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Tibbett departs Phantoms
Photo
Mahoning Valley Phantoms goalie Jordan Tibbett defends a shot
By TOM WILLIAMS
BOARDMAN
Youngstown Phantoms goaltender Jordan Tibbett has left the second-year USHL team after accepting a scholarship from Mercyhurst College in Erie, Pa.
“They were having some issues with one of their goalies and needed a guy to come in right away,” Phantoms coach Curtis Carr said. “Jordan has the chance to be their starter right now. I couldn’t be happier for him.”
Tibbett’s departure three weeks before the Phantoms’ season opener has the coaching staff searching for a replacement goalie. Carr said he and his staff are evaluating four prospects and will take their time.
“We have a short list of guys to consider, some who were in our camp,” Carr said. Matt O’Connor, a USHL rookie, will play in Saturday’s preseason game against the Chicago Steel at the Ice Zone.
An Indianapolis native, Tibbett played two seasons with the Mahoning Valley Phantoms of the North American Hockey League. When the Youngstown Phantoms joined the USHL in 2009, Tibbett was the only Mahoning Valley Phantom to make the squad.
Last season, Tibbett was 11-19-1, with a goals-against average of 3.68.
Tibbett’s decision was part of a very busy weekend for Carr as his wife, Margaret, gave birth to their daughter Emma shortly after midnight on Saturday.
“I found out about Jordan’s decision while she was in labor,” Carr said.