JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WJAC) — On Wednesday night, the Johnstown Tomahawks hosted the U.S. National Development Team for an exhibition game against some of the best young talent in hockey, but the game meant more than just an opportunity for some time on the ice.
It was a special night as Cambria County native and former Westmont Hilltop student Ian Amaranto started in net for the Tomahawks.
“It’s amazing, I’ve dreamt about it since I’ve been a little kid. Always coming to the games since I was a little kid. Watching the Hawks, rooting on the Hawks and now that I get to fulfill that dream, it’s so cool.”
When the game was scheduled, we learned that former Conemaugh Valley Blue Jay Brody George would return home for a game as a member of Team USA.
But Wednesday’s game became a family reunion, with the Tomahawks signing George’s cousin, former Central Cambria student Kase Kamzik.
Kamzik spoke about how his family reacted to the matchup.
“My gram has season tickets here, all growing up I’ve come to the games and now I get to play for them, so it’s pretty cool. She was up the other night for dinner whenever I came in and she was saying that she’s torn because she’s got to wear a Tomahawks jersey and my pap’s got to wear a Team USA jersey.”
Before the game, the grandparents shared a moment with Kamzik and George on the ice.
Once the game started, Team USA got off to a quick start, and so did Brody George, scoring Team USA’s second goal of the first period.
“I was just feeling like I was ready to go from the start. Just very energetic, ready to go.”
His goal was one of a dozen total scored in Wednesday’s games, as the development team won 8-5.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to be able to play here against my home team. At this age too, I’m very blessed.”
The cousins already have decided their collegiate future in hockey with George committed to Michigan State and Kamzik committed to Miami Ohio.
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Publish date : 2024-09-20 05:23:00
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