CHL 2003-04 Season Preview

October 14, 2003 - Central Hockey League (CHL) News Release

The Central Hockey League's 12th season of play begins this Thursday, October 16th, as the Corpus Christi Rayz host the New Mexico Scorpions to begin the 544-game CHL campaign. Seven new coaches will occupy CHL benches this year, and the two-time defending champion Memphis RiverKings look to add a third consecutive President's Cup Championship to their trophy case.

The CHL welcomes two expansion clubs for the coming year, both playing in brand new, state-of-the-art facilities. In Loveland, Colorado, the Colorado Eagles have surpassed even the most optimistic of expectations with over 4,300 season tickets sold for games at the Budweiser Events Center. The Eagles start their inaugural season at home this Friday, entertaining the Tulsa Oilers. In Hidalgo, Texas, the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees have also been met with tremendous enthusiasm, and will begin their home schedule Friday, October 31st, following four consecutive road games to begin the season, as Corpus Christi visits the Dodge Arena.

Fans and media members will again be able to enjoy true real time game scoring in the CHL through the use of Pointstreak at www.centralhockeyleague.com , while high speed internet users will have the ability to view and listen live to nearly half of the CHL's schedule on CHLtv.com. A full schedule of the pay per view service, utilizing live video streaming feeds from across CHL arenas, will be issued Thursday.

The Central Hockey League is the only minor professional hockey league in North America to show consecutive attendance increases the past two seasons, finishing with an average per-game attendance of 4,401 in 2002-2003. Included in the Central Hockey League's season preview is a CHL media information page, a team information page, and team capsules for all 17-member teams.

CHL 2003-2004 Key Dates

October: 15 Season Opening Rosters due
16 CHL Regular Season begins
December: 22 - 26 Roster Freeze on trades in effect
January: 21 - 22 CHL All-Star Break
21 CHL All Star Banquet
22 Dodge 2004 CHL All Star Game (Albuquerque, NM)
23 Jersey Reversal Date
February: 2 CHL Trade Deadline
9 Non-North American player signing deadline
March: 14 Last day of CHL regular season
15 CHL Playoff roster deadline
17 First possible date to begin post-season play

CHL 2003-2004 Season Preview – Team Information

Amarillo Gorillas
Amarillo Civic Center - 4,986
Joe Ferras (Coach)
806/242-7825 (Office Telephone)
Denis J. Puska (PR Contact)
www.amarillogorillas.com

Austin Ice Bats
Travis County Expo Center - 7,000
Jeff Greenlaw (Coach)
512/927-7825 (Office Telephone)
Glen Norman (PR Contact)
www.icebats.com

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs
Century Tel Center - 12,500
Scott Muscutt (Coach)
318/752-2847 (Office Telephone)
Steve Mears (PR Contact)
www.mudbugshockey.com

Colorado Eagles
Budweiser Events Center - 5,300
Chris Stewart (Coach)
970/674-1743 (Office Telephone)
Colleen Miller (PR Contact)
www.coloradoeages.com

Corpus Christi Rayz
Memorial Coliseum - 3,800
Al Sims (Coach)
361/814-7825 (Office Telephone)
Josh Bogorad (PR Contact)
www.ccrayz.com

Fort Worth Brahmas
F.W. Convention Center - 11,200
Bill Inglis (Coach)
817/336-4423 (Office Telephone)
Jeff Bowerman (PR Contact)
www.brahmas.com

Indianapolis Ice
Pepsi Coliseum - 8,200
Ken McRae (Coach)
317/925-4423 (Office Telephone)
Jason Burkman (PR Contact)
www.indianapolisice.com

Laredo Bucks
Entertainment Center - 8,000
Terry Ruskowski (Coach)
956/791-9192 (Office Telephone)
Joe Dominey (PR Contact)
www.laredobucks.com

Lubbock Cotton Kings
Municipal Coliseum - 7,050
Kirk Tomlinson (Coach)
806/747-7825 (Office Telephone)
Matt Marshall (PR Contact)
www.cottonkings.com

Memphis RiverKings
DeSoto Civic Center - 8,444
Jim Wiley (Coach)
662/342-1755 (Office Telephone)
Galen Clavio (PR Contact)
www.riverkings.com

New Mexico Scorpions
Tingley Coliseum - 11,571
Bill McDonald (Coach)
505/881-7825 (Office Telephone)
Mike Sheehan (PR Contact)
www.scorionshockey.com

Odessa Jackalopes
Ector County Coliseum - 5,131
Don McKee (Coach)
432/520-2255 (Office Telephone)
Jamie Richardson (PR Contact)
www.jackalopes.org

Oklahoma City Blazers
Ford Center - 18,100
Doug Sauter (Coach)
405/235-7825 (Office Telephone)
Josh Evans (PR Contact)
www.okcblazers.com

Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees
Dodge Arena - 5,500
Tracy Egeland (Coach)
956/843-7825 (Office Telephone)
Chris Due (PR Contact)
www.killerbeehockey.com

San Angelo Saints
San Angelo Coliseum - 5,265
Ray Edwards (Coach)
325/944-6253 (Office Telephone)
Tom Nurre (PR Contact)
www.sanangelosaints.com

Tulsa Oilers
Tulsa Convention Center - 7,111
Bruce Garber (Coach)
918/632-7825 (Office Telephone)
Matt Caddy (PR Contact)
www.tulsaoilers.com

Wichita Thunder
Kansas Coliseum - 9,560
Derek Laxdal (Coach)
316/264-4625 (Office Telephone)
Joel T. Lomurno (PR Contact)
www.wichitathunder.com

CHL 2002-2003 Season Preview – Northwest Division

COLORADO EAGLES
Coach: Chris Stewart
(0-0-0 w/COL, 162-88-24 in CHL)
02-03: DNP
The expansion Eagles appear likely to contend in their first season of play, with former CHL Coach of the Year Chris Stewart utilizing the past 12 months to recruit an experienced and talented club. Seasoned goaltender Ryan Bach will handle the bulk of the goaltending responsibilities, with Brent Thompson providing leadership and experience on the blueline. Feisty right wing Greg Pankewicz can do it all, scoring 46 goals and adding 340 PIM's last season with Pensacola (ECHL). Left wing Ryan Tobler also brings aggressiveness and a physical presence to the squad. The first year club has enjoyed outstanding success to date, with over 4,300 season tickets sold.

NEW MEXICO SCORPIONS
Coach: Bill McDonald
(19-7-4 w/NMX, 210-136-49 in CHL)
02-03: 31-28-5
The Scorpions enter their first full season under highly respected McDonald, who instills discipline and a terrific work ethic from his clubs. Coach "Mac" stresses defensive responsibility, and returns several key cogs from last season's playoff team. All-Star C Chris Richards (76 pts) and All-Star D's Vladimir Hartinger and Arturs Kupaks return, as does veteran LW Peter Ambroziak. Experienced Danny Lorenz should get most of the goaltending minutes, serving as a mentor to up and coming rookie Miguel Beaudry. The Scorpions begin the season with five straight road games before playing at home. The New Mexico organization will host the 2004 CHL All-Star Game on January 22nd, 2004.

OKLAHOMA CITY BLAZERS
Coach: Doug Sauter
(351-148-39 w/OKC, 351-148-39 in CHL)
02-03: 37-20-7
Blazer Coach Doug Sauter looks to lead his charges to an unprecedented eighth consecutive division crown, but it won't be easy. Gone is Joe Burton, holder of 19 career CHL records including most goals, most points, and most games played. CHL assist king Blair Manning returns, as does versatile All-Star defenseman Hardy Sauter. Goaltender Boyd Ballard set a club record for appearances last season, but will be pushed by rookie Sean Connors. RW Doug Shepherd has been brought in to help with the offensive attack, while speedy Marty Standish looks to bounce back for a disappointing (for him) season. Look for a more balanced Oklahoma City offensive approach this year.

TULSA OILERS
Coach: Bruce Garber
(0-0-0 w/TUL, 204-103-39 in CHL)
02-03: 37-22-5
The Oilers made wholesale changes this season, returning only five players from last year's club. Garber will ice a club that is sure to be well prepared and balanced. CHL MVP Finalist Todd Marcellus is again expected to pace the offense, while defenseman Regan Harper is a force at both ends of the rink. Top off-season acquisition may be LW Jason Bermingham, with quality speed and skills. Anthony D'Arpino will add size & depth to the blue line, joining returnee Jordan Flodell. CHL All-Star Rod Branch will man the Oiler nets, and is a past CHL Playoff MVP. The Oilers started last season with a record of 20-5-0, but failed to qualify for the President's Cup playoffs.

WICHITA THUNDER
Coach: Derek Laxdal
(12-17-0 w/WIC, 12-17-0 in CHL)
02-03: 21-36-7
The Thunder received a major overhaul this off-season as Coach Laxdal looks to put his own stamp on the franchise. Travis Clayton (Thunder career points leader) and Jason Duda (Thunder career goals leader) are back, and LW newcomer Adam Calder should score a point a game. Laxdal's major focus was on the defensive side of the rink, with six new blueliners and two new goaltenders on the roster. Matt Carney and Mark Gowan will share time in net early on before a clear number one is determined. Newcomers Henrik Bergfors is a big, physical Tampa Bay prospect, while rookie center Anders Strome has been highly impressive in the preseason.

CHL 2002-2003 Season Preview – Northeast Division

BOSSIER-SHREVEPORT MUDBUGS
Coach: Scott Muscutt
(111-70-18 w/BOS, 111-70-18 in CHL)
02-03: 33-22-9
The Mudbugs missed the playoffs for the first time in franchise history last year, forcing their longest off-season in several years. Coach Muscutt stresses fundamentals and mental toughness. Former WPHL Goaltender of the Year Ken Carroll will again be a strength, posting a .926 save percentage last season. All-Star forward Dan Wildfong is the spirited leader of the club, and led the ‘Bugs in scoring last year. Veterans Jim Sprott and Trevor Buchanan bring experience and toughness, while rookie forward Ryan Manitowich and rookie defenseman Travis Bell should be nice additions. Returning sniper Forbes MacPherson is an offensive threat as the Mudbugs look for consistency.

FORT WORTH BRAHMAS
Coach: Bill Inglis
(9-25-4 w/FTW, 9-25-4 in CHL)
02-03: 16-41-7
Brahma fans suffered through a disappointing 2002-2003, and Coach Bill Inglis hopes to turn things around in Fort Worth. Inglis has recruited several players with outstanding speed this season to surround All-Star power forward Chad Woollard. Playmaking center Jeff Scharf was brought in to feed Woollard, and physical defenseman Carl Greenhous can play both ends. Forward Justin Williams is an aggressive forechecker, and veteran Chad Grills handles crucial face-offs and defensive situations. Former Princeton netminder Erasmo Salterelli will be relied on to keep the Brahmas competitive, while Inglis tries to dramatically improve on the worst record in the CHL.

INDIANAPOLIS ICE
Coach: Ken McRae
(39-16-9 w/IND, 39-16-9 in CHL)
02-03: 39-16-9
CHL 2002-2003 Coach of the Year Ken McRae did an outstanding job last season, leading the Ice to a 40-point improvement. Three time All-Star Bernie John anchors the defense along with Ryan Aikia, with outstanding veteran Mario Doyon added to the mix. RW Joe Guenther brings a big shot to the roster, while LW Jared Dumba enjoyed a 32-goal season last year. The Ice reaped immediate benefits from their affiliations with Chicago (NHL) and Norfolk (AHL), receiving netminder Jeff Sanger, the all-time record holder at Colorado College with 76 wins and 16 shutouts. Veteran John is the only returning member of the 2000 CHL Championship Indianapolis club.

MEMPHIS RIVERKINGS
Coach: Jim Wiley
(0-0-0 w/MEM, 0-0-0 in CHL)
02-03: 39-21-4
The two-time defending champion RiverKings will have a new bench boss during their attempt at a third straight title. Ex NHL player and coach Jim Wiley returns the majority of key components from last year, including two-time CHL MVP Don Parsons, who led the circuit with 57 goals and 106 points. Rock solid D Derek Landmesser is also back, as is experienced forward Jay Neal. Playoff MVP Kahlil Thomas made the most of his training camp in St. John's (AHL), and may not return to Memphis. AHL assignees Mike Minard and J.F. Racine will likely share time in goal. Big expectations continue for the RiverKings, but can they smoothly adapt to the pressure and a new coach?

CHL 2002-2003 Season Preview – Southeast Division

AUSTIN ICE BATS
Coach: Jeff Greenlaw
(0-0-0 w/AUS, 0-0-0 in CHL)
02-03: 46-14-4
The Ice Bats begin defense of their 2002-2003 Governors' Cup (regular season) championship under the direction of former Player / Assistant Coach Jeff Greenlaw. Center Kelly Smart does it all for Austin, while veterans Brett Seguin and Gerald Tallaire lead offensively. All-Star Darryl McArthur enjoyed a breakout season last year. Former WPHL Defenseman of the Year Daniel Tetrault returns to Austin, while Shaun Legault and Kris Waltze are big physical players who compete night in and night out. The big challenge will be replacing 02-03 Goaltender of the Year Matt Barnes, with Peter Brady and David Haun expected to compete for the top spot.

CORPUS CHRISTI RAYZ
Coach: Al Sims
(31-30-3 w/CRP, 31-30-3 in CHL)
02-03: 31-30-3
Tough and skilled veteran LW Ken Richardson is the inspirational leader of the Rayz, and sets the tone for the rest of the club. Speedy RW Jaroslav Jabrocky is a gritty and skilled forechecker, while newcomer Jonathan St. Louis is a feisty forward who will contribute offensively. Mike Tilson is an outstanding two-way defenseman and boasts one of the hardest shots in the CHL. RW Brad Wingfield set a UHL penalty minute record last year with 576, and returns to Corpus Christi after a three-year absence. Center Dan Shermerhorn will be a big offensive addition, while a revamped defensive unit should help outstanding goaltender Brent Belecki post even better numbers this season.

LAREDO BUCKS
Coach: Terry Ruskowski
(41-17-6 w/LAR, 41-17-6 in CHL)
02-03: 41-17-6
The Bucks enjoyed a remarkable first season of play last year, posting the best home record in the CHL and the best goals for average in the circuit. All-Star MVP Chris Grenville enjoyed a 40-goal, 90-point season, and his 16 power play goals was tops in the CHL. The Bucks appear to be more defense oriented this season, despite the loss of 02-03 CHL Outstanding Defenseman Michel Periard, recalled by San Antonio (AHL). Power forward Brent Cullaton will bring offensive firepower to the club, as will Jeff Bes. Marco Emond, who led the UHL with 33 wins last season, is expected to be the top goaltender. The Bucks welcomed an average of 6,683 fans last year.

RIO GRANDE VALLEY KILLER BEES
Coach: Tracy Egeland
(0-0-0 w/RGV, 18-22-3 in CHL)
02-03: DNP
The expansion Killer Bees take to the ice using a gritty offensive approach that matches coach Tracy Egeland. A crew of feisty forwards will lead the Bees, headed by Matic Kralj (who impressed in camp with the NHL's Minnesota Wild), experienced Andrew Taylor, and solid two-way player Jeremy Vanin. Swift winger Bill Newson will stretch the ice, while Jason Tessier and Sean Gillam are experienced and talented defensemen. F Ryan Shmyr plays the role of enforcer well. A certain strength will be goaltender Jeff Levy, who should keep the club competitive every night. The Killer Bees will christen the Dodge Arena on Friday, October 31st, hosting division rival Corpus Christi.

CHL 2002-2003 Season Preview – Southwest Division

AMARILLO GORILLAS
Coach: Joe Ferras
(52-62-8 w/AMA, 52-62-8 in CHL)
02-03: 39-23-2
The Gorillas made the post-season for the first time last year, and hope to take another major step forward under Joe Ferras. Tough and skilled veteran defenseman Mark DeSantis is rock solid on the blueline, while sniper Henry Kuster scored 36 goals last year and returns. Forward Derek Hahn, the 02-03 CHL Rookie of the Year is poised for an even better sophomore year, while newcomer Sam Hill will provide depth and a hard shot. The Gorillas are set in goal with Shawn Degagne, who attended the Dallas Stars training camp this summer. The Gorillas move to the Southern Conference is expected to increase solid rivalries with Lubbock, Odessa and San Angelo.

LUBBOCK COTTON KINGS
Coach: Kirk Tomlinson
(0-0-0 w/LUB, 0-0-0 in CHL)
02-03: 29-28-7
The Cotton Kings will match the high tempo, aggressive nature of new coach Kirk Tomlinson. Craig Binns and Derek Holland will anchor the defense, while Dave MacIntyre and Paul Fioroni bring both grit and firepower. Former ECHL sniper Joe Blaznek will provide a significant offensive punch, and will combine with Jan Melichercick to lead the attack. Four goaltenders are in Lubbock's training camp, with no clear favorite to emerge as the primary starter. After Lubbock missed the playoffs the last two seasons, Tomlinson hopes his approach and system will get the Cotton Kings back into the playoff mix this year. Only seven returnees from last year's club expected.

ODESSA JACKALOPES
Coach: Don McKee
(138-65-27 w/ODE, 138-65-27 in CHL)
02-03: 35-22-7
The Jackalopes have built a strong tradition of outstanding defensive play and excellent goaltending under Coach Don McKee. You can't argue with their success, as the ‘Jacks have won three consecutive division titles. With outstanding goaltender Mike Gorman no longer in Odessa, the Jackalopes are expected to play more offensively this year. Balanced scoring should come from RW Scott Green, LW John Bossio, LW Matt Price, RW Danny Williams and F Sebastien Thinel. Scott Hillman is an exceptional defenseman, while Jami Yoder is an outstanding shot blocker. Jeff Blair looks to be the answer in net, and McKee hopes to get big contributions from several rookies.

SAN ANGELO SAINTS
Coach: Ray Edwards
(0-0-0 w/SNG, 0-0-0 in CHL)
02-03: 20-37-7
Wholesale changes and several impressive signees have the Saints as a team likely to surprise in the coming year. Coach Ray Edwards has brought a fresh attitude to San Angelo. Veteran defenseman Derek Booth and up and coming forward Ryan Finnerty are quality additions. RW Steve Roberts had 27 goals last year for the Saints, while All-Star F Chris Peach led the club with 67 points. The Saints should get excellent goaltending from Brant Nicklin, a former CHL Goaltender of the Year with Oklahoma City. Another ex-Blazer, Trevor Weisgerber, is expected to excel in his second season. Edwards' patient and disciplined approach seems to be a good fit in San Angelo.

Central Hockey League Stories from October 14, 2003

• CHL Northern Conference Preview - OSC Original by Mike Wallin
• CHL 2003-04 Season Preview - CHL
• Bucks Release Three Players - Laredo Bucks
• Gorillas Host Lubbock Tonight in Preseason Finale - Amarillo Gorillas

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.