MIGLIO AND ORTIZ SET FOR RETURN

(RAPID CITY, SD) – The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, announced today that forwards Nick Miglio and Marcus Ortiz have re-signed with the Rush for the upcoming 2017-18 ECHL season.

Miglio comes back to the Rush after skating in his rookie season with the team in the 2016-17 campaign. The 6’0”, 180-pound forward compiled 17 points (7g-10ast) in 49 games before an injury shortened his season. Prior to turning professional, the San Antonio, Texas native skated with Utica College in NCAA-III where he notched 33 points (15g-18ast) in his four years and 76 games as a Pioneer, and also skated with the Bismarck Bobcats of the NAHL, registering 42 points in 101 games. Following his collegiate career, Miglio first played professional hockey with the Allen Americans, and notched his first 2 career points, both assists, in 7 games.

“This is what I’ve wanted to do since I was 5: play professional hockey. I got that taste of pro hockey last year and a little bit of success with it, and want to build off of that,” Miglio reflected on his rookie season. “I am very confident that I will be back 150%. I’ve had amazing support from my family, friends, and the Rush organization, and because of that, I’ well ahead of my recovery time. Coming in as a tryout player last year, no one really expected me to stick around, but as the year went on I found myself earning more ice time. My expectation is to win more games. We have a fresh start with new faces: it’s a good group of guys that work hard and want to be here. I’m really excited for the upcoming season, and to bring a winning culture back to the Black Hills.”

“We’re glad to have Miggs back. He’s been rehabbing hard and will be ready to go for the start of the season,” said Rush Head Coach Daniel Tetrault. “Nick brings a lot of energy and creates a lot of opportunities with his speed. He’s a great penalty killer, and will produce more offensively this season because of his tenacity on the ice.”

Ortiz returns to the Black Hills for his rookie season after starting his professional career as an amateur with the Rush at the end of last season. The 5’11”, 185-pound forward played in 13 games with the Rush and recorded his first professional goal and assist with the team following his collegiate career with SUNY-Fredonia in the NCAA-III ranks. With the Blue Devils, the Garland, Texas native played in 77 games and tallied 28 goals and 26 assists for 54 points.

“I’ve known Marcus for years working hockey camps in Texas, and I’m excited to have him back,” Tetrault added regarding Ortiz. “Marcus is one of the hardest working players that I’ve been around. He’s going to bring a lot of energy and physicality to our team this season. He’s a character guy that is not afraid to get on the forecheck and lay out big hits. I expect a big year out of Marcus in our 10th anniversary season.”

“Personally, I saw the town, the amazing organization and staff, the amount of care and intelligence that Coach Tetrault has, and how loyal, friendly, and supportive our fans are. That made this choice a no-brainer. I’ve never been more proud to pull on a sweater than that of the Rush organization,” Ortiz remarked on his return. “I hope to bring my shot and offensive game to the table more this year. It was a big adjustment coming from division three NCAA, but I feel I got better as the games went on. I think any expectation short of winning it all would be selling our team short. Tetsy and Nello will not let another season transpire like last season. The new culture is there in the great guys we’ve signed and brought back. My expectations are simple: SUCCESS in all facets!”

REMINDERS:

• The 2017-18 ECHL Schedule is OUT! Head to www.echl.com to see where the Rush play during their 10th anniversary season!

• For more information on Season Ticket Memberships for our 10th anniversary, call 716-7825.

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