Jackals Ink First Rookie For Season Seven
Published on July 18, 2006 under International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Elmira Jackals News Release
Elmira, NY - The Elmira Jackals announced today the signing of rookie defenseman Derek Miller to a contract for the 2006-2007 season. Miller becomes the 9th player signed by the Jackals for the upcoming campaign.
Derek Miller almost came to the First Arena last year. A four-year defenseman for the University of Wisconsin-Superior, Miller helped his team into the NCAA Tournament for Division III. But the Yellow Jackets lost their Quarterfinal match up with St. Norbert's, despite a power play goal from Miller, failing to earn a ticket to the 2006 Frozen Four in Elmira. Now the 5'11", 195 lbs rookie will have the opportunity to skate on the First Arena ice regularly starting in October. The Neepawa, Manitoba native had an excellent senior season in 2005-06; in 31 games he scored 21 points (7 goals, 14 assists), he was a +22 and he had 55 PIMs.
"Derek had a very impressive NCAA career at Wisconsin-Superior," said Elmira Jackals/First Arena General Manager Robbie S. Nichols. "Each year his numbers improved, showing his constant focus on getting better. He is an excellent skater and he moves the puck well, all reasons why he is a strong offensive-style defenseman. We are looking for him to be a top performing player and hopefully a UHL rookie All-Star."
The 25-year old got a chance to extend his season beyond the NCAA playoffs last year; he appeared in one playoff game for the CHL's Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs and now Jackals teammate Chris Shaw. Miller will be looking to make his regular season professional hockey debut with the Jackals, while also hoping to record his first pro point. His 4-year totals at Wisconsin-Superior are 109 games played, 59 points (16 goals, 43 assists) and 175 penalty minutes.
"We're expecting Derek to be able to come in and contribute right away," said Jackals Head Coach Kris Waltze. "He had the opportunity to skate in practice with Bossier-Shreveport for almost two months last year during their playoff run, so he's had the chance to learn the level of play and make that quick transition from college to pro hockey."
After completing their 6th season in franchise history in the UHL, the Jackals are gearing up for Season 7. Season tickets for the 2006-2007 UHL season are on sale now at the First Arena Box Office. For more information call 607-734-PUCK (7825).
FIRST ARENA REC RINK
The ice is HOT at First Arena - Visit our website for a complete list of Public
Skating times and Arena Programs at www.firstarena.com The First Arena Rec Rink offers public skating, skating lessons, hockey programs,
figure skating, birthday parties, and much more....
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.
International Hockey League 2 Stories from July 18, 2006
