Quebec Hockey Player Joins Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics!
Phil Pietroniro, a Quebec-born hockey player, will represent Italy at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Though he has never played in the NHL, his career spans across leagues in Italy and the Czech Republic. Pietroniro expresses pride in his Italian roots and looks forward to competing on home ground.
Phil Pietroniro: A Journey Through Hockey
Pietroniro was born in Saint-Eustache, Quebec, but spent significant time in Italy, where his father, Marco Pietroniro, played professionally. Marco was known as a skilled player in the Quebec Midget AAA league, where he scored over 100 points in a single season and captained the Draveurs de Trois-Rivières. His talent and leadership were recognized by his coach Dany Dubé, who praised his speed and determination.
Early Years and Family Legacy
Phil’s childhood in Milan spanned from 1994 to 1997, where he holds fond memories despite limited recollections. His mother shared photos, and family friends recounted stories of that time. The Pietroniros later moved to the United States, where Marco continued his hockey journey as a player and coach.
- Phil began playing junior hockey in Quebec during the 2012-2013 season.
- He joined the Cataractes de Shawinigan, where he faced challenges adapting to different positions.
- In a pivotal moment, he joined his father’s team, the Foreurs, helping them capture the Coupe du Président.
A Successful Path to Italy
At the age of 23, Phil followed his father’s footsteps to play in Italy and continued to excel. He played alongside his brother Chad in Asiago and became one of the league’s top defensemen by 2018. His performance drew the attention of the Italian national team selectors, leading to international tournament invitations.
As a key player, Pietroniro is now set to don the Italian jersey at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He anticipates competing against strong teams, including Sweden, Finland, and Slovakia, where he will face notable players like William Nylander and Mikko Rantanen.
Olympic Aspirations and Team Dynamics
Pietroniro emphasizes his determination to take it one game at a time. He appreciates the opportunity to play under Tomas Plekanec, a former NHL player, who is coaching the Czech team. Phil is also excited about playing alongside other Quebec players, enhancing the camaraderie in the sport.
A Family Tradition
The Pietroniro family is deeply rooted in hockey, with all five brothers playing professionally, each contributing to the sport in various leagues. Phil’s dedication to hockey and his Italian heritage culminate in this unique Olympic opportunity, making it a moment of pride for both him and his family.
