One on One with Brett Manney

By Kevin Neibauer

Kevin M. Neibauer of LaxPhilly.com recently caught up with one of the Wings Captains, Brett Manney.


KMN - You go back a few years with John Mouradian, comment on your relationship with him...

BM "Well he and the Stealth coaching staff had a lot of faith in me as an American rookie. Therefore they saw something in me and it was up to me how I could develop. I always thought we had a good relationship and I rarely call him Johnny anymore but his nickname "Gypsy."

KMN- The Wings are a storied franchise, how does it feel to be a part of the organization?

BM- "Honored"

KMN - What are your thoughts on being a Captain on this team?

BM- "Well, to be alongside Brodie (Merrill) and Kevin (Ross) and Max (Seibald), when he (Max) gets back, is elite company. I think there are many leaders on our team, therefore it is collective leadership. I will do my best to lead by example on the floor and off"

KMN- Paul Rabil, What does he bring to the team?

BM- "Brings athleticism, leadership, talent, work ethic, and drive."

KMN - The American concept, what should the fans expect from this?

BM- "Athleticism, Creativity, Speed, and playing fast"

KMN - Brandon Miller has been fabulous. Does his performance make your job easier?

BM- "Of course. Brandon is an excellent goalie and even better performer. There are a lot of head case goalies out there and he is not one of them. I love playing in front of him. I have a lot of respect for him."

KMN - As Assistant Captain, do you have any special duties with the team??

BM- "To make sure violations are accounted for in the Kangaroo Court. Other than that not much really other than to be a liaison on the floor to refs."

KMN - How big was the win in Toronto??

BM- "Anytime you win in this league it is big because there are only 9 teams with the best lacrosse players in the floor. There are no easy wins. With that being said, on the road against a tough opponent was big. We want to continue to get better every week and play for each other. After two games we have and will continue to strive for that."

KMN - Thomas Hajek, what has he brought to the defense?

BM- "Simplicity. Thomas is a great lacrosse mind who was a talented player. He understands what our strong and weak points to make sure to capitalize on our opportunities. It was a little weird with him being a coach at first but everyone gives all they have for him every time out on the floor".