Rush Defenseman Andrew Smale Named Oakley CHL Player of the Week
March 12, 2012 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release
(Rapid City, SD) - The Rapid City Rush, in conjunction with the Central Hockey League (CHL), announced on Monday that Rush defenseman Andrew Smale has earned Oakley CHL Player of the Week honors for the term ending March 11, 2012. Smale, who becomes just the third defenseman this season to win the weekly award, will receive a special gift from Oakley for his achievement.
Smale, 29, had three goals and two assists, including the game winning goal in both of the Rush's victories, as well as a plus-4 rating. More impressive for the 6-5, 218-pound defenseman was that all five of his points came in the third periods of Rapid City's three games.
"It's obviously an honor to even be considered for Player of the Week, especially in the middle of our playoff run," said Smale. "This is award is a reflection of the great guys we have on this team. If you look at our team, we haven't given up many goals lately due to solid defense and superb goaltending. It's exciting to be a part of this playoff run, and I hope to keep on contributing to the team's push."
Heading into the season Smale had five seasons and 25 goals under his belt, but had not earned a game-winner until this season. In all, the Bowmanville, Ontario native has four game-winners this season off of just 6 goals. In Rapid City's 3-1 win last Tuesday, Smale scored his 4th and 5th goals of the season, marking his first multi-goal game since January 27, 2010 while with the Amarillo Gorillas.
"We're very happy for Andrew," said Rush Head Coach Joe Ferras. "He has been a big part of our team, especially with all of the injuries and his ability to play both forward and defense. As a coaching staff, we know exactly what Andrew brings on a nightly basis with his work ethic and leaving it all on the ice. It's good to see him get rewarded on the scoresheet and now being recognized by the CHL."
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