Ice Bats gain a little youth and offense
September 6, 2007 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Austin Ice Bats News Release
(Austin, TX) - The Austin Ice Bats, of the Central Hockey League, announce today they've signed Jaime Thompson and Blair Grennier for the upcoming 2007-2008 season. Jaime Thompson is veteran with over 10 years of experience in professional hockey, including four years at the AHL level. Thompson's only other stint in the Central Hockey League came with the San Angelo Saints in 2002-2003, where he appeared in six games.
"Jaime will be one of our most experienced players, and he's a pure goal scorer. We're looking to him to be one of our top scorers this season. He has AHL experience and leadership which he'll bring to our club, so we're very excited to have him," said Ice Bats head coach Brent Hughes. Thompson has spent the last three years playing for a few teams in the UHL. His best season as a pro came in 1997-1998, when he scored 71 goals in 58 games for El Paso Buzzards of the WPHL and won the league MVP award.
"I'm really honored to be apart of such a great hockey tradition in Texas. When I was in El Paso, one of the hardest teams to play against was Austin. It's a classy organization with one of the best coaches around. I'm looking forward to making a run at the President's cup and Austin might be the best city in Texas," said Thompson.
Blair Grennier has spent the last five years playing in Canada for York University while studying Marketing. 2006-2007 was his best season at York scoring 25 Points (10 Goals, 15 Assists) in 28 games. Grennier has also spent time playing Junior Hockey in Canada. "(Blair) is a gritty, hard-working forward. I'm looking forward to seeing him," said Coach Hughes, "Everyone I've talked to about him has given good reports on what he can do."
The Ice Bats are getting ready to begin their 12th season in Austin. The 2007-2008 campaign begins October 19th against the Texas Brahmas at 7:30 PM. For single game, group, and season ticket packages call (512) 927-PUCK (7825) for more information.
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Central Hockey League Stories from September 6, 2007
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- All-Star Centerman Signed by Rage - Rocky Mountain Rage
- RiverKings sign three netminders - Mississippi RiverKings
- Sundogs and Coyotes Pair Up for Joint Player Appearance - Arizona Sundogs
- Blazers add toughness to forward line - Oklahoma City Blazers
- Ice Bats gain a little youth and offense - Austin Ice Bats
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