Sports stats

Gems bring back Naurato for 2011-2012 season

July 13, 2011 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Dayton Gems News Release


DAYTON - When the Dayton Gems acquired Brandon Naurato in December of last season, he didn't waste any time impressing the organization.

The 6-foot forward recorded a goal in each of his first seven games in a Gems uniform and safely scored in 10 of his first 11 games for Dayton.

At season's end, Naurato recorded 16 goals and 18 assists in 34 regular season games for the Gems last season. He also recorded two goals for Dayton during the playoffs.

Only Naurato and Damian Surma scored multiple goals for the Gems during the postseason.

"Brandon has a big shot and is capable of putting up a lot of goals this year," said Head Coach and General Manager Brian Gratz. "He is a smart hockey player and is dedicated to bringing a championship to Dayton. I look for him to improve upon what he did last year."

Naurato came to the Gems after being placed on waivers by Fort Wayne. After coming to Dayton, Naurato proved to be troublesome for his former team.

In his first four games against the Komets, Naurato scored five points - four of which came from goals. Naurato ended the season by scoring eight points against his former team.

"I'm excited to be back with the Gems and look forward to doing a lot more in the community, especially with the youth hockey organizations," said Naurato.

Throughout his three-year professional career, Naurato has spent time with five different teams.

In 2008-2009, the Michigan native made his debut with the ECHL's Stockton Thunder. Despite playing in just two regular season games Naurato came up big for the Thunder as he recorded a goal and an assist. In 10 playoff games that season Naurato was able to score three points off two goals and an assist.

Naurato started the 2009-2010 season with the Toledo Walleye, but moved to the IHL and became a member of the Port Huron Icehawks after playing just five games for the Walleye.

The 61 games he played for Port Huron that season are a career high for Naurato. He also went on to record season highs in goals (25) and points (46).

To celebrate his re-signing, the Dayton Gems will be auctioning off a game-worn autographed Naurato jersey. Bids can be placed by going to daytongems.com and clicking on the "Naurato Jersey Auction" icon on the left side of the homepage.

The Kettering Medical Center is proud to be the official title sponsor of the Dayton Gems.



Central Hockey League Stories from July 13, 2011


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.

Other Recent Dayton Gems Stories



Sports Statistics from the Stats Crew
OurSports Central