CHL Colorado Eagles

Eagles' Lose Another to Retirement

Published on July 21, 2004 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Colorado Eagles News Release


WINDSOR, CO – The Colorado Eagles of the Central Hockey League announced the retirement of Scott Swanson, Vice President and Head Coach Chris Stewart made the announcement.

As starting defenseman in the Eagles' inaugural campaign, the 6'2", 205-pounder played in 53 games and accounted for 42 points (7G, 35A) and only 18 penalty minutes. Swanson brought strong leadership and experience to the ice every night, and will certainly be missed by the Eagles organization.

The Cottage Grove, Minnesota native departs the game with many highlights. Atop the list is the East Coast Hockey League Championship he won while playing for the South Carolina Stingrays in 2001. Another highlight of Swanson's was making it to the NCAA National Championship game with Colorado College and fellow Eagles teammate Ryan Bach. Although they lost the game in overtime, Swanson recalls that as one of his great memories. His best memory with the Eagles was being starting defenseman for the Eagles in the first game in franchise history.

"What a rush," explained Swanson. "I had never played for a new franchise, and the crowd at the Budweiser Events Center was amazing on opening night. In fact, they were amazing every night. Even talking to the people in the community, there are so many knowledgeable fans in this area, it's very impressive."

The 29 year-old played in 293 professional games in the ECHL, International Hockey League, American Hockey League, West Coast Hockey League, and finally ended his career in the Central Hockey League with the Eagles. He was selected by the Washington Capitals in the ninth round (225 overall) of the 1995 National Hockey League Entry Draft. The defenseman totaled 184 points (30G, 154A) in his five-year career, and played post-season games every on of those seasons. His most impressive offensive season was with the Idaho Steelheads of the WCHL in 2002-03 when he tallied 69 points (9G, 60A) in just 66 games.

"I always admired Scott's ability as a hockey player since his collegiate days at Colorado College," explained Eagles' President and General Manager Ralph Backstrom. "He proved to all of us that he was the great player we anticipated he would be as a professional."

Swanson has already found a new profession working in medical sales for Rocky Mountain Orthopedic in Northern Colorado. When asked if he is enjoying his new job, Swanson replied, "outside of hockey, this is the coolest thing I have ever done. I am using my brain for the first time since college, it's great!"

He will continue to live in Windsor with his wife, Molly.

Head Coach Chris Stewart gave his sentiments, "I appreciate all that Scott did for us in our inaugural season. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

For more information or to conduct an interview please contact Patrick Armstrong, (970) 567-7724.

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Central Hockey League Stories from July 21, 2004


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