The Jersey Rockhoppers of the Eastern Professional Hockey League (EPHL) have announced the signing of three players to their roster for the inaugural season in the EPHL. Goaltender Nick Niedert and forwards Russell Spence and Chris Ferazzoli have signed on with the Rockhoppers for the 2008-2009 season.
Nick Niedert, a 26 year old goaltender from Hudson, IA, played last year with the Indiana Ice Miners of the MAHL. During the 2007-2008 season, Nick was named MAHL League MVP with a tremendous 24-1-0 record, 2.51 GAA and a 92.8% save percentage. He served last year as the player-assistant coach for the Miners under Coach Gratz and will be asked to do the same again for the Rockhoppers. “Nick provides great leadership in the locker room and on the ice. He had a break-out year last season and is very excited to follow it up with a great season for the Rockhoppers,” remarked Head Coach Brian Gratz.
Russell Spence, a 26 year old from Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, is entering his sixth professional season. The 6’3” 220lbs forward joins the Jersey Rockhoppers after having played in the ECHL, UHL, CHL and over seas in Germany throughout his career. “Russell brings a lot of experience and leadership to the organization, and I am looking for him to be a big part of the Rockhoppers’ success this year.” Spence played last year in the MAHL with the Indiana Ice Miners and the Youngstown Steelhounds of the CHL.
Chris Ferazzoli, a 28 year old forward from Floral Park, NY, joins the Rockhoppers after playing in the ECHL, CHL and MAHL last season. The 2nd year pro stands at 5’6” 165lbs and brings a tremendous amount of offensive skill to the team. Last year, Chris had 65 points (22 goals and 43 assists) in the MAHL and added 3 points (2g-1a) in 8 ECHL games. Director of Hockey Operations, Brian Gratz, stated “Chris is an outstanding playmaker with great hands and excellent speed. I look for him to have great season with the Rockhoppers. He should put up some impressive numbers in this league and have a great shot at being call-up to a higher level.”