Cottonmouths Sign Two More

Published on October 6, 2004 under SPHL (SPHL)
Columbus Cottonmouths News Release


COLUMBUS, Ga. – The Columbus Cottonmouths of the SPHL today announced the signing of left wing Ryan Rutz and defenseman Colby Will. With these two players, the Snakes now have fourteen players signed with a little over three weeks before the first drop of the puck in Columbus's inaugural SPHL season.

Rutz, 25, begins his first pro season in Columbus after a collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin-Superior, where he was part of the NCAA Division III National Championship team there in 2001-02. He also played two seasons in the Alberta Junior Hockey League with Camrose, picking up a whopping 150 points (55G, 95A) over two seasons from 1998-2000. The 6', 205-pounder was named team MVP both seasons in Camrose for his efforts.

"Like Green, Rutz came highly recommended to me by Brad Prefontaine," said Cottonmouths head coach and general manager Jerome Bechard. "I'm looking for him to add to our offensive presence on the ice as he has throughout his career in juniors."

Will, who celebrated his 21st birthday on October 5, comes to the Cottonmouths after two seasons in Winnipeg in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. At 6'5", 210 pounds, Will is the tallest signee to date on the Snakes' roster. He scored 25 points (5G, 20A) over two seasons in Winnipeg, playing in the same league as teammates Brent Toews and Chad Wrixon.

"I'm looking for good things out of Will on the blue line. His size should also be a big plus for our defensive corps," said Bechard.

The Snakes open the inaugural SPHL season at home on Friday, October 29 at 7:30 PM against the Knoxville Ice Bears. The weekend heats up on Saturday, October 30 as one of the fiercest rivalries in minor league hockey history is rekindled when the Macon Trax visit the Snake Pit. Season tickets are also available by contacting the Cottonmouths office at 706.571.0086.

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