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SPHL Knoxville Ice Bears

Knoxville Ice Bears players recognized by the SPHL

March 26, 2008 - SPHL (SPHL)
Knoxville Ice Bears News Release


March 26, 2008 - Four Knoxville Ice Bears players were recognized by the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) for their exemplary play this season. Forward Kevin Swider and defenseman Kevin Harris were both named to the All-SPHL First Team, while goalie Kirk Irving was named to the All-SPHL Second Team, and Matt Pierce was included on the Rookie Team.

The Ice Bears are pleased to have such a highly-decorated player as Kevin Swider, who was voted the SPHL MVP for the 2007-2008 season. In 48 games, Swider scored 38 goals and had 60 assists, resulting in him being the league's leading scorer for the fourth consecutive season. In his first year as a Knoxville Ice Bear, Kevin Harris has played 50 games, scored 10 goals and had 25 assists. The Altona, Manitoba native lead the SPHL in the over/under category this season with a +32. Rookie goalie Kirk Irving made 828 saves in 32 games, and rookie forward Matt Pierce scored 22 goals and had 14 assists in 49 games.

"It is an honor to coach players that are so talented and have their accomplishments recognized. We work hard all season to be successful as a team, but it helps to have players that are so dedicated to game and to the team. We are all proud of these accomplishments," said head coach Scott Hillman.

The Knoxville Ice Bears won the William B. Coffey Trophy on Saturday night with a 4 - 2 win over the Huntsville Havoc in front of a capacity crowd of 4, 653. With this win, the Ice Bears clinched first place and home ice advantage throughout the playoffs. Post season play begins on Friday, March 28 and Saturday, March 29, as the Knoxville Ice Bears take on the Columbus Cottonmouths. Tickets for both playoff games are currently on sale. If you still have flex tickets from the 2007-'08 regular season, those tickets are valid for playoff games as well. Flex tickets can only be redeemed at the Coliseum box office prior to the start of the game and up to a week prior to the desired game. Coliseum box office is open from 10 am - 5 pm Monday through Friday. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. at the U.S Cellular® home ice at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum on Friday and Saturday. Visit www.knoxvilleicebears.com for more information.

Thank you for supporting the Ice Bears and growing hockey in East Tennessee!

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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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