River Otters Acquire Pointman Rapoza in Exchange For a Pick

September 23, 2003 - United Hockey League (UHL)
Missouri River Otters News Release


Defenseman Bob Rapoza comes from the Adirondack Icehawks in exchange for a first round draft pick

Rapoza brings skill and stability to the River Otters blueline

ST. CHARLES, MO (September 23, 2003) – Head coach/director of hockey operations Lonnie Loach of the Missouri River Otters of the United Hockey League (UHL) announced the acquisition of veteran defenseman Bob Rapoza from the Adirondack Icehawks (UHL). In exchange for Rapoza, the River Otters gave up their first round draft pick in the 2004 North American Amateur Draft. The River Otters then signed Rapoza for the 2003-04 season. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Upon arrival to the UHL before the 2000-01 season, Rapoza thrived with the now-defunct Asheville Smoke, going to the Colonial Cup Finals with the team in 2001. Playing alongside his friend, and new River Otter, Jeff Petruic, Rapoza achieved a career-high 60 points (12g, 48a) in the 2001-02 Asheville effort. Last season, he put together a combined 35 points with the Wichita Thunder and El Paso Buzzards of the Central Hockey League, before returning to the UHL in an Adirondack Icehawk's sweater.

Rapoza began his professional career eight seasons ago in the Southern Hockey League (SHL) with the Daytona Beach Breakers, managing just one assist and eight penalty minutes in five games during the 1995-96 season. Jumping to the West Coast Hockey League (WCHL) in 1997, he spent the next two seasons putting up impressive numbers with the Tucson Gila Monsters (14g, 14a) and the Phoenix Mustangs (14g, 20a). Rapoza grabbed 37 points (15g, 22a) and 70 penalty minutes with the Macon Whoopee of the CHL in 1999.

Rapoza is dependable defenseman with great offensive potential. His 6'2", 225-pound frame is more than able to patrol the River Otters' blueline. This unique combination of skill and size makes a fine addition to the current roster. "I am thrilled to get a defenseman like Bob," Coach Loach said. "He adds experience and skill to our blueline. He was one of the league's best in Asheville, and I believe with a stable environment, he will be that type of player for us as well."

The River Otters training camp opens on the 12th of October, and they will play an exhibition game versus the Indianapolis Ice of the CHL at the CenturyTel Ice Arena on October 13th. It is also the team's Season Ticket Holder Party. The River Otters players and staff will be available for a meet-and-greet with the fans. Food and beverages will be provided for season ticket holders. The game is open to season ticket holders and the general public to watch for $5 per ticket. There will be a post-game skate following the action. Skates may be rented at the arena.

The River Otters' players under contract include defensemen Bob Rapoza, Jeff Cameron, Doug Searle, Ryan Gillis, and Tony White, along with forwards J.P. Beilsten, Joe Ritson, Charlie Blyth, Jeff Petruic, Kori Davison, Troy Mann, and rookie Jesse Heerema. The River Otters have also signed two goaltenders - Brian Regan and Tim Knudsen. Rookie defenseman Chad Moore has been invited to the River Otters 2003 training camp.

The Missouri River Otters open their new season on October 24th. Former River Otters coach Mark Reeds, and his Kalamazoo Wings, comes to town to take on his former captain and new River Otters head coach Lonnie Loach. It's also St. Louis Pizza and Wings Magnet Schedule Night. Don't forget that all full season ticket holders have been entered in the River Otters' Gulliver's Travels Vacation Sweepstakes. The drawing to win a seven-day all-inclusive trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, will be held on opening night, October 24th. Season ticket packages and corporate partnership opportunities are available by calling the River Otters at 636.896.4200.

Rapoza, Bob Position: Defense Shoots: Left Birth date: 9/29/74 Height: 6'2" Weight: 225 Birthplace: Fall River, MA

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