Rangers Make Multiple Roster Changes

October 31, 2006 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Marquette Rangers News Release


In the competitive arena of Junior hockey, the Marquette Rangers have made some roster moves that help the team continue its climb to the top of the North American Hockey League's (NAHL) North Division.

Head Coach Leigh Mendelson and Assistant Coach Randy Enders continue to build the Rangers' team to compete for the Robertson Cup Championship. Recently the team released Forward Chad Johnson and Defenseman Andy Keogh, making room for Defensemen Nikki Holt (Hermantown, MN) and John McAfee (Colorado Springs, CO). Holt joins the Rangers from Bozeman (MT) Junior B, while McAfee was released by the Alaska Avalanche of the NAHL.

"We feel we've complemented our current roster with the addition of Holt and McAfee," said Mendelson. "Holt is a 6', 180 lb. 20 year old that gives us a little more experience at the blue line. He played for John LaFontaine in Bozeman and has been an immediate contributor to our team. McAfee was released by Alaska and we feel he has a good upside. Our fans will certainly notice his size (6' 5", 220 lbs.,) but as an 18 year-old he will learn a lot from some of our veteran defensemen."

In addition, the Rangers recently traded Defensemen Todd Graham to the Fairbanks (Alaska) Ice Dogs for Forward Artie Peckscamp. Peckscamp saw limited action in 5 games with Fairbanks, registering 1 assist and 4 penalty minutes. "Artie is an 18 year-old who played Minnesota high school hockey last season. He is a young forward who will have a chance to learn and play under some very good forwards on our team," said Mendelson.

The Rangers are tied for second place in the NAHL North Division and travel to Fargo (N.D.) this weekend for a two game series with the NAHL Central Division leading Jets. Following another weekend series in Youngstown, Ohio against North Division foe Mahoning Valley Phantoms next week, Rangers return home to Lakeview Arena for a two game set with current North Division leader Alpena IceDiggers on November 17 and 18. "We're becoming a very good team and look forward to returning home to play Alpena for the top spot in the North Division standings," said David Saint-Onge, President and General Manager. "Based on the games against Alpena so far this season, the upcoming series should be physical and great old-time hockey."

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



North American Hockey League Stories from October 31, 2006


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