Killer Bees Add Toughness with Balan and Fontaine

Published on September 14, 2011 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees News Release


The Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees of the Central Hockey League (CHL) and proud affiliates of the Florida Panthers and San Antonio Rampage announced the signing of Scotty Balan (6'3, 215) and Charles Fontaine (6'2, 220) today. Both Balan and Fontaine bring significant toughness to the Killer Bees starting lineup.

Balan, a fourth-round draft pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2000, has been playing professionally since the 2002-03 season when he suited up for the Roanoke Express of the ECHL and Norfolk Admirals of the AHL. Since that time Balan has played for the Florence Pride (ECHL), Greenville Grrrowl (ECHL) and Bakersfield Condors (ECHL) in addition to playing last season with the Tilburg Trappers in the Netherlands.

During his Balan's four-year stint in Bakersfield he racked up 423 penalty minutes in 218 games. Balan ranks seventh in points among defensemen is fourth all-time in defensemen penalty minutes in Bakersfield history.

Fontaine joins the Bees for the 2011-12 season last suiting up for two seasons with Trois Riviéres Caron & Guay of the Ligue Nord-Américaine de Hockey (LNAH). During his two seasons in the LNAH Fontaine picked up 212 penalty minutes in 98 games.

"We needed to add the grit and toughness to our teams that both these players bring to the table. Scotty is a real tough guy with a long career and really will bring some veteran leadership to the team. It will be interesting to watch Charles and how he plays after a few years away from the game," said Killer Bees General Manager and Head Coach Terry Ruskowski. "Both these guys are also very good moving the puck and can play the game. They are responsible in their own zone and will be important members of our defense."

The Killer Bees roster is now at 15 announced signings for the 2011-12 season. The Bees season opens October 21st at the State Farm Arena when the Bees play host to the Missouri Mavericks. The Bees also have an exhibition game October 13th at 7:00 p.m. at the State Farm Arena.

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Central Hockey League Stories from September 14, 2011


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