CHL Central Hockey League

Laredo's Periard Top Defenseman

Published on March 12, 2003 under Central Hockey League (CHL) News Release


The Central Hockey League has today announced that following completion of balloting among Coaches, Public Relations Directors and selected media members, Laredo Bucks' Michel Periard has been named the CHL's Most Outstanding Defenseman for the 2002-2003 season, in the closest balloting of all the major awards. The award is "presented annually to the Central Hockey League defenseman who has demonstrated the greatest all-round ability in the position."

Periard, a third year professional from Montreal, Quebec, has enjoyed an exceptional season for the expansion Laredo Bucks. Originally drafted in the seventh round by the NHL's Ottawa Senators in 1998, he signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers prior to this season. He ranks sixth among CHL defenseman scoring leaders with 17 goals and 35 assists this season, and a plus/minus rating of +18 in just 48 games. The versatile 23-year-old defenseman has been recalled to San Antonio Rampage for 10 games, and has recorded an impressive 3 goals and 5 assists with Laredo's American Hockey League affiliate. Periard's play has helped Laredo post the most goals in the CHL this season, and his defensive play has assisted the Bucks to a second place finish in the Southern Conference. Michel was named to the Southern Conference staring line-up at the January 23rd CHL All-Star Game.

"Michel has been a great addition to the Central Hockey League this season, and we congratulate him on receiving this honor," said CHL President Brad Treliving, "He has played an important role in what has been a tremendously successful inaugural season for the Laredo Bucks franchise."

Laredo Coach Terry Ruskowski was pleased to see Periard receive recognition for his play. "He is definitely deserving of the award," said Ruskowski. "He has been a consistent performer for our club all season and I am confident that Michel has a great future ahead of him in this game."

Also named as finalists for the Most Outstanding Defenseman award were Hardy Sauter of the Oklahoma City Blazers, Bernie John of the Indianapolis Ice, Derek Landmesser of the Memphis RiverKings and Darryl McArthur of the Austin Ice Bats. On March 13th, the Central Hockey League will name the recipient of the Scott Brower Memorial Trophy, presented to the CHL's Most Outstanding Goaltender. On March 14th the CHL's Most Valuable Player will be announced. The CHL Scoring Champion will be determined this weekend, following the conclusion of the regular season on Sunday, March 16th.

Periard and his Bucks' teammates will hit the ice tonight for their final regular season home game when they play host to the Fort Worth Brahmas at the Laredo Entertainment Center.

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Central Hockey League Stories from March 12, 2003


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