Joe Cangelosi returns to Thunderbirds

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.- The Carolina Thunderbirds, proud members and defending champions of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, announced Monday that forward Joe Cangelosi will be returning to the team this coming season.

“He’s one of the best faceoff men in the league,” said general manager Kelly Curl, “we look forward to having him back to further his leadership role within the organization.”

The Plainsboro, N.J.-native was on pace to break his single-season career high in points, notching 29 points (11g, 18a) through 41 games with the Thunderbirds this season.

“We had something special going last year and it’s unfortunate it got cut short,” said Cangelosi, “I’m excited to be back and make a run for another championship.”

“I’m glad to have him back, and I believe he’ll have a big year,” said head coach Andre Niec.

By the end of the season, Cangelosi was wearing a letter as an alternate captain for Carolina.

“He showed me he can be a big part of our team,” remarked Niec.

Cangelosi has skated with the Thunderbirds each of the past three seasons after breaking into the league with the Watertown Wolves in 2016.

Prior to his professional start, Cangelosi played in the WSHL with the Ontario Avalanche. Later in 2014, he logged three games and an assist with the Louisiana IceGators of the SPHL.

Cangelosi and the Thunderbirds are preparing for the fourth season of professional hockey in Winston-Salem. Season tickets are available for 2020-2021 via the online interest form at the top of the team website.

The Winston-Salem Fairgrounds box office and the Carolina Thunderbirds office remains closed to the public during this time. Updates on re-opening will be passed along via email and official team social media sites.