Sports stats



Captain Returns to Lead Gems in 2011-2012

June 10, 2011 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Dayton Gems News Release


DAYTON, OH - The Dayton Gems have announced that Greg Labenski is the first official player signed for the 2011-2012 season.

Last season, Labenski was a big contributor for the Gems as he recorded 37 points on 33 assists and four goals. His assist total was the second best on the team last year. In the 2010-2011 Best of the Best poll, which was voted on by coaches and management throughout the CHL, Labenski finished third in the category Best Leader.

This will be Labenski's third season with the Gems and 12th full season in professional hockey. He also played three partial seasons for professional teams dating back to the late 1990's.

"Greg is a great guy who brings a lot of talent and knowledge about the game hockey to any team he plays for," said head coach Brian Gratz. "There's a reason why he has been a professional for over 10 years and we're glad he wants to come back to Dayton."

This upcoming season will be the sixth straight year Labenski has called Dayton "home." Prior to joining the Gems, Labenski played with the Dayton Bombers from 2006-2009. He also played for the Bombers during the 2000-2001.

Throughout his professional career, Labenski has played for 11 teams in 10 different cities and has made 10 post season appearances.

While playing for Kalamazoo in 2006, Labenski recorded eight assists in 13 games as the Wings went on to win the United Hockey League Championship that season. It is the lone championship Labenski has won during his career.

In 2007, Labenski played in 22 playoff games for the Bombers. He recorded two goals and eight assists as the Bombers went to the Kelly Cup Finals that season.

Last season, Labenski played in all three of the Gems' playoffs games and recorded an assist.

In addition to his professional career, Labenski also played for the Canadian National Team during the 1999-2000 season. He recorded 17 assists and six goals in 54 games.

"I consider Dayton and its surrounding communities home for my family and myself, and look forward in continuing the Gems tradition of being a respectful organization on the ice and in the community," said Labenski.

The Kettering Medical Center is proud to be the official title sponsor of the Dayton Gems.



Central Hockey League Stories from June 10, 2011


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central