News

Rush Add A Pair of Former Mavericks to the 2011-12 Roster

October 17, 2011, 11:35 pm

(Rapid City, SD) – The Rapid City Rush, in conjunction with the Missouri Mavericks and Central Hockey League (CHL), announced the completion of a trade. The Rush have acquired forward Derek Knowles in exchange for future considerations. In addition, the Rush have also strengthened their blueline by signing veteran defenseman Blake Forsyth to the 2011-12 roster.

Forsyth, 32, enters his 8th professional season, having appeared in over 400 regular season games. Last season, the Winnipeg, Manitoba native appeared in 66 games with the Missouri Mavericks, totaling 17 points (2g, 15a) and 65 penalty minutes.

“Blake obviously brings a ton of experience with him,” said Rush Head Coach Joe Ferras. “Having been on winning teams in the ECHL and most recently Missouri, we know he’s a leader with great character, keeps it simple, and competes hard on nightly basis. He’s the type of player that shows leadership with his work ethic and commitment to the game, and that should resonate throughout the locker room.”

At 6’3”, 191 pounds, Forsyth brings size and experience to an already strong Rush blueline. The veteran split his 2009-10 season between the Mavs and the Odense Bulldogs in Denmark. His 2008-09 campaign was also spent overseas, skating in the EIHL for the Coventry Blaze and in Austria for Szekeshfehervar Alba Volan HC. From 2005-08, Forsyth suited up for the Idaho Steelheads of the ECHL after turning pro with the CHL’s Wichita Thunder in 2004-05.

In all, Forsyth has suited up in 415 games, amassing 23 goals and 98 assists for 121 points to go along with 712 penalty minutes.

Knowles, brings a 6’3”, 205-pound frame and grit to the Rush lineup. The Vanderhoof, British Columbia native is entering his second professional season.

“Obviously, with the depth of skill that we have on this hockey club, we were looking to add toughness to the lineup,” stated Ferras. “We wanted a player like Derek and the opportunity presented itself, so we are fortunate to acquire a solid 2nd year pro. We’re looking for Derek to bring that element of toughness, keep it simple and be hard to play against.”

The forward played in 38 games with the Mavericks as a rookie and totaled seven points on two goals and five assists to go along with 83 penalty minutes. He played the previous four seasons with the University of Guelph in the CIS. He finished with 62 points(30g,32a) and 274 penalty minutes in 98 career games with the Gryphons. Prior to playing collegiately, Knowles played a pair of seasons with the Victoria Salsa of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) where he had 12 goals, seven assists and 217 penalty minutes in 80 games.

Other Rush News:

Season tickets for the 2011-12 season start at $412 and are available by calling (605) 716-PUCK (7825). Season ticket holders will receive complimentary tickets to both Rush preseason games as well as numerous other exclusive benefits.

Stay informed on Rush happenings through the official Rapid City Rush team website, www.RapidCityRush.com.

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