After four years at the University of Denver (1991-1995), Angelo Ricci played two seasons professionally in the ECHL and WPHL before developing into his role as the Executive Director of the Colorado Thunderbirds and skills coach for the Buffalo Sabres, as well as various other professionals across all skill levels. 
 
Where are you originally from? 

I am from the Chicagoland area. I was born in Elmhurst, Illinois but grew up in the Elgin, Ilinois area. 

Why did you choose to attend the University of Denver?  

I originally attended Wisconsin in the fall of 1990, but transferred to Denver in January of 1991. Coach Serratore, who was was my head coach with the Omaha Lancers of the USHL the previous season, was the new head coach. I had a strong relationship with him and lots of success under him, so the connection made the transition very easy. However, I would say the main reasons why I choose Denver were the intimate setting of the campus, the incredible weather and the size of the classrooms. It was also intriguing to me that we were the only men's Division I sport at the school at that time.

What is your favorite memory from your time with the Pioneers?  

There are so many terrific memories. I would say the success that we had as a team my senior year, reaching the NCAA quarterfinals, was pretty special. We really struggled my junior year, so it was nice to taste some success my senior year. At the time, I was the first person to graduate from college in my family (both my mother's and father's sides). I am extremely grateful and thankful for the University of Denver and the scholarship  which allowed me to get a degree and play college hockey. 
 
Where are you living and what are you doing now?

I live in the DU area. I absolutely love the neighborhoods around the University of Denver. I am very fortunate to still be involved with hockey. For the past 22 years I have been a director and coach. Currently, I am the Executive Director and Head Coach (16U team) for Colorado Thunderbirds AAA hockey organization. I have also been very fortunate to be a professional skills coach for many players of all levels from junior hockey to the NHL level. Those experiences have afforded me the opportunity to be a skills coach for the Buffalo Sabres the past five years. The growth of hockey in Denver and the west has been amazing. It's truly been fun to be a part of. I am very lucky that I happened to be in the right place at the right time. 

How did your time at the University of Denver prepare you for life after hockey?

The DU professors prepared me not only from the business side of things, but also from a realization that it truly is a grind to survive and thrive once you graduate. The ability to manage your academics, athletics and social life taught me so much about the time management skills needed to be successful. I must also say that being part of a team environment taught me how to work well with others, trust others and want to give my absolute best so to not let my teammates down. There is such a strong bond among the guys - such a brotherhood. It truly is special. 

What advice do you have for the current Pioneers about life after college?

Enjoy each and every moment, ask questions, don't be afraid to try different things and don't be afraid to fail as it will only enhance your successes. The moments at the rink, in the locker room and on the road are things you will miss, so soak it all in and be "all in". It also taught me to love, and I mean it 100%. Love what you do. You must have great passion for what you do after college.  Life is way too short to spend your time grinding away at something that you truly aren't invested in. Live in the present but always prepare for the future.    
 
TOGETHER 4 COLORADO TOY DRIVE
The Pioneers have partnered with CBS4 for the Together 4 Colorado Toy Drive to support the Denver community during the holiday season. Beginning Nov. 17, there will be toy drops at every Denver Athletics and Newman Center event thru Dec. 19. Additionally, there will be a Community Shop 'n Drop on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., hosted by the Denver Cheerleading squad at the circle drive on the north side of the Ritchie Center.

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