In signing with the Maple Leafs, Vinni Lettieri wanted a market that “lived and breathed hockey”.

That’s because his family already lived in that bubble, long before he was born. The grandson of Minnesota North Stars’ player/coach/exec Lou Nanne and son of Team Canada World Cup soccer goalie Tino Lettieri has come to the right place, though making a competitive Toronto roster at forward requires more than genetics.

“I love to work hard and I want to win,” Vinni said on Day 2 of training camp on Friday. “Any team has those, but in Toronto, if you love hockey, this is the place to go.”

Mitch Marner might dispute that, but the departed right winger has at least provided an opportunity for someone such as Lettieri here. At age 30, he accepted a minimum $775,000 US contract in July for this chance, his fifth team after the Rangers, Ducks and home state Minnesota Wild, with two swings through Boston including last season.

In his practice group Thursday, Lettieri was right winger on a line with a couple of younger Marlies, and behind both William and Alex Nylander and Easton Cowan on the starboard side depth chart, underlining his challenge.

“I’ve heard how hard this camp is (under coach Craig Berube), but there’s a reason Toronto has been so successful so many years (seeking a league-high 10th straight playoff appearance). It’s how hard they practise, everything is done to a ‘T’, no missed details from the staff.

“I’m very fortunate the front office gave me this chance and faithful to the Lord bringing me here. I think everything happens for a reason.

“My grandfather had a big hockey image and I learned a lot from him. But my dad is who I looked up to. It was pretty admirable to see his success, he was pretty small (5-foot-8) as a goalie. That just shows you how hard he worked. That’s what he did for me.”

Almost 40 years ago, the Italian-born Tino stood in the Canadian net in Mexico City in front of thousands of flag-waving fans after winning two gritty World Cup qualifying home-and-homes against Honduras. Canada failed to score against France, Hungary and the old USSR.

“My dad has had a pizza-calzone booth at the Minnesota State Fair for 38 years and people still come up to ask him about the World Cup and playing in the Metrodome for the Minnesota Kicks (of the North American Soccer League).”

Vinni wouldn’t be the first Leaf blessed with a soccer background to enhance his skating skill set. Peter Zezel and Tie Domi were also on the pitch at high levels.

“The footwork, the hand-eye and the biggest thing is conditioning,” Vinni said. “But I couldn’t wait to hang up the cleats. Hockey is my passion.”

Now to turn that into a job here.

Lhornby@postmedia.com

X: @sunhornby