Mudbugs Sign Vodrazka, Gustafson

Published on August 10, 2006 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs News Release


BOSSIER CITY, LA -- The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs of the Central Hockey League today made two additions to their roster for their tenth anniversary season. The team re-signed forward Milan Vodrazka (vuh-DRAWS-kuh) and also added defenseman Chris Gustafson to the 2006-2007 squad.

Vodrazka, 26, will enter his second season in North America after appearing in 53 games for the Mudbugs last year. The Banska Bystrica, Slovakia native scored 10 goals and 7 assists in his first professional year, where he saw a limited role but made the most of his opportunities.

"Unfortunately, Milan got caught in a numbers game at times last year, but I was happy with every single shift he gave us," said Head Coach Scott Muscutt. "This season, we're looking forward to giving him a greater role and a lot more opportunities to show off his abilities."

Gustafson, a fifth-year pro, joins the Mudbugs after spending the last three seasons playing in Germany. Prior to going overseas, the 27-year-old blueliner spent the 2002-03 campaign with Greenville and Augusta of the ECHL. He spent four years at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell (1998-2002), where he was a team captain and appeared in 142 total games for the River Hawks. The 5-10, 185-pound Gustafson hails from Elrose, Saskatchewan.

"From speaking with Chris and hearing about his style of play, he reminds me of (former Mudbugs defenseman) Travis Bell," said Muscutt. "Chris is a solid defenseman with some great skill and experience. We're very pleased to welcome him to Bossier-Shreveport and look forward to having his leadership and work ethic on our team."

Vodrazka and Gustafson bring the Mudbugs' player total to five for the upcoming season as they join forward Dan Wildfong, defenseman Konrad Brand, and goaltender Ken Carroll.

The Mudbugs are currently preparing for their 10th anniversary season, which will feature the 2007 Central Hockey League All-Star Game at the CenturyTel Center on January 17, 2007. Season ticket packages and corporate partnerships are currently available by calling 318-752-BUGS or by visiting www.mudbugshockey.com.



Central Hockey League Stories from August 10, 2006


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.

OurSports Central