Rapid City Rush Faithful Defend Title of 'Best Fans'
March 15, 2013 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release
(Rapid City, SD) - On Friday, the Central Hockey League released its annual 'Best of the Best' poll, as voted on by CHL players, coaches and operational staff from each CHL team (each club submitted one ballot). The poll consists of 50 categories that cover all aspects of the league including on-ice performance, in-game entertainment as well as top venues, concessions, websites, etc. For the second consecutive year, and third time in four seasons, the Rapid City Rush were recognized as having the 'Best Fans' in the CHL. In all, the Rush made the list in fifteen different categories, ranking #1 on five different occasions.
Over the course of the season, the Rush have averaged nearly 4,700 fans per game, selling-out the 5,119-capacity Rushmore Plaza Civic Center on nine different occasions. The Rush faithful also made the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center the third-ranked 'Toughest Building to Win In' and Rapid City the #3 'Most Attractive Place to Play'.
"I am extremely happy of the recognition that our organization received in the 'Best of the Best' poll," said Rush General Manager Tim Hill. "Without a doubt, I am most proud that our unbelievable community here in the Black Hills earned 'Best Fans', and rightfully so. To win the award three out of four seasons further emphasizes that Rapid City is one of the premier organizations in all of pro sports. This award is much deserved, and on behalf of the owners, players and staff, I want to say thank you and congratulations to our spectacular fan base."
Along with 'Best Fans', the Rush have cemented their #1 spot in a pair of familiar categories. The duo of Equipment Manager Romeo Vivit and Athletic Trainer Bobby Moore gave the Rush another 'Best Training/Equipment Staff', while the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center retained the crown of 'Best Ice'.
The Rush also claimed the top spot in 'Best Booster Club' as the organization was identified for its effort in helping players and their families throughout the demanding season. Also, with numerous highlight-reel goals and displays of skill, Damian Surma earned the distinction of 'Best Shooter in Shootouts'.
Rush goaltender Danny Battochio ranked #2 in 'Best Goaltender', trailing only Allen's Aaron Dell, while also coming in third for 'Best Goaltender in Shootouts'. Veteran defenseman Justin Sawyer came in #2 in 'Best Fighter (Heavyweight)' behind Allen's Kip Brennan.
Wearing the 'C' for the third consecutive season and recently becoming the 14th player in CHL history to amass 600 points, Scott Wray earned the #3 spot in the 'Best Leader' category.
In his fifth season as bench boss, Rush head coach Joe Ferras earned a #3-ranking for 'Best Coach' while also organizing a team that finished #3 in the 'Hardest Working Team' department.
Rapid City's Jay Davis came in at #3 this season, having already claimed the top spot as 'Best PA Announcer' last season.
Finally, the Rush came away with the third spot in the 'Best Website' category.
Each team provided three top choices for each category, with first place votes counting as five points, second place votes counting as three points and third place votes counting as one point.
Other Rush News:
The Rush for the Cup is back! Don't miss a second of the 2013 CHL Playoffs - reserve your playoff package now through the Rush office, Packages start as low as $150. Get yours now by calling the Rush at 716-PUCK or visiting the guest services booth during any Rush home game.
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