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Two Rookies Added To Scorpions

June 10, 2008 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
New Mexico Scorpions News Release


[RIO RANCHO, N.M.]-The New Mexico Scorpions continue to build a solid defensive base with the signing of goaltender Sylvain Michaud and defenseman Russell Smith. Both players are rookies and head coach Randy Murphy is excited to see what they bring to the team.

Michaud spent the last two seasons playing for the University of Quebec Trois Rivieres posting a 22-7-1 record. The former 2004 Islanders draft pick recorded a stellar 2.15 goals against average and a .913 save percentage in 26 games at the collegiate level.

During the past season Michaud, 23, was third among all goalies in Canadian Interuniversity Sport with a 2.12 goals against average and fourth in shutouts with two. The young goaltender is eager to come to New Mexico this fall.

"He is excited about his opportunity to come play with us this fall," said Murphy. "He will be given every opportunity to excel with the Scorpions. He is in a good position to learn from a CHL All-Star goaltender in Andrew Martin and I expected both of them to push each other throughout the coming season."

Russell Smith in action at Elmira College. Smith, 24, comes to New Mexico after spending four seasons with Elmira College, the same college Murphy graduated from. In 91 games, the physical defenseman scored 59 points (14G, 45A) and amassed 84 penalty minutes.

During Smith's senior season the 6'4", 220-pounder set career highs offensively with six goals, 25 assists and 31 points. Following his senior season the Annapolis, Maryland native appeared in seven regular season games and five playoff games with the Elmira Jackals of the ECHL.

"We are looking forward to the physical presence he will provide on the defensive end of the ice and the offensive prowess he showed during his senior season at Elmira," said Murphy. "Last season he had a taste of professional hockey and we look forward to the next step of his professional career."

The Scorpions staff will head to Phoenix this Thursday for the annual CHL Summer Conference. The conference brings together team owners, staff, coaches, vendors and clients to have meetings about various topics for the 2008-09 CHL regular season. A full agenda of sessions and events are planned that will highlight featured presenters covering a variety of topics. All sessions will assist in educating, training and preparing all teams and their staff for the upcoming season. Also as a part of the summer conference, the Rapid City Rush (2008-09 CHL expansion team) will take part in an expansion draft.

"Come for the fun...Stay for the hockey" up to 32 times this season. Put a smile on your face by coming to see your professional hockey team. Season tickets start as low as $7 per game.

Corporate partnerships and ticket prices are now more affordable than ever after the Scorpions reduced prices across the board. Call the Scorpions' office at (505) 881-PUCK (7825) or visit www.scorpionshockey.com to find out more information about your professional hockey team. The Scorpions have been named the 2008 Rio Rancho Rotary Business of the Year.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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