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Three River Otters Named to All Star Team

January 6, 2004 - United Hockey League (UHL)
Missouri River Otters News Release


The Missouri River Otters of the United Hockey League are thrilled to announce that three of their players have been named to the Western Conference All-Star Team. Forwards Charlie Blyth and Jesse Heerema, along with defenseman Ryan Gillis will be representing Missouri in the Comcast All-Star Classic, which faces off at 7:30 EST January 18th in Fort Wayne.

"It's great to see all of them make the team," said Missouri head coach Lonnie Loach. "They are three guys who have worked extremely hard and have set a wonderful example for our team all year long."

Blyth, 27, is having a banner season, and is on the way to eclipsing all of his previous scoring highs. He has scored 16 goals and added 12 assists in 31 games played this season. He has also been extremely potent on the man advantage, as his nine power play tallies put him third in the league. Blyth is currently one point shy of tying Colin Chaulk for seventh on the Missouri all-time scoring list.

"It's a tremendous honor, and I'm very excited and looking forward to the experience," Blyth said.

Gillis, 27, has been one of the best defensemen in the UHL this season. He has registered four goals and 15 assists, and his 19 points puts him sixth in the league among blue-liners. Gillis has played four seasons in the American Hockey League, and this is his first season in the UHL.

"It's a great honor to be on the all-star team," he said. "It's especially meaningful because the coaches vote, and while they're your enemies during the season, it's nice to know they respect you as a player."

Heerema, 26, was one of two Western Conference rookies named to the all-star team. He has been a consistent contributor for the Otters all year, with eleven goals and eleven assists in 32 games. He is currently third among UHL rookies in goals and fourth in points.

"Honestly I'm a bit surprised," said Heerema, "but it's certainly a pleasant surprise. I'll look forward to representing the team in Fort Wayne."

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