Chicago Wolves Player Endorses 'Read to Succeed'

Hockey player Peter Mannino visited the Crystal Lake Library Tuesday evening to promote the Chicago Wolves reading program, "Read to Succeed."  He spoke to children about how reading has made a difference in his life, answered questions from the audience and signed autographs for everyone who attended.

Mannino grew up reading books like Dr. Seuss and BMX Boys. Now he reads autobiographies, including one he's currently reading on Saints quarterback Drew Brees.

When asked what sports he played in his childhood, he responded, "I've been playing hockey since I was three. I also played soccer, street hockey and a little bit of baseball. All sports are great."

When a library patron asked, "What do you like better? Reading or hockey?" Mannino sounded sure, "Reading. There's always things to learn."

Dan Harris, of the Community Relations Department of the Chicago Wolves, questioned Mannino, "How important is reading to your career?" Mannino replied, "It is so important to read, to get information. To keep your mind going. Everybody is reading. On the bus, guys are constantly online reading about other athletes and about news."

One lucky child, Sam Penna, 5, won the opportunity to dress in hockey gear.