Blazers add veteran forward and defenseman with CHL experience

Published on September 9, 2008 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Oklahoma City Blazers News Release


Oklahoma City - The Oklahoma City Blazers of the Central Hockey League signed defenseman Oriel McHugh and veteran forward Robin Gomez, head coach Doug Sauter announced today.

McHugh, a 6-3, 215-pounder from St. Laurent, Quebec is entering his fifth season as a pro. Last season with the Heerenveen Flyers in The Netherlands, he recorded 20 points (9-11-20) and served 40 penalty minutes in 35 games. McHugh has seen significant playing time in the CHL with the Laredo Bucks. In 100 games with Laredo, he recorded 33 points (13-20-33) and served 90 penalty minutes. Over 183 games in his professional career, McHugh has scored 59 points (25-34-59) and served 184 penalty minutes with three different clubs.

The 6-2, 210-pound Gomez, hails from Prince Rupert, British Columbia and is entering his seventh season in the pro ranks. Over 338 games in those seven seasons, Gomez has scored 126 points (59-67-126) and served 1,238 penalty minutes. His most successful season on the ice was during the 05-06 season with the South Carolina Stingrayz when he recorded 26 points (12-14-26) and served 191 penalty minutes in 54 games. That season, he also earned a three-game call up to the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League.

"Both of these players bring a different aspect of the game to the rink each day," said Sauter. "McHugh is a player who has had success every place he's played. He was an All Star in his league in Holland last season and has played in the CHL Finals on two different occasions. He will be looked upon to operate a point position on our power play and play steady defense. Gomez is as tough as they come and a well respected enforcer in the ECHL. Last season was a bit trying for him due to a lengthy suspension. He is eager to return to action and make our hockey club."

The addition of McHugh and Gomez bring the number of players signed for the 08-09 season to 22. He joins forwards D.J. Jelitto, Brian Passmore, Jason Murfitt, Simon Lambert, Bill Vandermeer, Ted Vandermeer, Bobby Reed, Brennen Francon, Mark Black, Marty Standish and Quinn Amiel defensemen Tyler Fleck, Stacey Bauman, Justin Sawyer, Tyler Harder, Jason Seerey, Jaye Judd and Ryan Waldner and goaltenders Andy Franck and Doug Groenestege.

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.

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