Ice Bats sign two more players
September 14, 2007 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Austin Ice Bats News Release
(Austin, TX) - The Austin Ice Bats of the Central Hockey League announce today they've signed John Neal and Darcy Johnson for the upcoming 2007-2008 season. John Neal is a defenseman who completed his first year of professional hockey last season splitting time in the CHL between the Youngstown Steelhounds and the Lubbock Cotton Kings. Coach Hughes said, "Neal is a young guy with a lot of potential to become a good offensive defenseman. Given the right opportunity he can become a big asset for us, and do some big things. I'm really looking forward to seeing what he can do on the ice." Neal appeared in 54 games last year for Youngstown and Lubbock, scoring five goals with three assists. Before coming to the CHL, he played three seasons for the Oshawa Generals of the OHL.
"I'm very excited about coming to Austin. I played in Youngstown and Lubbock last year and a couple guys I played with who had played in Austin and had nothing but good things to say. I've heard it's a great town and it'll be good to get back on the ice," said Neal.
Darcy Johnson comes to the Ice Bats as a forward who will bring some grit and toughness to the ice for Austin. Johnson has spent time in the UHL and ECHL in his career, but has spent the three seasons in Canada as a member of the Thetford Mines Prolab and the Sorel-Tracy Mission of the LNAH league. "Darcy is hard working and tenacious, a guy who likes to dig in the corners play in front of the net. He's someone who will protect his teammates, but also has some scoring touch," said Coach Hughes.
The Ice Bats are the AA affiliate of the Minnesota Wild (NHL) and the Houston Aeros (AHL). The team is getting ready to begin their 12th season in Austin. The 2007-2008 campaign begins October 19th against the Texas Brahmas at 7:30 PM. For single game, group, and season ticket packages call (512) 927-PUCK (7825) for more information.
• Discuss this story on the Central Hockey League message board...
Central Hockey League Stories from September 14, 2007
- Bucks To Host Pre-Season Game: Buy One Ticket, Get One Free - Laredo Bucks
- Ice Bats sign two more players - Austin Ice Bats
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.
