Hartinger Gets Chance To Play In Italy

Published on June 11, 2008 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
New Mexico Scorpions News Release


[RIO RANCHO, N.M.]-New Mexico Scorpions Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Randy Murphy was informed today defenseman Vladimir Hartinger has signed with the Sterzing Vipiteno Broncos of the Serie A League in Italy. He is the second Scorpions players this summer to have a chance to play at a higher level.

"The development of players is a credit to the organization and Coach Murphy," said Scorpions President/General Manager Gary Gelinas. "Whether it is moving players to the NHL, AHL or Europe, that is what the CHL is all about."

Last season Hartinger became the organization's all time defensive scoring leader with 147 points. He currently sits seventh overall in points scored by a New Mexico player. His 254 games played in a Scorpions sweater is second most all-time.

"We knew this could be a possibility for Vladi and had been working hard to try and keep him with our organization," said Gelinas. "This is a great opportunity both financially and professionally for him and his family. This all happened fast and we didn't want to announce anything until we knew for sure this was a reality."

Hartinger, 28, comes off a career year in which he set high marks in points (63), goals (20), assists (43), penalty minutes (116) and a +18 plus/minus rating. The Scorps captain led all Central Hockey League defenseman in points and assists and was second in goals. The Czech Republic native was also selected to the CHL All-Star team.

"Of course losing someone like Vladi is tough but he is getting an opportunity to play at a higher level," said Murphy. "The Scorpions goal as an organization is to provide players with an opportunity to play at higher levels."

The Scorpions staff will head to Phoenix this Thursday for the annual CHL Summer Conference. The conference brings together team owners, staff, coaches, vendors and clients to have meetings about various topics for the 2008-09 CHL regular season. A full agenda of sessions and events are planned that will highlight featured presenters covering a variety of topics. All sessions will assist in educating, training and preparing all teams and their staff for the upcoming season. Also as a part of the summer conference, the Rapid City Rush (2008-09 CHL expansion team) will take part in an expansion draft.

"Come for the fun...Stay for the hockey" up to 32 times this season. Put a smile on your face by coming to see your professional hockey team. Season tickets start as low as $7 per game.

Corporate partnerships and ticket prices are now more affordable than ever after the Scorpions reduced prices across the board. Call the Scorpions' office at (505) 881-PUCK (7825) or visit www.scorpionshockey.com to find out more information about your professional hockey team. The Scorpions have been named the 2008 Rio Rancho Rotary Business of the Year.

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Central Hockey League Stories from June 11, 2008


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