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Barracudas Sing NHL Veteran Neil Wilkinson and Announce Relationship with New York Rangers

October 2, 2003 - SPHL (SPHL)
Jacksonville Barracudas News Release


JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Jacksonville Barracudas Head Coach Ron Duguay announced at a press conference today that the Barracudas have signed 10-year NHL veteran defenseman Neil Wilkinson and have established an association with the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League.

Wilkinson, a second round draft pick of the Minnesota North Stars in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft (# 30 over all) played in 460 NHL games for five teams. The 6'3", Selkirk, Manitoba native scored 83 career NHL points with 813 penalty minutes.

Wilkinson, named Captain of the Barracudas during the press conference by Coach Duguay says his role is that of a teacher for the young players. He's here to help promote hockey in Jacksonville and to help raise the bar for years to come.

"We've got a great chance to promote hockey here in Jacksonville. We've got a great chance to win," Wilkinson said. "I'll help the young guys out and kick a little tail while I'm here"

Coach Duguay also announced an association with the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League. Because of the association Duguay has with the Rangers, New York will send the Barracudas a young prospect for development.

"The Rangers are sending us a young prospect so he can get quality ice time and an opportunity to develop," Duguay said.

Barracudas President and CEO David Waronker announced today additional local ownership of the Barracudas. Vice President and General Manager Scott Allerding and Head Coach Ron Duguay have been added as Minority Owners of the club. Waronker also offered a family special for opening night.

"The next 1,000 people to call the Barracudas office and purchase a $7.00 ticket can bring their kids for free," Waronker said. "We need to start laying the building blocks for the future of hockey in Jacksonville. We need to start with the youth and get them interested in the sport of hockey."

The Barracudas will open training camp on Monday, October 27th at SkateWorld from 10:30am - Noon. Training Camp is open to the public. The Barracudas will also play one exhibition game on Saturday, November 1st against the Orlando Seals at the Ice Den at the RDV Sportsplex in Orlando. Face off time is 4:00. Go to the Barracudas official website at jacksonvillebarracudas.com for more details.

The Barracudas kick off their 2003-2004 WHA2 season on the road November 7th in Alabama. The Home Opener Celebration in the brand new 16,000 seat Veteran's Memorial Arena is Friday, November 28th at 7:05.

For group, season, and corporate ticket packages, call the Barracudas office today at 904-367-1423.



SPHL Stories from October 2, 2003


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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