Evansville, In.: The Evansville Thunderbolts and Head Coach/Director of Hockey Operations Jeff Bes are pleased to announce the signings of forwards Manny Cabral and Shane Prifrel as well as defenseman Antonio Baldassarre for the 2026-27 season. The Thunderbolts return to Ford Center ice for the 2026-27 season on Saturday, October 17th against the Knoxville Ice Bears.
Baldassarre joins the Thunderbolts after spending a season overseas with KHL Sisak in the AlpsHL and Croatia. During his time overseas, he added 4 points to the stat sheet in 25 games played. Between his time in the KHL, he signed with Nipissing University and played 3 games for the team. The Toronto, Ontario native spent the three seasons prior to 2025-26 between the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) and the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL).
As Antonio Baldassarre begins his time in Evansville, he is excited to become part of the Thunderbolts organization and community. “I’m most excited about getting down to Evansville, meeting the guys, coaching staff, and becoming a part of the Thunderbolts organization and community. I’ve heard great things about the fans and the atmosphere there, so I’m really looking forward to playing in front of them and doing everything I can to help the team win this season”. Baldassarre also believes his skating, compete level, and puck-moving ability will be key strengths as he joins the Thunderbolts. “I’d say some of my biggest strengths are my skating, compete level, and ability to move the puck. I like to play a fast, responsible game, be hard to play against defensively, and help create offense when the opportunity is there. Thunderbolts fans can expect a lot of energy, physicality, and someone who competes every night and does whatever it takes to help the team win.”
On signing Baldassarre, Head Coach/Director of Hockey Operations Jeff Bes commented: “Antonio is a great skater who brings a lot of energy to the game. He has the ability to move the puck well and uses his skating to create plays and keep the game moving at a high pace. He plays a fast, responsible game and can be relied on to make smart decisions in all areas of the ice. We’re excited to have him join our group.”
Season and single game tickets for the 2026-27 season are on sale now. Call 812-422-BOLT(2658) or visit our website (www.evansvillethunderbolts.com) for details.
About Evansville Thunderbolts: The Evansville Thunderbolts is the area’s only professional hockey team. The Thunderbolts are a proud member of the SPHL. The team is owned and operated by VW Sports, L.L.C, a subsidiary of VenuWorks, Inc. www.evansvillethunderbolts.com