Salvatore Viviano sits down to discuss his first season in the USHL, his experience with the Black Hawks and his upcoming commitment to Northern Michigan University
The jump from the minor hockey Triple-A level to the United States Hockey League can be a challenge, longer travel, living in a new city and playing against older competition, but Waterloo Black Hawks forward Salvatore Viviano is fitting in seamlessly during year one in the league.
Through 51 games in Viviano’s rookie campaign, the forward has recorded 12 goals and 23 assists, good for second on the team in goals, first on the team in assists and second among all Black Hawk skaters with 35 points. During an interview on Wednesday, Viviano touched on his season to date.
“It’s been fun. I got off to a slow start, but as I’ve got my footing and continued to get more comfortable, I’ve started to get out of my head a little bit,” Viviano said. “I stopped overthinking the game, I’ve taken what the coaches have had to say and worked my ass off. “I trust in my abilities a lot, so I just need to believe in myself, and that’s been one of the biggest things to help me have a successful year one.”
As for one of the biggest changes from Viviano’s minor hockey days to now playing in the USHL, the 18-year-old touched on some of the differences in the game for what he’s had to focus on.
“The biggest jump is the detail aspect of the game. You need to be on top of your details in both the offensive and defensive zones. Every day is a battle that requires your work ethic and compete level to be there,” Viviano said. “It’s not just learning but digesting the information given by the coaches for what they want you to implement. You need to be ready for whatever scenario you find yourself in, so just being laser-focused on the details will be a key part in finding success.”
The Black Hawks’ coaching staff is led by former National Hockey League head coach Scott Gordon, who spent time as the head coach with both the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers. Viviano touched on how much Gordon has helped improve his game.
“He’s a great coach and has taught me so much about the game,” Viviano said. “He knows so much about all areas of the game and has allowed me to learn so much. I wouldn’t want to play for any other coach; he’s been great.”
The Michigan-native now calls Waterloo home, moving to Iowa as a member of the Black Hawks. Viviano has had nothing but great experiences playing and living in Waterloo, Iowa.
“Waterloo’s great. The team, the coaches and everyone in the organization has really helped me grow my game into something I always thought it could be, but now it’s a reality,” Viviano said. “The way the city and the fans take care of their players is amazing. I think it’s one of the best places to play in the USHL. We have a really loud barn, which makes for a special atmosphere every night.”
Last season, the Black Hawks made it to the Clark Cup final before falling to the Muskegon Lumberjacks in Game 5 of the finals. This year has been more of a rebuilding season, as the Black Hawks sit with a record of 13-35-2-2 through 52 games played.
“Last year’s team was really good, so we are working to figure out our game to get back to that level. I think we’re going to have a really good group next year as we’ve all learned so much through the ups-and-downs of this season,” Viviano said. “Our record is not great, but there’s been so much personal and player development on our team. Everyone’s growing as individuals, and I have a feeling we could be really good next year.”
Coming up on the Black Hawks’ schedule is three games in five days, squaring off with the Des Moines Buccaneers on Friday, the Sioux City Musketeers on Saturday, and the Dubuque Fighting Saints on Tuesday. This will be a good test as they close out the regular season’s final 10 games.
“This part of the season can be tough because everyone’s thinking about the offseason and what’s to come next,” Viviano said. “I think our group is really focused on these next 10 games and the job we have to do. The season’s not over, and we still have a chance to make an impact and play spoiler. We want to show what it’s going to be like to play against us next year.”
Viviano is committed to Northern Michigan University for the 2027-28 season, continuing to take his hockey career to the next level by becoming a Wildcat. Viviano touched on what went into the process leading up to his commitment.
“Dave Shyiak and all the coaching staff at Northern Michigan were a big part of the recruitment process, to help show me what Northern Michigan can be in a few years,” Viviano said. “I believe in what they are doing over there, and just from visiting there, I think it’s going to be special.”
Viviano touched on some of the goals he has before the 2025-26 season comes to a close at the beginning of April, while also providing some insight for aspirations down the road.
“For the remainder of the season, I want to stay focused and driven. I want to continue to bring the energy and my work ethic to help show some of the younger affiliate players what it takes to play and what it means to play in Waterloo,” Viviano said. “I see myself thriving at Northern Michigan and being a contributing factor to that team. Hopefully, one day go to a NHL or professional camp, but I just have to stick with my work ethic and continue to grind day in and day out.”
The Black Hawks are back in action Friday night when they host the Buccaneers at Young Arena. Puck drop is set for 6:35 p.m. CST.