Monday, July 11, 2011

MINNESOTA WILD PICK - MARIO LUCIA - TO JOIN VEES

Press Release

PENTICTON, BC – The Vees are thrilled to announce the commitment of Minnesota Wild 2nd Round Draft Pick Mario Lucia, who suited up at Wayzata High School in Minnesota last season. Lucia was selected 60th overall and was the top high-school player selected in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

Lucia visted Penticton just weeks prior to the NHL Draft and had narrowed his choices to Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL and the Vees. Today Lucia – the son of Don Lucia who is the Minnesota Golden Gophers Head Coach – called Vees Head Coach and GM Fred Harbinson to commit his services to the Vees for the 2011-2012 season.

“We are very happy that Mario has decided to play for our organization.” Stated Vees Head Coach and GM Fred Harbinson. “We have developed a great relationship throughout the recruiting process. Our staff has continued to work hard this off-season to add different elements to our team. The addition of Mario Lucia will hopefully bring us a another step closer to our ultimate goal.”

Playing last season at 6’2 and 183 pounds, Lucia recorded 25 goals and 47 points in just 24 games of high-school hockey. Mario is familiar with incoming Vees defender Mike Reilly - who will arrive in Penticton this Fall with his older twin brothers Ryan and Connor.

The Vees organization would like to welcome Mario to the Vees family and to the City of Penticton.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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