Rapid City's Shawn Smith Voted Equipment Manager Of The Year
Published on March 16, 2009 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release
(Rapid City, SD) - Shawn Smith has over a decade of experience as an equipment manager, including five years in the CHL. The Fort Erie, Ontario native began his career as an equipment assistant with the SudburyWolves of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Smith made his way to the CHL in 2002 with the Amarillo Gorillas where he linked with former Gorilla, and current Rush Head Coach, Joe Ferras. Smith spent four seasons with Amarillo before he followed Ferras to Rapid City and the expansion Rush.
The award is voted on by fellow equipment managers of the CHL, and this is the first such honor for Smith.
"It is an honor to be recognized by your colleagues for all of the hard work throughout the season," said Smith. "Having the chance to start an expansion franchise has been a great experience. It feels great to be a part of such a first-class organization." Smith had the unique task of starting from scratch for the inaugural season of the Rush. Smith not only coordinated the equipment, clothing and conditioning for all of the players throughout the season, but also assisted in the design and development of dressing rooms and other hockey operations rooms.
"Shawn has been with me for 3 years now and has done a tremendous job and was the only choice I had when I had the honor of being coach of the Rush," said Ferras. "It is fantastic to see "Stixy" being recognized as the top equipment manager in the CHL, an award that he is certainly deserving of. As a coach and a former player, I know the hours and the incredible amount of work that "Stixy" has given to our program."
Smith attended Canadore College, Brock University and Cambrian College with diplomas in Physical Education & Health Studies as well as Physical Fitness Leadership Management. His volunteer work includes time with the Barrie Colts, Barrie Lakeshores and Mississauga Tomahawks as a conditioning coach/trainer.
Shawn currently resides in Rapid City with his wife Tara-Gilliland-Smith, and son Brandon.
Other Rush News:
For more information on Rapid City Rush Hockey, log onto www.RapidCityRush.com or contact the Rush office at 605.716.PUCK (7825).
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