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ECHL Idaho Steelheads

Steelheads load up with Colgate grads

August 8, 2006 - ECHL (ECHL)
Idaho Steelheads News Release


BOISE, Idaho -The Idaho Steelheads announced today the signings of two players who will look to make a name for themselves - but they will have to share that name - something they are used to. Ryan and Jon Smyth (no relation), are former teammates and 2006 graduates of Colgate University. They have each signed one-year ECHL contracts. The Smyths will be reunited with goaltender Steve Silverthorn, a 2005 Colgate graduate, who was also signed today to a two-way (AHL-ECHL) contract with Iowa and Idaho. The Steelheads are the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Dallas Stars and the AHL's Iowa Stars.

Ryan, a 6'2", 210-pound, Clarence Creek, ONT native is a three-year letter winner at Colgate University and set the Colgate record for career games played with 154. Over his collegiate career, the right-winger racked up 55 points, scoring 11 goals and 44 assists (11g-44a).

"Ryan is a fast skating, typical power forward who will provide energy and spark with Lance Galbraith," head coach and director of hockey operations Derek Laxdal said. "He is another young player that will strengthen the team."

The 21 year-old played his junior hockey for the CJHL's Hawkesbury Jr. A's. During his time spent with the A's, Smyth was named to the CJHL All-Star team.

Jon, 24, who also skated at Colgate, finished his 141-game career with 51 goals, 61 assists and 112 points (51g-61a). The left-winger was one of eighteen student-athletes in the country to be nominated for the Hockey Humanitarian Award last year.

Laxdal said of Jon, "He's had four solid years at Colgate and we expect to see a lot of offense and scoring from him in his first pro season."

Before college, the 6'0", 203-pound Markham, ONT native played for the Ottawa Jr. Senators of the CJHL. Jon was an assistant captain and finished his final season (2001-02) with 17 goals and 28 assists.

After four successful seasons at Colgate University, Silverthorn appeared in 40 games for the Steelheads in 2005-06. The Owen Sound, ONT native posted a record of 22-14-3 in his first professional season, while registering a 2.90 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage. Born on February 7th, 1981, the 6-2, 180-pound goaltender served in the back-up capacity for Iowa several times last season.

"Both Iowa and Idaho thought Steve played great last season and we're happy to get him back for this season," said Laxdal. "We expect he'll be our number one goaltender this year."

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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