Rush Bring Back A Trio Of Players
August 24, 2009 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release
(Rapid City, SD) - The Rapid City Rush announced today that forwards Blaine Jarvis, Ryan Hand and defenseman Eric Nelson have re-signed with Rapid City for the 2009-10 season. The trio brings the total number of returning players to 10.
"We're looking for a great second year from Blaine," said Assistant Coach Mark DeSantis. "He was great for us down the stretch and got ice time that a lot of first year guys don't get. He was key on the penalty kill blocking shots for us and we're looking for the same from him this year. Ryan came in and did his job and quickly became a fan favorite. We're looking for the same enthusiasm this year. In Eric, we're getting back a steady puck moving defenseman, probably one of the best pure skaters in the league. We're also looking for a huge year from him. He got off to a slow start with the injury setback, but with his experience, he can be one of the anchors on our defensive corps."
Jarvis was picked up by the Rush in late November and the Gladstone, Manitoba native quickly proved to be a steady addition at center. In total, the 6'1" 205-pound Jarvis suited up 51 times for the Rush where he recorded 6 goals, 23 points, and 51 penalty minutes. Prior to turning pro, Jarvis played four years in Division-1 Bemidji State University where he was named to the CHA All-Academic Team in 2005-06.
"I am thrilled to have the chance to come back and play in Rapid City," said Jarvis. "My experience last year playing for the Rush was unbelievable and I wouldn't want to play anywhere else. We have a great group of guys coming back and have made some key off season acquisitions. With the best fans in the CHL backing us, I am excited for us to get back on the ice and make a run at a championship."
"With the second half that Blaine had, we're expecting big things from him this year," said Head Coach Joe Ferras. "He proved not only that he can play at this level, but he can be an impact player and a guy that commits himself to the team night in and night out. His compete level is fantastic and he is willing to sacrifice his body and do whatever it takes to win."
Nelson returns to Rapid City after an injury-shortened 2008-09 campaign. The smooth skating defenseman was able to play in only 38 games and added 6 helpers to go along with 32 penalty minutes. A native of Big Lake, Minnesota, Nelson brings a wealth of experience to the Rush blueline.
"It's great to be coming back to Rapid City," said Nelson. "It's a first-class organization and a first-class area. With the core players that are returning and with the effort Joe is putting into molding a team, I'm sure it will be nothing less than championship caliber. As an organization and a team we want nothing less than to bring a championship to Rapid City."
"We're counting on Eric to bring that veteran leadership into locker room and on the ice," said Ferras. Having missed several games due to injury, this is a big year for Eric. We need him to bring a high level competitiveness to the game every night and be counted on as an anchor on the back end."
Ryan Hand was acquired via trade on February 8th from the Laredo Bucks and his physical style of play made him an instant fan favorite. Hand, who hails from Ottawa, Ontario, made an impact on the 16 games he played for Rapid City. He tallied only one assist, but had seven fighting majors that contributed to his 67 penalty minutes. The winger made his professional debut last season with the Bucks where he played in a total of 22 games.
"After receiving such a warm welcoming to Rapid City, and finishing off the year the way we did, it's hard not to count down the days until the puck hits the ice," said Hand. "I'm extremely pumped to go back not only because of the outstanding fan support but also the foundation for a great team that was built here last year. With the new additions we will be a force this year in the Central League. I've been working very hard this summer to improve the areas that coach Ferras told me I needed to work on, and this season you will see a new and improved Ryan Hand."
"Ryan will bring a lot of energy and added toughness to this hockey team," stated Ferras. He is a high energy player that can be very effective on the forecheck and getting in on the defense. He plays fearless every night and creates openings out on the ice for his teammates."
Other Rush News:
The Rapid City Rush will be co-hosting a Rapid City Rush Foundation Community Picnic Saturday, August 29th from 12 pm to 3 pm at Memorial Park. The picnic is open to the public and will offer food and refreshments, various activities and a live and silent auction. A $5 donation is encouraged.
The Rapid City Rush have introduced Taco Bell's Rush Miners Club. Membership costs $20, $15 for current season ticket holders. Miners benefit from FREE Miners Club T-shirt, membership card with Rush lanyard, private autograph party with Rush and Nugget, locker room tour and Rush bus tour, birthday card from the Rush, $10 discount on Rush Birthday Party Package, and exclusive participation in the Official Rush Chuck-a-Puck Cleanup Crew. For more information on Taco Bell's Miners Club, visit www.rapidcityrush.com
Season tickets for the 2009-10 season are available, call the Rush office at 605.716.PUCK (7825) for more information. A limited number of premium club seats are available.
Stay informed on Rush happenings through the official Rapid City Rush team website, www.RapidCityRush.com.
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