Carolina brings back important trio

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.- The Carolina Thunderbirds, defending league champions and proud members of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, announced Monday that equipment manager Jon Leibensperger and bench medics Damien Poole and Josh Linville will all be returning to the team next season.

“We’re happy to have these guys back with us. They are dedicated to our team and create an environment that is conducive to success in our organization,” said general manager Kelly Curl.

By day, Poole is a captain with the Winston-Salem Fire Department and has served over 20 years with the city. He has worked eight seasons in sports medicine, serving as a medical standby for hockey, soccer, lacrosse and more.

“As a lifelong hockey fan, it was a dream come true to be apart of the Carolina Thunderbirds organization last season. I am beyond excited to be back this coming season,” said Poole

Linville lives and works in Kernersville.

“I’m looking forward to my third season with the team this year, we have a great group of guys and ladies in the office and I’m sure that Kelly is on the hunt for yet another great group of guys in the locker room this year,” said Linville.

Leibensperger brings a wealth of knowledge to the equipment room. He has worked many seasons with the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers as one of their equipment managers. Also, Leibensperger previously worked professional as a top drive shaft builder for Richard Childress Racing.

“Without a doubt, our organization has the absolute best bench medics and equipment manager in the league,” said Poole.

The well-liked trio and the team they support plan to take the ice this season for the fourth full-slate of FPHL hockey in Winston-Salem. Season tickets are available by filling out in the interest form on the team website and awaiting one of the Thunderbirds ticketing staff to contact you.

The Thunderbirds offices are still closed to the public, but office staff remains available by phone or email from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.