Bochek, Parker Sign with Blaze

Published on July 17, 2012 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Bloomington Blaze News Release


The Bloomington Blaze, fueled by Mid- Illini Credit Union, has signed returning Central Hockey League forward Kyle Bocheck and familiar defenseman Ryan Palmer for the 2012-13 roster.

Bochek, who played under Blaze Coach Brian Gratz for the Dayton Gems, competed in 117 games including three playoff contests, racking up 57 points (21 goals, 36 assists) and 261 penalty minutes. In addition to playing for he Gems, the Port Severn, Ontario native was also a member of the Missouri Mavericks in 2009.

Coach Gratz unwraps his thoughts about Bochek. "Kyle brings a good deal of grit and toughness to our line-up. He is a player that other teams do not like to face on the ice because of his intensity and style of play. (Bochek) also possesses a good skill set that allows him to contribute in many ways such as killing penalties and taking important faceoffs."

In addition to Bochek, the Blaze has also signed the team's Defensive Player of the Year from last season, Ryan Palmer. Before coming to the Blaze last season, Palmer played in Colorado, Laredo, Odessa, Muskegon, and the Quad Cities during his seven-year career.

While with the Bloomington Blaze last year, Palmer contributed 2 goals, 5 assists and 72 penalty minutes in 64 games, and was voted the team's Defensive Player of the Year. Palmer played two years of collegiate hockey at the University of Connecticut, collecting 14 points (5 goals, 9 assists) and 74 penalty minutes in 63 game appearances.

"Ryan adds great stability and physicality to our blue line," said Gratz. "He is a player that his teammates respect and know will compete every shift. He makes good decisions with the puck and is difficult to play against in the defensive zone."

Keep updated on the Bloomington Blaze players by visiting www.bloomingtonblaze.com, Twitter at BLMBlaze, or Facebook. Season tickets are also still available. More information is available by calling 309-434-2980.

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Central Hockey League Stories from July 17, 2012


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