Colonial to compete in the Winter Olympics after earning a spot on Italy's roster for the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.
 
In his international career with Team Italy, Mantenuto has recorded 25 goals and 22 assists for 47 points.
 
Rey, a native of Turnersville, N.J., played for RMU from 2013-17. During his four-year collegiate career, the defenseman appeared in 95 games, tallying three goals and 31 assists for 34 points. He was also a member of RMU's 2014 Atlantic Hockey Championship team.
 
Prior to beginning his officiating career, Rey played professionally for two seasons in the SPHL with the Knoxville Ice Bears and Birmingham Bulls. He also spent one season in the ECHL with the Norfolk Admirals. Across his professional playing career, Rey registered 12 goals and 21 assists for 33 points.
 
"Seeing both Daniel and John represent RMU hockey on the international stage is incredibly special for our program," said RMU head coach Derek Schooley. "Daniel has continued to excel as a player at the highest levels internationally, while John has worked his way into one of the top officiating opportunities in hockey. We're proud to see their hard work and dedication recognized at the IIHF World Championship."
 
The 2026 IIHF Men's Hockey World Championship takes place May 15-31 in Zurich (Swiss Life Arena) and Fribourg (BCF Arena), Switzerland.
 
For more information, visit IIHF.com.
 
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