ECHL Bakersfield Condors

Condors Bring Back Ralph, Add Rookie

Published on June 19, 2002 under ECHL (ECHL)
Bakersfield Condors News Release


Bakersfield, CA -- The Bakersfield Condors of the West Coast Hockey League have added two more players to the roster for the 2002-03 campaign. Jason Ralph, who was the team's top rookie last season, returns for another year and rookie Jason Jackman was also signed.

Ralph, 23, joined the Condors after training camp last year, and tallied six goals and 25 points in 67 games. He had a strong second half, recording 6g-13a-19pts after New Years. His physical play and attention to defense made him one of the only ‘plus' players for the team in the playoffs. Prior to turning pro, Ralph played four seasons of collegiate hockey at Union College.

"I'm excited," said Ralph. "The team really grew together at the end of the season, and having both coaches back is a huge positive, so I'm looking forward to having a good season. In talking to other guys who play pro hockey in other towns, I realize how lucky I am to have a chance to play in Bakersfield."

Jackman, 25, is entering his first season in the professional ranks, and was recruited by Head Coach Paul Kelly on his recent trip to Guelph for the Memorial Cup Tournament. He spent the last three seasons with the University of Guelph, after completing four junior seasons with the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League. He appeared in two Memorial Cup Tournaments with the Storm, including the 1997-98 season, when the Storm lost in the championship game.

Jackman is the most recent in a long line of Condors who have previously skated at the University of Guelph. Current Condor Paul Rosebush, as well as Ryan Foster, David Milek, Jason Reesor, Briane Thompson, J.P. Davis, Matt Mullin, and Bill Monkman all played for the Gryphons.

"‘Ralphie' was a pleasant surprise for us last season," said Head Coach Paul Kelly. "He was new to the pro game, showed continuous progress all season long, and played very well down the stretch and into the playoffs. We're looking forward to good things from him this season." Kelly also commented regarding Jackman, "We're happy to get him done early in the summer. I've heard nothing but great things about him from everyone I've spoken to. He's played major junior and college, he's good on draws and can score some goals as well."

Condors season tickets for the 2002-03 season are now available, with packages starting as low as $42. For information regarding season ticket packages and corporate sponsorships, contact the Condors office at 324-PUCK (7825), or visit the Condors office at Centennial Garden.

Condor Droppings. . . Career stats for Ralph and Jackman to follow... Four players are currently under contract for 2002-03, including Jackman, Ralph, Paul Rosebush and Paul Willett... For the first time ever, Centennial Garden will have ice in the summertime. The Condors are taking advantage of the opportunity by hosting the Condors Power Skating Camp on July 1st and 2nd. For more information, contact the Condors office at 324-PUCK (7825)... The June website auction features the Tee Time Package. The winner receives a round of golf for two, alongside a pair of Condors, and includes greens fees, a cart, lunch and a golf shirt. Log on to www.bakersfieldcondors.com to bid. All proceeds go to benefit the American Red Cross – Kern County Chapter.

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ECHL Stories from June 19, 2002


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