WICHITA, Kan. – Adam Russo is now in his eighth professional season and his second in the Central Hockey League. This is Russo’s first season playing for the Wichita Thunder and he recently received new goaltender equipment in Thunder colors, including a newly painted mask.
Russo was kind enough to allow Pro Hockey News to photograph his mask and provided some background information about the design. Russo came up with the basic design of the mask himself, working together with the same mask painter he used during his junior hockey days.
The front of the mask features the Thunder’s 20th Anniversary logo at the top. It also features the number 1, his uniform number, on the chin along with a stylized “WT” logo.
The left and right sides of the mask are identical, featuring a menacing cartoon tornado blowing across a desolate landscape, referencing the many wind storms Kansas faces each year.
A more personal design graces the rear headplate of the mask. It features the Italian and Canadian flags, symbolizing Russo’s strong Canadian and Italian heritage.
Around the outer edge of the plate Russo has placed the initials of close family members. His parents, grandparents, and wife are all represented along with the “Papa” nickname he has earned as a hockey school instructor.
Finally, his long time nickname “Rooss” is included as well.
Special thanks to Adam Russo for taking time out of his game day schedule to speak with Pro Hockey News.
Contact the writer/photographer at chip.crail@prohockeynews.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.