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Amarillo's Joe Ferras Named CHL Rick Kozuback Award Winner

March 11, 2004 - Central Hockey League (CHL) News Release


Amarillo Gorillas Coach and Assist General Manager Joe Ferras has today been honored by the Central Hockey League as the recipient of the 2003-2004 Rick Kozuback Award, presented annually to "to the CHL owner, front office staff member, coach or player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, determination and commitment to the game, sport and business of hockey." Ferras has continued to lead the Gorillas to an outstanding regular season while admirably representing the Central Hockey League despite suffering two significant personal losses this season. The award is presented in honor of original Western Professional Hockey League President Rick Kozuback, who played an integral role in the May, 2001 merger between the CHL and the WPHL. The annual recipient is selected by the CHL front office based on nominations from member teams.

In his third season as Coach in Amarillo, Ferras has posted a career record of 94-84-11, and his Gorillas will make a second consecutive trip to the Ray Miron President's Cup Playoffs this year. Ferras began his coaching career as an assistant for two years with the New Mexico Scorpions after completing his playing days. A three-time All-American at Plattsburgh State University of New York, and a member of an NCAA Division II Championship club in 1987-88, the Brantford native enjoyed a fine 12-year professional playing career that began in 1988-89 with the American Hockey League's Adirondack Red Wings, capturing the AHL's Calder Cup Championship.

Earlier this season, the Gorillas came within a single victory of tying all-time CHL records for both consecutive wins (12) and consecutive road wins (10). Among those voicing their support of Ferras for the honor were Texas State Senator Kel Seliger, noting, "Because I have had the opportunity to know Rick Kozuback personally, I am sure that Coach Ferras shares his dedication and love of hockey. I recommend Coach Ferras without hesitation." CHL President Brad Treliving offered his congratulations as well. "Joe Ferras has long been an outstanding representative of the Central Hockey League both on and off the ice," said Treliving. "With the adversity he has faced in recent months, and the manner in which he has handled the challenges, it is with great pride and respect that we select him as the 2003-2004 Rick Kozuback Award winner.

Friday, one of six finalists will be named the 2003/2004 CHL Most Valuable Player. Candidates for the CHL's top honor include two goaltenders; Jeff Levy of the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees and Scott Reid of the San Angelo Saints, as well as forwards Jason Baird of the Indianapolis Ice, Jeff Bes of the Laredo Bucks, Greg Pankewicz of the Colorado Eagles and Chad Spurr of the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs.

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Central Hockey League Stories from March 11, 2004


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