USHL Chicago Steel

Manz and Livanavage Selected to Team USA Roster for World Junior A Challenge

November 16, 2022 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Chicago Steel News Release


GENEVA, ILLINOIS - Two Chicago Steel players were selected to represent the United States at the 2022 World Junior A Challenge in December, USA Hockey announced Wednesday. Defenseman Jake Livanavage and goaltender Christian Manz will represent the Steel in the tournament set to take place in Ontario, Canada.

"We're thrilled for Jake Livanavage and Christian Manz to have the opportunity to represent USA at the World Junior A Challenge," said Steel Head Coach Mike Garman.

Livanavage, a University of North Dakota commit, has registered 10 points (2G, 8A) in 15 contests thus far in his third season in the USHL.

A native of Gilbert, Arizona, Livanavage was tendered by the Steel ahead of the 2020-2021 season, appearing in 43 games for the Steel amassing nine points (1G, 8A). Last season, Livanavage finished second on the Steel with 45 assists and added three goals in 61 games.

"Jake has been an exemplary Steel on and off the ice during his three seasons in Chicago," said Garman.

Goaltender Christian Manz has led the Steel to six victories in ten games played (6-3-0-1) so far this season. The Augustana commit has a GAA of 3.47 and a SV% of .892 in his second season with the Steel.

Last year, Manz compiled a 12-4-1-1 record in 19 appearances for Chicago with a 2.83 GAA and .902 SV%. Originally from Blaine, Minnesota, Manz started all three playoff games for Chicago including a 2-0 shutout over Madison on Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

"Christian Manz has been an integral part of our hockey team this season and we are extremely proud of the opportunity he is receiving," said Steel Assistant Coach Karel Popper. "Manz has come a long way since he came to us last season and through his relentless pursuit and hard work, he has continuously found a way to impress the coaching staff and his team, earning his role on this team.

"His everyday approach is what allows him to find success and is what continues to give him opportunities at the next level. We are excited to see what he can do at the World Junior A Challenge."

"Christian has forged his own path through hard work and competitiveness," said Garman. "We're excited to watch Christian and Jake showcase themselves on an international stage."

The World Junior A Challenge is set to begin play in Ontario, Canada with Team USA competing in the pre-tournament round against Canada East on Dec. 9, and preliminary rounds against Canada West on Dec. 11, Sweden on Dec. 13, Canada East on Dec. 14, and Latvia Dec. 16 followed by the medal round. The Steel representatives are expected to miss regular season games Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17, returning to action after the USHL's holiday break.

The Steel matchup at home for a pair of games against the Youngstown Phantoms on Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19. Friday, Nov. 18 is Superheroes Night and a Slumberland Family Pack Game with a great deal. Fans can get 4 Tickets, 4 Hot Dogs, 4 Chips, 4 Sodas or Waters and 4 Chuck-A-Pucks for just $50. Saturday, Nov. 19 is World Cup Night with a Vuvuzela Giveaway for the first 500 fans.

Tickets start at just $10 and are available by calling 855-51-STEEL, purchasing at ChicagoSteelHockeyTeam.com or visiting the Steel box office at Fox Valley Ice Arena during business hours.

All Chicago Steel tickets are digital and available on mobile devices. Fans should create their profile online. For more information on digital tickets for the Chicago Steel, click here. Fans attending this weekend's games and all Steel home games this season are encouraged to purchase tickets prior to arriving at the arena to avoid any delays on game night.

Season ticket plans starting at 5 games for just $50 and group tickets and experiences are on sale now by calling 855-51-STEEL or emailing info@ChicagoSteelHockeyTeam.com.

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