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Scorpions Add Depth Up Front With New Faces

October 4, 2007 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
New Mexico Scorpions News Release


[ RIO RANCHO, N.M.]-New Mexico Scorpions head coach Randy Murphy has added Tom Kotsopoulos and Frank Curto to the training camp roster. The two forwards arrive in Rio Rancho this week with camp officially starting this weekend.

Kotsopoulos, 26, returns to the Central Hockey League after spending the last two seasons in the United Hockey League. The center has played in 220 games scoring 149 points (54G, 95A).

"Tom is a high energy guy who possesses great skating ability," said Murphy. "We feel he will be a perfect fit as our second line center."

As a rookie, Kotsopoulos posted a career high in goals with 13 and assists with 31 playing for the Laredo Bucks in 2002-03. Last season the Unionville, Ont. native played in 32 games with the Elmira Jackals scoring 22 points (9G, 13A) and posting 92 penalty minutes.

Curto comes to the Scorpions for his rookie season after spending the last two years in the Quebec Major Juniors. In two seasons, once each with Laval and St. Hyacinthe, the 26 year old played in 45 games scoring 36 points (16G, 20A) and amassing 169 penalty minutes.

"Everybody I have talked to about Frank tells us he has a knack around the net and is an excellent fore checker," said Murphy. "He is a player who is not afraid to go into the corners and provide a spark for the team."

For parts of two seasons, Curto tasted 20 games of professional hockey with four different teams, but still is considered a rookie having played less than 25 professional games.

In others news, the Scorpions have granted Matt Frick his unconditional release. After recent discussions with both parties, the veteran defenseman was allowed to leave the Scorpions to pursue other opportunities.

"We wish Matt the best of luck in future endeavors," said Murphy. "I was fortunate enough to play with and coach Matt the last two seasons and think he is a special player."

TRAINING CAMP SCHEDULE

The chillers have been turned on, the water has been poured; the lines and logos have been painted which means the Santa Ana Star Center is ready for hockey. The 2007-08 Scorpions training camp will officially open Monday, October 8 with the first team practice.

On Sunday, October 7 at 9:30 a.m. some players will be on the SASC ice for an open skate. The first official practice will be the following day as Murphy will conduct his first practice as a Head Coach.

The training camp schedule will be similar almost everyday of camp. The Scorpions will take to the ice inside the SASC at 9:30 a.m. everyday except Friday, October 12 and Saturday, October 13 when the team will be in Odessa for their lone exhibition game.

The Scorpions open the season Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20 versus the Laredo Bucks. Mini-season ticket packages are on sale for as low as $63. When purchasing season ticket packages, each person receives special VIP parking and entrance, discounts at local establishments and promises that no tickets will go unused.

Payment plans are available to fit anyone's budget. Call the Scorpions' office at (505) 881-PUCK (7825) or visit http://www.scorpionshockey.com/tickets/season/ to find out how you can be a part of all 32 regular season home games starting this October. You don't want to miss your chance to watch the Scorpions drive toward the Ray Miron President's Cup.

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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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