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Two familiar hockey names coming to New Mexico

August 30, 2006 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
New Mexico Scorpions News Release


[RIO RANCHO, N.M.]- The New Mexico Scorpions, proud member of the Central Hockey League (CHL), have turned to two familiar hockey names for the 2006-07 season with the signings of Aaron McInnis and Terry Marchant. Scorpions' Head Coach Ray Edwards adds two proven leaders to the otherwise young Scorpions squad.

Hockey fans should be no strangers to the family names both the new Scorpions carry with them. Aaron is the nephew of NHL legend Al MacInnis who played over 20 years combined with the Calgary Flames and St. Louis Blues. Terry is the brother of current NHL star Todd Marchant.

"Aaron is coming in to be one of our top four defensemen and play in all situations," said Edwards. "We are looking for him to lead by example and hopefully he can elevate his game and become a force in the CHL."

MacInnis comes to New Mexico after spending the last four seasons in the ECHL. The defenseman finished strong this past season, playing 55 games with Stockton scoring 21 points (6G, 15A) and collecting 48 penalty minutes.

"I am hoping to start this season the same way I finished off last season," said MacInnis. "My goal is to be a solid defenseman and help out the younger guys we have on the roster. The CHL over the past couple years has really picked up in talent level and I am happy to have the chance to play with a great organization in the Scorpions."

Early on in his career, MacInnis was often expected to be a lot like his uncle in style of play. The 6'1", 200-pounder feels he has established his own style of play and credits "Uncle Al" for teaching him how to be a true professional on and off the ice.

Marchant arrives in New Mexico for his ninth professional season. Like MacInnis this will be his first trip through the CHL.

"I am excited for the opportunity this year with New Mexico. I know I will have to be a leader for a young group of forwards," said Marchant. "Being a leader is something I relish. Last year I was the captain in Flint and enjoyed when young players came to me with questions. I did not always have the answers because I am still learning everyday, but I welcome any player to ask me questions so we all can become better players and improve our game."

Last year, the Buffalo, N.Y. native played for Flint in the United Hockey League (UHL). The center led the Generals and was tenth in the UHL with 85 points.

"Terry will be instrumental in working with our young forwards," said Edwards. "We will really lean on Terry to lead and we expect he will be one of our top offensive players throughout the season."

Not only can Marchant score on the ice, he also shows up every night. The 6'1" lefty, a 1994 sixth round draft pick by Edmonton, appeared in 76 games for the Generals, third most in the entire UHL. Before landing in Flint, Marchant spent fours years in the ECHL. He also comes with American and International Hockey League experience spending a season in each of those loops. Overall, Marchant has played in 501 professional games, scoring 363 points (138G, 225A).

The Marchant brothers may have the same name, but are very different when it comes to style of play. Terry is three inches taller and 30-pounds heavier. Earlier in both of their careers, franchises did not realize how different each player was.

"When my brother Todd went to Edmonton, the equipment that was put in his locker was a tad too big, it would have fit me perfect," said Marchant.

The Scorpions will christen the new state-of-the-art Santa Ana Star Center on Friday, October 27, when they face the Arizona Sundogs at 7:35 p.m. This season the Scorpions feature 22 weekend home games. The schedule can also be viewed and printed by visiting www.scorpionshockey.com/schedule.

Season tickets and corporate partnership information is now available for the New Mexico Scorpions inaugural season in the Santa Ana Star Center. Make sure to reserve your seats now to be a part of all the exciting action. Reserve your season tickets for as low as $320. Monthly plans are also available to fit any budget by calling the Scorpions office at (505) 881-PUCK [7825] or by visiting www.scorpionshockey.com.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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