The Chilliwack Chiefs continue to bolster their roster in what is turning out to be a very productive off-season.
The team announced the commitment of Mississauga native Matthew Manza for the upcoming season on Monday (July 15).
The 2007-born forward is coming off a year with the Toronto Patriots where he tallied 26 goals and 23 assists in 49 games which culminated in him being awarded the OJHL’s rookie of the year award.
Manza played the entirety of his minor hockey career in the Greater Toronto Area where he was a key member of the Mississauga Senators program of the GTHL. Following his first season with the Patriots, the soon-to-be 17-year-old is looking to round out his game prior to beginning his NCAA career where he has committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes hockey program for the 2025-2026 season.
“Matthew is a very special talent who we are extremely fortunate to have join our group for the upcoming season,” said head coach Brian Maloney. “Like all of our players we are going to spend the extra time making sure that when the time comes for Matthew to move onto the next level he is ready to step in and contribute right away in a meaningful way.”
Manza cites the level of competition in the BCHL, paired with the importance of player development, as heavily weighted factors in his decision.
“I am looking forward to the opportunity to join the Chiefs for the 2024-2025 season and compete at the BCHL level,” said Manza. “The organization, coaching staff and team have all been very welcoming and I can’t wait to get started.”
