Rangers coming out on top

March 8, 2007 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Marquette Rangers News Release


After a grueling first half of their inaugural season, the Marquette Rangers, the newest team of the North American Hockey League, may have found their way. Going into Christmas break with an 11-19-2 record, the Rangers knew something had to change. After several roster and organizational changes, the Rangers were determined to get back on track and that's what they've been doing since.

Gaining confidence during the Dec. 22 game that earned the Rangers bragging rights, they were able to successfully rally and put an end to Mahoning Valley's 19 game unbeaten streak. Coming back from Christmas break was a large transition for many players and fans, as interim Head Coach Randy Enders (formerly Rangers' Assistant Coach) took the bench and vowed to attempt changing the Rangers' method of play, efforts and record. Since Enders took lead of the Rangers, the team has gone 10-10-2, improving their overall record to 21-29-4. Even though the Rangers have a long way to go, they have shown to be a strong competitor and playoff threat.

Hopefully the wins didn't start too late in the season, as the Rangers are now vying for a playoff position and chance at the Robertson Cup Championship. "The points are even more important now as playoff positioning unfolds. Our guys are prepared to come out and play hard, especially knowing what's at stake," said Enders.

Nick Kosinski and Brodie Zuk leading the Rangers' scoring, combined with the newest addition to the Rangers - goaltender Beau Christian, they (Rangers) are building themselves a solid team with a strong defensive line, special teams and shooting. Out of the top 100 scoring leaders in the NAHL, six of them are Rangers.

The ice isn't the only place the Rangers have been making waves though. Many Marquette and surrounding community members have had a chance to meet and work with the Rangers. The organization prides itself on volunteering and community efforts and have demonstrated that by: collecting 640 lbs. of food for the TV6 Can-A-Thon, collecting hats, mittens and scarves for the Women's Shelter, volunteering monthly and for special events at the Jacobetti Home for Veterans, volunteering at the YMCA weekly, collecting toys and gifts for the children of deployed Upper Peninsula soldiers and working for the U.P. 200 Sled Dog Races. Most recently, the Rangers' organization collected over three thousand dollars for the local Pigs-N-Heat (police and firefighters) relief fund.

The Rangers launch an 8 game home series on Thursday, March 15 at 7 p.m. that will wrap up the regular season April 1. Events and activities are being planned such as Saint Patrick's Day celebrations March 17, parents and billet families being honored the weekend of the 23rd and an array of events for the whole family continuing thru the final game April 1. Watch for details on the Rangers in the community and more upcoming game events on www.marquetterangers.com.

Information is also available on the Web about try-outs beginning in May for the 07-08 season. The only pre-draft try-out camp will be held May 11-13 at the Berry Events Center on the campus of Northern Michigan University. A player questionnaire, USA hockey forms and registration fee must be mailed or faxed to the Rangers' office. Registering early will benefit eager players. Last year the Rangers unfortunately had to turn players away because of the camps reaching maximum capacity. It is planned there will be four teams, each with 21 players; three goalies, 12 forwards and six defensemen, a total of 84 camp attendees. Registrations received before April 1 will also be at a reduced camp fee.

Tickets are available for upcoming games by visiting the Rangers Lakeview Arena office, Marquette branches of River Valley State Bank, Johnson's Pro Shop in Lakeview Arena, Johnson's Sport Shop on Third Street, or by calling the Rangers at (906) 225-9077. Team information can be viewed at www.marquetterangers.com.



North American Hockey League Stories from March 8, 2007


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