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Saints sign David Silverstone

July 29, 2004 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
San Angelo Saints News Release


San Angelo, TX-The San Angelo Saints added more power to the team both on and off the ice with the signing of forward David Silverstone to the 2004-05 roster.

Saints Head Coach Ray Edwards spends the off-season recruiting players that can make precise passes, have quick feet and can bring a physical presence to the ice. Few people however know the other side of Edwards' recruiting philosophy. When recruiting, not only does Edwards focus on finding skilled players, but he also looks for players with good character. Silverstone promises to show just that in his debut season with the Saints.

The 5'11" 195-pound Silverstone is a native of Toronto, Ontario. He grew up in a tough neighborhood and used hockey as his way out. He witnessed things that most of us only see in movies and knew that he wanted more out of life. In 2000, he earned his first major junior league spot and did just about anything the coach asked of him.

The Belleville Bulls were not looking for scorers, but Silverstone was determined to keep his roster spot. In his first two years with the Bulls, he fought 56 times, racking up 394 penalty minutes. He was known as the team enforcer, but still notched 16 goals and 20 assists during his tenure in Belleville. He made his presence known, but it may be possible that his efforts off the ice made an even bigger impact.

Silverstone earned the Ontario Hockey League's Humanitarian Award for his volunteer efforts during his final season in Belleville. The league wide award is presented to the player that best demonstrates outstanding qualities as a positive role model in the community. Silverstone participated in eight organizations including local hospitals, schools and after-school programs.

"I enjoyed doing it, I didn't even know about the award," says Silverstone. "To see those kids smile made it all worth it. I knew they were happy."

In 2002, he got his first role in professional hockey with the Roanoke Express of the ECHL. In two seasons with Express, Silverstone notched only 4 goals and 18 assists, but served 355 minutes in the penalty box. He was the team's enforcer, a role he does not mind filling, but is looking to get into another role for the Saints

"I was a tap on the shoulder guy," says Silverstone. "I really want to be a more all-around player and start helping the scoreboard instead of the score clock (with penalty minutes). I don't mind fighting, no one intimidates me, but I am looking forward to putting the puck in the net." Coach Edwards knows that Silverstone is more than a fighter.

"It is important to not get caught up his offensive stats from the East Coast," says Edwards. "We had guys come in from the East Coast with the same kind of numbers that dominated last year. I know he has it in him and I am confident he will prove it."

Edwards is not only confident in his performance in San Angelo, but feels Silverstone has what it takes to go even further. Before he reports to the Saints training camp October 11, Silverstone will head to Milwaukee for the Admirals' training camp. He is grateful to Edwards for the chance to tryout at a higher level.

"It is all I've ever wanted to do," says Silverstone. "Trying out for the American League is such a great opportunity. I'm spending a lot of time in the gym working my tail off to make sure I'm ready."

Fans can expect to see an all-around player on the ice when the puck drops October 22. Silverstone has a strong physical presence, but can get the puck in the net. He is ready to get down to business and play the sport he loves.

"I love this game! I could do this for the rest of my life."



Central Hockey League Stories from July 29, 2004


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