IceHogs Add More Offense, Toughness with Margettie
August 15, 2003 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Rockford IceHogs News Release
Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs, proud members of the United Hockey League announced that they have signed veteran winger Don Margettie for the 2003-04 season. Per club policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Hogs General Manager Ryan Washatka and Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operation Mark Bernard made the announcement on Thursday.
Margettie comes to Rockford after spending the previous three seasons with the Odessa Jackalopes (CHL). Last season the hard hitting forward accumulated 229 penalty minutes and racked up 10 goals and 18 assists for the Southwest Division Champions.
"I'm very excited with the addition of Donnie," said Bernard. "He possesses very good leadership skills as well as being very physical. Donnie also can contribute in the offensive department as well. He's a winger that plays hard every night and I think he'll be a fan favorite here in Rockford. "I know our fans will appreciate the effort Don puts forth in the Community as well. Don loves working with the youth hockey programs and really enjoys teaching youngsters the game of hockey."
The Niagara Falls, Ontario native has collected four Fan Favorite Awards during his seven-year career including the last three seasons with Odessa. Margettie has spent his whole career playing in either the Central Hockey League or the Western Professional Hockey League. The two leagues merged after the 2000-01 season.
The 5'-11" right winger led all rookies in scoring during the 1996-97 season while splitting time with the Nashville Nighthawks (CHL) and San Antonio Iguanas (CHL). Margettie accumulated 73 points and was also a Rookie of the Year Finalists.
"I'm excited to be closer to home and to be playing in a new league," said Margettie. "I've been in Odessa for a long time and I felt like it was time for a change. I'm very excited to be a part of the IceHogs organization."
Margettie not only brings toughness to the IceHogs, but championship experience. The forward was a part of Odessa's 2001-02 Governors Cup Championship team. Margettie also has been a leader off the ice during his seven-year professional career.
"I will do my best to help to this team accomplish all their goals and hopefully put a winning team on the ice," said Margettie. "I'm looking forward to getting involved with the community up in Rockford and help teach kids about the game the game of hockey."
With Margettie inked, the IceHogs have nine players under contract for the Hogs fifth campaign. Forwards Steve Cygan, Kelly Miller, Reggie Savage, and Maris Ziedins, defenseman John Glavota and Kenzie Homer along with goalies Will Hamele and Ron Vogel are also signed for the 2003-04 season.
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