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 Rapid City Rush

Rush Add Size & Toughness with Signing of Garrett Gruenke

January 6, 2012 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release


(Rapid City, SD) - Prior to Friday night's game against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, the Rapid City Rush added Garrett Gruenke (GREEN-kee) to the roster. The Rush take on the Killer Bees both Friday and Saturday and tickets are available for both games by calling 716-PUCK (7825) or online at gotmine.com.

Gruenke, 28, joins the Rush after having spent his first three professional seasons with the Odessa Jackalopes.

"I am extremely excited to join the Rush and help continue the momentum that the team has built," said Gruenke. "From what I have heard, and seen firsthand, this is a premier organization in the CHL and a first-class group that we have here. I look forward to doing whatever it takes to bring the championship to Rapid City."

A native of Plymouth, Minnesota, Gruenke has played his entire career with the Odessa Jackalopes where he totaled 25 points (2g, 23a) and 481 penalty minutes in 188 games. At 6'5" and 210-pounds, Gruenke adds size and toughness to the Rush blueline.

"After playing against Garrett over the last three seasons, it's nice to have him on our side," said Rush Head Coach Joe Ferras. "He adds a big, strong body and sound defensive game to our back end. Garrett will be a player that will be matched up against top lines and brings a level of toughness that will help our hockey club. He is a player that takes pride in shutting down those opposing top lines and being a key component of the penalty kill. We know he has great success doing this in the past, and we expect him to continue that here in Rapid."

Prior to turning pro, Gruenke played four years of Division III hockey at the University of St. Thomas.

The Rush also activated winger Anthony Perdicaro, who was previously on the 30-day injured reserve.

Also, rookie defenseman T.J. Miller has been waived.

Other Rush News:

Season tickets for the 2011-12 season start at $412 and are available by calling (605) 716-PUCK (7825). Season ticket holders will receive complimentary tickets to both Rush preseason games as well as numerous other exclusive benefits.


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Central Hockey League Stories from January 6, 2012


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