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Prince George Cougars

Cougars Captain Sam Ruopp Selected 129th Overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets

June 27, 2015 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Prince George Cougars News Release


Prince George, B.C. - The Prince George Cougars are proud to announce that captain Sam Ruopp (Zehner, SK) has been selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fifth round (129th overall) in the 2015 NHL Draft. Ruopp becomes the third Cougar selected in the 2015 draft and the second Cougar ever to be selected by the Blue Jackets.

"Sam Ruopp is one of the most physically imposing defenceman in the entire WHL, and the Columbus Blue Jackets will be thrilled with his leadership and his passion for the game," said Prince George Cougars General Manager, Todd Harkins. "He's a heart-and-soul guy for our organization and being selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets will only help his confidence and development moving forward."

"It has been a true pleasure getting a chance to coach Sam Ruopp over the past two seasons," adds Prince George Cougars Head Coach, Mark Holick. "He's the heart-and-soul of our team, and he is incredibly deserving of being drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets. We're all excited to see what the future holds for Sam and all of our prospects selected this weekend."

The 1996-born Ruopp was selected by the Prince George Cougars in the fourth round (76th overall) in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft and was in his second season of NHL draft eligibility. He was named the 23rd captain in Prince George Cougars franchise history in November, 2014. In 64 games this season, Ruopp registered 23 points (three goals, 20 assists) along with 140 penalty minutes (including 10 fighting majors). He added a goal and two assists in five playoff games and was named the Prince George Cougars Top Defensive Player for the 2014-15 season. During his rookie season he led all Cougars blueliners with five goals, 11 assists and 55 penalty minutes.

His older brother Harrison was selected in the third round by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2011 NHL Draft and spent the 2014-15 season splitting time in the AHL and ECHL.

The Prince George Cougars are happy to congratulate Sam Ruopp on being selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2015 NHL Draft.

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