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River Otters Add Brad Church and Brian Heckendorn

July 27, 2005 - International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Missouri River Otters News Release


The Missouri River Otters of the United Hockey League agreed to terms with forward Brad Church, who will serve as the club's player/assistant coach. The 6-1, 210-lb forward led the Florida Everglades to the ECHL finals last season. The team also agreed to terms with forward Brian Heckendorn, who played last season with the River Otters.

"We're thrilled to add Brad Church to the team," said, River Otters Head Coach Kevin Kaminski, who played alongside Church in 1997-98 on the Portland Pirates (AHL). "He's a big forward who has terrific scoring ability and grit. With his experience we expect him to provide leadership both on and off the ice."

Church, 28, was the Washington Capitals first round pick (17th overall) in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft and played two games for the Capitals in 1997-98. Last season, he led the Florida Everblades to the ECHL finals, scoring 12 points in 19 playoff games. During the 2004-05 regular season he recorded 54 points in 62 games for the Everblades. The Dauphin, Manitoba native has played 318 games in the AHL, scoring 48 goals and collecting 76 assists for 114 points.

As a professional, Church has played in 66 playoff games, scoring 14 goals and adding 19 assists for 33 points. Aside from a deft scoring touch, Church also adds grit and toughness, amassing 863 penalty minutes in 550 professional games.

Heckendorn, 25, scored two goals and added five assists in 74 games with the River Otters last season. He was one of only two River Otters who finished with a plus rating (+3) during the 2005 UHL Colonial Cup Playoffs. In 2003-04 Heckendorn played 14 games for the Muskegon Fury (UHL), and 43 games for the Winston Salem T-Birds. He played his three seasons at Salem State College.

"Brian is a great competitor who does what it takes to help the team win," River Otters Head Coach Kevin Kaminski said. "He's a versatile player who played forward and defense for our club last season. We're excited to bring Brian back to Missouri and look forward to his continued development."

To order 2005-06 Missouri River Otters season or group tickets, please call the River Otters front office at (636) 896-4200, or visit the River Otters online at www.riverotters.com.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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