Steelheads ink two rookies
August 2, 2006 - ECHL (ECHL)
Idaho Steelheads News Release
BOISE, Idaho - The Idaho Steelheads, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Dallas Stars and the AHL's Iowa Stars, announced today the signing of forwards Mark O'Leary and Nathan Ward for the 2006-07 season. Both players signed a one-year ECHL contract.
O'Leary, a 5'10", 195-pounder spent his last three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Mississauga Ice Dogs (2003-04) and the Guelph Storm (2004-06). The left-winger played in 62 games for the Ice Dogs, scoring one goal and six assists (1g-6a). With Guelph, the Owen Sound, ONT native saw time in 120 games, racking up 17 goals and 27 assists (17g-27a).
Idaho Steelheads head coach and director of hockey operations Derek Laxdal said, "Mark O'Leary personifies what our team is built on: character and leadership. Mark comes highly recommended from the OHL and will be a player who gets better every day. He has great speed that will pester defensemen in the Western conference."
Ward, of Edmonton, AB, spent his collegiate career at Lake Superior State University. Over the course of four seasons with the Lakers, the 6'0", 200-pound lefty saw the ice in 147 games. In that time he scored 28 goals and 36 assists (28g-36a). In his junior season at LSSU, Ward was voted co-Most Valuable Player by his teammates.
Before Ward began his college hockey days, he spent two seasons with the Weyburn Red Wings of the SJHL. In 2001-02 he had 31 goals and 48 assists (31g-48a) en route to receiving the Graham Christie Memorial Award. Also, in 2000-01 he led the Red Wings to the Royal Bank Cup.
"Nathan, who was recommended by Mike Gabinet (former Idaho Steelheads defenseman), will be a two-way centerman," Laxdal said. "He will bring leadership and skill to our team."
Steelheads' ticket packages for the 2006-07 season are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased by calling 208.383.0080. A variety of packages are available, including Full Season Tickets, Flex Plans, Suite Rentals, Group Outings, and a NEW Perfect-10 Season Mini Plan to celebrate the team's 10 Year Anniversary season. Call for your customized Good Times package!
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