Corpus Christi Adds Championship Experience on Blue Line
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The Corpus Christi IceRays are proud to announce the tender signing of defenseman Leo Mantenuto for the 2026-27 season.
Mantenuto, a left-shot defenseman from Medford, Massachusetts, joins the IceRays after finishing the 2025-26 season with the Rochester Jr. Americans of the NAHL. The 5-foot-11 blueliner has established himself as a dependable two-way defenseman who plays with poise, competes hard in all situations, and contributes at both ends of the ice.
“Leo is a player we’ve followed closely and are excited to bring into our organization,” said IceRays Head Coach Nick Skerlick. “He’s a Division I prospect who is gifted offensively and defensively. Leo is familiar with our coaching style, and we believe he’s poised for a breakout season.”
The Massachusetts native brings championship experience to Corpus Christi after helping the Idaho Falls Spud Kings capture the 2025 Dineen Cup as NCDC champions. Mantenuto has appeared in 139 regular-season games and 21 playoff contests during his junior career, showcasing the consistency, competitiveness, and leadership qualities that have made him a successful two-way defenseman. Last season, he recorded six goals and 40 points in 52 games split between the Idaho Falls Spud Kings (NCDC) and Jr. Americans.
Mantenuto becomes the latest addition to the IceRays growing roster as the organization continues preparations for the 2026 NAHL Entry Draft.
The 2026 NAHL Entry Draft will take place on Wednesday, June 10, at 1 p.m. CT. The draft will be broadcast live on NAHLTV, with round-by-round coverage available at NAHLDraft.com.
About Corpus Christi IceRays: The Corpus Christi IceRays, a member of the North American Hockey League playing out of the Hilliard Center in downtown Corpus Christi, TX. For more information or for all your ticketing needs, contact the IceRays Front Office at (361)-814-PUCK or visit www.GoIceRays.com . You can also follow the team through their social media platforms: Facebook @goicerays, Instagram @iceraysnahl, and Twitter @iceraysnahl
About North American Hockey League: Celebrating its 50th season in 2024-25, the NAHL, the only USA Hockey sanctioned Tier II Junior league boasting 35 teams in 20 states from North American. For more information, visit the NAHL website at https://nahl.com/
About Hilliard Center
Hilliard Center is Corpus Christi’s premier entertainment and event complex, proudly owned by the City of Corpus Christi and managed by Oak View Group. Named in partnership with Hilliard Law, a firm dedicated to service and community, the waterfront venue features a state-of-the-art arena, the historic Selena Auditorium, and a versatile convention center overlooking the scenic Corpus Christi Bay. With adaptable spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and premium food and beverage offerings, Hilliard Center is designed to deliver exceptional experiences as South Texas’ home for live entertainment, conventions, and community gatherings.
Visit HilliardCenter.com and follow the Hilliard Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok for the latest news and event updates.
About Oak View Group (OVG)
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the Company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
