Hustling back into town

Published on July 26, 2006 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Corpus Christi IceRays News Release


The Corpus Christi Rayz have re-signed fan favorite, Tim Vitek for the 2006-2007 season, Rayz General Manager/Senior Vice President Larry Linde announced Wednesday afternoon. Vitek made his professional debut with the Rayz last season. His gritty play and strong work ethic won over fans immediately in the Coastal Bend. Vitek becomes the fourth player signed for the upcoming Rayz season, and third returnee from last year.

As a rookie last season, the 22-year old Vitek was one of only three players to appear in every Rayz game. The 5'10", 181 lbs. center had four goals and 13 points in his inaugural campaign. Vitek came to Rayz training camp last year and made an immediate impact thanks to his great two-way play, strength on the puck and determination. He was exceptional as a penalty killer - tying for second among rookies with two shorthanded goals, and drew many penalties with his play in the offensive zone.

"Tim is a good, young, solid player," said Rayz Head Coach Ken McRae. "He is tremendous on the penalty kill, possesses great speed and is incredibly strong on the puck. Last year those qualities earned him a lot of scoring chances as a rookie. We want him to turn those opportunities into more points this season. He's got the potential to score 15-20 goals in this league and that's what we hope to see from him - to break out and put more pucks in the net."

Before turning pro with Corpus Christi, Vitek played collegiate hockey for the University of Massachusetts. In four seasons at UMass, the Dresden, Ontario native totaled 19 goals and 18 assists for 37 points and 58 penalty minutes in 136 games. Vitek battled through injuries for the early part of his collegiate career, but finished strong missing only one game over his final two seasons.

The Corpus Christi Rayz are currently in preparation for the 2006-2007 season. The Rayz return to the American Bank Center is only 87 days away. Corpus Christi has scheduled their home opener on October 21st. Season ticket packages and corporate sponsorship opportunities are currently available. For more information please call the Rayz at (361) 814-PUCK or log on to www.ccrayz.com.



Central Hockey League Stories from July 26, 2006


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