Bucks Sign Another College Defenseman
July 19, 2004 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Laredo Bucks News Release
LAREDO, Texas â The 2004 CHL President's Cup Champion Laredo Bucks have signed rookie defenseman Oriel McHugh from the University of Vermont. The Bucks are currently taking deposits for new season tickets. For more information call (956) 718-BUCKS (2825) or log onto www.laredobucks.com.
McHugh, 6'3 220 pounds, played four years of college hockey for the Catamounts. In 116 games he had 13 goals, 10 assists and 86 PIMs.
"He has very good size," said Laredo Bucks head coach Terry Ruskowski. "Oriel is a strong defenseman who is also very steady. He is coming out of a strong NCAA program. I think he will be a great addition to the team we are trying to assemble."
McHugh was the on-ice captain for the Catamounts his senior season. He had a game winning goal in overtime in a December 20th game against Connecticut.
"I've been waiting my whole life for a chance to play pro hockey," said McHugh. "With Laredo being a championship team, it is more than I could have asked for. I like to take the physical side of play and be more a stay at home defenseman. I'll join the rush if I can, but I take care of my own net first."
Illustrating the physical presence he brings, during his freshman season McHugh checked an opposing player into the boards, and the force of the collision shattered the glass.
He hails from St. Laurent, Quebec which is also the home town of his favorite player and recent NHL Hall of Fame selection, defenseman Raymond Bourque.
McHugh was an honor roll student at Herzliah High School, and then attended prep school at Deerfield. During his two years at Deerfield he was an all-star defenseman, played tight end on the football team and also participated in crew.
He graduated with a B.S. in Community Development and Applied Economics.
The University of Vermont has produced such NHL stars as reigning NHL MVP Martin St. Louis, a 1997 graduate and John LeClair, graduate 1991.
Central Hockey League Stories from July 19, 2004
- Second time around - Corpus Christi IceRays
- Defensive corps continues to grow for Brahmas - Fort Worth Brahmas
- Saints All-Time Leading Scorer to Return - San Angelo Saints
- Bucks Sign Another College Defenseman - Laredo Bucks
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