All-Star Returns to Buzzards Line-up
July 24, 2002 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
El Paso Buzzards News Release
EL PASO, Texas â The El Paso Buzzards announced today that defenseman Jason Tessier has signed a contract to return to the team's line-up for the upcoming season. Tessier, a native of St. Jerome, Quebec, will begin his third season in a Buzzards uniform and will be looked upon to once again defend, as well as score from the blue line.
Tessier's performance last season earned him a spot in the Central Hockey League's 2002 All-Star Game and he proved himself by assisting on a goal during the game. Tessier ended the 2001-2002 season with 12 goals and 41 assists for 53 points in 64 games, tying him for fourth place in the CHL in scoring amongst defensemen. He was also tied for second place in the CHL for power play goals by defensemen with seven on the season.
Tessier is the second returning player signed by the Buzzards for the upcoming season. Head coach and director of hockey operations Craig Coxe is glad to have Tessier return and said, "It's always good to have an All-Star player come back to a team, especially one as young as Jason. To be named to the league's All-Star team is a great accomplishment for a 22 year old and certainly a feather in our team's cap." It seems as though Coxe is not finished signing returning players and said, "We are very close to signing some additional returnees and over the next few weeks we will really see the Buzzards' roster filled out."
Buzzards' vice president and director of operations John Zang echoed Coxe's statement and added, "There's just something about bringing back a fan favorite, especially one like Tessier. He is skilled and determined on the ice and unbelievably friendly and personable off the ice. He has proven himself to be well-rounded and that is what any organization wants from a player."
Tessier joins defenseman Rhett Dudley on the 2002-2003 Buzzards roster. These two key returnees ensure the Buzzards will have a strong defensive corps. "I'm glad to come back to El Paso," said Tessier. "It's not only a great place to play, but it has been my home for the past two seasons. I'm proud to be a Buzzard again and to play for Coach Coxe."
The El Paso Buzzards play in the professional Central Hockey League. The team finished their season with a 36-24-4 record and made it to the second round of the play-offs for the first time in four years. Season ticket and sponsorship packages are available for the 2002-2003 season by calling the Buzzards' office at (915) 533-PUCK or by visiting www.elpasobuzzards.com.
Central Hockey League Stories from July 24, 2002
- All-Star Returns to Buzzards Line-up - El Paso Buzzards
- Defenseman David Bourque will return to Brahmas - Fort Worth Brahmas
- Jeff Petruic Signs - Wichita Thunder
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