Rush signs NHL draft pick to help solidify defense
September 26, 2008 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Rapid City Rush News Release
The Rapid City Rush today announced the signing of defenseman Luke Fritshaw for the 2008-2009 season. By signing with the Rush, Fritshaw will be making his Central Hockey League (CHL) debut this season after spending last year in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).
"We're looking at Luke with all of his pro and major junior experience to be an impact player and huge leader in the locker room," said Head Coach Joe Ferras. "To go along with his great size, Luke moves his feet very well and possesses a very heavy shot. He will be relied upon heavily in all situations."
Fritshaw, a 6'4" 210-pound native of Tisdale, Saskatchewan, is a 2002 draft pick of the NHL's Anaheim Ducks, selected in the 6th round, #173 overall.
"Talking to coach Ferras, we just connected. I couldn't be happier with the situation, I like the setup and I like coming into a city that's excited about hockey," said Fritshaw. "I know Joe will put together a good team and that made it an easy decision. Also, it's close to home, my parents are huge fans and I know they'll be down for several games this winter."
Fritshaw joins the Rush after skating last season with the Elmira Jackals of the ECHL where he tallied 10 points to go along with 72 penalty minutes in 33 games played. For the 2006-2007 season, Fritshaw dressed for the Rockford IceHogs of the United Hockey League (UHL) and made an appearance for the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League (AHL).
While with the IceHogs, Fritshaw showed he could contribute to the offensive end as he collected 6 goals and 24 assists for 30 points, all the while staying physical, accumulating 180 penalty minutes.
Fritshaw played his first stint with the ECHL during the 2005-2006 season when he dressed for the Long Beach Ice Dogs. Prior to that, Fritshaw skated in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Prince Albert Raiders for over 4 seasons. During that span, Fritshaw accumulated 14 goals and 75 assists for 89 points and 496 penalty minutes.
"Luke has worn a letter on his jersey in both the junior and professional levels," added coach Ferras. "He's a guy that we expect to provide an example for the younger players with his willingness to pay the price and his willingness to sacrifice himself for the team on a nightly basis. I look to Luke to lead by example and show the younger players what it takes to be successful."
"It seems like a very nice community and a great size for a team," said Fritshaw. "The city seems very excited and ready for us. Hopefully we can win some games for them and continue that going into the playoffs."
The Rush Roster now includes 10 forwards, 6 defenseman and 2 goaltenders.
Other Rush News:
Dates for the Rapid City Rush training camp have been set. October 6th through 8th, the Rush will have skates at the Roosevelt Arena in Rapid City from 8am-9:15am (Group 1), 9:30am-10:45am (Group 2) and 2pm-3:15pm (Group1 & 2 scrimmage). On Thursday, October 9th Groups 1 and 2 will be on the ice from 9am-10:30am. October 13th and 14th, the Rush will hit the ice once again at the Roosevelt Arena in Rapid City from 8am-9:15am (Group 1), 9:30am-10:45am (Group 2).
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Central Hockey League Stories from September 26, 2008
- Rage's Scott Reid Gets a Shot at the AHL - Rocky Mountain Rage
- Gorillas player to participate in Race for the Cure - Amarillo Gorillas
- Rush sends four players to AHL camps - Rapid City Rush
- Rush signs NHL draft pick to help solidify defense - Rapid City Rush
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