CHL Rapid City Rush

Rush Signs Matt and Mike Ruberto

Published on September 23, 2008 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release


The Rapid City Rush today announced the addition of twins Matt and Mike Ruberto. The two help strengthen the Rush lineup both in the offensive end and on the blueline.

The brothers join the Rush after playing four years of NCAA college hockey for the Manhattanville Valiants of the Eastern College Athletic Conference - West (ECAC West) as well as Canisius of the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA). Prior to entering the college ranks, the brother played one season for the Cleveland Barons of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) and before that, two seasons for the Oakville Blades of the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League (OPJHL).

"Both Matt and Mike are good-sized kids that have been working hard all summer to get ready to make the jump from college hockey to the pros," said Head Coach Joe Ferras. "Although they enjoyed success during their college days at Manhattanville and Canisius respectively, I feel the twins are the type of players that will turn out to be better pros. The way they compete, the pro game is much more suited to their style."

The twins hail from Stoney Creek, Ontario and bring a physical presence to the Rush as both are 6'0" 200-pounds. The pair brings size as well as skill to two different areas for the Rush, as Matt will help bolster the defense, while Mike will add an offensive punch.

"We played college not knowing what to do. Rapid City seemed to be a perfect fit. It's a great setup for everyone," said Mike. "I hear that we're going to draw well considering how fast season tickets have been going. Coming from college, we didn't have the numbers at our games, so I look forward to playing on front of large crowds at a brand new arena."

Mike proved his ability to be an offensive threat during his time in Oakville of the OPJHL. In 92 games, Mike posted 72 goals and 97 assists for a total of 169 points over two seasons. He continued the trend in Cleveland, scoring 39 goals and 33 assists for 72 points to go along with 66 penalty minutes in 56 games. Mike also posted solid numbers in college, where in 91 games, he had 41 goals and 51 assists for 92 points.

"Mike is a forward that has put up numbers and has been a finisher at every level he has played," added coach Ferras. "He's not afraid to go into the tough areas, and this bodes well for him as he enters the professional ranks."

Matt showed he could also put up numbers while playing defense for the Oakville Blades. In his two seasons there, he posted 10 goals and 54 assists for 64 points in 92 games-played. During his 2003-2004 season with the Cleveland Barons in the NAHL, Matt showed his physical side as he accumulated 174 penalty minutes and 31 points in 54 games. During his college career, Matt tallied 37 points and 116 penalty minutes in 86 games-played.

"It's exciting to be involved and I think this is great for the city. Teams seem to thrive in small cities and from what I've heard, everything is going smoothly," said Matt.

"Matt plays with an edge, is able to make the first pass and sees the ice very well," stated coach Ferras. "With the increase in speed and physicality at the pro level, this will enable Matt to make the adjustment to the pro game that much quicker."

Both sides are equally excited about upcoming season and their professional debut.

"Being an expansion team, it's fun to be a part of a new organization," said Matt. "I'm excited to play my first year of professional hockey. It's always been a dream of mine to play pro hockey and this is a great stepping stone for me."

"I look forward to both Matt and Mike coming into Rapid City to battle for the final roster," said coach Ferras.

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Central Hockey League Stories from September 23, 2008


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