Brendan Manning, a forward for the EHL’s Vermont Lumberjacks, has committed to NCAA Division II Saint Anselm College (Northeast-10) for the fall of 2024.

The ’03 native of Chandler is in his second season with the Lumberjacks, and first at the Eastern Hockey League level. After beginning his junior hockey career in the Eastern Hockey League Premier (EHLP) last year, Manning has finished the climb up to NCAA hockey.

Vermont’s captain is a prime example of a player that begins in the EHLP, moves up to the EHL, and commits to an NCAA program.

“Brendan has been a leader in our program from his first day with the Lumberjacks, serving as a captain in both the EHLP and EHL,” said Lumberjacks EHL head coach Seth Gustin. “He embodies the characteristics that will allow him to be successful in anything he does. His will and desire to continuously improve his game earned him All-Star recognition and now the opportunity to continue his career at Saint Anselm. We are extremely proud of Brendan’s growth as a player and person, and are looking forward to the bright future he has in front of him.”

As Gustin mentioned, Manning’s development was recognized early on this season when he was selected to the North/East All-Star Team that faced-off against Rivier University and Southern New Hampshire University back in October.

As for this upcoming fall, Manning is one of four EHL players that has chosen the Hawks for the next step in their respective careers. Upon his arrival on campus, Manning will team up with Conor Kelly of the New Hampshire Avalanche, Connor Peet of the Boston Jr. Terriers, and Nick Theodos of the New England Wolves.

“I am excited and humbled to announce my commitment to Saint Anselm College,” said Manning. “My family has supported me immensely over my hockey journey, and I would not be the man or player I am today without them. One of the best decisions I have made was to become a Lumberjack. I would like to thank Coach Gustin, Coach (Jack) Lowry, and the Rosales family for helping develop me within such a well-run program. I have had a wonderful two years here, with some of the best teammates you could ask for. Also, a special shout out to Coach Lavallee, Coach Kappelmann, Coach McNaughton, and all my Maine Moose U18 teammates as well for an amazing two years before junior hockey. The work is only just beginning, but I am honored to be joining Saint Anselm hockey in the fall. Roll Jacks.”

Manning is also part of a strong core of players in the EHL whose roots take them back to Arizona, a state that is growing into a ‘hockey hotbed.’ The EHL is set to head out to Arizona, and in particular, Manning’s hometown of Chandler this May. Space is still available for the EHL’s first-ever combine in Arizona, so be sure to sign up today, and become the next Brendan Manning.

Back home, Manning skated for the Arizona Bobcats and Hamilton High School (AHSHA).

Photo/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images

— EHL Staff

(February 26, 2024)