Inferno sign Bonk and Aikins

September 12, 2005 - ECHL (ECHL)
Columbia Inferno News Release

COLUMBIA, SC (September 12, 2005) - The Columbia Inferno announce the signing of forwards Dave Bonk and rookie Justin Aikins for the 2005-06 season.

Bonk, 5'10", 170 lbs. Brandon, Manitoba native played his rookie season last year with the Motor City Mechanics of the United Hockey League. He played in 66 games scoring 15 goals, 26 assists and 28 penalty minutes. Prior to turning professional, the 23-year old played four years with Northern Michigan University where he tallied 25 points in 74 games.

"Dave comes to us after his first pro season in the UHL where he had a very good rookie year," said Head Coach Ted Dent. "We expect him to continue his success in the ECHL and be an impact player for Columbia."

Aikins, 6'0, 180 lbs. Surrey, British Columbia native played four years with the University of New Hampshire. He played 153 games, scoring 27 goals, 76 assists totaling 103 points during his collegiate career. He was selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2001 NHL Entry Draft in the 6th round, #173 overall. Aikins will also be attending the training camp for the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League next week.

"Justin had a very good career at the University of New Hampshire," said Dent. "He comes highly recommended and has the ability to play center or right wing. We are looking forward to having Justin in Columbia and being a big part of the team."

The Columbia Inferno opens their fifth season in the ECHL Friday, October 21st against the Greenville Grrrowl at 7:05pm. Season and partial ticket packages are still available. Call the Inferno front office at 803.256.PUCK (7825) for tickets. For a complete schedule of games log onto www.columbiainferno.com.

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ECHL Stories from September 12, 2005

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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