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ECHL Reading Royals

Royals Sign Pair of Ex-Providence Friars

August 26, 2003 - ECHL (ECHL)
Reading Royals News Release


Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, affiliates of the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, have reached agreements for the 2003-04 season with forward Nick Lent and defenseman Jay Leach. Lent and Leach were teammates from 1997-2000 at Providence College. Both players were drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes in the NHL Entry Draft.

Lent, a 6'5" 225-pound power forward, signs with Reading after spending last season in Richmond. His previous tours of duty in professional hockey included Columbus (ECHL) and New Haven and B.C. (UHL). The 26-year-old enjoyed his most productive professional season last year tallying 24 goals and 42 points in just 54 games. In addition, the Massachusetts native spent three games in the American Hockey League with the Portland Pirates. Royals coach Derek Clancey says Lent's leadership and experience should benefit the Royals this season.

"I expect Nick Lent to be a player that pushes everyone to be better," said Clancey. "He is a guy that still has the hunger to reach the AHL and I feel he is a versatile player that can play in all types of situations."

Defenseman Jay Leach is entering his third professional season in 2003-04. Leach began his career in the ECHL in 2001 with the Mississippi Sea Wolves. Last year, he also enjoyed his most productive season with the Augusta Lynx firing in eight goals and 19 points along with 162 penalty minutes. Leach ranked second on the team in games played (65) and fourth in penalty minutes (162). The Rhode Island native should play a major role on the blue line this season.

"Jay is a solid, intense and very mobile defenseman that really finishes his checks and plays his position," commented Royals coach Clancey, who is entering his fifth professional season. "I really expect him to play an integral role on special teams based on his past experience."

The Reading Royals face off their third season on Friday, October 17 in Trenton against the Titans. The Royals home opener is slated for Saturday, October 18 versus the expansion Texas Wildcatters. Season, half season and group tickets are on sale now by calling the Reading Royals Hockey Headquarters at 35 North 6th Street in downtown Reading 610-898-7825 (PUCK) or toll free 866-789-7627 (ROAR).

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