Lupul Officially Announces Retirement

February 24, 2010 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs News Release


BOSSIER CITY, LA - The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the Central Hockey League officially announced the retirement of defenseman Dale Lupul today, following a farewell ceremony held prior to last night's 4-2 victory over the Texas Brahmas at the CenturyTel Center.

Lupul's career has been regrettably cut short by repeated injuries, forcing him to hang up his skates after appearing in only 11 games this season. #44 departs the Mudbugs ranking in the top five defensemen in franchise history in goals, assists and points. He played a total of 186 regular season games and 33 playoff games for the club between 2005 and 2009.

"I'd like to say thanks to all the fans and everyone who has supported us over the years," Lupul said. "I want to thank my family for all their support. Of course 'Musky'; I love him like a Dad. My little brother 'Smitty' and all the guys I've played with over the years. Also Tommy & Leslie Scott, John Madden, and the booster club as well. Thanks for all the memories."

Lupul first joined the Mudbugs during the 2005 playoffs as an amateur from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. During his rookie year, he was named to the 2006 CHL All-Star Game and CHL All-Rookie Team. He was also selected as a finalist for the league's Most Outstanding Rookie award as the 'Bugs advanced to the President's Cup Finals.

After playing in the former UHL and garnering another All-Star selection in 2006-07, Lupul returned to the Mudbugs for the 2007-08 season. Paired with Quade Lightbody on the blueline, Lupul led all CHL defensemen with a +35 rating and helped the 'Bugs smash nearly every defensive record in league history on their way to the Governors' Cup Regular Season Championship.

Lupul then established himself as one of the top defensemen in the CHL last year, setting new career highs with 38 assists and 51 points - the second-highest total ever by a Mudbugs defenseman. The campaign earned him a spot on the 2009 All-CHL team and a nomination for the league's Most Outstanding Defenseman award.

"The thing I've always loved most about 'Loops' is his sheer passion for this game," said Head Coach Scott Muscutt. "I'll always remember the pain in his face when Laredo scored that cup winning goal (in 2006), and the smiles and absolute joy every time he scored a goal. The only thing I'm more proud of than what he's done as a player is the way he's matured as a phenomenal man and member of this community."

The Port Coquitlam, British Columbia native appeared in a total of 262 pro games over five seasons, finishing with career totals of 48 goals, 113 assists, 161 points and 412 penalty minutes.

Lupul and his wife, Jerra, will now return home to Canada, where Dale will continue taking courses to become a firefighter in his post-hockey career. The couple is expecting their first child in early April.

"Being around the boys every day is what I'll miss the most," Lupul said. "Jerra and I are excited about the baby and being at home with our families, but I'm definitely going to miss it down here. I've considered this place home for five years now. It will be hard to say goodbye to all our friends here."

Season and group tickets are on sale by calling 318-752-BUGS (2847) or by visiting our website at www.mudbugshockey.com.



Central Hockey League Stories from February 24, 2010


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