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Gems Goaltender Jeff Jakaitis Moving up to the AHL

February 16, 2011 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Dayton Gems News Release


DAYTON, OH - Dayton Gems goaltender Jeff Jakaitis will be switching leagues and joining the Worcester Sharks in the AHL.

The Sharks are based in Worcester, MA, and are part of the NHL's San Jose Sharks organization.

Jakaitis was notified of the move on Monday. Head coach Brian Gratz notified the entire team of the move during Tuesday morning's practice at Hara Arena. After sharing the news with the players, the entire team gave Jakaitis a round of applause and pats on the back at center ice.

"We're really excited about this and wish him the best of luck," said Gratz. "He's one of the best goalies in the league and this is well deserved."

This season, Jakaitis has played a pivotal role for the Gems. In 37 games this season, Jakaitis has logged 2,224 minutes in front of the net and recorded 1,243 saves. His .929 save percentage is among the highest in the CHL.

In December, Jakaitis was named the CHL's Goalie of the Week and was also Dayton's representative in the CHL All-Star game.

Jakaitis has already departed for the east coast and is expected to play in one of the Sharks' three games this weekend.

With Jakaitis moving to the AHL, the Dayton Gems have called up Jon Olthuis from the Augusta RiverHawks.

Olthius played with the Gems earlier this season. In one game with the Gems, Olthuis played 64 minutes and recorded 45 saves.

The Kettering Medical Center is proud to be the official title sponsor of the Gems for the 2010-11 season.

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