An Outlaw, a Saint, a Jackalope

October 15, 2003 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Odessa Jackalopes News Release


Jackalopes Head Coach & Director of Hockey Operations, Don McKee, knows what BRENT CURRIE brings to the "hockey table." Now Currie will bring his skills...and toughness...to the Jacks' table.

McKee announced today that the Jackalopes have obtained Currie's playing rights from the Austin Ice Bates, in exchange for future considerations (a player to be named later).

"We know, first-hand, that Brent is a terrific competitor," McKee said. "We're very pleased to put Brent's skills to work for our hockey club. He's a very solid, very physical blue-liner (defenseman)."

Currie will report to the Jackalopes on Wednesday and is expected to officially sign with the club at that time. He joins an outstanding group of defenseman that includes all-star Scott Hillman, Jamie Yoder, Adam Doyle, Pat Stachniak and rookie Sal Lettieri.

"Brent gives us a full compliment of six defensemen, and he's a perfect fit for us," McKee said. "He's a right shot, which we need, and he loves to play a very physical style of hockey."

Currie is a 5th-year pro whose resume includes the Corpus Christi IceRays and the Austin Ice Bats (1999-2000) in addition to four seasons in San Angelo, where he played for the Outlaws (1999-2002) and Saints (2002-2003).

He totaled 17 points (2 goals + 15 assists) and 189 penalty minutes (PIM), playing in all 64 games for San Angelo last season. Currie's plus-minus rating of -13 was the best of any player who played at least 34 games for the Saints, a statistic that McKee believes says a great deal about Currie.

"San Angelo really struggled last year," McKee said. "Their other top defenseman (Brad Cook) had a minus 50. Brent's minus 13 tells you he brings a great work ethic to the rink every night, good times or bad. We really like that. We also know he's not afraid to scrap a bit or to do whatever it takes to pick up two points (win the game)."

"In the right situation, Brent can really add a great deal to a hockey club," McKee added. "We like everything he brings to the table."

The 25-year-old is 5-10, 190 and makes his home in Sherwood Park, Alberta.

McKee also announced a series of roster moves following the Jacks' two pre-season games.

The club has waived forward Travis Clock, defenseman Matt Snider and goaltender Michael Roberson. The Jacks have also placed defenseman Darren Hillman (brother of Jacks all-star Scott Hillman) on the Negotiation List.

"Darren had an outstanding camp and showed a terrific approach to the game, which must run in the family," McKee joked, eluding to the renowned work ethic of Darren's brother, Scott.

"Darren has an unusual conflict in that he has a commitment to the Canadian Firefighters Team which will take part in international competition," McKee said. "He would become available at the end of November, and we'll re-evaluate our situation...and his...at that time. He showed us a great deal in this camp."

McKee said there are still other moves possible prior to the CHL regular season opener Friday night against San Angelo.

The club must fill its final roster spot, a choice which will involve a final decision on forward Chris Gignac. The ultra-talented centerman is undergoing physical tests and examinations, after which his status will be confirmed.

The Jacks' opening weekend sees the San Angelo Saints come to town Friday night, followed by a perennial power and a new one. The Oklahoma City Blazers, the CHL's all-time winningest team, invade the Jacks Shack Saturday, followed by the "expansion" Colorado Eagles, who are widely considered to be among the CHL's strongest clubs entering their first year.

Key Dates

Tuesday, October 14: Training Camp Ends; Final Roster Announced

Friday, October 17: CHL Opener vs. San Angelo @ Ector County Coliseum 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 18: Opening Weekend Continues vs. Oklahoma City @ Coliseum 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, October 21: Jacks vs. Colorado @ Ector County Coliseum 7:00 p.m.



Central Hockey League Stories from October 15, 2003


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