Bobcats '08-09 Tender Class Taking Shape
May 15, 2008 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bismarck Bobcats News Release
(Bismarck, ND May 15, 2008) The Bismarck Bobcats have started building the roster for the 2008-09 season with the signing of five tenders. The Bobcats have not qualified for the playoffs in the past two seasons, but with the new additions Bismarck looks to be heading in the right direction for another banner season.
Starting on the defensive side, Bismarck has signed two players that have proven to be game ready as steady foundations on the back half. John Avino of the Dubuque Thunderbirds is a consistent stay at home defenseman that spent a short stint in Bismarck last season over Christmas. Avino was a key player in Dubuque's championship and run at the national tournament. The 'Bobcats have also signed Detroit Compuware defenseman Daniel DeKeyser. DeKeyser is a big and lanky defender that plays every game with an edge.
"John Avino competes hard, he's a tough kid and we're excited to have him in a 'Cats jersey," said Bobcats Head Coach Byron Pool. "DeKeyser has a tremendous upside and a real bright future in the North American Hockey League".
Last season the Bobcats didn't produce a twenty goal scorer, nor did they have a player break the forty five point mark. Three players in this year's tender class should help the former Borne Cup Champions cause. Jimmy Siers of the Dubuque Thunderbirds tallied 20 goals and 21 assists in 42 games. He finished fourth in scoring for the Hurster Cup Champions while leaving his mark as a tough power forward.
"Jimmy should be a fan favorite, he is a "Will Aide" type player that works hard and helps out his line mates," Pool stated.
The Colorado Midget AAA State Champions will send two of their best north to Bismarck. Josh Holmstrom led the Colorado Rampage in scoring with 58 points in 52 games (1.1 points/game) to go along with 72 minutes in penalties. Holmstrom's hard work was recognized by the Lincoln Stars of the USHL when he was called up midway through the year to play against Des Moines and Sioux Falls. His teammate Tim Serratore was also a big point producer for the Rampage. Serratore netted 17 goals for 51 points in 52 games. Placing second in scoring for the '07-08 season, Serratore is no stranger to winning and being an offensive threat.
"Holmstrom and Serratore are great additions to this team. They were both key players for the Rampage this season and a good reason there team was tops in the state. Holmstrom is a big strong center man who has a great work ethic that can play a variety of rolls. Josh plays well in his own end and he's an all around good player. Serratore is a gritty winger that will show up to play every day. Both of these kids have a bright upside," Pool mentioned.
To get the best selection of the new seating plan at the VFW Sports Center order your '08-09 season tickets NOW!! Bobcat Hockey...LET THE GOOD TIMES ROAR!!
North American Hockey League Stories from May 15, 2008
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- Bobcats '08-09 Tender Class Taking Shape - Bismarck Bobcats
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