NAHL Topeka Pilots

'Runners Partner With Youth, Then Announce Alumni Game

Published on June 26, 2009 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Topeka Pilots News Release


TOPEKA, KS, JUNE 26, 2009: The Topeka RoadRunners hockey team, under the direction of Don Stone, today revealed details of a new partnership with the Topeka Youth Hockey Association in a press conference held at the Kansas Expocentre. In the same press conference, the team announced the first official event for the newly formed RoadRunner Alumni Association, with the First Annual Alumni Game scheduled for Labor Day Weekend.

Mr. Stone was the first to speak, talking about his experiences in growing the youth hockey program in his home town of Atlanta, and his commitment to the success of youth hockey in Topeka.

Topeka Youth Hockey President Kevin Grauberger spoke about some of the contributions made to the program which will help offset costs for new players and improve the experience for returning players.

RoadRunners head coach Scott Langer talked about the role his players will have in the youth hockey program, committing a significant number of hours to the development of young skaters.

Mr. Stone returned to the podium as the focus shifted to the recently formed Alumni Association. He announced the scheduling of the First Annual RoadRunners Alumni Game, featuring players from past teams, and honorary coaches from Topeka's hockey past.

The ultimate RoadRunner veteran with a franchise record 191 games played, Aaron Gens was the next to speak. Now playing Division I hockey for the Nanooks of the University of Alaska - Fairbanks, Gens talked about the benefits of having an organized Alumni Association, the selection of John Stoddard as president, and how he envisions the direction of the Association.

Don Stone then took the microphone to announce the First Annual Alumni Game, to be played Sunday September 6 as part of the Labor Day Weekend Homecoming Fanfest. He also confirmed the scheduling of Blue White Classic III on Labor Day Monday, a free event for fans to see the new players and welcome back the returning veterans. Specific details as to start times and additional events will be coming as the event draws nearer.

Director of Media and Broadcasting Arch Ecker closed the proceedings with a brief update on the teams activities over the summer, citing growth in season ticket sales, as well as corporate support. The franchise is in good health and everything is full steam ahead.

For the latest in RoadRunner news, please visit the teams official website: www.topekaroadrunners.com




North American Hockey League Stories from June 26, 2009


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