Former Birds Thompson, Cangelosi rejoin the flock

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.- The 2019 Commissioner’s Cup champion Carolina Thunderbirds, a proud member of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, announced the re-acquisition of two former Thunderbirds on Thursday

Carolina has agreed to terms with Everett Thompson who was released by the SPHL’s Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs.

“Everett brings that grittiness and toughness that we’re looking for,” said general manager Jimmy Milliken.

Thompson logged 16 points in 26 games with the Thunderbirds last season before being called-up to the Rail Yard Dawgs.

The Thunderbirds also completed a trade sending defenseman Marc Steele to Battle Creek in exchange for forward Joe Cangelosi.

“Cangelosi was a part of the championship team last season and can provide solid leadership for our group,” said Milliken.

Cangelosi was acquired by Delaware in the expansion draft during the off-season, but was traded to Battle Creek after the first weekend of the season. He has not played in a game so far this year.

Thompson is expected to play this weekend vs. Danbury, but Cangelosi will be a game-time decision.

Due to the change of personnel, Carolina also announced that there would be changes to the roster numbers. Cangelosi will wear the same 21 that he wore last season. Stanislav Bachor who formerly wore 21 will now wear 23. Everett Thompson will wear 15.

The Thunderbirds will face the Danbury Hat Tricks November 8-9 in Winston-Salem for opening weekend and limited tickets are still available. You can get yours by visiting the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds box office from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

This weekend’s festivities include a rally towel giveaway presented by UniFirst, special jerseys and a post-game live auction on Friday, the championship banner raising on Friday night, team poster night presented by Triad Indoor Rowing and Fitness and the championship ring ceremony on Saturday night.