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Blazers add second veteran to roster

August 27, 2008 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Oklahoma City Blazers News Release


Oklahoma City - The Oklahoma City Blazers of the Central Hockey League signed veteran forward Brian Passmore, head coach Doug Sauter announced today.

Passmore, a 5-11, 190-pounder from Mississauga, Ontario was a seventh-round draft choice (199th overall) of the Minnesota Wild in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. Last season, he played with the Manchester Phoenix in England. With the Phoenix, he recorded a career best 59 points (17-42-59) in 62 games. During the 06-07 season he recorded 54 points (22-32-54) in 55 games between the August Lynx of the ECHL and two teams in Europe. In 330 games in his professional career, Passmore has recorded 225 points (89-136-225) while serving 349 penalty minutes.

Prior to turning pro, Passmore enjoyed success at the major junior and university levels. In four seasons of play in the Ontario Hockey League with the Plymouth Whalers, Oshawa Generals and Guelph Storm, he recorded 171 points (65-106-171) and served 338 penalty minutes. Following his stint in the OHL, he played two seasons for the University of Prince Edward Island, scoring 69 points (26-43-69) in 56 games.

"This is the second cornerstone of foundation of our team," said Sauter. "We feel he can be a first line center on our team in the league. He is not a flashy type of player. He is a hard worker who is good on draws and shows up on the scoresheet nearly every night."

Passmore is the second veteran player signed by the Blazers for the 08-09 season. Each CHL team is allowed four players with 280-or-more games of experience at the professional level on their roster.

The addition of Passmore brings the number of players signed for the 08-09 season to 15. He joins forwards D.J. Jelitto, Jason Murfitt, Simon Lambert, Bill Vandermeer, Ted Vandermeer, Bobby Reed, Brennen Francon, Mark Black and Quinn Amiel defensemen Tyler Fleck, Stacey Bauman, Justin Sawyer and Ryan Waldner and goaltender Andy Franck.

The Blazers 17th season of play commences October 17 at the Ford Center against the Tulsa Oilers. Season ticket packages are available now by calling the Blazers office at 235-PUCK.

NOTE: Blazers forward Graham Dearle has opted to retire from professional hockey and return to Canada to pursue a new career.

"I had a great conversation with Graham about his decision," said Sauter. "He is getting married this weekend and looking forward to starting a new chapter in his life. I wish him all the luck in the world. I know he will be successful in his new profession."



Central Hockey League Stories from August 27, 2008


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